South Georgia June/July 2018 Edition

STATE CHAMPIONS

3-Time State Champ Fulfills Pledge Tony Morales, Central High School

Teresa Edwards IN THE

GAME

JUNE/JULY 2018

Another Great Added to the List In The Game | 1

THE

HUGHSTON DIFFERENCE YESTERDAY.

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Providing you, for over 60 years, with research, education, and treatment

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Organizing preparticipation physicals since 1976

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Covering over 1,500 local sporting events each year

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Saturday morning injury clinic

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Researching and implementing concussion management software for local athletes

LOCATIONS Albany Auburn Columbus Dothan LaGrange

Moultrie Phenix City Thomaston Thomasville Valdosta

Hughston Clinic 706-324-6661 2|

6262 Veterans Parkway, GA 31909 1-800-331-2910 / www.hughston.com itgnext.com

TODAY. TOMORROW.

In The Game | 3

Albany / 2609 Ledo Rd. Albany, GA 31707 / 229.430.8080 716 Philema Rd. / 229.439.4030 Tifton / 2nd St W. Tifton, GA 31794 / 229.386.2265 Moultrie / 621 N. Veterans Pkwy, Moultrie, GA 31788 / 229.985.1380 Sylvester / 601 N. Main St. Sylvester, GA 31791 / 229.776.7641 Quitman / 602 E Screven St. Quitman, GA 31643 / 229.263.7538 Valdosta / 2910 N. Ashley St. N. Valdosta, GA 31602 / 229.242.2037 3774 Old U.S. 41 N / 229.241.9900

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ARE YOU In?

South Georgia

In the Game Be great.

Don’t settle for less than the best.

Shoot for the top and land there.

Get In the Game. Stay In the Game. Live In the Game.

Anna Limoges EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

In The Game | 5

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In The Game | 7

Celebrating Athletes’ Success On And Off The Field

4 North Carter Street Lakeland, Georgia 31635 (229) 482-3585

978 Valdosta Highway Homerville, Georgia 31634 (912) 487-1200

202 W. Washington Ave. Nashville, Georgia 31639 (229) 686-9451

1201 S. Patterson Street Valdosta, Georgia 31603 (229) 244-3585

3303 Inner Perimeter Road Valdosta, Georgia 31605 (229) 244-3585

www.fmb.net

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Member FDIC

IN THIS ISSUE 19 30 32 34 35 36 38 40 46 57 64 68 77 78

Player Profiles South Georgia’s Top Athletes Travel Ball: Pros and Cons

Attitude Adjustment Donterious Milsap, Fitzgerald High School

3-Time State Champ Fulfills Pledge Tony Morales, Central High School 2 Years or Straight to the League: The Choice Is Yours

Is Brady GOAT? 3-Sport Athlete Taking His Game to Next Level Ameir Abrams, Spencer High School

Another Great Added to the List Teresa Edwards South Georgia’s Champions and Next Level Athletes

Hall Shines as Rising Dancing Star Grace Hall, Tiftarea Academy

Thomasville’s Triumph Benjamin Tillman, Thomasville High School South Georgia High School Athletic Awards Banquet

Kickin’ Knowledge Stevie Rigby, Houston Co. High School

Top 3 Player Profiles

24 27 28

Daniel Ramsey Deerfield-Windsor School JJ Peterson Colquitt Co. High School Rylee Watson Tift Co. High School

Top 3 Photos

58 60 63

Rackley Speeding His Way To A Successful Racing Career Valwood School Home Run Hitter Warner Robins High School Vaulting Valedictorian Lowndes High School

Top 3 Stories

65 66 67

Facing Challenges Head On Fitzgerald High School GHSA Realignment

Team Manager Finds Family on the Sidelines Pacelli High School

10 Questions With Corry Black Pacelli High School

In The Game | 9

819 E. Shotwell St. Bainbridge, Ga 39819

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600 N. Broad St. Cairo, Ga 39828

From the Publisher To be comfortable is to be content with going where you’ve always gone, doing what you’ve always done, and living the way you’ve always lived.

That isn’t to say that comfort is bad. Comfort means knowing exactly what to expect, and in some areas of life, comfort can be exactly what you need.

The comfort of a routine can settle you before a big game. The comfort of practice eases your mind and prepares you for competition.

Comfort only becomes negative when it hinders growth.

To step away from what makes you comfortable is to consciously thrust yourself into the unknown. However, growth only comes in the moments you step away from comfort and try what scares you. Make yourself uncomfortable. Give new ideas, experiences, and people the chance to help you grow.

In the spirit of growth and pushing ourselves, In the Game is evolving. We’re still celebrating the successes of high school athletes, and we’re still inspiring your inner athlete. But, we’re ready to take that a step further; we’re ready to take our game to the next level. ITG Next, our new apparel line, can be found in our downtown retail store or on our brand new website, www.itgnext.com.

Speaking of taking things to the next level, the subject of our cover story epitomizes stepping outside your comfort zone to achieve your dreams. Teresa Edwards is a fivetime Olympian and the most decorated female basketball player of all time. She spoke with us about how she got her start, what it’s like to visit home, and how her success helped change the landscape of women’s basketball in the U.S.

In this issue, we take a look at back at everything our student-athletes have accomplished this year. We review our top stories, photos, and Player Profiles, and shine a light on our state champions as well as several graduating seniors who are going on to play at the next level. We recap our South Georgia High School Athletic Awards Banquet, where we celebrated the top male and female athletes across 21 sports from South Georgia.

We also got the chance to talk to Thomasville High School head basketball coach Ben Tillman and learn how he led his team to the school’s first ever basketball state title. We dive into the pros and cons of travel baseball and year-round sports, as well as if basketball players should be able to skip college and go pro straight out of high school.

These stories and more pack the pages of this magazine. However, it isn’t just about the athletic abilities and achievements of these teams and players; while their talents may bring them to the center of conversation, it is their character, work ethic, support systems, and drive that will make them successful in life. On the field, in the classroom, around the community, being In the Game isn’t being in our magazine. It’s about living In the Game.

We are looking for people who understand what it means to passionately persevere, inspire, and strive for greatness in all areas of life. In short, we are looking for people who understand what it means to BE In the Game.

So the question is: ARE YOU IN? Our mission is simple: to inspire your inner athlete toward the passionate pursuit of excellence, on and off the field. So, if you know of a player, coach, or fan deserving of recognition, head to www.itgnext.com and officially nominate that story!

We thank you for your continued support of your local athletic programs and In the Game. Follow us on social media @itgnext and visit us at www.itgnext.com in order to #StayInTheGame!

South Georgia Team Publisher Mark Dykes Editor Anna Limoges Magazine Director Anna Limoges Graphics Mandy Douthit Cover Photography Aaron Mustgrove Feature Photography Aaron Musgrove Micki Krzynski` Micki K Photography Eric Vinson Beth Welch Feature Writers Anna Limoges Beth Welch Phil Jones Alex Dunn Gerald Thomas III Joshua Miller Copy Editors Anna Limoges Beth Welch Alex Dunn Advertising/Marketing Mark Dykes mark@itgnext.com Digital Manager Mandy Douthit

In the Game Apparel @ITGNext

Tell us what you thought about the April/May issue of In the Game! info@itgnext.com

Love to Live In the Game Tank

Go to

Team USA Tee

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www.itgnext.com to Get In the Game today!

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

In The Game | 11

Contributors

Garrison Muelhausen Lead Videographer

Mark Dykes

Mandy Douthit

aNNA Limoges

Chief Executive Officer

Creative Director

editor

Founder Mark Dykes is the entrepreneur and mastermind behind the In the Game vision. Back in 2007, Mark set out to create a company that captured the passion, intensity, and unrivaled commitment toward high school athletics in the South Georgia area. Today, that vision has become a reality, and he continues to be the leading influence in what lies ahead for In the Game, despite his annual prediction that UGA will win the national championship.

As a Pine Mountain, Georgia, native, Mandy’s move to Valdosta has brought enhanced artistry and intricacy to the ITG design team. The University of West Georgia alum graduated with a Bachelors of Fine Arts in art with a concentration in graphic design. Her artistic nature has allowed her to use graphic design to win national and international design competitions, all of which are meant to serve as diversions and coping mechanisms for Alabama’s loss to Auburn.

After four years as an interdisciplinary studies major at Valdosta State University and nearly two years as an ITG intern, Anna has remained a member of the team as an editor. Since her start in early 2016, she has devoted her editorial eye toward serving as one of the first and last lines of defense against errors within these pages. More importantly, while her Facebook page says that she likes the Saints, there is fortunately no other sign of such irrational fandom.

Moving from Atlanta, Garrison is now a member of our growing video department in Jacksonville. As a graduate of Thomas County Central and Valdosta State University, this filmmaker has been filming and working in a variety of sports since high school all the way up to working for CBS Sports. He always strives to add creative pizazz in all of his work and in his own personal hobbies such as drawing graphic novels.

Beth WElch

Susannah Parmenter

Phil Jones

Alex Dunn

Columbus Area Editor

Area Coordinator

Contributing Writer

Contributing writer

Beth has been a part of the ITG Team since 2009 when she began writing for the Columbus Valley edition of In the Game. Now, she heads up all of the Chattahoochee Valley content as Area Editor. Having children who participated in sports in local high schools and later were collegiate athletes, Beth has been involved in athletics in the area for many years, making her the perfect fit for her current role.

Susannah Parmenter is a Florida transplant originally from California. After graduating from California State University, Fullerton with a broadcast journalism degree, she continued her education with a meteorology degree from Florida State. Now as part of In the Game, she combines her journalism and broadcast skills to highlight the athletes who inspire and motivate us to release our inner champions.

Phil Jones began lending his voice to In the Game in 2017. He serves as a radio station manager and host of two daily radio shows: “The Phil Jones Show” on WJHC Talk 107.4 and “The Afternoon Sports Drive” on WJEM AM-FM and on WJHC FM. Jones is a 20year veteran of the newspaper business, serving as manager of marketing and distribution for newspapers in Tifton, Albany, and Atlanta. He was recognized by the Georgia Press Association as “Georgia’s Top Newspaper Circulator” in 2003.

Alex is a senior English-journalism major at Valdosta State University. She started working for ITG in the summer of 2017 to lend her editorial eye to the many articles that filter through her before heading on to print. Although her main job is devoted to copy editing, she contributes her own journalistic talents for our print and digital platforms as well. Her youthful enthusiasm can only be dampened by yet another crushing disappointment from her Atlanta Falcons.

Micki Krzynski

Aaron Musgrove

Eric Vinson

Marque Milla Reese

Contributing Photographer

Contributing Photographer

Contributing Photographer

Contributing Photographer

When it comes to loyalty to In the Game, it is hard to top Micki. Since the very beginning of In the Game, Micki has provided strong, creative, and highly professional photos. Consequently, Micki and her son/assistant, Jake, have become our go-to photo duo. With enough talent, equipment, and experience to make her dangerous, she continues to push ITG’s photography forward.

Originally from Live Oak, Florida, Aaron found his home as a multitalented photographer and graphic designer after moving to Valdosta in 2007. As the lead graphic designer at Colquitt Regional Medical Center since 2010, Aaron has found his passion in corporate graphic design and commercial photography, but he also loves capturing the unique dynamics of sports with ITG. Fortunately, his notable lack of any sports career that lasted more than a single day does not impact his sports photography.

Eric Vinson is a native of Lowndes County and a graduate of Valdosta High School. He recently got his Bachelor’s of Fine Arts from Valdosta State University in mass media. Eric loves taking photos, watching sports, and producing music.

Milla was born a humble, ambitious child on the south side of Tifton, Georgia. He has always had a vision to see things differently than others as he drew out his imagination, and he went through numerous potential career choices before finding “the one”: the dream of becoming a photographer.

With the helpful hand of his wife, Rebekka, Milla is living out that dream as a key member of ITG. With that said, the cries of “War Eagle” from them both have fallen strangely silent since 2010.

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What to look forward to:

Gerald Thomas III

Journalism Intern

Journalism Intern

Joshua was born and raised in Gwinnet County and joined ITG in the fall of 2017.

Currently a junior mass media major at Valdosta State, Joshua is aiming toward a career as a sports television personality. Although he’s still learning new techniques in sports journalism, his admiration and knowledge of a variety of sports is easily recognized. As a diehard Dallas Cowboys fan, he has learned to remain optimistic towards his goals despite the inevitable obstacles in the way.

Born and raised in Savannah, Georgia, Gerald is now a mass media major at Valdosta State University. He started working for In the Game in the Spring of 2018 to offer his writing flair and to generate exciting sports content. Gerald enjoys the writing aspect of mass media, whether it be journalism or screenwriting. He is always looking to grow and improve his craft.

Gerald has grown to rely on the future, as his favorite team, the Atlanta Falcons, disappoints him every season.

Football Preseason In this issue, we tell you all you need to know to get ready for those Friday night lights.

Top Student Models

Basketball Preseason Do you love our football preseason magazine? Do you also love basketball? Our October-November issue will prepare you for the upcoming season.

JJ Peterson - Colquitt Co. Friday Night Lights Tee

Sylvester Jackson - Lee Co. ITG Splatter Tee

Caden Williams - Lowndes Train Insane Tee

Kamryn Lane - Lee Co. ITG Comfort Tee

2018 High School Football Awards Banquet Each December we gather the top players, coaches, and fans from South Georgia’s prestigious football culture to celebrate the season. Stay tuned to see how you can get involved!

BE IN THE GAME

Joshua Miller

In The Game | 13

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In The Game | 15

ITG Next Ambassadors 2017-18 Join ITG Next

Ambassadors Bret Bernard

Carson Bryan

Lillian Fagan

Tiftarea - Senior Baseball

Tiftarea - Senior Basketball, Softball, Track, & Soccer

Colquitt CO. - Junior Diving & Cross Country

Haley Hogan

Marlee Marlowe

Valdosta - Senior Cheerleading & Soccer

Riley Mims

Tiftarea - Senior Track & Cheerleading

Tiftarea - Senior Basketball

In 2017, In the Game launched its inaugural Ambassador Program.

In the Game Ambassadors exhibit academic excellence, a passion for athletics, outstanding character, and a strong commitment to their schools and communities.

As role models, Ambassadors are encouraged to inspire their peers to explore and create new initiatives within their high schools and communities by being a part of In the Game’s mission, which is inspiring your inner athlete toward the passionate pursuit of excellence, on and off the field.

Be a part of In the Game’s 2018-19 Ambassador Program!

For more information, email us at info@itgnext.com.

Auburne Mobley TCC - Sophomore Swimming & Soccer

William Tolbert Lowndes - Senior Football 16 | itgnext.com

Jasmine Moses

Bailey Pieplow

Colquitt Co. - Senior Cheerleading

Lowndes - Senior Volleyball

Mary Logan Tostenson Colquitt Co. - Senior Softball

Julia Tucker Colquitt Co. - Junior Cheerleading

A Portion of the proceeds of the James Eunice Tee, pictured on several In the Game Ambassadors, will go to the James Eunice Charity Fund.

FIVE DECADES. THREE GENERATIONS. ONE FAMILY. Seven franchises in Four South Georgia communities.

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In The Game | 17

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What is the most memorable moment of your sports career to date?

Going to the state championship last year.

Reid Hanson Lee Co. High School

Baseball - Pitcher

After your sports career is over, what do you see yourself doing?

Being a chiropractor.

WHO HAS HELPED YOU THE MOST IN YOUR SPORTS CAREER?

What makes you different from everyone else?

My presence on the mound.

recruiting coordinator, helped me become a better pitcher.

COACH DERRICK SIMON,

In The Game | 19

Laura Wynn Kirby Valdosta High School

Soccer - Right Mid-Field

After your sports career is over, what do you see yourself doing?

I will be attending Valdosta State University, studying to become a dental hygienist.

What makes you different from everyone else?

I would say I am a very determined and competitive player. I stay focused throughout each practice and game for the best outcome.

If you could play any other sport, what would it be?

If I could play any other sport I would say volleyball. It seems so intense, similar to soccer, so I could see myself enjoying it.

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WHO IS YOUR BIGGEST SPORTS INSPIRATION? I would say

MY TEAMMATES inspire me the most. They motivate me to be the best athlete I can be.

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Brian Myler Lee Co. High School

Baseball - Pitcher/Outfielder

What is the most memorable moment of your sports career to date?

Last year in the playoffs, we had the John’s Creek appeals and ended up playing Game 3 and beat them.

Who is your biggest sports inspiration?

Buster Posey because he came from the small town that I am from.

After your sports career is over, what do you see yourself doing?

I want to get into dental school and be an orthodontist.

WHO HAS HELPED YOU THE MOST IN YOUR SPORTS CAREER?

MY DAD has always pushed me to be the best that I can be.

In The Game | 23

1

#

What is your favorite memory from your high school career?

Playing in Vegas against the best players in the country.

Player Profile

What makes you different from everyone else?

I’m super outgoing, and on the court I feel like I can do everything.

Photography by: Micki K Photography

Published in December/January 2017-18 Edition

Who is your biggest sports inspiration?

Kevin Durant. I model my games after him, and I want to be just like him.

WHO HAS HELPED YOU THE MOST IN YOUR SPORTS CAREER? My parents and my mentor,

Lewis Chinch.

They give me great advice and guidance.

Daniel Ramsey Basketball Small Forward Deerfield-Windsor 24 | itgnext.com

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In The Game | 25

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JJ Peterson

Colquitt Co.

2

#

Player Profile

Photography by: Aaron Musgrove

Published in August/September 2018 Edition

Outside LineBacker Height

Weight

6’2” 210

GA Rank

8

In The Game | 27

What makes you different from everyone else?

I am willing to do whatever I have to do to become better and to help my team win. I am dedicated and determined to be great.

Who is your biggest sports inspiration?

My biggest sports inspiration is Gabby Douglas. No matter what she faces and goes through, she always has a positive attitude and smile on her face.

If you could play any other sport, what would it be? Why? I play three sports, but if I could play another sport, I would like to play soccer. I have the endurance and passion just for any sport I do now.

Photography by: Eric Vinson

Published in April/May 2018 Edition

3

#

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Player Profile

Rylee Watson Tift Co.

Gymnastics AFTER YOUR SPORTS CAREER IS OVER, WHAT DO YOU SEE YOURSELF DOING? I would like to attend UGA to pursue a career in the medical field. I would like to be a

PEDIATRIC SURGEON if that is God’s plan for me.

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TRAVEL BALL: PROS AND CONS Written by: Phil Jones Photography courtesy of 5 Star National Baseball

As youth football sees a decline in participation levels with the rise of contact injuries, including a sharp rise in head-related injuries, youth baseball seems to be picking up the slack with a steady rise in participation levels. While national surveys differ widely on just how popular youth baseball really is in 2018, one thing is crystal clear: Travel baseball seems to be gaining in popularity.

Travel ball is not necessarily new, but participation levels have grown tremendously in the last decade, especially in our area of the country. The relatively mild climate allows for year-round baseball, which is one of the attractions of travel baseball.

The rising popularity of travel ball may be growing at the expense of less participation in local rec ball leagues as parents look to have their kids aligned with what appears to be the best coaches and best players; and, ultimately, the best opportunity to grow their baseball skills – skills that, hopefully, will make them ready one day for high school baseball and beyond.

The reality is that most kids who still play baseball at age 12 will never play at the high school level, and 75 percent of all kids who play will drop out of baseball by age 14. Still, that doesn’t stop parents from dreaming that their child can be the next MLB star, and THAT keeps travel baseball’s popularity soaring.

Despite the growing interest, there are also concerns about travel ball. One of the biggest arguments against travel baseball is the number of games played. As previously 30 | itgnext.com

mentioned, the climate in our neck of the woods allows for many travel teams to play year-round. That has led to many young athletes becoming involved in only baseball (specialization), with no time to play other sports. Some argue that this truly robs a young athlete of the opportunity to diversify or play multiple sports. For those parents who are looking for baseball to be the ticket to big dreams of playing collegiately, or beyond, they may actually be missing the bigger picture: that some children may never realize their potential in other sports.

Another concern with so many games is burnout. Eventually, the game they like to play for fun becomes more like work. Even more serious is the physical toll that travel ball has invited, including arm injuries from overuse, another result of so many games.

One group that is trying to prevent burnout and injury is 5 Star National Baseball. This organization is one of the premier travel ball programs throughout Georgia and Florida, featuring 16 youth teams with players aged 10-14 years old.

Josh Haynes, Georgia youth baseball coordinator with 5 Star, said his group realizes the stigma attached to travel ball and works to avoid some of its pitfalls.

“We do swing year-round, but we shut down our pitchers October through December,” Haynes said. “A lot of these young players simply aren’t physically ready to throw

year-round, and that’s a big reason you’re seeing these arm injuries. We put our pitchers through arm-conditioning drills to make them stronger, and we have a very strict pitch count that is age-specific.”

Finances can play a part in a lot of sports, but with travel ball, things can get down right expensive. There are the registration fees, equipment costs, and uniform costs before the first game is ever played. Once the games start, there are lodging, food, transportation, gas, and tournament fees to be paid; and remember, that’s every weekend for many travel squads. (Speaking of expense, it’s worth noting that 5 Star National Baseball uses only paid coaches.)

Even if money isn’t a problem, there is the issue of budgeting time. Making time for homework and other school-related activities must be taken into consideration. That can be a challenge when you’re playing in games and at practice, many times seven days a week.

At the end of the day, whether a young player is successful at baseball really doesn’t rely on how many innings are played, how much money is spent, or how many miles are traveled. What will matter is how much talent and desire a young player has and whether or not the game is still fun to play.

visit itgnext.com

In The Game | 31

Attitude Adjustment Written by: Joshua Miller | Photography by: Eric Vinson

Attitude is everything, at least when it comes to Donterious Milsap it is. Milsap is a student-athlete at Fitzgerald High School and a state champion wrestler.

Milsap, who already played football, was influenced by his friends to wrestle and began in the eighth grade.

“At first, I was just competing,” Milsap said. “It was fun to wrestle guys you played in football.”

Despite being a football player first, wrestling seemed second-nature to Milsap.

He had a tremendous eighth-grade season, making it to the state finals but came up short. The loss exposed his biggest flaw, but it wasn’t his skills; it was his attitude.

“He had a rough time handling the loss in the finals,” said Roger Merritt, Fitzgerlad wrestling coach. “He showed out and threw his headgear and wouldn’t shake his opponent’s hand.”

Milsap knew something had to change if he wanted to win it all, and he knew it started with his mentality. He has a simple “go get it” mindset toward wrestling; he believes that nothing is given and that you get out what you put in.

“I changed my attitude about the sport and about losing,” Milsap said. “I say to myself that I became a better loser, and it helped me become a champion.”

Milsap continued playing football while increasing his focus on wrestling. He was a starting linebacker for Fitzgerald during his sophomore and junior years. Over those two seasons, Milsap racked up 78 tackles and four sacks. Fitzgerald made it to the 2A state championship in 2016, but was dominated by Benedictine.

Milsap found frequent success on the field, but wasn’t returning to the state championship after his breakout in his eighth-grade year. In his sophomore season he was a state placer but didn’t finish the season. Merritt said that the transition from football to wrestling was tough for Milsap.

“He loved the sport but was not getting the immediate results he wanted,” Merritt said. “He had a hard time adjusting to the conditioning that wrestling required in order to wrestle three rounds. In order for him to be really successful, he was going to have to put in the work.”

Milsap took the challenge head on, applying himself mentally and physically. Merritt noticed and was beyond impressed, noting that his attitude and willingness to put the time in to be successful was the improvement he needed.

“Milsap made sure to be on time and at every practice,” Merritt said. “He worked hard in the wrestling room with a positive attitude. He became a leader that lead by example. Milsap’s attitude improved tremendously. He also showed good sportsmanship.”

“My improvements were really big,” Milsap said. “I mean, I was never a bad wrestler I believe. I just got better at decision making and learning where I’m at on the mat, and I also became a leader and a better listener.”

In his senior year, Milsap’s hard work and dedication paid off in the 2018 GHSA Wrestling State Championships. Milsap was back at the final stage — this time for the 220-pound 2A state title — and against a familiar foe.

Milsap was matched up against Ervin Mincey of Toombs High School. They faced before at Area Duals, where Mincey defeated Milsap in a triple overtime match that lasted nine minutes.

The state championship didn’t have the same outcome. Milsap came out victorious and is ending his high school wrestling career as a state champion.

After witnessing Milsap’s development as a man and athlete, coach Merritt most admires Milsap’s

self-awareness. “(I admire) his ability to understand his faults and willingness to change and grow,” Merritt said. “Not many men his age will take ownership of their actions and do what’s necessary to change for the better. He also showed up at the biggest match of his high school career. He didn’t let the past determine his future. That is a sign of a true champion.”

Milsap transformed from a sore loser into a champion, and it all started with a simple attitude adjustment.

In The Game | 33

3-Time State Champ Fulfills Pledge Written by: Beth Welch Photography by: Beth Welch

What else can be said about Central High School wrestler Tony Morales that hasn’t already been said?

For three consecutive wrestling seasons, the Phenix City, Alabama, athlete has literally wrestled his way to the top to win state titles. The latest addition to his resume of title wins occurred in February when the 18-year-old defeated Bowman Hill of Vestavia Hills. The two have faced off before for the state title, and Morales has come away the winner each time.

“Yeah, it’s kind of weird talking to him when I see him at matches,” Morales said. “We speak, and it’s not anything big, but you can tell it’s just a little awkward.”

Way back as a sophomore, Morales won his first state title when he wrestled in the 132-pound weight class. The experience caused Morales to pledge to not only go for the gold again but also a third time his last year of high school. He made good on his goal to win a second title last year as a junior, despite some injuries and even a little drama at the state match.

Morales usually places a cross made from medical tape on his headgear; biblical scripture is written on the cross. Last year the coach for the opponent in the state title showdown called into question the tape, and the cross was removed. Morales’ father and Central’s wrestling coach, Rob Morales, wore the cross on his coat for the remainder of the match, which his son won, claiming that second state title.

As a senior, the 5’9” athlete wrestled in the 160-pound weight class. He only posted three losses this season and managed to stay injury-free. Going into the state championship match, Morales admitted he was a bit apprehensive.

“The night before, I was a little nervous,” he said. “It was my senior year, third time there, and a lot of people are looking up to me. But once I got out there, that feeling went away.

It was just about getting it done.”

His goals this season were to win sectional, win state, and go undefeated. The going undefeated part didn’t happen, but winning sectional and taking a third state title kind of made up for it.

Morales had some great victories this season with his team under the coaching of his dad. The state match was really more of a lesson in bringing all the hard work, training, and time spent in the sport to a conclusion with the best possible outcome. Morales was able to wear Hill down, producing a takedown in both the first and second periods and then pinning Hill about halfway through the second period.

Looking back, Morales said he could recall hearing his father’s voice toward the end.

“It’s so funny,” he said, laughing. “I could hear him yelling, ‘He’s stuck, he’s stuck.’ My dad just kept yelling it over and over.”

It was the perfect ending for an almost perfect season. Morales said his mom teased him often, reminding him, “Think how good it is going to feel (to win that third state title).” This time, Morales’ cross made from tape, with Luke 6: 43-45 written on it, finished the match in place on his headgear.

Three state champ medals and three state champ rings are proof of Morales’ determination and talent to make good on his pledge from 2016. Wrestling at the next level is still a possibility, but the United State Military Academy at West Point is Morales’ target. Ultimately, his goal is to be a surgeon specializing in ear, nose, and throat surgery.

It has been proven Morales can produce when he puts his mind to something. This goal may take a bit longer, but it will come as no surprise to one day learn Central’s three-time state wrestling champ has made good on another pledge.

When the season ended and the excitement was over, what was the one thing Morales wanted to do after winning his third straight state wrestling title? Well, it wasn’t to go to Disney World.

“Fishing,” he said, laughing. “I just wanted to go fishing, and I did that Monday. I love to bass fish, and I never have the time because of wrestling.”

34 | itgnext.com

2 YEARS OR STRAIGHT TO THE LEAGUE: THE CHOICE IS YOURS

Players Who Entered the NBA After High School LeBron James St. Vincent-St. Mary High School Akron, Ohio

Written by: Gerald Thomas III

superiorpics.com

Kobe Bryant Lower Merion High School Philadelphia, Pennsylvania mashable.com

Kevin Garnett Farragut Career Academy Chicago, Illinois timberwolvesmediacenter.com

Courtesy of nba.com

With the latest issue of the FBI discovering college basketball players receiving benefits for signing with a university, the long-lasting question of players being able to make a jump from high school to the NBA has been raised once again.

Moses Malone was the first player to be drafted in the NBA fresh out of high school. The rule was outlawed after the 2005 draft.

Nowadays, it is not a surprise when we hear about universities paying their players. This lands schools and players in big trouble, since the players are not supposed to be financially compensated by college coaches or boosters. The NBA is now looking into letting players enter the draft or play in its G-League after high school to solve the financial issue that college athletes have with their respective universities.

The Big East conference proposed the idea of getting rid of the oneand-done rule and replacing it with a two-or-none rule. Basically, players must play two years collegiately before leaving college for the NBA. I believe high school players should be able to either forgo college to enter the NBA or enter the G-League to develop for a season while legally receiving a financial advance. Realistically, many of these players only attend college to play basketball there for the required year before entering the NBA. But why are they being told they must do this? In his documentary “One & Done,” former LSU forward Ben Simmons said that once his fall semester was over, he stopped attending classes since he was eligible for the rest of the season. These players are not going to utilize their

college educations, so they should not be forced to go to college. If players feel they’re ready, let them go to the NBA. The “two-or-none” rule that the Big East recommended could actually solve this problem many players face. If a player commits to a college, he is committing for two years and should not complain about not being paid because he had an opportunity to play in the NBA’s G-League for a season and receive pay for it. This rule would be more enticing to players who are actually interested in a college education.

You will have players with interest in attending college, and you will have players being legally compensated in the G-League for their talents.

Everyone wins.

Moses Malone Petersburg High School Petersburg, Virginia espn.com

Tracy McGrady Mount Zion Christian Academy Durham, North Carolina playbuzz.com/

Dwight Howard Southwest Atlanta Christian Academy Atlanta, Georgia playbuzz.com/

Shawn Kemp Concord High School Elkhart, Indiana dailydsports.com

In The Game | 35

Is Brady

GOAT? Written by: Joshua Miller

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Tom Brady 2017-18 Stats Record: 13-3

Completion: 66.3%

Touchdowns: 32

QB Rating: 70.2

Passing Yards: 4,577

Interceptions: 8

36 | itgnext.com

Courtesy of Pro-Football-Reference.com

When it comes to debating who is the greatest, we all know it’s never ending.

However, when it comes to naming the best NFL quarterback of all time, I declare it’s time for the debate to end.

The debate usually goes Tom Brady versus Joe Montana, and you’ll frequently get your Peyton Manning arguments.

Those arguments are quickly pushed aside when you look at how many rings Manning has (two rings), compared to Brady (five) and Montana (four).

Yeah, Manning is the greatest regular season quarterback of all time, with five MVPs, 14 Pro Bowl selections, most career passing touchdowns, and most career passing yards.

That’s a nice resume, but Brady (and Drew Brees) is likely to catch Manning in both touchdowns and yards, but probably not interceptions, before he hangs up his cleats. Now on to the real debate: Brady versus Montana.

It’s simple to say Brady has more yards and touchdowns, but that’s all because of how the game has evolved.

Out of Brady’s 18 seasons played, he has thrown over 400 passing attempts in every season he played more than one game in. Montana threw for over 400 attempts in

just six of his 16 seasons, so Brady’s numbers are naturally going to be higher.

Completion percentages can be compared, but it’s just another stat to strengthen Brady’s case, as he has a career 63.9 percent completion percentage and Montana is just shy with a career 63.2 percent.

However, the best argument, the one that holds the most weight, is that Montana has a flawless 4-0 Super Bowl record, and Brady is 5-3. All I have to say is that Brady has been to the Super Bowl twice as many times as Montana; it’s highly doubtful that Montana would’ve been 8-0 even if he would’ve gone to eight Super Bowls.

Eight Super Bowls.

Typically, after this point is made, there’s the excuse that Bill Belichick is the reason for Brady’s apex success. Let me remind you all that Montana had Bill Walsh for 10 of his 13 seasons as a 49er. Also, Belichick never had backto-back seasons with more than seven wins until he met Brady. The first time Belichick did that was 2002, Brady and Belichick’s first Super Bowl victory.

You could get more in depth and keep comparing stats, but is it not obvious who the G.O.A.T. is by now?

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In The Game | 37

3-Sport Athlete Taking His Game to Next Level Written by: Beth Welch Photography by: Beth Welch

At one time in his life, football was the only sport Ameir Abrams considered important. He carried his childhood passion for the gridiron to middle school.

Like many students at that level, Abrams decided to try an additional sport: track and field.

He started running and basically kept going.

Fast forward a few years. Abrams, who recently graduated from Columbus’ Spencer High School, developed such a love for running that he will soon become a collegiate track and field athlete. This summer the six-foot, 180-pound athlete will move to Ohio, where he will attend Cincinnati Christian University.

Abrams signed as a football commit with the school but will be a member of the Eagles’ track program too.

In the eighth grade at Eddy Middle School, Abrams realized he loved running and he was fast. He captured second in the 800-meter city championship. Because football was still important, Abrams set out to attend a local high school known for its successful football program.

“The hardship didn’t go through in time, so I started at Spencer,” Abrams said. “Once I was here, I decided I wanted to stay at Spencer. People don’t give here enough credit.”

Abrams joined the football team and also became a participant in track and field. By his own admission, Abrams didn’t contribute much as a football player his first year at Spencer, but track was something different altogether. The spring of 2014, Abrams placed first in his region in Class 2A in the 800-meter race. He repeated that feat again as a sophomore and helped the 38 | itgnext.com

Ameir Abrams’ Personal Best Times 400m 51.14 800m

2:02.08

1500m

5:02.42

sport in the sixth grade. He heard the buzz around Spencer about the baseball program since David Kovalik became head coach two years ago, and he joined up.

Abrams fell right back into playing with ease. Capitalizing on Abrams’ speed, Kovalik positioned him as a center fielder and third in the batting line-up. After just a few weeks into the season, Abrams gave a surprising answer when asked which of the three sports he prefers.

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“I don’t know,” he said, smiling.

“That’s hard to say because I love football and I really love track, but now with baseball, I got to say I love it, too. If they’d give me a chance, I’d play it too at CCU.”

Green Wave take second in region in the 4x400 relay and third in the state in the same event.

The pace picked up for Abrams in football his sophomore year, too. Pierre Coffey took over the reins of the Spencer football program and began a transformation, which included using Abrams as a free safety and punter.

As a junior, Abrams had banner seasons in football and track. That fall, he was a returning starter and led the team in interceptions. In track, he was region champ in the 400 and 800, second in the region in the 4x400, and seventh in the state in the 400.

That set the standard for Abrams as a senior. His contributions this past fall caught the attention of CCU.

“They had seen the highlights of four successful fake punts throughout the season,” Abrams said. “Especially the Carver game – that really hyped everybody up.”

Track season had just begun at the time of the interview with Abrams. By all accounts, the talented track athlete is expected to place first in the region in several events as well as possibly take home a state title.

For his last year at Spencer, Abrams decided he wanted to mix up his routine a bit. Following football season, Abrams picked up a sport he had abandoned years before — baseball.

The 18-year-old comes from a family of baseball athletes, but football, then track, had monopolized so much of Abrams’ time that he stopped playing the In The Game | 39

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Another Great Added to the List Written by: Anna Limoges Photography by: Aaron Musgrove

When we think of basketball greats, three players typically come to mind immediately: Michael Jordan, Lebron James, Kobe Bryant. Each of these men has had an undeniable impact on the sport and the culture surrounding it.

However, I would posit that another name be added to that list.

Teresa Edwards came onto the As the first member of her family women’s basketball scene in the to ever attend college, Edwards said early 80s. She was a member of the she didn’t realize the significance of University of Georgia’s SEC chameducation at the time, but grew to pionship teams in 1983, 1984, and understand and appreciate the op1986. She attended her first Olymportunity she was given. pic Games as a member of Team “I didn’t know… because you’re USA’s 1984 women’s basketball a kid and you’re not thinking like team. that,” she said. “I just wanted to play In fact, Edwards is ball. I think I was very the first and only basblessed to have the ketball player – male or opportunity to receive female – to represent And any time the scholarship. There’s no way I could have the United States in you get to gone to the University the Olympics a record five times (1984, 1988, of Georgia without a represent 1992, 1996, and 2000). scholarship. your country Out of those five ap“By the time I gradpearances, she helped uated, I realized the it’s huge. The Team USA bring home importance of educafour gold medals and results are the tion and the role I took one bronze. my family, and now extra sauce. for “When I think about I am very happy to say the challenge it takes that I’ve got nieces and — Teresa Edwards to play at the top of nephews who go to your game, to be representing your college. Now it’s a natural thing for country, to play at the Olympics – our family, so thank god that I finally and really until you go do you truly realized the importance of it.” understand how important it really After her college playing career is to wear USA on your chest by and between Olympics appearancwatching another team wear theirs es, Edwards played abroad profes– it does instill a strong amount of sionally for 9 years in Spain, Italy, pride in an individual,” Edwards and Japan. We take for granted said. “And any time you get to repnow that American female ballers resent your country it’s huge. The and teams get funding, airtime, and results are the extra sauce.” the opportunity to play profession-

Women’s basketball made its debut in the Summer Olympics of 1976. Since then, the USA Basketball Women’s National Team has medaled in all 10 Olympic tournaments it has entered, including eight gold medals. The USA medaled in gold six times in a row from 1996 to 2016.

Theresa Edwards has contributed to half of USA Basketball Women’s Olympic medal count.

1984 Los Angeles 1988 Seoul 1992 Barcelona 1996 Atlanta 2000 Sydney In The Game | 41

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819 E. Shotwell St. Bainbridge, Ga 39819

600 N. Broad St. Cairo, Ga 39828

ally, but there wasn’t even an American women’s league for Edwards to join until 1996, when the WNBA was founded.

“It wasn’t this big,” Edwards said.

“Women’s basketball as a whole wasn’t, you know. The game changed in ‘96 for women here and this country, and I was fortunate to be a part of it. My fourth Olympic Games in ‘96 kind of changed the landscape of professional ball here in this country, so it was totally different.”

Edwards got her start playing basketball in Cairo, Georgia. She joined the middle school team and was then a Syrupmaid at Cairo High School, which named its basWomen’s ketball court after her and has a display of her basketball as a accomplishments in the whole wasn’t, you gym lobby.

She’s still involved know. The game with and invested in the changed in ‘96 for community there and visits when she can. In women here and fact, she was the guest this country, and speaker for a Women in the Workforce luncheon I was fortunate in Cairo hosted by First to be a part of it. National Bank this past April.

My fourth Olympic “I think you don’t understand where you Games in ‘96 come from until you kind of changed can go back and lean in or lend a hand or bring the landscape someone up or give of professional them an opportunity, especially upon an inball here in this vitation,” Edwards said. country, so it was “When asked, I feel obligated to just do the best totally different. that I can at that time, and beyond that, it’s alTeresa Edwards ways fun to walk around your old stomping grounds, even though they don’t look the same.

“The kids definitely are different, but I think something about my process is I understand that the world is constantly evolving, and I understand that change is inevitable, and I’ve been able to persevere as a person and as a player because I have been able to adapt to the surrounding changes, so I think it’s always fun to come back and learn something new and give them a little bit of the old.”

Some of that “little bit of old” Edwards offers younger players is advice on not putting the cart before the horse.

“They’re buying subscriptions before they even get the offer, and you really need to work on your game,” she said. “It’s like in any other thing. You have to have a product before you can

sell anything, so you haven’t really developed into your full potential if all you’re thinking about is being there instead of working to get there.

“My advice is to My advice is to make the most of every moment and where you make the most of are and learn as much as you can about who every moment and you are and what your where you are game is and where you’re trying to go. … and learn as much Just because you can as you can about shoot the same shot who you are and as a Kyle Korver shot or dribble like Kyrie Irwhat your game is ving or play like Kobe Bryant, just because and where you’re you can do a move like trying to go. them in the gym today, doesn’t mean you’re Teresa Edwards a complete player like they are. They went through the process… and the understanding should always be that you’re No. 1, (that) you’re the No. 1 person in your own process, and to not try to be like somebody else.”

As one of the first well known successful black female athletes, Edwards has undoubtedly inspired young female players, particularly females of color, but she doesn’t spend too much time focusing on that, choosing instead to just be the best version of herself she can be and letting the chips fall where they may.

“I think when you’re living like I live, trying to be the best person I could be every day, the impact is just it is what it is,” she said. “It’s unrecognizable because I’m so real to myself, but I don’t really put too much thought into being different or being a ‘rare black’ or female. I do think being a female in sports is harder than being black, but I think being black as a woman is harder than being a sports figure, so it’s kind of weird for both. At the same time, in order to be successful, you can’t dwell in those places. I embrace being an athlete; I embrace the joy that I get from it.

“But now I’m in my fifties, so I don’t think I was always this way. I think I was basketball crazy, and I was very gullible, and I just didn’t see a lot of things, so thank god the gullibleness got me through it.

“Even though I’m from South Georgia, and I am black and I’m female, I’m athletic. There’s probably a short list of greatness there when it comes to that, but I feel just as normal as you do.”

The University of Georgia has produced 83 Olympians who have participated in a total of 14 Olympic Games since 1936.

In The Game | 43

What makes you different from everyone else?

What makes me different is I work hard on being spiritual, grounded, and the best person that I can be on a daily basis. I try to live it. I don’t just speak it. I think that truly makes me different.

Who is your biggest sports inspiration?

I think Julius Erving without a doubt was my first role model that I saw on TV that I wanted to be like, I wanted to shoot like, I wanted to run like, I wanted to dunk like. Julius Erving and Michael Jordan, those two guys.

Unfortunately, we didn’t have female role models plastered on our TVs when I would run up, and rarely I would see women play at all on TV.”

44 | itgnext.com

Teresa Edwards Cairo High School & University of Georgia

Basketball

WHAT IS THE MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT OF YOUR SPORTS CAREER TO DATE? Winning the high school championship was hard – I only got that my senior year. And I think winning the fourth Olympic Games with the ’96 team that changed the landscape for women’s basketball professionally here is very memorable.

Getting Mom’s Blessing Who has helped you the most in your sports career?

Edwards’ start on the court was a little rocky. Her mother didn’t want her playing on the middle school team, but Edwards just couldn’t stay away. She tried out against her mother’s wishes, borrowing a pair of sneakers from the coach and lying to her mother about where she was. When Edwards made the team, her coach told her she needed new sneakers, and that’s when Edwards knew she had to fess up.

“When I made the team, that’s when I told her, and we had a long night about that, and she knew I was up to something, and the next day, she took me to the store and bought me a pair of sneakers,” Edwards said. “She bought me those Chuck Taylor’s, the ones that everyone thinks are so stylish. Those were my first pair of basketball sneakers.”

“My mom is always going to be at the top of the ladder by having the biggest impact by just setting the tone in my life, showing me what it took to truly love and support and always being there for me, so she gave me my wings to just fly and do what I wanted to do with my life and be the best at it. No matter how many times I fail, she was always there.”

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In The Game | 45

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GHSA Girls Track & Field Shot Put Wheelchair WH Class 1 Warner Robins Madison Watts

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In The Game | 47

Colquitt Co. High School

Congratulations

Seniors

Peyton Clark

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Football

Golf

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Za’Nautica Downs Basketball

Fall Sports State Champion GHSA 7A

Girls Cross Country 5k Run

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Spring Sports State Champion GHSA 7A

Girls Track & Field 3200m Run

Elizabeth Funderburk State Champion

GHSA 7A Boys Golf Tanner Brown

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Steven Krajewski Football

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Congratulations

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Thomas Co. Central High School Congratulations

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evdreamswild

Hall Shines as Rising Dancing Star Written by: Alex Dunn | Photography by: Eric Vinson

Grace Hall is one of those shining stars who has always known what she’s wanted to do in her life, and that is professional dancing. The 17-year-old has been dancing since the age of 3 and eventually worked her way into the Carolyn Ellis School of Dance in Tifton, Georgia.

“I started taking classes when I was 3 and then joined the dance troupe (performance team) when I was in fourth grade and then auditioned for the competition team in sixth grade,” Hall said.

While Hall did attend a regular high school, she decided dancing was the path she wanted to follow in her junior year. She comes from a family that loves to dance, but was never classically trained. Her favorite form of dance is lyrical, but she stressed the exertion all forms can have.

“I train in tap, jazz, ballet, and lyrical,” she said. “Physically it’s very challenging.

You spend a huge amount of time practicing, cleaning, learning choreography, and working on technique.”

However, Hall is not the only one in her family to be featured by In the Game. Her twin brother, Grant Hall, was featured earlier in the year.

“It’s pretty cool,” she said.

“I was super jealous when Grant got featured.”

Their mother, Chrystal Kendrick, has nothing but love and pride for her children, recalling Grace dancing in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and Grant’s first home run.

“It is an honor as a parent,” she said. “I pray for my children every day and have always encouraged them to do their very best in school and in life. Whatever the sport they play, give it 110 percent and have fun.”

Another form of support for Hall comes from Mallory Ward, the studio owner and teacher. Ward has been

“I train in tap, jazz, ballet, and lyrical.

Physically it’s very challenging.

You spend a huge amount of time practicing, cleaning, learning choreography, and working on technique.”

— Grace Hall

a dance instructor for 14 years and has taught Hall since 2004. Currently, Ward instructs over 200 students, but she had a lot to say about Hall.

“Grace is able to adapt to different concepts and is strong in all genres of dance,” Ward said. “Grace is a wonderful dancer who has an amazing amount of determination that lets nothing stop her. She is also a leader that works to help others.”

Ward explained what it takes to get into the Carolyn Ellis School of Dance and what teaching methods she uses to ensure they produce a great dancers.

“We accept anyone into dance,” she said. “We instill the basics and continue to grow as the dancer grows.

It is important that we teach with the growth of their bodies, stretching them and teaching them about the positions of the body. I believe praising dancers for what they are able to accomplish allows them to push themselves to learn new techniques. Keeping a positive atmosphere is very important to me.”

Hall wants to further her education in dance and then become a professional or backup dancer. Ward believes that Hall will have no problem with that.

“Grace is a wonderful dancer who has an amazing amount of determination that lets nothing stop her. She is also a leader that works to help others.”

— Mallory Ward

“Grace has a wonderful future ahead of her,” Ward said. “I believe that she will work hard until she is performing on stage with Disney or something similar. She has already been accepted into AMDA’s program, which speaks highly (of her talent) itself. She has the passion, drive, and ability to one day see her name in lights.”

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Rackley Speeding His Way to a Successful

Racing Career Written by: Phil Jones | Summarized by: Joshua Miller | Photography by: Milla Creationz Photography

Published in April/May 2018 Edition

Thirteen-year-old driver Ryan Rackley has been driving at high speeds since he was 7 years old. Rackley’s young start at racing quickly showed his ability in the sport. He went on a three-year tear, winning the Ocala Grand Prix Series, the Rok Cup USA Series, and the Rok-Junior Class.

In 2016, Rackley graduated to driving a Legends car, a car with significantly more horsepower than his previous ones.

Rackley also raced against adults instead of staying in his age group. He proved to be a natural and qualified for the lead in his first race. Rackley continued to impress by winning the race at Atlanta Motor Speedway. The next step in Rackley’s racing career will be to drive stock cars, starting in Pro Late Models, then on to Super Late Models. Don’t be surprised if Ryan Rackley becomes a name you hear in NASCAR years from now.

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In The Game | 59

Home Run Hitter Written by: Hillary D. Griffin Summarized by: Joshua Miller Photography by: Micki K Photography

Published in December/January 2017-18 Edition Baseball has been a big part of Xavier McIntyre’s life since he was 5 years old. Growing up, he fell in love with baseball from watching it on television, and now he dedicates his life to the game.

His undeterred focus on mastering his craft and academics earned him a spot on the varsity squad his freshman year. The Warner Robbins centerfielder hit a .314 batting average, which is the highest on the Second Team All-Region 1-5A. McIntyre’s excellence on the field carries into the class room as has a 3.7 GPA and received the Principal’s Award for being on honor roll. The scholar-athlete has plans of pursuing a major in biomedical engineering while continuing his baseball career at a Division I college. McIntyre’s work has him on the right path to achieving his goals.

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VAULTING

Valedictorian

Written by: Joshua Miller Summarized by: Joshua Miller Photography by: Eric Vinson

Published in April/May 2018 Edition

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Setting the bar high is a lifestyle when it comes to pole vaulter Katelin Stecz. The Lowndes High School senior became the first female pole vaulter at Lowndes during her sophomore year.

Stecz won regional championships and qualified for state. She also holds the school girls record for highest pole vault at 9 feet.

When it comes to academics, Stecz is a scholar. She is involved in numerous clubs and will be graduating at the top of her class as valedictorian. Stecz looks to major in linguistics in college and plans to be walk-on for the pole vaulting team.

Thomasville’s

TRIUMPH Written by: Gerald Thoma III Photography by: Micki K. Photography

The Thomasville High School Bulldogs were crowned the 2A basketball state champions this past season. This was the school’s first basketball championship, coming a year removed from losing in the second round of the state playoffs. The Bulldogs went 28-3 this season, ending their season on a 13-game winning streak under head coach Benjamin Tillman.

Tillman credited his team’s success to their defense.

“My main philosophy is focus on defense,” Tillman said.

“Defense is the way you develop your team, and it eliminates a lot of stress and thinking.”

Bulldog players bought in for the team’s sake, according to Tillman. They felt that they could do something special, entering the latter half of the season when they ran the table en

route to a 13-game winning streak to capture the state title.

“We went into the second half of the season understanding that we could score; we knew we could score, but our challenge was if we could stop people,” said Tillman, who observed that once the Bulldogs defense cranked up, they began to have fun on the court. “Now you’re playing transition basketball, which is a lot of fun for kids.”

Tillman discussed who was mostly responsible for their 2018 championship campaign, stating it was collectively the players, parents, and the coaching staff. This caused the coaches to make sure they put their players in the most ideal situation to win.

“The players decided that they wanted to win and wanted to dominate,” Tillman said.

The word “effort” was

“The players decided that they wanted to win and wanted to dominate.”

— Benjamin Tillman 64 | itgnext.com

pushed by Tillman as the recipe to get back to the state championship and win next season.

“It’s all about being selfless,” he said. “Don’t focus so much on what you have going on, but focus on the team.”

Tillman added that the individual accolades will intertwine with the team’s success. He feels that the team should maintain their blue collar and gritty approach to the game in order to enjoy the same success of this season going forward.

The Thomasville Bulldogs basketball team has

had success over the last four seasons, averaging 24 wins and dominating their region but not being able to complete a championship season until this year.

“You always had a bull’s-eye on your back for the region, but now you have a bull’s-eye on your back for the entire state,” he said. “We’ve always been that team in South Georgia that was looked upon to make a deep run in the playoffs.”

Tillman feels that the yearly success has built the Bulldogs up to this very moment.

“I think the kids will continue to work hard, whether we win the championship or not – that’s not the key,” he said.

Tillman wants his players to focus on always playing their last game as hard as possible and leaving it all on the court.

Facing Challenges Head-On Written by: Alex Dunn Summarized by: Joshua Miller Photography by: Micki K Photography

Published in December/January 2017-18 Edition

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Nate Henderson almost never began playing football after a freak accident left him legally blind in one eye. Henderson, now a defensive end at Fitzgerald high school, accidentally stabbed himself in the eye with a hunting knife at just 5 years old. In an effort to restore vision in his left eye, Henderson endured five operations, but they were all unsuccessful. At first it seemed that participating in sports was out of the question for Henderson. However, progressing technology and Henderson’s passion for sports made it a possibility. He’s played baseball for as long as he can remember, and when he was finally allowed to play football his freshman year, he knew that’s where he belonged.

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GHSA Realignment Before and After: A Look at the 2016 Realignment and Its Competitive Effect on South Georgia

Written by: Phil Jones | Summarized by: Joshua Miller Photography by: Wenda G Bailey Photography and Marque Milla Reese

Published in February/March 2018 Edition

Most fans of South Georgia football teams such as Cook, Brooks, and Fitzgerald remember the years prior to 2016 as ones of pure dominance throughout the regular season with hopes of a state championship, just to get crushed in the playoffs by much larger schools. This pattern started to become a glaring issue in South Georgia, and the GHSA had to make a change.

In 2016 the GHSA introduced a new rule that any school drawing more than three percent of its enrollment from outside its home county would be forced to move up one classification. This changed the landscape of Class 2A schools for the most part. On top of that, a new classification was added, Class 7A, which is made up of the schools with the largest enrollment numbers in the state. The changes have brought some new champions to the 2A postseason, but some schools are still receiving the same results.

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Team Manager Finds Family on the Sidelines Written by: Beth Welch Summarized by: Joshua Miller Photography by: George McDuffie

Published in October/November 2017 Edition Olivia Morgan became a manager for the Pacelli Vikings football team her junior year. Her main job is to keep the athletes hydrated, and while doing that she formed many bonds with the players and personnel. She would’ve never guessed that she’d eventually look at the team as an extended family.

When Morgan’s dad passed away in January 2017, the team showed her unbelievable support that she wasn’t expecting.

Morgan had the leader manager role for the 2017 season and took her job seriously, as she helped the athletic department with tasks that summer.

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2017-18 ITG Next South Georgia High School Athletic Awards Banquet Photography by: Eric Vinson

South Georgia is home to countless premier individuals, teams, and athletic programs, so you can imagine just how difficult it was to narrow down and select the top three male and female athletes in every sport. There were many deserving nominees within each sport, but with the help of local coaches, players, and fans, our In the Game team assembled what we consider to be an extremely worthy group of individuals.

On May 31, 2018, we gathered the top athletes in South Georgia together in Downtown Valdosta for a night of recognizing their incredible talents, efforts, and support systems. Surrounded by their peers, families, coaches, and fans, each of these outstanding student-athletes was awarded for their accomplishments.

COMPETITIVE CHEERLEADING Grace Massey, Colquitt Co. Sara Beth Rountree, Valdosta Kaileigh Webb, Lowndes

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Before the awards ceremony started, everyone shared a meal together and heard an inspiring message from Valdosta State University head football coach Kerwin Bell.

We want to extend a special thanks to our sponsors for making this banquet possible: O’Steen Volkswagen and Subaru of Valdosta, Vereen Rehabilitation Center, Preferred Rental, Baker’s Sporting Goods, and Farah & Farah.

If you missed the banquet, be sure to head to the ITG Next Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter pages to see more photos and video footage.

BOYS CROSS COUNTRY Brishen House, Lowndes Jake Merritt, Colquitt Co. Noah Richards, Valdosta

GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY Hannah Dodd, Berrien (NP) Elizabeth Funderburk, Colquitt Co. (NP) Emily Golden, Tift Co.

2017-18 AWARDS BANQUET

FOOTBALL Michael Barrett, Lowndes Rashod Bateman, Tift Co. Otis Reese, Lee Co. (NP)

SOFTBALL Rylin Hedgecock, Lowndes Morgan Hill, Echols Co. Hailey Steibler, Lanier Co.

VOLLEYBALL Kenzley Bell, Lowndes Rachel Massingill, Valdosta (NP) Katelyn Schmidt, Lee Co.

BOYS BASKETBALL Reggie Perry, Thomasville (Kim Perry) Nelson Phillips, Warner Robins (NP) Cam Singletary, Colquitt Co.

GIRLS BASKETBALL Nia Allen, Valdosta Diamond Hall, Colquitt Co. Asia Harrison, Valdosta

GYMNASTICS Elyssa Roberts, Tift Co. Rylee Watson, Tift Co. Jordan Yates, Colquitt Co.

BOYS SWIMMING & DIVING Logan Clark, Deerfield-Windsor (NP) Parker Hardigree, Colquitt Co. Steven Vickers, Coffee

GIRLS SWIMMING & DIVING Carrie Engram, Tiftarea Kelliann Howell, Colquitt Co. (NP) Dorian Usry, Deefield-Windsor

WRESTLING Quin McGlamery, Valdosta Ethan McKie, Fitzgerald John Watts, Coffee

In The Game | 69

2017-18 AWARDS BANQUET

BASEBALL Tyler Andrews, Lowndes Sam Bennett, Cook Hunter Goodwin, Worth Co.

BOYS SOCCER Davis Baldwin, Valdosta (NP) Blayton Duncan, Colquitt Co. Jake Johnson, Lee Co.

BOYS GOLF Brantley Baker, Lee Co. Davis Carter, Lowndes (NP) Brandon Colbert, Valdosta (NP)

GIRLS SOCCER Janeyce Brown, Veterans Emma Choate, Tift Co. Ella Wilson, Valdosta

GIRLS GOLF Padgett Chitty, Valdosta Payton Elkins, Lowndes (NP) Anna Grace Haggerty, Lee Co.

BOYS TENNIS Julian Gonzalez, Valdosta Justin Seo, Lee Co. (NP) Liam Wetherington, Lowndes

BOYS TRACK & FIELD Trendarious Henderson, Turner Co. Kyah Plummer, Houston Co. Jaylyn Scott, Bainbridge

GIRLS TENNIS Kaley Folsom, Valdosta Camille Singletary, Valwood Emma Kate Whatley, Colquitt Co.

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GIRLS TRACK & FIELD Rebecca Chandler, Berrien Marlee Marlowe, Tiftarea (NP) Madicyn Robinson, Lowndes

Congratulations

Reggie Perry

O’Steen Volkswagen and Subaru of Valdosta 2017-18 Male Athlete of the Year

ITG Next Athletic Awards Banquet

Congratulations

Rylee Watson

O’Steen Volkswagen and Subaru of Valdosta 2017-18 Female Athlete of the Year

ITG Next Athletic Awards Banquet

Congratulations

Huntley Rodgers

Preferred Rental 2017-18 Male Scholar Athlete of the Year

ITG Next Athletic Awards Banquet

Congratulations

Katelin Stecz

Preferred Rental 2017-18 Female Scholar Athlete of the Year

ITG Next Athletic Awards Banquet

Congratulations

Sedrick Robinson

ITG Next 2017-18 Community Athlete of the Year

ITG Next Athletic Awards Banquet

Congratulations

Donterious Milsap

Farah & Farah 2017-18 Forward Progress Award

ITG Next Athletic Awards Banquet

Congratulations

Clay Lacey & Daisy Collier ITG Next

2017-18 Male & Female Adaptive Athletes of the Year

ITG Next Athletic Awards Banquet

Congratulations

Sullivan Adams & Essence Cody ITG Next

2017-18 Male & Female Youth Athletes of the Year

ITG Next Athletic Awards Banquet

Congratulations

Ben Tillman

Baker’s Sporting Goods 2017-18 Coach of the Year

ITG Next Athletic Awards Banquet

Congratulations

Thomasville High School ITG Next 2017-18 Athletic Program of the Year

ITG Next Athletic Awards Banquet

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Kickin’

Knowledge Written by: Gerald Thomas III Photography by: Micki K. Photography

Stevie Rigby, a junior at Houston County High School, excels in the classroom with a 3.94 GPA, and her dedication in the classroom coincides with her skills on the soccer field. Rigby is a three-year starter for the Lady Bears soccer team. In 2016, Rigby won Region Freshman Player of the Year after scoring 25 goals during the season. She made the statewide Di-Varsity All Star game and won MVP honors. In 2017, she won Region Offensive Player of the Year and was named to her second All Star game. She took home All-Region honors in both of her first two seasons.

Lady Bears head coach Eric DeVoursney described Rigby’s work ethic as “excellent,” adding that she leads every exercise in her weightlifting class and works on her craft during the offseason.

The biggest difference between Rigby and other players that DeVoursney has coached is Rigby’s tranquil approach to the game.

“Things just seem to come easy to her; it looks like everything is moving in slow motion when she’s out there playing,” DeVoursney said, adding that Rigby could take over a game and make it look easy while doing so.

Rigby’s role got bigger as she progressed as a player. When she came to Houston County as a freshman, she was only needed to play up top. Now, she is needed to play mid-field to create offense for her teammates. Rigby sacrificed the number of

“Being intelligent in a class shows on the field. I know how to play and where to punt the ball and what’s the smarter option, how to play the ball and how to play off the ball.”

— Stevie Rigby

points she would score in order to help distribute and set up teammates for goals.

Rigby said that she balances academics and sports by making sure to complete her homework and studies as soon as she gets home from practice, but she affirmed that it is a challenge.

“It’s been hard to balance some of my harder classes with soccer taking up so much time,” she said.

She said her education makes her a better player on the soccer field.

“Being intelligent in a class shows on the field,” she said. “I know how to play and where to punt the ball and what’s the smarter option, how to play the ball and how to play off the ball.”

Rigby feels that she has a strong support system around her helps her stay focused.

“My teachers, my teammates, and my coach, definitely; he helps and pushes me to do good in class, and it makes me want to work harder,” Rigby said.

Rigby is poised for a great soccer career, already a two-time All-Star and All-Region player. Her 3.94 GPA shows her hard work and dedication to everything she is involved with. With her accomplishments on the field and the classroom, colleges and universities will be knocking at her door as her graduation year approaches in 2019.

In The Game | 77

10 Questions With

CORRY BLACK Written by: Beth Welch Photo courtesy of Corry Black

Change is inevitable, and high school athletic departments are prone to it.

Sometimes the change coming to a sports program is made easier when personnel are promoted from within. Pacelli High School in Columbus recently announced the naming of a new athletic director, Corry Black, who was already part of the Vikings coaching staff.

In the Game had an opportunity to ask Black 10 Questions about his new role and the road he traveled to get there.

In the Game: How long have you been employed at Pacelli High School?

Corry Black: This is my second year at Pacelli.

ITG: When did you become athletic director?

CB: June 1, 2018.

ITG: What are the AD responsibilities?

CB: I will oversee and manage all of the school athletic programs. We offer 23 sports for elementary, middle, and high school students.

ITG: Do you coach or teach in addition to your AD job?

CB: I coach girls and boys basketball.

ITG: Will you continue to coach for the Vikings?

CB: Yes. ITG: Where did you coach prior to coming to Pacelli?

CB: I have coached at Southern Union State, Columbus State University, Chattahoochee Valley, and the Georgia Blazers travel team.

ITG: What was the road from high school graduation to your being named Vikings AD? CB: I started my journey in Tifton, Georgia, my hometown. I went to Southern Union on a cross country scholarship and ground my way to the basketball staff and started coaching. After winning two championships in basketball at SU and competing at a high level in cross country, I was blessed to get an offer to run cross country and join the staff at Columbus State. I worked my way up the ladder from a video camera guy to the top assistant at CSU, thanks to Doug Branson and the late Herbert Green. After Columbus State, I got into the school system and started CBHoops exposure services, where I held showcase events for players. At that time, I also taught some physical education at the elementary level and did some discipline at the high school level before I was blessed to come to Pacelli.

ITG: Have you had to adapt to coaching at a small, private high school?

CB: I have adapted well to coaching at this level because these are some of the best kids I have ever been around in my life. There are very coachable and respectable.

ITG: What are some of your goals as AD? CB: To get Pacelli respectable in all sports, make it a place where everyone wants to come to and have a great experience on the playing field/court and off.

ITG: What is one of the best things about working at PHS? CB: The best thing is the people – just great people from the administration to the teachers and staff to parents to the students. This place is great and a hidden gem in Columbus. We are in the middle of Columbus, and still people do not know about what we have to offer.

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Name: Corry Black Job Title: Athletic Director, Pacelli High School Hometown: Tifton, Georgia Education: Southern Union; Columbus State University Awards or Accomplishments: I was the youngest assistant coach in the country at Columbus State University when I first started. I have been to numerous NCAA Division II tournaments on staff at CSU. Family: Wife, Valerie; daughter, Kyndal (7) Favorite past time: Fishing Person I most admire: My high school coach, John O’Brien. He gave me a chance to go to college when no one else did.

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