August 2014 South Georgia Edition by ITG Next Magazine

HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS MAGAZINE

In This Issue:

South Georgia

13 On the Cover 2014 Starting Lineup

August 2014

South Georgia Area Schools

CONTENTS

23 Player Spotlight

Cole Massingill

Valdosta High School

29 10 Players to Watch 35 The Unsung Hero of the Preseason

41 10 Games to Watch 46 Coach’s Corner

Christian Hunnicutt

Lowndes High School

53 Academic Athlete Austin Mangelsdorf Tift County High School

61 South Georgia Football What Do the Fates Hold

for the 2014 Season?

83 FCA: Vision

Featured Schools

Football Edition

Lowndes High School

Coffee High School

Lanier County High School

Valdosta High School

Clinch County High School

Sherwood Christian Academy

Colquitt County High School

Fitzgerald High School

Deerfield-Windsor School

Lee County High School

Tiftarea Academy

Brookwood School

Westover High School

Crisp County High School

Georgia Christian School

Valwood School

Bainbridge High School

Berrien High School

Brooks County High School

Cairo High School

Thomas County Central High School

Irwin County High School

Tift County High School

Worth County High School

Thomasville High School

Pelham High School

Cook High School

Hamilton High School

Albany High School

Atkinson County High School

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HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS MAGAZINE

South Georgia

August 2014

Publisher Mark Dykes

Editor Mark Dykes Kaitlynn Passmore Sarah Turner

Graphics Jennifer Alexander

Cover Photography Micki Krzynski Micki K Photography

Feature Photography Micki Krzynski Micki K Photography

Feature Writer Cale Colby

Contributing Writer Robert Preston, Jr. Jon Nelson

School Previews Robert Preston, Jr.

Copy Editors Crystal Hubbard Ashley Dailey

Advertising/Marketing Mark Dykes mark@inthegamemagazine.com Mike McGuire mike@inthegamemagazine.com Jay Culpepper jay@inthegamemagazine.com

Website Manager Sarah Turner

From the Publisher Football season is here. It’s hard to believe that we are already talking about football. It’s also interesting to note that while football has seemingly been under attack throughout the country, it has never been more popular in South Georgia than it is right now. The national media has decided to devote a great deal of air time and column inches to the negative aspects of the sport. Yes, it’s a physical sport with a risk of injury. Yes, there are brutal summer conditions to deal with in the preseason. And yes, some fans and players may take their passion for the sport too far. But football also has tremendous positives to offer kids, schools, and communities. No other sport teaches life lessons as uncompromisingly as football does. It teaches the importance of teamwork, literally and figuratively getting up when you’ve been knocked down, never quitting, setting goals, and overcoming adversity. Race and socio-economic status don’t matter on the football field. It’s 11 young men from all walks of life working together for a common purpose. Everyone needs each other, and everyone depends on each other. Our athletes and schools get national recognition for all the right reasons because of football. Several of our schools - including Colquitt County, Lowndes, and Valdosta - have been featured across the nation because of their football programs. And here we are, the excitement building towards the last Friday in August when our teams take the field. As always, we have compiled a comprehensive directory of each team in the South Georgia area that provides fans with all the information they need heading into week one. Gathering this information can be a painstaking process, and without the cooperation of the coaches in this region, we wouldn’t be able to bring you this information. Once again, we have some teams that should be competitive statewide. Of course Region 1-6A is the flagship league in South Georgia. Lowndes and Colquitt will be strong again. Valdosta is on the rise again after a somewhat disappointing 2013 season. Coffee and Brunswick are out of 6A this year, but Lee County is in. As far as the other classifications go, Brooks will be solid. Cook has a new coach in Jon Lindsey, the former head coach at Irwin County who came within a play or two from taking the Indians to the state finals last year. And speaking of Irwin, the Indians have a fantastic coach in Buddy Nobles, a former assistant with Coffee’s Robby Pruitt who has some head coaching experience of his own. Will Ed Pilcher and Berrien pull things together in 2014? Clinch quietly had a solid season last year; can the Panthers return to their championship form from a few years ago? These are but a few of the questions that beg to be answered this football season.

Contributors

Robert Preston, Jr.,

Features & Commentary

Kaitlynn Passmore, Editor

In addition to our preseason football round-ups, we have our usual collection of stories highlighting student-athletes competing in a variety of the fall sports. It’s exciting to be with you for another year, highlighting the best and brightest that South Georgia high school sports has to offer.

For distribution or subscription information contact: info@inthegamemagazine.com For advertising information call: 888-715-4263 Dykes Publishing Group, Inc. P.O. Box 812 Valdosta, GA 31603

In the Game High School Sports Magazine is published monthly excluding July. The contents of this publication may not be reproduced in part or in full without written consent from the publisher. Dykes Publishing Group, Inc. makes no representation or warranty of any kind for accuracy of content. All advertisements are assumed by the publisher to be correct. Copyright 2014 Dykes Publishing Group, Inc. All rights reserved. ISSN 1945-1458.

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Lowndes

Vikings GHSA 1-AAAAAA 2013 Record:

Region: 4-2 / Overall: 9-4 392 points earned / 185 points against

Schedule

9-4 Isn’t Bad, but ‘We Want More’ Expectations remain high for the Lowndes High Vikings. Lowndes is one of those teams - and there are probably 15 or 16 - that always has a chance to win a state title. Though they haven’t added a state championship to their trophy case since 2007, they have been one of the most consistent teams in the playoffs - routinely playing 12 or 13 games - and are always in the region title discussion. Last year, with a young and relatively inexperienced team, the Vikings went 9-4 and made the playoffs, losing to the eventual state champion Norcross by three touchdowns. It wasn’t a bad season by any stretch, but it wasn’t what the Lowndes faithfuls particularly like seeing. The Vikings didn’t win the

Head Coach: Randy McPherson

region and didn’t play a postseason game at home. “I thought we played well with a young team. But obviously we want more,” said Head Coach Randy McPherson. That “more” is, of course, another state title. Over a nine-year stretch, Lowndes won four state titles, with their last one coming in 2007. Coach McPherson and his team would like to end that streak this year. Certainly Lowndes lost some very good players to graduation, but the 2014 team is loaded with kids who are talented and ready to play. The Vikings have experienced players returning at nearly every spot on the field. Offensively, there are a couple of really good linemen back - third-year starters Bryan Roe (5’11,” 255) and Dwayne Hart (6’1,” 235) - as well as tight end Gabe Nabors (6’2,” 195). The 6,’ 170-pound Demarcus Jackson (receiver) and the 5’9,” 195-pound Ahmad Sneed (running back) are potent weapons who will make a ton of plays for the Vikings. Quarterback Austin Dixon (6’1,” 180) is back, as well. He started every game last year and will once again run the Lowndes offense. On the defensive side of the ball, there are a couple of great linebackers (Brian Bell, 6’2,” 225, and Nate Brantley, 6,’ 205) who opposing offenses cannot ignore. Lineman Malik Austin (6,’ 255) and defensive back Alex Brown (6,’ 165) are also difference makers defensively. For a long time, the Vikings have been one of the premier teams in the state. And that isn’t going to change this year.

Aug Sept Oct Nov

22 29 05 12 19 03 10 17 31 07

Home Away

*region game

Roswell Plant High School, FL Drew Rockdale County Newton Colquitt County* Camden County* Lee County* Valdosta* Tift County*

Key Players Bryan Roe

5’11”

255

Dwayne Hart

6’1”

235

Gabe Nabors

6’2”

195

Demarcus Jackson

6’

170

Ahmad Sneed

5’9”

195

Austin Dixon

6’1”

180

Brian Bell

6’2”

225

Nate Brantley

6’

205

Malik Austin

6’

255

Alex Brown

6’

165

Martin Stadium Capacity: 13,000

Wildcats Return Pair of Talented Quarterbacks, a Stingy Defense “This year is going to be about everyone coming together as a team. We’re not starting from scratch. We’ve got an idea about where a lot of kids are going to play. This is an opportunity for us to build some depth and get this program going in the right direction,” said Valdosta High Head Football Coach Rance Gillespie, who is beginning his fifth year with the Wildcat program. The ‘Cats are coming off a 6-5 2013 campaign that saw them make the playoffs for the fifth straight year. However, in four of those five years, Valdosta has lost in the first round of the playoffs. Everyone from the passionate and vocal Valdosta fans to the players themselves would like to see that change this season. It’s not going to be easy for Valdosta. It never is in this particular region. Realignment shook things up a bit - Coffee and Brunswick are out of the region and Lee County is now in - but 1-6A remains one of the most difficult regions top to bottom in the state. “It’s going to be different with Coffee out. Coffee High has been a big part of this region for a long time. It’s been one of the core schools in the region. This is still going to be a heckuva region. You can have a very good team and go 5-5. It’s very demanding and competitive for the kids. They have to be ready to play every Friday, and that can wear a 16-year-old down pretty fast. They always have to be at their best,” said Coach Gillespie. Last season, the Wildcats ran into a little trouble once region play began. After winning the ‘Cats’ 35th region championship in 2011 then going 4-2 in the region in 2012, Valdosta struggled once the region schedule started in 2013. The Wildcats defeated Tift and Brunswick but lost to Camden, Lowndes, Colquitt, and - somewhat surprisingly - at home to a Coffee team that lost five region games. A 2-4 region record was enough to get Valdosta in the playoffs, but the ‘Cats didn’t last long, losing on the road to Langston Hughes in the first round. Valdosta peaked under Gillespie in his first year when they went 11-2. Since then, the win totals and postseason success have dipped a little each year. This season, Gillespie and the Wildcat nation would like their collective fortunes changed. And they’ve got a pretty

good opportunity to do so. As with any high school team, there are some big holes to fill, particularly on offense. However, the Wildcats do return a pair of talented quarterbacks - both of whom saw a lot of playing time last year - and three offensive linemen. The ‘Cats’ quarterback situation is an interesting one. Many may put Valdosta into that unenviable position of having a quarterback controversy, but Coach Gillespie doesn’t see it that way. Last year, junior Cole Massingill started the season as the clear-cut favorite under center. An injury, however, forced then-sophomore Seth Shuman into action. “He came in and was outstanding,” said Coach Gillespie. “This year, both are back and are mature kids who have proven game experience. We are very blessed at quarterback. We don’t have a controversy; we have depth.” Seniors Ricco Ramsey (wide receiver) and Ryan Carter (offensive line) will also be important offensive players for Valdosta. Defensively, the Wildcats have eight starters back from a 2013 team that was pretty good on that side of the ball. Three defensive backs return as do several linebackers. Todd Bradley, a junior middle linebacker, started as a freshman and has a ton of playing time under his belt despite his relatively young age. Senior linebacker Terrell Roundtree has started for three years and will also be counted upon to be a leader on Valdosta’s defense. “He’s one of our best tacklers and has made a ton of plays for us,” said Coach Gillespie. Seniors Josh Norwood and Tre Barrett will anchor the secondary, as well. While many teams would love to make the playoffs for five straight years, getting in the postseason only to get bounced in the first round isn’t what the Wildcat fans expect out of their team. Everyone - and none more so than Coach Gillespie himself - would like to see that change. The region isn’t getting easier; perennial powers Camden, Colquitt, and Lowndes remain, but the ‘Cats are certainly capable of holding their own against anyone. And with a proven offensive line returning, stability at quarterback, and an experienced and talented defensive unit back, Valdosta’s 2014 season should be a good one.

ENDLESS 353 Northside Drive Valdosta, GA 31602

GHSA 1-AAAAAA 2013 Record:

Region: 2-4 / Overall: 6-5 288 points earned / 199 points against

Schedule Aug Sept Oct Nov

23 29 05 12 19 03 10 17 31 07

Brookwood Thomas County Central Swainsboro Thomasville Veterans Camden County* Tift County* Colquitt County* Lowndes* Lee County*

Head Coach: Rance Gillespie

Key Players Cole Massingill Seth Shuman Ricco Ramsey Ryan Carter Todd Bradley Terrell Roundtree Josh Norwood Tre Barrett

Q Q WR OL LB LB

SUMMER

Tanning Salon

*region game

Home Away

Folllow us on facebook Special Offers

229-245-8285

esummer@mchsi.com

South Georgia Area Schoolsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

2014 Starting Lineup by Robert Preston, Jr.

photography by Micki K Photography

Trenton Thompson Westover High School - Class of 2015

Favorites: Food: Pizza and Chicken Wings Movie: Underworld Book: Underworld Academic Subject: Math Sport (other than your own): Basketball Pastime: Playing 2K14 on Playstation 3 Sport you wish you could play but can’t? Not applicable Dream car: Old Ford truck, 1967

Age: 17 Sport(s): Football and Basketball Mascot: Patriot Position: Defensive Tackle How long have you been playing football? Seven years Why did you choose to play football? To get off the struggle Strengths on the field? Knocking off heads Weaknesses on the field? Not applicable Career highlight: 12 sacks, 86 tackles, 38 FL Where do you see yourself in five years? Hopefully in the NFL

Cole Massingill

Valdosta High School - Class of 2015 Age: 16 Sport(s): Football and Baseball Mascot: Wildcat Position: Quarterback How long have you been playing football? Since I was six years old Why did you choose to play football? My friends and dad wanted me to play. Strengths on the field? Football smart and throwing Weaknesses on the field? Not very fast Career highlight: Winning Byrnes Passing League

Where do you see yourself in five years? College or graduating college Favorites: Food: Japanese Movie: Fast and Furious 6 Academic Subject: Science Sport (other than your own): Basketball Pastime: Sleeping Sport you wish you could play but can’t? Basketball Dream car: Lamborghini

Austin Bryant

Thomas County Central High School - Class of 2015

Age: 17 Sport(s): Football and Basketball Mascot: Yellow Jackets Position: Defensive End How long have you been playing football? 11 years; since I could walk Why did you choose to play football? I love the physical aspect of the game. I can hit people and not get in trouble for it. It’s a win/win. Strengths on the field? I’m a really good pass rusher. I love whipping the offensive tackle and getting the quarterback. Weaknesses on the field? Getting too emotional sometimes in the heat of the battle Career highlight: Blowing up the fullback and getting the runningback the first play of

a heated rivalry game against Cairo in Cairo Where do you see yourself in five years? Hopefully finishing up a good college career at the school of my choice and getting ready to pursue an NFL career or opening up a physical therapy office Favorites: Food: Crab legs Movie: All about the Benjamins Book: To Kill a Mockingbird Academic Subject: World History Sport (other than your own): Baseball Pastime: Fishing Sport you wish you could play but can’t? Lacrosse Dream car: Dodge Charger

Brian Bell

Lowndes High School - Class of 2015 Age: 17 Sport(s): Football Mascot: Viking Position: Linebacker and Fullback How long have you been playing football? 12 years Why did you choose to play football? My dad played ball, and my brother did, too! Strengths on the field? Coverage and hitting Career highlight: Beating Valdosta back to back Where do you see yourself in five years? NFL

Favorites: Food: Zaxby’s Movie: Godzilla Book: Sports Illustrated Academic Subject: Math Sport (other than your own): Wrestling Pastime: Chilling with friends and working out in the gym Sport you wish you could play but can’t? Hockey Dream car: Lambo

Quintin D. Hampton

Colquitt County High School - Class of 2015 Age: 17 Sport(s): Football Mascot: Packer Position: Middle Linebacker How long have you been playing football? 13 years Why did you choose to play football? Wanting to be like my dad and make it to the NFL Strengths on the field? Communication, leadership, and making plays Weaknesses on the field? Getting too heated in the moment and always going for the big hit. Career highlight: Breaking the sack record when we played against Newnan and receiv-

ing Defensive Player of the Year Where do you see yourself in five years? I see myself following God’s plan for my life. I hope to have completed college and be continuing my football career. Favorites: Food: Pizza and French fries Movie: The Blind Side Book: Uncommon by Tony Dungy Academic Subject: Math Sport (other than your own): Track & Field Pastime: Hanging out with friends and family Sport you wish you could play but can’t? Lacrosse Dream car: Audi R8

Jalen Wilkerson Coffee High School - Class of 2015 Age: 18 Sport(s) : Football and Track Mascot: Trojan Position: Tight End and Defensive End How long have you been playing football? Since I was nine or ten Why did you choose to play football? I grew up playing it. Strengths on the field? On the line, blocking and catching the ball Weaknesses on the field? My open field blocking Career highlight: Catching my first touchdown pass on varsity from my brother.

Where do you see yourself in five years? A graduate from FSU and hoping to be in the NFL Favorites: Food: Steak Movie: Friday Book: Night Academic Subject: Reading Sport (other than your own): Baseball Pastime: Spending time with family and friends. Sport you wish you could play but can’t? Basketball Dream car: Audi 15

Colquitt

Mack Tharpe Stadium Capacity: 10,000

Expect More of the Same from the Packers What can you say about the Colquitt County Packers? With the exception of 2008, Head Coach Rush Propst’s first season in Moultrie, the Packers have made the semifinals every year but 2010, which is of course when they played for a state title. Thus far, a championship of any kind - either region or state - has eluded Propst’s Packers, but no team in Georgia’s highest classification has been as consistent as Colquitt. Last year, the Packers finished second in the region - their highest finish in the region since Propst arrived - and went to the semifinals. There they lost 14-9 to Norcross in an odd game that featured a 75-minute lightning delay that came when Colquitt was up 9-7. “I’m proud of the way our kids fought last year. We had a good year, but I don’t think you can say you had an excellent year until you win it all. We beat Valdosta and Lowndes in the same year, which is big for Colquitt County. But the loss to Norcross really stung. That was the worst field I’ve ever played on, and then we had a 75-minute lightning delay when we were up. They had an hour and 15 minutes in their own field house to make adjustments and figure out how to beat us,” said Propst. Norcross made the necessary adjustments and ended Colquitt’s season once again in the fourth round. So what do the Packers have in store for 2014? There is certainly no reason to believe they’re losing much in the way of talent. The Packers have six starters on offense and five on defense returning. They also have about 28 seniors on this year’s team (compared to 21 last year). “Our numbers are up. Our junior class has about 40, and our sophomore class is pretty big, too. We’ve lost about half our starters from last year. If we can return 10 or 12 starters each year, we ought to be okay,” said Coach Propst.

The Packers will be loaded again this year. They return the region’s leading rusher from last year, Sihiem King (5’8,” 170). Colquitt is loaded with other offensive weapons, as well, with junior Kiel Pollard (receiver, 6’1,” 215), junior Ty Lee (running back, 5’7,” 150), and senior Marquan Greene (receiver, 5’9,” 170) as the biggest threats offensively. The quarterback position is very important in Propst’s offense, and this year he has another good one. Chase Parrish (6,’ 180) is a dualthreat junior who really gives the Packers some options offensively. “He’s going to be very good and is a delight to coach,” said Propst. Colquitt also has a talented group of linemen that may be the best the Packers have had at one time. Led by Alfred Brown (6’2,” 225) and Cade Blackburn (6’2,” 240), these guys are all strong and quick. Defensively, the Packers have the best linebacker corps that they’ve had in a long time – maybe ever. According to Propst, that’s the real strength of his defense. “These kids are playmakers. We’ve got three of the best linebackers Colquitt has ever had,” he said. Quintin Hampton (5’11,” 215), who led the region with 20 ½ sacks a year ago, was named First Team AllState by the Atlanta Journal Constitution. This year, he’s a linebacker who shows no signs of slowing down. Bull Barge (5’11,” 216) led the region in tackles in 2013 and is back. So is Tomarcio Reese (5’11,” 204). These guys, along with the rest of Colquitt’s defense, mean that opponents are going to find it very difficult to score against the Packers. For the last five years, no team in the state’s highest classification has done what Colquitt has. And that’s probably not going to change this season.

Packers GHSA 1-AAAAAA 2013 Record:

Region: 5-1 / Overall: 11-3 384 points earned / 174 points against

Schedule Aug Sept Oct Nov

23 29 05 12 19 03 10 17 31 07

*region game

Home Away

Mill Creek (GA Dome) Hoover, AL Crisp County Enterprise, AL Pelham Lowndes* Lee County* Valdosta* Tift County* Camden County*

Key Players Sihiem King Kiel Pollard R Ty Lee RB Marquan Greene R Chase Parrish Q Alfred Brown Cade Blackburn Quintin Hampton LB Bull Barge Tomarcio Reese

5’8” 6’1” 5’7” 5’9” 6’ 6’2” 6’2” 5’11” 5’11” 5’11”

170 215 150 170 180 22 240 215 216 204

Head Coach: Rush Propst

        

Phoebe Orthopaedic Specialty Group Robert S. Pilcher, M.D., PhD Troy E. Skidmore, DO Nur Nurbhai, DO Kiyoshi Yamazki, MD Brandow Glow, PA-C Augusta E. Soltero, MD 



     

        

Lee County

Trojans GHSA 1-AAAAAA 2013 Record:

Region: 4-1 / Overall: 10-2 432 points earned / 165 points against

Lee County Makes Move to Region 1-6A for 2014 Last year, the Lee County Trojans - led by quarterback Stephen Collier, who signed with the Ohio State Buckeyes - won a region title and went to the second round of the state playoffs. It was a great season from a program that has been building momentum for several years. Unfortunately, the Trojans didn’t get much of a chance to bask in their accomplishments. Not long after the season ended, they received word that they were being moved to the 6A classification - specifically to Region 1-6A, considered by many to be one of the toughest regions in the state from top to bottom. Instead of playing Hardaway, Harris County, Thomas County Central, Bainbridge, and Northside (Columbus) in the region schedule, they’re going to be playing Tift, Valdosta, Lowndes, Camden, and Colquitt County. It’s going to be

Trojan Field Capacity:8,000

a challenge but one about which Head Coach Dean Fabrizio is excited. To make matters even worse, there is the aforementioned absence of Collier. However, the Trojans have 16 players returning - eight on both sides of the ball - including running back Jamal Gardner (5’10,” 210) and a few talented defensive players (end Alex Caldwell, 6’2,” 215; defensive back Curtis Williams, 5’10,” 190; and linebackers K.J. Davis, 5’11,” 215, and Malite Williams, 5’11,” 180). Lee County, once one of the larger schools in 5A, now finds itself one of the smaller schools in 6A. It’s not going to be easy getting to the top of the region in 1-6A. The Trojans, however, built themselves into a solid 5A program after several years of lackluster success. The rebuilding process will continue in 2014, this time in Georgia’s toughest region.

Schedule Aug Sept Oct Nov

22 29 05 19 26 03 10 17 24 07

*region game

Home Away

Crisp County Westover Worth County Terrell County Mitchell County Tift County* Colquitt County* Lowndes* Camden County* Valdosta*

Key Players Jamal Gardner Alex Caldwell Curtis Williams K.J. Davis Malite Williams

RB DE DB LB LB

5’10” 6’2” 5’10” 5’11” 5’11”

210 215 190 215 180

Head Coach: Dean Fabrizio

Photos Courtsey of the Albnay Herald

Westover

Patriots GHSA 1-AAAA 2013 Record:

Region: 7-0 / Overall: 9-3 213 points earned / 155 points against

Schedule

Westover Looks to Build upon Record-Setting 2013

Aug Sept Oct

29 05 12 19 26 10 16 24 31

*region game

Home Away

Lee County Jonesboro Northside, Columbus Cairo* Monroe* Americus-Sumter* Worth County* Dougherty* Bainbridge*

Head Coach: Octavia Jones Trenton Thompson. If you haven’t heard his name before - and if you’re a regular reader of In the Game, he’s a former Special Feature athlete from October 2013 - it won’t be long before you do. He’s a 6’3,” 311-pound defensive tackle for the Patriots, and he’s widely considered to be the top prospect in the Class of 2015. He’s big, strong, fast, smart, and he makes tremendous plays from the tackle position. Opposing offenses must take him into account on every play, and he disrupts their game plans from each angle. And he’s back for 2014. Thompson’s number of total tackles (which include 38 tackles for a loss and 12 sacks) may not top that of linebacker Antravious Parks 113, but don’t let that mislead you. Thompson is the heart and soul of Westover’s defense and will have to play up to his potential for the Patriots to build upon the success they have enjoyed over the last two years. And speaking of the defense, that’s the Patriots’ greatest strength. As good as Thompson is, he isn’t their only defensive weapon. Parks, a 5’11,” 220-pound linebacker, is back. So is 6,’ 175-pound defensive back Jysanti Richardson, who intercepted eight passes a year ago. Malik Cunningham, a 6’1,” 190pound defensive end and Djimon Green, a

6’2,” 275-pound defensive tackle, round out Head Coach Octavia Jones’s returning starters on defense. These young men are all talented and bona fide playmakers who will give the Patriots’ opponents a lot of trouble in 2014. On offense, gone are running back Shannon Saunders and his 1,026 rushing yards and eight touchdowns. Quarterback Ta’Keevian Harris, who threw for 1,351 yards last year, and his favorite target Michael Green (385 receiving yards) are also gone. However, the Patriots have three offensive linemen returning, including the 320-pound Desmond Leggett, along with tight end Devon Duckworth (6,’ 220) and receiver Tracy Brown (5’9,” 175). While having a pretty experienced offensive line is going to be a big plus, the Patriots need someone to step up at the quarterback position and in the backfield. They also need to shore up some weaknesses in the kicking game. Westover has not historically been considered a football power at the region level, much less at the state level. Things are turning around in Albany for the Patriots; they went 8-4 in 2012 then re-wrote the record book last year. And there’s no reason to think that the trend of success will end in 2014.

Key Players Trenton Thompson Antravious Parks Jysanti Richardson Malik Cunningham Djimon Green Desmond Leggett Devon Duckworth Tracy Brown

DT 6’3” LB 5’11” DB 6’ DE 6’1” DT 6’2” OL TE 6’ R 5’9”

311 220 175 190 275 320 220 175

Cole Massingill Valdosta High School

Player Spotlight

Presented by:

Valdosta’s Massingill Hungry for Wins after Losing a Season to Knee Injury by Cale Colby

aldosta High School was searching for a leader among last year’s offense as it had to replace its senior quarterback and several offensive linemen who also graduated in 2013. With three classmates competing for the position, the VHS coaching staff began to take notice of junior Cole Massingill. As the summer progressed and the young quarterback took more snaps, he began to find his rhythm. Massingill looked comfortable in the pocket, and his passes were accurate. He played 7 on 7 games throughout the summer, and he felt confident in his ability to lead and score points. But the young man’s hopes were crushed before the season started. On the first day of school, he tore his ACL and had to undergo knee surgery. His season ended before the scrimmage, and after what seemed like a lifetime of preparation, his time on the field was suddenly in peril. 24

photography by Micki K Photography

Cole Massingill’s football career began with pads and helmets at the age of six. “I never played flag football,” he says, “I started straight with the big boys.” Working under center may seem like a natural fit for the Valdosta quarterback to anyone who knows the Massingill family as he is a second generation quarterback. His father, Brian Massingill, played for Tift County in the early 80s. In fact, he led the Blue Devils to the 1983 state championship and was named an All-State player that season. In addition to his state championship ring and AllState status, the elder Massingill went on to play for the University of Florida. As a Gator, he enjoyed some successful seasons, as well. However, in the beginning, the son did not set out to follow in his father’s footsteps. He was tall, over six feet by 12 years old, and he admits he was somewhat lanky and awkward. He was shuffled around the offense until his seventh-grade year when the starting quar-

terbackfor the middle school Cats was injured. The coach asked if anyone would like to play, and Massingill decided it was time to continue the tradition. From there, he says he and his dad began spending more time working on timing and technique, and the natural talent quickly became apparent. Now, the Valdosta athlete is ready to step out of his father’s shadow and forge his own history of triumphant Friday nights. As a senior, Massingill’s goal is nothing less than bringing home a state title and wearing a ring of his own to compare against his father’s 31-year-old keepsake. “Of course I expect a ring,” the quarterback said. “But mostly I just want us to play well and compete as a team. Especially with the amount of talent we have, I think we could win a championship this year.” Still, the young man has a lot to prove after sitting out for an entire season. He admits that he feels a certain level of pressure leading

Favorite Pro Team: Oakland Raiders Favorite Player: Johnny Manziel Favorite Subject: Psychology Least Favorite: Math or Science Superpower: Super speed because I need it If you could travel anywhere, where would you go? Costa Rica If you had $1 million, what would you spend it on? I’d spend it on anything I want.

up to his final season as a Wildcat, but he is confident in his ability, and he believes in his team. He says his knee healed quickly, and after playing for a Valdosta baseball team that finished in the Elite eight this spring, he has no doubt that he can perform. According to the quarterback, “The mentality itself never changes. The separation challenges you because you have to count those hours of rehab. My knees have to get back into the swing of things. You have to know that you can come back and perform at the same level as your teammates. It’s a long road, and you have to be really mentally tough to do it because you had a whole year taken away from you.” Valdosta Head Coach Rance Gillespie plans to run a pro-style up-tempo offense for the Wildcats this season. So, Massingill expects to have ample opportunities to air the ball out and prove his worth. While the running game

is bread and butter for most South Georgia offenses, Valdosta hopes to utilize the passing game and keep the defense spread out. Two factors are working in Massingill’s favor though: he can still nail a target anywhere on the field, and he has a slew of experienced receivers like Craig Barry, Ricco Ramsey, and Khalil McClain returning with anxious hands. Now that he’s back in the saddle for his senior season, the Wildcat quarterback feels like he’s back among his brothers. This team has played together since middle school. They trust each other. And after a somewhat lackluster season in 2013 with only two region victories, perhaps they all have a little chip on their shoulders as their final high school season approaches. Massingill said, “We’ve all played together for a long time, but there is definitely a different vibe from this time last year. As a team, I think we’ve come a long way in a short while. Now we’re hungry.” ITG 25

Valwood

Valiants GISA 3-AAA 2013 Record:

Region: 5-0 / Overall: 12-1 453 points earned / 158 points against

Valiants Return a Better Team than Either of the Previous Two Years Two seasons. Twenty-six wins. A state championship and a runner-up finish. Only one loss. And this year’s Valwood Valiants are supposed to be better than either of these previous iterations. Doesn’t sound possible, does it? Valwood’s head coach Ashley Henderson believes the 2014 Valiants are more experienced and deeper than the teams he fielded in 2012 and 2013. And that’s bad news for Valwood’s competition. The Valiants have dominated the region and state for the last two years. Under Coach Henderson, Valwood has seemingly had its way with its opponents. Many coaches go their entire careers without contending for a

Goddard Field Capacity: 750

state title; in two years as head coach, Henderson has one and has played for another. Will he and his Valiants return to the state finals for a third consecutive year? They definitely have a chance. Six offensive starters and seven defensive starters return, including several key players from last year’s team. Rushing leader Zane Edmonson, a 5’10,” 170-pound running back, will be in the backfield again for the Valiants. The Merine brothers - Char, who led Valwood with 692 yards receiving and Marik, a 5’9,” 160-pound athlete, who led the 2013 team with five interceptions and 15 total touchdowns - are back, as well. The Valiants will lose quarterback Seth Carlo, but they have a very good replacement with the 6,’ 175-pound Parker Bonner. If there is a question mark for Valwood, it’s the offensive line. Gone are three experienced linemen; however, two linemen who average 270 pounds are back and will provide some much-needed stability on the line: Rod Hughes, 6’3,” 275, and Matt Register, 6’2,” 265. Tight end Anthony Folkerts, 6’5,” 240, adds some depth and versatility to the line at the tight end position. In a lot of ways, Valwood has flown under the radar over the last couple of years. The Valiants have won more games and done more at the state level than any other football team in South Georgia. However, GISA Region 3-AAA isn’t the most glamorous classification in the state. Still, you can’t argue with the success the Valiants have had, and it doesn’t look like that’s going to change any time soon.

Schedule Aug Sept Oct

22 29 05 12 19 03 10 17 24 31

*region game

Home Away

Memorial Day Westfield North Florida Christian Frederica TiftArea* Southland* Westwood* Terrell* Brookwood* Deerfield*

Head Coach: Ashley Henderson

Key Players Zane Edmonson RB Marik Merine Parker Bonner QB Rod Hughes OL Matt Register OL Anthony Folkerts TE

5’10” 5’9” 6’ 6’3” 6’2” 6’5”

170 160 175 275 265 240

10 Players To Watch by Robert Preston, Jr.

It’s no secret that some of the best football players in the state can be found right here in South Georgia. Almost every team in every community has at least one player with elite-level skills. Our kids are big, fast, strong, and they know the game of football. So who are the players to watch in 2014? Here are 10 you’ll definitely want to keep your eyes on:

Austin Bryant

Siahem King

A 6’5,” 255-pound defensive end, Bryant has Division I offers from major programs throughout the country, including most schools in the Southeastern Conference as well as West Coast programs like UCLA and Stanford.

A 5’8,” 170-pound running back, King led Region 1-6A in rushing last year as a junior. He’s back this year and will be running behind one of the best offensive lines in the state. King ought to have another monster year.

Chancy Manac

Cole Minshew

Thomas County Central Yellow Jackets

Clinch County Panthers

Another big defensive end, Manac (6’4,” 260) is the most highly recruited player Clinch County has had. And given the talent level of past Panthers, that’s saying a lot.

Maysoe Wiley Cook Hornets

A junior wide receiver, Wiley (6’4,” 185) is an explosive receiver who could be one of the best players to come through Cook High. New Head Coach Jon Lindsey likes to lean heavily on the running game, but with Wiley out wide, the Hornets will almost be forced to put the ball in the air. He’s just too good not to put the ball in his hands.

Jay Bowdry

Thomasville Bulldogs

A 6’1,” 180-pound defensive back, Bowdry had at least 12 scholarship offers at last count. Schools pursuing Bowdry include Duke, Marshall, and Minnesota. As you might expect, he’s also a superb student.

Exavious Medlock Brooks County Trojans

A wide receiver/defensive back, Medlock (5’10,” 170), can change a game from either position. He’s the kind of versatile, two-way player who has helped make the Trojans one of the best teams in South Georgia. Medlock has already received an offer from Georgia Southern University.

Colquitt County Packers

Coffee Trojans

Minshew is a monster. He stands 6’5” and weighs 340 pounds and has mobility, speed, strength, and a high football intellect to go with his size. He is one of the reasons why Tyree Paulk, Coffee’s quarterback (who will also be back this year) was a First Team All-Region player. All the major programs are after him; he is leaning toward Florida State.

Jalen Wilkerson Coffee Trojans

Another kid with elite size, Wilkerson, a tight end, is 6’4,” 235 and can catch and block equally well. He suffered a near career-ending broken neck as a sophomore but came back with another big season last year. Wilkerson is one of Coffee’s most formidable offensive weapons and, like teammate Cole Minshew, has schools from all over after him. Along with Minshew, he has his eyes on Florida State. And the Seminoles have their eyes on him, as well.

Quintin Hampton Colquitt County Packers

An AJC First Team All-State selection at defensive end in 2013, the 5’11,” 215-pounder has moved to outside linebacker. He led Region 1-6A with 20 ½ sacks last year and will be even tougher to handle from the OLB position. Hampton headlines what will almost certainly be the region’s stingiest defense.

Tajhea Chambers Tift County Blue Devils

As yet, nobody in Region 1-6A has seen Chambers, a quarterback, play a single down. Chambers was a three-year starter under center at Baldwin County, but he and his family moved to Tifton in January. While the depth chart officially has the Tift County quarterback position up for grabs, everything points to Chambers being the Blue Devils’ signal caller when the season opens. Chambers can put up monster numbers (according to the Union-Recorder in Milledgeville, he threw for 2,100 yards and 18 touchdowns and rushed for 945 yards and eight more scores in 2012) and should have no problem winning the job. He has committed to Arkansas State. 29 29

Brooks Reloads after Semifinal Run The Brooks County Trojans aren’t going anywhere. They may have lost several really good players off last year’s 12-2 team, including University of Georgia signee Malkom Parrish, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that they’re going to have a down year. Head Coach Maurice Freeman and his staff have some tweaks to make this season, but expectations remain high. “Last season, our goal was to play for a state title. We came up one game short. We had opportunities early on against Lovett, but we didn’t capitalize on them,” said Coach Freeman. When the 2013 season began, everyone knew Brooks was going to be one of the teams to beat in Class 2A. The Trojans didn’t disappoint, either. Except for a lopsided loss to 6A Valdosta High, Brooks rolled through its schedule, amassing a 9-1 regular season record that included an undefeated region mark. The playoffs weren’t much trouble, either; the

Head Coach: Maurice Freeman

Key Players Demontay Jones Exavius Medlock Darren Anderson Xavier Davis

Q WR/DB OL/DL OL/S

6’2” 5’10” 6’1” 6’3”

200 170 245 190

Trojans weren’t tested at all until they traveled to Lovett for the semifinals. There, Brooks scored its lowest point total of the year (12) and didn’t play the brand of football that they had been all year. The loss brought an unfortunate end to a season filled with mixed emotions. Yes, there was the excitement that comes with having such a successful season, but the wounds from the pre-season auto accident that claimed the lives of Jicarre Watkins, Shawn Waters, and Johnnie Parker were still very much open. “You know, we lost three guys who could have put us over the hump,” said Coach Freeman. “Unfortunately, those things happen in life. You lose people who are close to you, and you have to handle it the best way you can.” Coach Freeman and the Trojans handled the loss as well as any team could. They played with a sense of urgency and inspiration all season long. Lovett, which would go on to win the 2A state championship, just had the Trojans’ number. Freeman and his staff went to work immediately preparing for 2014. They had a lot of players returning, including six starters on offense and five on defense. But they were going to be without quarterback Malkom Parrish, who had been a fixture for the Trojans for four years. Parrish, a four-star recruit according to ESPN, had offers from all over the country. Replacing a talent like that is never easy. Freeman, however, believes they will be just fine in Parrish’s absence. Demontay Jones, a 6’2,” 200-pounder, will have the unenviable task of filling Parrish’s shoes. A junior with a penchant for running the ball, Jones will have time to develop in the Brooks County system and is ready for the challenge. “He was our back-up quarterback and tight end last year. He is a hard-running kid. If he has any jitters about stepping in for Malkom, he isn’t showing it,” said Freeman. The offense will revolve around Jones’s strength, which is keeping the ball on the ground. “We won’t throw as much as we did last year. We’ll be running the ball more. But we’re still going to play an exciting brand of football,” said Freeman. The Trojans also have a talented wide receiver/defensive back in Exavius Medlock (5’10,” 170), who has already been offered a scholarship by Georgia Southern University. Other key players include Darren Anderson, a 6’1,” 245-pound offensive/defensive lineman

Brooks

Trojans GHSA 1-AA 2013 Record:

Region: 6-0 / Overall: 12-2 507 points earned / 304 points against

Schedule Aug Sept Oct

22 29 05 19 26 03 10 17 24 31

*region game

Home Away

Ware County Clinch County Madison County, FL Perry Pelham* Berrien* Seminnole County* Fitzgerald* Early County* Thomasville*

and Xavier Davis, a 6’3,” 190-pound outside linebacker/strong safety who has a scholarship offer on the table from Marshall. Clearly the Trojans have a ton of talent coming back. They also have big-game experience, and the lingering feelings of disappointment after last year’s loss in the semifinals. Brooks County will again be one of the teams to beat in Class 2A.

Thomas County Central

Yellow Jackets

Jacket’s Nest Capacity: 7,500

Yellow Jackets in Re-building, Post-Adam Choice Mode A year ago, the Thomas County Central Yellow Jackets were a favorite to win a state title. They had quarterback Adam Choice, one of the best players in the state, leading their offense. Around him, they were deep and talented. A sure thing doesn’t exist when it comes to state championships, but the Yellow Jackets were pretty close. The season started out as it should. TCC shut out rival Thomasville easily. The Jackets went to Valdosta and nearly upset the Wildcats in Death Valley. They beat Marist by seven a week later, and then went on a roll that saw them destroy the next five opponents with ease. In the meantime, Choice racked yards by the hundreds.

Head Coach: Bill Shaver

Key Players Austin Bryant Ernest Harris

DE FS

6’5” 6’2”

255 180

On November 8, 2013, Thomas County Central played Harris County. The region championship was on the line. If things went the way they had been going, the championship was the Yellow Jackets,’ and they would steamroll themselves into the playoffs. Things, however, did not go as planned. In fact, everything went wrong. On the last play of the third quarter, Choice, who had rushed for 268 yards in the game and passed his cousin, Joe Burns, for the all-time Thomas County Central rushing record, separated his shoulder. He was lost for the game and the remainder of the season - however long that would be. Harris County took the lead during the fourth quarter but never really controlled the game. The Jackets drove to the Harris County three-yard line with time expiring but couldn’t score. A potential game-tying field goal was off its mark, and Harris won 38-35. That put TCC in a three-way tie for the region title. They lost the tiebreaker and entered the playoffs as a third seed. They traveled to Richmond Hill and lost by six in the first round. “Something like that just takes the wind out of your sails big time. It would have still been tough in the playoffs if we had Adam. It lets you know how lucky you are to go through a season without losing anybody to injury. When we had that run of titles in the ‘90s, we never had a significant injury. That wasn’t the case this year,” said Head Coach Bill Shaver. This year, not only is Choice gone but so are nine of the other 10 offensive starters. The defense has six players returning, among them Austin Bryant, a 6’5,” 255-pound defensive end who has offers from all over the country, including Stanford, UCLA, and just about every program in the Southeastern Conference. Ernest Harris, a 6’2,” 180-pound free safety, is a future Division I player, as well. “Our defense is going to have to play well and keep us in games while the offense gets going,” said Coach Shaver.

In addition to all the new faces on the field this year, the Yellow Jackets will also have a new schedule. They have moved down to Region 1-4A for 2014, a move that on paper should make for an easier year but in reality is a tougher schedule. “A lot of people have told me that this year ought to be easier now that we’re in 4A. But that’s not the case. Our new region is going to be tougher. The good news is that we’ll be back to playing schools in our area. Last year, our shortest trip was to Worth County. This year, it will be our longest trip,” said Coach Shaver. So what does this mean for the Yellow Jackets in 2014? It certainly won’t be easy, but then again, it never is. Thomas County Central is an established program that always has tremendous players ready to step up and play. It’s going to be particularly tough this year; the Yellow Jackets don’t have a running back with much more than 100 yards rushing in his career. The learning curve will be steep and fast. Coach Shaver, however, has never missed the playoffs as head coach. It is unlikely that streak will end this year.

GHSA 1-AAAA 2013 Record:

Region: 4-1 / Overall: 8-3 385 points earned / 165 points against

Schedule Aug Sept Oct

29 05 12 19 03 10 17 24 31

*region game

Home Away

Valdosta Riverdale Americus-Sumter* Bainbridge* Monroe* Albany* Cairo* Crisp County* Worth County*

The Unsung Hero of the Preseason Football Edition

by Robert Preston, Jr.

’m not THAT old. I do, however, remember having a Rolodex on my desk and saving every single phone number I ever used in case I needed it again. Contacts were hard to come by for a reporter in South Georgia and information was at a premium. It was hard to dig up background facts for stories and finding the number of a potential source was even harder. The internet changed all that. As the web grew, it transformed reporting just like it did every other profession. Once we were online, I could access information at the touch of a button. I could get phone numbers to government offices and access a world of information that my Rolodex couldn’t hold. Now, all these years later, I shake my head at the thought of pre-internet reporting. And as we prepare this preseason football edition, I can’t imagine the thought of doing this thing without the resources the web provides. These days, high school football, even down here in South Georgia, generates statewide interest. Our teams play schools from all over and as such, we are looking for information on programs throughout the state, and those same programs are looking for our information. Most high schools don’t put a lot of athletic

information on the web. A few post rosters and a handful have histories, statistics, coach bios, and other such information. For the most part, however, there is a gross lack of information on the internet about our high school football teams. Enter the Georgia High School Football Historians Association. Found at www.ghsfha.org, this site includes information on thousands of games, region and state championship winners, All-State players, and all the win-loss stats you could ever imagine. You can form a pretty good picture of a program by just perusing a team’s pages. The work for the preseason football edition of In the Game would be nearly impossible without the GHSFHA. It is an invaluable resource that makes my job so much easier. I have never known who exactly it is who started this site or who is behind it. But I cannot overstate its importance in putting together this edition. I wish high schools would follow the lead of most colleges and universities and put athletic information - such as rosters, statistics, championships, etc. - on their sites. Until such time, the GHSFHA will be the place to go for all things high school football in Georgia. ITG

Tift County

Brodie Field Capacity: 10,000

Blue Devils

Coach Reid: ‘Last year was good, but it won’t be good enough this year’ It’s been five years since the Tift County Blue Devils last made the playoffs. In that time, they’ve gotten a new head coach, and they’ve yet to win more games than they’ve lost. Under third-year Head Coach John Reid, the Blue Devils have steadily improved each year, and the Tift County faithfuls hope that this is the year that sees the Blue Devils return to the postseason. When Reid arrived two years ago, Tift finished 2-8. Last year, they improved by three wins, going 5-5. Winning five games was a step in the right direction, but, said Coach Reid, it won’t be good enough in 2014. “Our expectations are high. I thought we put the players in a position to make the playoffs last year. We had costly turnovers against Valdosta and Camden. We’ve got to grow out of that this year,” he said. Tift returns about five starters on each side of the ball for 2014, and, according to Coach Reid, they are better athletically than they’ve been since he has coached Tift. The Blue

Head Coach: John Reid

Devils have about 24 seniors and 100 players total from the sophomore class to the senior class. The numbers are strong and so is the talent level. The biggest question mark for Tift is replacing All-Region running back Ladarius Stewart. At the time of this writing, Coach Reid and his staff still hadn’t found the guy to step in and fill the void left by one the region’s best backs a year ago. But that doesn’t mean the Blue Devils aren’t talented this year. They have an explosive wide receiver in Malik Henry, a 6,’ 175-pounder who scored 12 touchdowns in 2013. Henry has accepted a scholarship offer from the Georgia Southern Eagles, though Coach Reid says he expects offers from bigger schools to come as the season progresses. Throwing to Henry will be Tajhea Chambers, a quarterback who moved to Tifton with his family from Baldwin County. Chambers, a 6’2,” 220-pound senior, has committed to Arkansas State and is an incredible athlete. He will face some competition, however, from Michael Hancock, last year’s back-up. Chambers and Hancock will battle for the position throughout the summer. Tift also has a fantastic lineman in Hunter Winters, a right tackle who stands 6’3” and weighs 285. Receivers Quay Duggins and R.J. Merriweather are also solid offensive weapons for the Blue Devils. Defensively, Tift is deeper and stronger than they are on the other side of the ball. Jaelon Johnson, a 5’11,” 240-pound defensive tackle, is a solid player, as are David Scott (defensive end, 6’2,” 245), Charles King (linebacker, 6,’ 195), and Chase Cottle (linebacker, 6,’ 200). The secondary is also strong and features Josh Ajiero (6’1,” 180) and Deshaun Dean (6,’ 175). “We’re headed in the right direction. We’ve had some success at the lower levels, and we’re a much improved program,” said Coach Reid. The Blue Devils haven’t been in the Region 1-6A playoff picture in a long time. That will likely change this season.

Schedule Aug Sept Oct Nov

22 29 05 12 19 03 10 17 31 07

*region game

Home Away

Henry County Cook Luella Baldwin Alcovy Lee County* Valdosta* Camden County* Colquitt County* Lowndes*

Key Players Malik Henry WR Tajhea Chambers Q Michael Hancock Q Hunter Winters OL Quay Duggins R R.J. Merriweather R Jaelon Johnson DT David Scott DE Charles King LB Chase Cottle LB Josh Ajiero Deshaun Dean

6’ 6’2”

175 220

6’3”

285

5’11” 6’2” 6’ 6’ 6’1” 6’

240 245 195 200 180 175

Thomasville

Bulldogs Year Two of the Ryals Era Begins with Excitement, High Expectations The second year of the Leroy Ryals era begins in Thomasville with six offensive players and seven defensive players returning. All four of the Bulldogs’ defensive backs are back as are three out of five offensive linemen. That means the Bulldogs ought to be pretty good this season. Add to that the familiarity that comes with being in the system for a second season, and the 2014 edition of the Thomasville Bulldogs should be an impressive one. “Last year was a learning experience for our players and me. Toward the end of the season, we came together. The kids began to understand how things ought to go,” Ryals said. This spring, the players remembered what it was like when the season ended, and they picked up where they left off. Everyone knew what to expect out of each other, how to practice, and what their assignments were. The end result was a productive and spirited spring campaign that had the Bulldogs ready to eclipse their 8-4 mark from a year ago. After losing to eventual region champion Brooks County, Thomasville won five straight

Veterans Memorial Stadium

before running into the buzz saw that was Lamar County. The Trojans won 14 consecutive games only to lose in the state finals to Lovett. Despite just getting to the second round, it was a good season for Thomasville, one that showed the players and coaches that they were indeed a very good football team. “I thought they did a good job of acclimating to my system and our staff. The players continued to learn each time they went on the field,” said Ryals. Now that the learning curve is over, what do the Bulldogs have in store for 2014? They’ve got a solid nucleus returning, including a workhorse of an offensive line and several explosive skill players. On the defensive side of the ball, they’ve got a highly-recruited defensive back to go with a lot of physical, motivated defenders. On the offensive line, Allen Robinson (6’2,” 240), Ryan Bush (5’7,” 225), and Bryan Kato (6’2,” 240) will give the skill guys opportunities to make plays. Javier McGriff, a 6’1,” 175-pound wide receiver, led all Bulldog receivers last year and will be back making plays again this year. The defensive backs are led by the 6’1,” 180-pound Jay Bowdry, who has over a dozen scholarship offers on the table, including offers from Duke, Troy, and Georgia Southern. Accompanying him are Kenneth Hayes (5’8,” 160), Forenza Chatmon (5’9,” 165), and linebacker Andrew Robinson (6’1,” 220). The Bulldogs do have to replace their quarterback; this summer, three kids are battling to see who starts the season under center. It’s never easy to find a new quarterback; however, all three are talented and able to lead the Thomasville offense. Given the weapons that will be in place around the signal-caller, the Bulldogs ought to have another good season in 2014.

GHSA 1-AA 2013 Record:

Region: 5-1 / Overall: 8-4 312 points earned / 232 points against

Schedule Aug Sept Oct Nov

22 29 12 19 26 03 10 17 31 07

*region game

Home Away

West Laurens Cairo Valdosta Baldwin Seminole County* Fitzgerald* Pelham* Berrien* Brooks County* Early County*

Head Coach: Leroy Ryals

Key Players Allen Robinson Ryan Bush Bryan Kato Javier McGriff Jay Bowdry Kenneth Hayes Forenza Chatmon Andrew Robinson

OL OL OL WR DB DB DB LB

6’2” 5’7” 6’2” 6’1” 6’1” 5’8” 5’9” 6’1”

240 225 240 175 180 160 165 220

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10 Games to Watch by Robert Preston, Jr.

Each and every Friday night in the fall, teams across South Georgia square off on the football field. Every game is huge, and the stakes are always high. But some games are bigger than others. Here are 10 of the biggest and most interesting games that will be played this fall: 10. Brooks County Trojans v. Madison, FL Cowboys

Last year, Brooks, a 1-2A school, was one of the best teams in the state in any classification. When you’re a small school that plays that well, it can be hard to schedule opponents. Smaller programs don’t want to get drilled and larger programs don’t want to run the risk of getting embarrassed. Enter Madison, Florida. Whenever schools in Georgia have problems finding opponents, the Cowboys always seem ready to take on the challenge. One of the best small programs in Florida, Madison has a tradition of turning out big-time players. And they aren’t scared of Georgia schools one bit. Madison has played Valdosta, Colquitt, and Coffee in the past. The Cowboys may not always win, but they always play hard. Brooks travels to Madison on September 5, and it will definitely be an entertaining contest.

9. Coffee Trojans v. Ware County Gators

For the last several years, Coffee and Ware County have been in different classifications, but they have still played each other regularly. The two schools remain fierce rivals regardless of region or classification. Since 2008, each team has won three and lost three. However, under Head Coach Robby Pruitt, the Trojans are undefeated against Ware. This year, the two schools are in the same region and play in week three. Despite its early scheduling, this game could very much have region title implications.

8. Clinch County Panthers v. Charlton County Indians

Last year, Clinch beat Charlton and won the region. However, Charlton had the last laugh. Clinch went home in the second round while Charlton and Irwin County advanced to the semifinals where they played each other. Charlton escaped with a one-point win and played for a state title. The Panthers will be better this year than they were last year, and this game could again have region title implications.

7. Irwin County Indians v. Charlton County Indians

These two teams played each other twice last year, once during the regular season and again in the semifinals. Irwin won the first meeting while Charlton won the semifinal match-up. In 2014, Irwin County has a new head coach in Buddy Nobles but still ought to be pretty good. This is turning into a bit of a rivalry, and these two teams will definitely be ready to play each other again this year. They play on October 3 in Ocilla.

6. Irwin County Indians v. Fitzgerald Purple Hurricanes

The two teams, which are in different classifications, play on September 5. This is always a rivalry game, though it has been lopsided in Fitzgerald’s favor for a long time. Last year, however, the Indians and the ‘Canes fought to a 20-20 tie. Fitzgerald is still good and so are the Indians. It will be another fun game between neighboring communities.

5. Colquitt County Packers v. Camden County Wildcats

Thus far, a region championship has eluded the Packers. They’ve had their chances, but they haven’t been able to get it done. And since Camden has come into Region 1-6A, they have won the region each year and have lost but one region contest – and that was to Colquitt County. This game takes place in the last game of the year at Colquitt County. It is very likely that the winner of this game will win the region.

4. Lowndes Vikings v. Colquitt County Packers

This is also a pretty big rivalry game, maybe Lowndes’s biggest except for its annual showdown against the Valdosta Wildcats. There is no love lost between these two teams. Along with Camden County, these two schools make up the Big Three of Region 1-6A. This is the first region game on the schedule for both teams, and it takes place at Colquitt. The winner of this game will likely be on a crash course with Camden for the region championship.

3. Thomas County Central v. Cairo Syrupmakers

The teams across the lower part of the state have an intense rivalry with each other, regardless of region or classification. TCC, Thomasville, Bainbridge, and Cairo are all rivals, and no matter what is (or isn’t) on the line, every time these teams play each other there is a championship atmosphere. This year, the Jackets and the Syrupmakers square off in a region contest on October 17 in Cairo. TCC has won 23 of the 41 games they’ve played, so the rivalry is fairly even. And there will be a lot on the line in 2014.

2. Valdosta High Wildcats v. Lowndes Vikings

The Winnersville Classic. What can you say about this game that hasn’t already been said? This game is one of the most heated high school games anywhere. While Valdosta holds the all-time advantage over Lowndes, as of late, the Vikings have dominated. Last year, Lowndes won a 3-0 slobber knocker that saw Valdosta dominate much of the game. But when it counted, the Vikings put the brakes on the Wildcat offense and kept them off the board. Used to, the winner of this game went on to win the region championship. With the ascension of Colquitt and the arrival of Camden in the region, that’s not necessarily the case anymore. But while the winner of this game may not win the region, the loser almost certainly will not. Aside from that, there’s that year of pride at stake. And in a community that loves football as much as Valdosta-Lowndes County, that may carry more weight than a region title.

1. Hoover, AL Buccaneers v. Colquitt County Packers

This isn’t a region game. It won’t matter in the postseason. But there is indeed a lot on the line. Hoover, which is where Colquitt County Head Coach Rush Propst became a household name with his MTV show Two-a-Days and five Alabama state titles (including four in a row from 2002-2005), will likely enter the season as the #1 team in the nation. In 2013, the Packers travelled to Hoover and played in a game broadcast on ESPN. Hoover won the game 24-10. This year, the Buccaneers will come to Moultrie to play on August 29 in what will be one of the biggest football games all year in South Georgia. Hoover is loaded and will have the advantage, but Colquitt is indeed a worthy opponent. If the Packers weren’t, the Buccaneers wouldn’t make the long trip from Birmingham.

New Coach, New Offense, Same Expectations in Adel The Cook Hornets have a new coach, a new offense, and they are playing in a new region. But their expectations haven’t changed. They want to win, and they want to win quickly. New Head Coach Jon Lindsey knew what he was getting into when he made the move 40 miles up the road from Ocilla to Adel. A year ago, Lindsey, in his third year at Irwin County, took the Indians to the semifinals of the state playoffs where they came an extra point away from playing for a state championship. Now, Lindsey is the head coach of the Hornets, a team with a history of deep playoff runs and producing great players. Lindsey knew that the Irwin County job would be a steppingstone to a larger classification. He just didn’t know he would be moving as quickly as he did. “My daughter is starting high school this year. So I knew I had to move now or wait four years. This was a good opportunity for us. I had grown as a head coach at Irwin County, and we had gotten some things in place,” he said. With Coach Lindsey came his tried-andtrue hybrid wing-T offense. Previously a spread team, the Hornets have had to adjust to a completely different offensive philosophy. Coach Lindsey has been pleased with the way his players have adapted to the new offense. “We’re asking them to do some things that they’ve never done before. They’ve been picking up on it well. It’s not

a traditional wing-T. We use some shotgun, and we incorporate some spread formations. But we keep the integrity of the wing-T system in our running game,” he said. The Hornets have some formidable weapons in the new system. One of the best is junior wide receiver Maysoe Wiley, a 6’4,” 185-pounder who could develop into one of the best players to come through the Cook County program. He’s big, fast, and has great hands. Cook also has a couple of other really good skill guys on offense in running back Jay Smith, a 5’8,” 175-pound senior. Joining him in the backfield and Wiley out wide will be athlete Tavian Allen, a 6,’ 175pound junior who can play all over the place. The Hornets are senior-heavy on defense and have several very good players returning, including linebacker Spencer Joiner (6’1,” 215), defensive lineman James Traylor (5’11,” 275), cornerback Sammy Jackson (5’9,” 170), and defensive back Jeremiah Smith (5’11,” 170). This year, the Hornets move up to the 3A classification and have a brand new group of opponents, including Pierce, Appling, and Dodge. Coach Lindsey admits that he doesn’t know much about the teams he’ll be playing, but he is expecting it to be a very competitive region. “There are some good teams in this region. I don’t know a lot about them, but I know they will be competitive,” he said. And so will the Hornets.

GHSA 1-AAA 2013 Record:

Region: 3-3 / Overall: 6-5 216 points earned / 189 points against

Schedule Aug Sept Oct

29 05 12 20 26 03 10 17 24

*region game

Home Away

Tift County Berrien Pierce County* Islands* Brantley County* Tattnall County* Toombs County* Appling County* Dodge County*

Key Players Maysoe Wiley WR Jay Smith RB Tavian Allen Spencer Joiner LB James Traylor DL Sammy Jackson CB Jeremiah Smith DB

6’4” 5’8” 6’ 6’1” 5’11” 5’9” 5’11”

185 175 175 215 275 170 170

Head Coach: Jon Lindsey

43 43

Indians Return a Ton of Talent for 2014 The good news for the Albany High Indians? They return 14 starters, including nine on offense, and they’re deep at all the skill positions. The bad news? History has not been kind to Albany; the Indians haven’t won more than four games since 2002 and in that stretch have had three winless seasons. The last two seasons have both been 2-8 and going back to October of last year, they have lost four straight. How will the 2014 edition of the Albany High Indians reverse the trend? With depth and experience. Jonathon Jefferson, a 5’11,” 215-pound running back/linebacker, is back. He led the Indians with 865 yards rushing a year ago. Athlete Malik Dungee (6,’ 170), last year’s touchdown leader with 15, also returns. They have a solid quarterback in the 6,’ 173-pound Trevian Jackson and a couple of other talented running backs, most notably the 5’9,” 170pound Jalan Guest. A pair of tight ends/ defensive ends (Joe Stone, 6’4,” 225, and

Christopher Jenkins, 6’3,” 220) will also play important roles. A lot of Albany’s kids play on both sides of the ball, so the same playmaking ability that the Indians have at running back and wide receiver will be factors at the linebacker and defensive back positions. The big question marks for Albany are its history and the offensive line. Will the line be able to protect the skill guys and allow the Indians to take advantage of the talent they have in the backfield? That’s what Head Coach Felton Williams and his staff are working on this summer. The other factor is, of course, Albany’s lack of wins over the last decade. Winning more games will require a change of culture at Albany High, and that can often be difficult. The kids must believe in what they’re doing and have confidence that they can win. The mental side is often more difficult to master than the physical side. The Indians have the talent to win; they just have to believe it.

Albany

Indians GHSA 1-AAAA 2013 Record:

Region: 1-6 / Overall: 2-8 94 points earned / 212 points against

Schedule Aug Sept Oct

29 05 12 19 27 02 10 17 31

*region game

Home Away

Mitchell County Terrell County Laney Americus-Sumter* Dougherty* Crisp County* Thomas County Central* Monroe* Cairo*

Key Players

Photos Courtsey of the Albany Herald

Jonathon Jefferson RB/LB Malik Dungee Trevian Jackson Q Jalan Guest Joe Stone TE/DE Christopher Jenkins TE/DE

5’11” 6’ 6’ 5’9” 6’4” 6’3”

215 170 173 170 225 220

Head Coach: Felton Williams

Coachâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Corner Christian Hunnicutt Lowndes High School 46

Performance and Passion:

The Process of Coaching an Offensive Line by Cale Colby

hen talking to Christian Hunnicutt, offensive line coach at Lowndes County High School, two things become immediately apparent: his passion for football, and his love for the players. He prides himself in putting in the extra time and energy to create a successful environment for his student-athletes. And, he wants to see every player maximize his potential both on the field and throughout his life. Though he did not play football in college, Hunnicutt says he “caught the bug” for coaching while studying education at the University of Georgia. He set out to study political science at UGA, but a roommate, Scott Wilkins, who currently serves as the head coach at Cedar Shoals High School in Athens, convinced his classmate to pursue a career in education. He recalled the teachers and coaches who made an impact in his life, and he felt that he was being called to teach. Soon after, he switched majors to education, and took the first steps along that path. According to the Hunnicutt, “There are so many similarities, to me, between really effective classroom teaching, and really effective coaching.” Evaluating the similarities between his years in the classroom and in a field house, Hunnicutt said that the same principles hold true in either profession: curriculum, instruction, assessment, and environment. With two decades of coaching experience - including two years at North Clayton High School in College Park, 15 years at Buford, and a year at Peach County before moving to Lowndes County last fall - the offensive line coach brings a wealth of experience and perspective to the Vikings’ offense. Although the Marietta native enjoyed a successful 18-year career close to his Atlanta home, the opportunity to work under Lowndes Head Coach Randy McPherson and coach within Region 1 was too tempting to pass up. “You think about football in Georgia, and the first thing that pops into anyone’s mind is Region 1. To be honest, I think anyone would love to compete in this region. You think about South Georgia football, you think about ‘Title Town,’ with the Lowndes-Valdosta rivalry. You think about Camden County and Colquitt County. So, obviously the football here is incredibly important to all of the communities,” the coach said. However, in Lowndes County, Christian Hunnicutt believes he has found an element that other school systems may lack. The coach references a Jim Collins’ book titled Good to Great when contemplating a relent-

photography by Micki K Photography

less pursuit of excellence in both athletics and academics. In his book, Collins identifies “level-five-leaders.” In Hunnicutt’s words, these people are great “leaders of industry who possess a combination of personal humility and professional wealth.” The Vikings assistant coach believes that LHS fosters this environment and thus facilitates an abundance of these leaders. He said, “There are so many leaders, so many coaches and administrators that really and truly possess an abundance of personal humility and professional wealth. They do not seek recognition, but their major focus is on what is best for the kids. That level-five-leader is pervasive in Lowndes County Schools.” Concerning his role as the Viking’s Oline coach, Hunnicutt looks at his players as a team within a team. He says the line is a separate breed, and it takes time to develop the linemen individually and to develop the overall culture that he hopes to cultivate within the group. He believes in investing himself not just in the player, but the person and the individual. The goal is not just to see them develop in the weight room or on the field. He also wants to see them develop into successful young men. They have to be a group that is cohesive. They have to care about each other, and they have to trust each other. Hunnicutt strives to instill some values that he hopes will transcend the lessons at hand. He hopes to see his students and players gain insight that will help them for the rest of their lives. Looking back on a 2013 season where the Lowndes team was outscored 65-14 by the top two teams in the state (Colquitt and Norcross), the coach states simple expectations for his players leading up to the quickly approaching season: “Be committed through June, July, and August. That is the first expectation. Next, just have short-term focus for period to period improvement and daily improvement.” He believes that if the team is “process driven,” the score will take care of itself. He said, “We cannot control what Rush Propst (Colquitt County’s head coach) thinks. We cannot control what Coach Maloof thinks in Norcross or what players they have. For me, our focus has always been on Lowndes improving more than anyone else… Obviously, they’re both championship caliber programs with talented and committed coaches and players. I can’t control what they do or don’t have. The only thing I can control is making sure we’re doing everything possible.” ITG

Hunnicutt looks at his players as a team within a team. He says the Viking’s O-line is a separate breed, and it takes time to develop the linemen individually and to develop the overall culture that he hopes to cultivate within the group. He believes in investing himself not just in the player, but the person and the individual. 47

Coffee

Jardine Stadium Capacity: 6,500

Trojans

Trojans Begin New Era in Region 3-5A The Coffee Trojans are beginning the third year of the Robby Pruitt Era. Thus far, the Trojans are an even 10-10 under Pruitt. During these last two years, Coffee has competed in the suffocating Region 1-6A, a region in which several of the state’s best teams reside. Now, for 2014, Coffee will compete in the A division of Region 3-5A, a move that pits the Trojans against schools closer to Coffee’s size but isn’t much of a step down in terms of competition. In fact, a former 1-6A school, Brunswick will also compete in the same region, and Brunswick defeated Coffee last year in region play. “If you look at it, it’s still a real competitive region. We’re looking at the same type of teams. Statesboro is one of the best teams in the state. Ware County and Brunswick are very good. Glynn Academy has a new coach and offensive coordinator. Those guys are good, too. So it’s still a tough region. I think it’s a good thing to be in 5A, but it’s not really

Head Coach: Robby Pruitt

a relief,” said Coach Pruitt. Still, you’ve got to like Coffee’s chances better in 5A than in 6A. Gone are the games against Colquitt, Lowndes (who the Trojans haven’t beaten since 2001), rival Tift, and Valdosta. Instead, the Trojans will play Ware County, Statesboro, Effingham, South Effingham, Richmond Hill, and other schools in the coastal area. Playing in the new region makes the Trojans an immediate contender for a region championship, something Coach Pruitt hopes to bring to Douglas for the first time in many, many years. “That’s what we want to do – win region and make a run through the playoffs. But we’ve got a lot of work to do,” he said. Offensively, the Trojans should be in very good shape. They have a lot of players returning, including last year’s All-Region quarterback in 6A, the 6,’ 165-pound Tyree Paulk. In 2013, Paulk threw 24 touchdown passes, setting Coffee’s school record. The Trojans also have a pair of Florida State commits on the line in Cole Minshew (6’5,” 340) and tight end Jalen Wilkerson (6’4,” 235). Running back Lecarvius Sears was hurt much of last year but came on strong at the end of the season and had a big game in Coffee’s win over Valdosta to close the season. He will be back, along with Anthony Fussell, a wide receiver/ running back who can do a lot of things really well. K.J. Jones is another talented lineman and sophomore Jeremiah Ashley is a wide receiver/quarterback who will likely succeed Paulk under center after this year. Junior Cam Davis, one of the Trojans’ top receivers last year, is also returning. Defensively, the Trojans have a lot of holes to fill. Safety Brant Garrett is back, as are linebackers Jay Lott and James Burke. On the line will be a lot freshmen and sophomores. “We’ve got a lot back on offense, not much on defense. We’re going to have a lot of new bodies on the defensive side of the ball,” said Coach Pruitt.

GHSA 3-AAAAA 2013 Record:

Region: 1-5 / Overall: 5-5 240 points earned / 217 points against

Schedule Aug Sept Oct Nov

23 29 12 19 26 03 10 17 31 07

*region game

Home Away

North Oconee Savannah Ware County* Glynn Academy* Effingham County* Statesboro* South Effingham* Brunswick* Richmond Hill* Bradwell Institute*

Key Players Tyree Paulk Q Cole Minshew Jalen Wilkerson TE Lecarvius Sears RB Anthony Fussell WR/RB K.J. Jones OL Jeremiah Ashley WR/Q Cam Davis R Brant Garrett S Jay Lott LB James Burke LB

6’ 6’5” 6’4”

165 340 235

So what does all this mean for Coffee? A lot of Trojan fans are getting ready to make reservations in Atlanta for Coffee’s first appearance in the Georgia Dome. However, Coach Pruitt is much more reserved than that. “It’s going to be better for us in this region, but it’s not going to be easy at all. This region is still one of the toughest in the state, and there aren’t going to be any off nights here, either,” he said. Coach Pruitt is indeed correct. But in 2014, look for the Trojans to make the playoffs for the first time under Coach Pruitt.

Panthers Return to Region-Title Form The 2012 season was a nightmare. The worst the Clinch County Panthers have had in 33 years. Head Coach Jim Dickerson and his staff took it on the chin and bounced back in 2013, winning a region title and getting to the second round of the playoffs. The Panthers were actually better than a second-round team; however, five turnovers in the game were more than they could overcome. “I was pleased with last year. We’re on the upswing now. Last year was good, and we’ve got a good nucleus returning. Our younger grades are in good shape, so we ought to be good for at least the next five or six years,” said Coach Dickerson. Last year, the Panthers changed their offense from the spread to the single wing, which is basically the wing-T run out of the shotgun. Dickerson had to make the change; the Panthers didn’t have a true quarterback who could air it out. The Panthers went 1-2 over the first three games of the season while the kids figured out the new offense. Then, a few weeks into the season, they began to understand things a little better and went undefeated in the region and captured yet another region championship.

This season, the Panthers have some really talented players coming back, including two which are among the most recruited players Clinch has ever had. One is junior Chancy Manac, a 6’4,” 260pound defensive end, and the other is halfback/defensive back Octavious Johnson (6’1,” 190). Johnson is an important part of the Panthers’ offense, but he is being recruited primarily as a defensive players. Both of these kids have offers on the table from all the major programs, including Florida State, Florida, and Georgia. Working with these kids will be Dondre Lacey, a 6,’ 185-pound wide receiver/defensive back; Trinity Cooper (son of A.C. Cooper), a 5’8,” 160-pound slot receiver/ defensive back; and 6’4,” 290-pound offensive lineman Ryan Moore. “We just aren’t used to having size like Ryan’s on our team. He’s a tremendous player,” said Coach Dickerson. Additionally, the Panthers have their number one and number two tacklers returning at linebacker this year. “We’re as talented as we’ve been since 2010. I think we’ll be at least in the middle or upper part of the region this year,” said Coach Dickerson.

Panthers GHSA 2-A 2013 Record:

Region: 6-0 / Overall: 8-4 269 points earned / 205 points against

Schedule Aug Sept Oct Nov

22 29 12 19 26 03 17 24 31 07

*region game

Home Away

Calhoun County Brooks County Berrien Irwin County* Wilcox County* Atkinson County* Turner County* Lanier County* Charlton County* Telfair County*

Key Players Chancy Manac DE Octavious Johnson HB/DB Dondre Lacey WR/DB Trinity Cooper SL/DB Ryan Moore OL

6’4” 6’1” 6’ 5’8” 6’4”

260 190 185 160 290

Head Coach: Jim Dickerson

Austin Mangelsdorf This senior hits the books just as hard as he hits his opponents on the field, and his passion is evident both in the classroom and on the field. He works hard, he studies hard, he plays hard, and his goals and aspirations are squarely centered in family, pride, and dignity.

Academic Athlete

tift County High school

Blue Devil

with a Heart of Gold by Cale Colby

ew student-athletes exemplify the qualities that comprise a great scholar, athlete, and leader. With all of the pressures and distractions associated with high school, one could easily get lost in the whirl of carefree teenaged wisdom. It’s hard to imagine a young man with the will to excel in the classroom, the determination to compete in a sport like football, and the responsibility to hold down a job in his free time. But Tift County High School is home to one such academic athlete in Austin Mangelsdorf. On the football field last year, the Tift County coaches shuffled Mangelsdorf around quite a bit. He started out at tight end, but he also played fullback and defensive end before the season was over. At 6’3” and 215 pounds, he looks like a tight end. But in South Georgia football, big guys who hit hard provide vast opportunities beyond pass completions or yards gained on the ground. In this case, the coaches quickly realized Mangelsdorf’s ability to create additional yards by providing key blocks. This year, the senior Blue Devil is playing left tackle, which many would call the most important position on the field. He believes that his experience last year as a lead blocker will serve him well when it comes to protecting his quarterback or creating a crease for a running back to slip through. Mangelsdorf loves to deliver bone-crushing hits, and he says that the transition from last year’s multiple roles to the left tackle position should be seamless. He knows that his team competes in one of the toughest regions in the state, 1-AAAAAA, and there is never a day off once football season arrives. But he is excited to compete against the best high school football programs in Georgia. Mangelsdorf said, “We’ve been working hard during the offseason, and our coaches have been preparing us for any team that we have to face. I think we’re ready to take on any team in our region, and I’m pretty confident about it.” He sees himself as a leader this year. He sees his teammates as brothers, and he wants to help the younger players to learn and contribute to the team. He teaches from his past experience, and shares his mistakes and successes in the hopes that the team will gain understanding and perform at a higher level.

photography by Micki K Photography

But his confidence reaches beyond Blue Devil Stadium on a Friday night; the senior maintains that same attitude when it comes to his success in the classroom. The 4.0 student believes that if you work hard and stay focused, dedication will pay dividends in the long run. The young man has plenty to distract him. In addition to football and school, Mangelsdorf has worked at a restaurant in Tifton for over a year. While many of his peers are looking for a good time with little regard for tomorrow, this senior left tackle from Tift County imagines a future where he is able to provide for his family. “I always try to do my best,” he said. “Whether it be school, football, or just a hobby, I always push myself to be the best I can be.” His academic and football ambitions collide when it comes to life after high school. Mangelsdorf comes from a family full of University of Georgia Alumni. So, as his senior season approaches, the Blue Devil dreams of Saturdays clad in red and black between the hedges at Sanford Stadium. In terms of academics, he would choose Georgia, as well. He wants to carry on the family tradition as a Dawg, but he understands that a scholarship would be the ideal situation. If a college other than UGA offers, Mangelsdorf would gladly take the opportunity to play at the college level. However, if he makes it to Georgia on his grades alone, the aspiring Bulldog plans to test his mettle and try out for the football team. He plans to study pre-med in the hopes of one day becoming a doctor of sports medicine and spending many more Friday nights on some South Georgia sideline, cheering on and encouraging other young minds while helping injured players to recover quickly and return to the field. Like the life he lives today, Mangelsdorf’s goal is to strike a fine balance between football, academia, and family. iTg

Favorite Subject: Math Least Favorite Subject: English Coke or Pepsi: Coke Last Book You Read: The Scarlett Letter Favorite Team: New Orleans Saints Favorite Player: Tim Tebow If you had a million dollars, how would you spend it: I’d give some to charity, and I’d put my mom and dad in a new house. Then, I’d use the rest for my family and give them things they wanted.

Fitzgerald

‘Canes Look to Bounce Back from Poor Regular Season “Last year, record-wise, it wasn’t where we wanted to be. Going to the second round was a pretty good accomplishment, but winning just six games isn’t where we want to be here at Fitzgerald High School,” said Fitzgerald Head Coach Jason Strickland as he discussed the 2013 football season. It really was a tale of two different seasons for the ‘Canes. On the one hand, they finished 6-5-1 – the school’s lowest win total since 1999. On the other hand, they did make the playoffs and get out of the first round. Still, when the standard is double-digit wins, finding a bright spot in a six-win season is difficult. Coach Strickland won’t say it, but one of the big reasons why the ‘Canes suffered a bit last year was because of injuries. At different times, Fitzgerald lost its quarterback and center for multiple games, and the offense looked different almost every week because somebody was banged up. And at a small school like Fitzgerald, it doesn’t take but one or two key injuries to derail an entire season. This year, however, the Purple Hurricanes look positioned to get back to the level of play they’re used to. Most of the starters from last season are back – seven on offense, nine on defense – and these kids are hungry to reverse their fortunes. Of the returning players, the most interesting is quarterback Gerald Morgan, 6’1,” 190. For the last two years, Morgan was an All-Region safety. He’s never played quarterback and wasn’t even listed on the depth chart in 2013 as a signal-caller. But he’s a big kid with all the athletic ability in the world. “We’re very pleased with how he’s progressing. He’s taking great pride in being our quarterback and leading our offense. He’s got good size and makes good decisions. We knew he could run well, but we’ve been pleasantly surprised with how

Purple Hurricanes

well he can throw. Gerald is an explosive athlete who is doing a great job,” said Coach Strickland. A couple of other players will have to set the tone for the ‘Canes. Protecting Morgan is Muata Smith, a 5’11,” 225-pound lineman who isn’t the biggest on the field, but he’s one of the fastest – regardless of position. Sharing the backfield with Morgan will be Trey Graham, a 5’11,” 175-pound wingback and defensive back who is a proven playmaker. On the defensive side of the ball are the 6,’ 190-pound Caleb Ray, an outside linebacker who is very intelligent and a defensive leader for Fitzgerald, and the 5’9,” 185-pound Joe Reliford, a cornerback who led the ‘Canes in interceptions last year. The expectations in Fitzgerald remain high. And nobody in Ben Hill County will accept any excuses. Fortunately, Coach Strickland and his staff are the same way. You never know what’s going to happen in a football season, but the Purple Hurricanes ought to win a lot more than six games this year.

GHSA 1-AA 2013 Record:

Region: 3-3 / Overall: 6-5-1 254 points earned / 254 points against

Schedule Aug Sept Oct Nov

22 30 05 19 26 03 17 24 31 07

*region game

Home Away

Worth County Heard County Irwin County Macon County Early County* Thomasville* Brooks County* Pelham* Berrien* Seminole County*

Head Coach: Jason Strickland

Key Players

Gerald Morgan Muata Smith Trey Graham Caleb Ray Joe Reliford

Q OL WB/DB OLB CB

6’1” 5’11” 5’11” 6’ 5’9”

190 225 175 190 185

Tiftarea

Panthers GISA 3-AAA 2013 Record:

Region: 1-4 / Overall: 5-6 228 points earned / 273 points against

Schedule

Panthers Return Nearly Everyone from a Much-improved 2013 Team In 2012, the Tiftarea Panthers won just a single game. Last year, they turned things around and went 5-6. The good news for 2014 is only four players have graduated. This iteration of the Panthers is talented, experienced, and its players are hungry to finish their careers on a winning note. The biggest vacancy is at the quarterback position; last year’s signal caller Rob Flick, who threw for 956 yards, is gone, and Head Coach Ryan Branch will have to find a replacement quickly. Three kids –Bailey Cunningham (5’10,” 170), Logan Carswell (who intercepted eight passes last year), and Noah McMinn (5’9,” 165, listed as running back/ linebacker) – are all battling for the position. Ethan Mimms (5’11,” 185), who led the team

in rushing (852 yards) and touchdowns (15) last year, is back. Other returning playmakers include Charlie Massey (safety/receiver, 6’1,” 190), Jack Raines (tight end/defensive end, 6’3,” 220), and Layne Powell (tight end/ defensive end, 6’2,” 205). The Panthers have had a rough stretch over the last few years. It’s been awhile since they won more games than they lost. This year’s group may have turned a corner last season and demonstrated that they are no longer one of the teams in the region that the others can kick around. The Panthers are entering their third season under Coach Branch, and this group of players has been together learning his system the entire time. Tiftarea ought to win a lot of games in 2014.

Aug Sept Oct

22 29 05 12 19 26 03 17 24 31

*region game

Home Away

Crisp Academy Georgia Christian Frederica Academy Pinewood Christian Valwood School* Deerfield-Windsor* Westwood School* Brookwood School* Southland Academy* Terrell Academy*

Head Coach: Ryan Branch

Key Players Bailey Cunningham Q Logan Carswell Q Noah McMinn RB/LB Ethan Mimms Charlie Massey S/R Jack Raines TE/DE Layne Powell TE/DE

5’10”

170

5’9” 5’11” 6’1” 6’3” 6’2”

165 185 190 220 205

Panther Pit Chula, GA

Georgia High School Football What Do the Fates Hold for the 2014 Season? Jon Nelson, GPB Sports Correspondent by Jon Nelson, GPB Sports Correspondent

Are we really THAT close to the start of football season? The answer is an emphatic “YES!” And with the start of a new season, there are always a few questions. Really, more than a few. And as I post mine here, I would be more than excited to see what your questions are as we head into the 2014 season. You can reach out to me on In the Game Magazine’s Facebook and Twitter pages, my GPB Sports Facebook page, or on my Twitter machine @ OSGNelson. Drop a line anytime. So, here we go: How will Lee County look in the new Region 1-6A? How will schools like Tucker and Buford look in their new classifications? How many state champs will repeat? Who is your underdog for this season that will break through? What’s the toughest class top to bottom? What coach will be missed the most by their program? There were 72 coaching changes in the offseason. Which one will make the most impact out of the box? Franklin Stephens? Ed Dudley? Jon Lindsey? Someone I haven’t mentioned? What athlete will have one of those breakthrough years that we don’t know about, yet? Obviously, a lot of attention will be put on Westover High’s Trent Thompson as the top defensive lineman in the country. I was talking to an SEC assistant coach a month ago, and he referred to him as a “Man Mountain

Dean” type - like the John Coffey character that Michael Clarke Duncan played in The Green Mile movie. Very soft-spoken, but an imposing-looking senior athlete. And, I think, that will be one of the best stories to keep an eye on, although, when you’re 6’4,” 292, there’s a lot to keep an eye on! Under Head Coach Octavia Jones, the Patriots have had better records every year, going from 3-7 in 2010, to 4-6 in 2011, to 8-4 in 2012, and to 9-3 last year. So, everyone around Albany (and the rest of the country) will be seeing how Thompson develops and where he ultimately decides to pursue his college career. On a personal note, I’m looking forward to hitting the road and checking in with as many of you as I can during year, and as In the Game takes a look at Northeast Florida high school sports, it will be an education for me, as well. I’m looking forward to it and would like to send a shout-out to everyone at In the Game for their spreading the word to neighboring states. For the record, one last plug: GPB Sports Football Fridays in Georgia kicks off on August 29 with McEachern traveling to Buforda great game to start our schedule for 2014. Follow every move on our website gpb.org/ sports, and download the GPB Sports app (if you don’t have an iPhone, we’re working on the android version) to stay up-to-date on all that’s going on. Play it safe, everyone, and I’ll talk to you soon.

You can reach out to me on In the Game Magazine’s Facebook and Twitter pages, my GPB Sports Facebook page, or on my Twitter machine @OSG Nelson. You can also download the Sports app on your smart phone and be caught up on everything high school sports .

61 61

Photo Courtsey of the Cordele Dispatch

Crisp County

Cougars GHSA 1-AAAA 2013 Record:

Region: 4-3 / Overall: 6-5 216 points earned / 260 points against

Schedule

Cougars Return Ton of Talent for 2014 The Crisp County Cougars have a lot to look forward to in the 2014 football season. First of all, they went 6-5 a year ago, a marked improvement over 2012’s 3-7 record. They’ve got a ton of experience back this year, including an excellent quarterback, running back, and most of the offensive line. All told, 15 starters return – seven on offense, eight on defense. Probably the most notable returnee is quarterback Witt Camp-

bell, who threw for 1,420 yards last year and scored 20 total touchdowns (17 passing, three rushing). Campbell, at 6’1,” 180, has good size and speed and should have another great season. Sharing the backfield with him will be the 5’9,” 185-pound Jarkevius Glover, who led the Cougars with 578 yards rushing last year. Defensively, the Cougars’ leading tackler (linebacker Gregory Harvey, 5’9,” 190, 109 total tackles) is back, as is the 2013 interceptions leader (defensive back Montre Hartage, 6’1,” 180, four picks). Linebacker Alfred Patrick (6’2,” 205) and receiver Eddie Morgan (5’10,” 170) will also need to have big seasons for the Cougars. Crisp also has two guards (Mitch Fortson, 5’10,” 220 and Van Carden, 6’2,” 220) and its center (J.T. Black, 6’1,” 270) returning, as well. All told, Crisp should be well positioned to make a stronger run than they did last year. Head Coach Lee Campbell is a proven winner who has the Cougar program headed in the right direction. If they have one weak spot, it’s speed. Coach Lee would love to have a little more speed on his team. However, Crisp has steadily improved over the last few years. That improvement ought to continue, and the Cougars are one team their opponents ought not overlook.

Aug Sept Oct

22 05 12 18 26 02 10 24 31

Home Away

*region game

Lee County Colquitt County Worth County* Dougherty* Bainbridge* Albany* Cairo* Thomas County Central* Monroe*

Head Coach: Lee Campbell

Key Players Witt Campbell Q Jarkevius Glover Gregory Harvey LB Montre Hartage DB Alfred Patrick LB Eddie Morgan R Mitch Fortson DT Van Carden DT J.T. Black C

6’1” 5’9” 5’9” 6’1” 6’2” 5’10” 5’10” 6’2” 6’1”

180 185 190 180 205 170 220 220 270

Bearcats GHSA 1-AAAA 2013 Record:

Region: 2-3 / Overall: 5-6 166 points earned / 246 points against

Schedule

After 5-6 2013, Bearcats Have a Lot of Work to Do Last season, the Bainbridge Bearcats didn’t exactly have a bad season. They went 5-5 in the regular season and made the playoffs. Not bad considering the 2013 season was the Bearcats’ first under Head Coach Jeff Littleton, who was also serving as head coach for the first time in his career. It was a learning experience for all involved, and all things considered, things didn’t turn out too badly. Still, it wasn’t what the Bainbridge faithfuls had hoped for, and everyone would

Head Coach: Jeff Littleton

like to see 2014 turn out a little differently. Seven starters on offense return, four of which are linemen: tackle Demetrius Edwards (5’10,” 250), guard Christian Glover (6,’ 205), center Josh Williams (6,’ 200), and guard Charles Hightower (6,’ 330). Tight end Russell Wheeler (6’2,” 205) gives the Bearcats another experienced player on the line. The running backs and linebackers are also deep and experienced. Tramaine McCray, a linebacker/fullback (5’10,” 210) and linebackers Elsamar Williams (5’9,” 210) and Dalin Mack (5’9,” 175) will anchor the defense. Calvin Isom, a 6’1,” 245-pound defensive tackle, will also need to come up big for Bainbridge this year. Defensive back/ running back Elijah Tyler (5’8,” 165), receiver Victor Bodison (5’8,” 145), and running back/ free safety Dalvin Spivie (5’8,” 160) give the Bearcats some additional weapons. As good as these players are, Bainbridge will have to overcome inexperience at the quarterback position and in the secondary. The Bearcats now have a year under Littleton and his system. Bainbridge also plays in a very tough region. It’s not going to be easy for the Bearcats, but the pieces are in place. If they can shore up the secondary and get some stability under center, a better 2014 is well-within reach.

Aug Sept Oct

29 05 12 19 26 03 10 17 31

*region game

Home Away

Early County Cairo Monroe* Thomas County Central* Crisp County* Americus-Sumter* Worth County* Dougherty* Westover*

Key Players Demetrius Edwards Christian Glover Josh Williams Charles Hightower Russell Wheeler Tramaine McCray Elsamar Williams Dalin Mack Calvin Isom Elijah Tyler Victor Bodison Dalvin Spivie

OL OL OL OL TE LB/FB LB LB DT DB/RB R RB/S

5’10” 6’ 6’ 6’ 6’2” 5’10” 5’9” 5’9” 6’1” 5’8” 5’8” 5’8”

250 205 200 330 205 210 210 175 245 165 145 160

65 65

CHS

Cairo

Syrupmakers GHSA 1-AAAA 2013 Record:

Region: 6-1 / Overall: 7-4 215 points earned / 139 points against

Schedule Aug Sept Oct

29 05 12 19 26 10 17 24 31

Home Away

*region game

Thomasville Bainbridge West Florida Westover* Worth County* Crisp County* Thomas County Central* Monroe* Albany*

Cairo Returns Experienced and Hungry Team for ‘14 A 7-4 record isn’t what the Cairo Syrupmakers expect out of a football season. While the 6A programs like Lowndes, Valdosta, and Colquitt get the headlines, down in Cairo the Syrupmakers have put together as strong a gridiron resume as you will find just about anywhere. Which is why seven wins and a first-round loss, particularly a shutout loss, is unacceptable. In Cairo’s defense, the Syrupmakers were a young and inexperienced team in 2013. They only had four starters on offense and three on defense who returned for the 2013 season. Still, they managed a 7-3 regular season and a 6-1 region mark. While the ’13 season wasn’t easy, it means that the ’14 Syrupmakers will return a battle-tested team ready to turn around its fortunes. Most of the leaders in the major statistical categories are back, including senior running back/linebacker Jeremiah Hill (5’11,” 175), who rushed for 1,118 yards and scored 15 touchdowns (both team bests). Quarterback Stacy Masten (5’10,” 140), who threw for 718 yards, returns, as well. Senior

Marcus Gaines, a linebacker/fullback who stands 5’9” and weighs 165, led the team in tackles as a junior. The Syrupmakers have pretty good depth at most positions. If there is an Achilles’ heel, it’s in the kicking game. Cairo lost an All-Region kicker/punter, deep snapper, and holder. It won’t be easy replacing that part of the special teams line-up, but Head Coach Tom Fallaw and his staff spent the summer preparing a new special teams unit. The Syrupmakers will also face more difficult competition in region play; two former 5A teams - Bainbridge and Thomas County Central, both of whom made the playoffs in 5A last year - will be in their region in 2014. Both of these teams are also big rivals for Cairo, and that only adds to the intensity. The bottom line for Cairo is 2014 will be a hard season. But they will have an experienced team on the field, and they have a winning tradition. Despite the obstacles, the Syrupmakers ought to be pretty good and, if they can stay healthy, will almost certainly eclipse their 2013 record.

Head Coach: Tom Fallaw

Key Players Jeremiah Hill Stacy Masten Marcus Gaines Andre Hadley Nicholas Pope Duane Cromartie Will Atkins

RB/LB Q LB/FB DL OL TE R

5’11” 5’10” 5’9” 5’11” 5’11” 6’2” 6’0”

175 140 165 250 240 215 160

Indians GHSA 2-A 2013 Record:

Region: 5-1 / Overall: 10-2-1 490 points earned / 258 points against

Schedule

Irwin Has New Head Coach after Semifinal Run in 2013

Aug Sept Oct Nov

22 29 05 19 26 03 17 24 31 07

*region game

Home Away

Early County Berrien Fitzgerald Clinch County* Telfair County* Charlton County* Lanier County* Wilcox County* Atkinson County* Turner County*

Head Coach: Buddy Nobles The Irwin County Indians football program saw a resurgence under former head coach Jon Lindsey. A former assistant in the powerful Camden County program, Lindsey won 20 games in three years and took the Indians to the semifinals of the state playoffs last year. Irwin faced Charlton County in the semis and came within a point of winning the game and advancing to the championship. After the season, Lindsey left Irwin to move up the road to Cook County. Buddy Nobles, a former head coach in Union County, Florida, and recently an assistant with Robby Pruitt at both Fitzgerald and Coffee, is Irwin’s new head coach. He brings with him a ton of postseason experience and should be able to keep the Indians winning games. Coach Nobles has 11 players back - six on offense and five on defense - including a couple of offensive linemen and several skill guys. Like most small programs, the Indians aren’t very deep at any position, and they’re breaking in a new quarterback. That can make for a difficult start to the

season, but Irwin has a strong enough nucleus to hold things down while the new guys get their legs under them. Coach Nobles has two big offensive linemen who will need to set the tone for Irwin’s offense: center Cam Morgan (6’2,” 275) and tackle Chandler Taylor (6’2,” 240). These guys will clear the way for athlete Jakyron Young (5’11,” 165) and running back Robert Moore (5’9,” 185). Defensively, a pair of good backs (Tyler Bethune, 6,’ 160, and Chaveka Hardy, 5’10,” 160) will keep opposing offenses from doing too much damage if they get to the second level. What you have with the Indians is a program that struggled at one time but has since tasted success. And their ascension to the state’s elite came pretty quickly; in 2011, they won just three games. Two years later, they are just a few plays from getting into the state title game. They may have lost the coach that turned around the program, but Nobles is a proven head coach who knows exactly what to do in big games. The Indians ought to be a very good football team again this year.

Key Players Cam Morgan OL Chandler Taylor OL Jakyron Young Robert Moore RB Tyler Bethune DB Chaveka Hardy DB

6’2” 6’2” 5’11” 5’9” 6’ 5’10”

275 240 165 185 160 160

Photos Courtsey of the Albany Herald

Worth Co.

Rams

GHSA 1-AAAA 2013 Record:

Region: 2-5 / Overall: 3-7 269 points earned / 298 points against

Schedule

Worth Gets Ready for Much-Improved 2014 Campaign

Aug Sept Oct

22 05 12 26 04 10 16 24 31

Home Away

*region game

Fitzgerald Lee County Crisp County* Cairo* Dougherty* Bainbridge* Westover* Americus-Sumter* Thomas County Central*

Head Coach: Jason Tone It’s been a long road for the Worth County Rams. Despite making the playoffs four out of the last seven years, there hasn’t been a lot to cheer about in Sylvester. In only one of those years - 2007 - did the Rams get past the first round. The Rams have a proud program with four region titles, a state title, and several deep playoff runs in their record book. Last season, under new head coach Jason Tone, Worth went 3-7 and lost five out of its last six games. The 2014 season should be much, much better. The Rams have had a year under Coach Tone and his run-first wing-T system. They also have a number of important players returning who have the talent and the motivation to turn around the fortunes of the Worth program. Zytavious Anderson, a 5’9,” 190-pound running back who rushed for 653 yards last season, will lead the Rams’ offense. Other playmakers on the offensive side of the ball include Justin Hope, Brandon Gibson (5’9,” 170), and Dontavious Buford, a 5’8,” 170-pound running back. Among the defensive leaders are safeties Eric Burrows (6’1,” 180, four interceptions last year) and

Toddrick Jackson (6,’ 170). The offensive line has had another year in the weight room, and they understand the roles they are to play in the wing-T better. They are also stronger and more conditioned than they were a year ago. There are also two talented linemen in center Calvin Warren (5’10,” 265) and tackle JeCard Parker (6’1,” 230). The Rams’ biggest question mark is at quarterback. Last year’s signal caller was a senior who played every snap. This year, two underclassmen are battling for the starting job. All the pieces are in place for Worth to turn things around. They’ve got a lot of talented players coming back. They have another year under Coach Tone’s system. And they have a winning tradition. Still, things haven’t been easy in Sylvester, and it’s not easy to reverse a pattern of not winning games. The Rams find themselves in a situation similar to that of several area schools. The physical components are there, but what about the mental side? If the Rams can play with confidence, they should be a very good football team this year.

Key Players Zytavious Anderson Justin Hope Brandon Gibson Dontavious Buford RB Eric Burrows S Toddrick Jackson S Calvin Warren OL JeCard Parker OL

5’9”

190

5’9” 5’8” 6’1” 6’ 5’10” 6’1”

170 170 180 170 265 230

Photos Courtsey of the Albany Herald

Pelham

Hornets GHSA 1-AA 2013 Record:

Region: 1-5 / Overall: 4-6 241 points earned / 255 points against

Schedule

Hornets Build Momentum with Four-Win 2013 Campaign For many teams in South Georgia, a four-win season would be considered a step backwards. For Pelham High School, however, a four-win season is a step in the right direction. The Hornets, who will be under the guidance of Head Coach Frankie Carroll for the fourth consecutive year in 2014, return 12 starters (seven on offense, five on defense), including several leaders from last year’s team. Back are four offensive linemen (three of whom also play on the other side of the ball; two on the line and one at linebacker), several linebackers and defensive backs, and a couple of running backs and receivers. Among the returners are Desmond Parker, a 5’8,” 185-pound running back/linebacker who rushed for 750 yards and scored 12 touchdowns last year. Clarence Almond (5’11,” 170), who threw for 545 yards in 2013, is also back, though he is listed as a wide receiver/ defensive back for ’14. Jimmy Fackler (6’1,” 180) is slated to be under center this year.

Logan Barrett, a 6,’ 190-pound linebacker, led the team in tackles (89) last year and is also returning. The intriguing group of players upon which the team will be built is the offensive line. They aren’t the biggest linemen you’ll see, but they are talented and experienced. Wilmon Clayton (5’11,” 220) is the Hornets’ center. On either side of him are Russell Sheppard (6,’ 275), Dylan Wallace (5’11,” 230), and Austin Waters (5’11,” 210). Justin Smith, a 6,’ 250-pound tight end, is also back. With the exception of Clayton, the rest of the line also plays on defense (Sheppard and Wallace play on the line, Waters is a linebacker, and Smith doubles as a defensive end). The Hornets had a few big moments last year, most notably beating Mitchell and Miller counties for the first time in 20 years and winning their first game Region 1-2A. Those are the kinds of milestones that can turn around a program. And that’s what the Hornet faithfuls hope will happen this year.

Aug Sept Oct Nov

29 05 12 19 26 10 17 24 31 07

*region game

Home Away

Baconton Charter Mitchell County Miller County Colquitt County Brooks County* Thomasville* Early County* Fitzgerald* Seminole County* Berrien*

Head Coach: Frankie Carroll

Key Players Desmond Parker Clarence Almond Jimmy Fackler Logan Barrett Wilmon Clayton Russell Sheppard Dylan Wallace Austin Waters Justin Smith

RB/LB WR/DB DL LB OL OL/DL OL/DL OL/LB TE/DE

5’8” 5’11” 6’1” 6’ 5’11” 6’ 5’11” 5’11” 6’

185 170 180 190 220 275 230 210 250

Hamilton County, FL

Trojans

FHSA 3-A 2013 Record:

Region: 3-0 / Overall: 6-5 184 points earned / 164 points against

Schedule

Trojans Coming off First District Title in School History The Hamilton County Trojans are a team on the upswing. Head Coach Blair Armstrong has done a phenomenal job of turning around the program’s fortunes. Last year, the Trojans finished the season 6-5 with a 3-0 region record. They won the first district title and the first two playoff games in school history. And as good as that was, the Trojans hope this year will be even better. They’ve got a great group coming back; 15 total starters return, seven on offense and eight on defense. Lamarcus Webb (5’11,” 180),

who had 303 receiving yards in 2013, is back this year. So are a pair of offensive/ defensive linemen – Marcus Williams (6,’ 250) and Hunter Hill (6,’ 245) – and athlete Jaquan Cole (6,’ 175). All told, the Trojans are a pretty experienced team that is hungry to win more games. When reversing a culture, the first step is the biggest, and Hamilton County took that step last season. They showed they can compete with the best teams in their district, and they will only get better. Coach Armstrong knows how to get the best

Aug Sept Oct Nov

29 05 12 19 26 03 10 17 31 07

*region game

Home Away

Fort White Suwannee Cheifland Maclay Union Co. Lafayette* Dixie Co. Branford* Jefferson* Taylor

Head Coach: Blair Armstong

Key Players Lamarcus Webb Marcus Williams OL/DL Hunter Hill OL/DL Jaquan Cole

5’11” 6’ 6’ 6’

180 250 245 175

out of his players, and everyone in Jasper is ready to build upon the success of 2013. Look for the Trojans to be even better this year.

Veteran Stadium Capacity: 2,000

Atkinson Co.

Rebels

Sid Strickland Stadium Capacity: 2,500

Rebels Drop a Classification, Have Program Headed in the Right Direction

GHSA 2-A 2013 Record:

Region: 1-8 / Overall: 1-9 98 points earned / 297 points against

Schedule It’s hard to believe that a 1-9 season is an improvement, but in the case of the Atkinson County Rebels, it most certainly is. As we have written the preseason stories for our area football teams, we’ve said “it hasn’t been easy” at a particular school several times. But nowhere in South Georgia has it been tougher than in Atkinson County. The Rebels haven’t had a winning season since 2001 and have won just five football games since 2009. And that includes the lone win the Rebels had last year which came against a 2-8 Long County team. Despite the Rebels’ woes, first-year Head Coach Kip Hall, who has tremendous experience reviving struggling programs, was pleased with the way the season turned out. The Rebels were in 2A last year, and Coach Hall said it was his first year playing teams in the larger 2A classification. “We hung with some of those teams. We faced a lot of adversity in the first two games of the season, and if those had turned out differently, it could have changed our entire season. We battled back from big deficits several times. We came from behind and almost beat Toombs County. We did come back to beat Long County. Our kids showed they wouldn’t quit, and they can compete,” he said. This year, the Rebels have had a year of experience with Coach Hall under their collective belt. He brought with him a brand new way of doing things, and the Rebels are starting to reap the benefits of his system. Plus the Rebels will be playing again in the single-A classification, which means the playing field will be more level for the little team in Pearson. “I’m excited about playing in the new classification.

Yeah we’re dropping down, but we’re still going to be playing some tough teams,” said Coach Hall. As with most small teams, a large percentage of the players will never come off the field. The offensive line will basically turn around and play on the defensive line. The skill guys will also play both ways. The good news for the Rebels is they have some pretty good players this year. Quarterback Tyree Johnson is back for 2014. Last season, he threw for nearly 1,000 yards and rushed for 600 more. He’s an athletic, explosive player who really opens up ATCO’s offense. The offensive line is surprisingly large for Atkinson County. The tackles are all over 6’4,” and they can move. Quant Williams, J.J. Johnson, Delijah Gilbert, and Leo Colmenero will give Johnson the protection he needs to make plays for the ATCO offense. Keagan Meeks (6’3,” 190) is an excellent tight end, and the Rebels have a couple of good receivers in Todd Jones and K.K. Riley, both of whom turn around and double as defensive backs. An unknown factor headed into camp – in a good way – is the potential impact several first-time players could have on the Rebel program. Coach Hall says quite a few kids who have only played baseball or basketball will be at camp this summer. While they don’t have a lot of football experience, they are athletic and could possibly even start this year. “We won’t really know until we see them in pads. But we ought to compete this year. We’ve made some changes in the program, and it’s been a learning experience for the players and me. We’ve got the program headed in the right direction,” said Coach Hall.

Aug Sept Oct Nov

22 29 12 19 26 03 17 24 31 07

*region game

Home Away

Brantley County Jeff Davis Baconton Charter Charlton County* Lanier County* Clinch County* Telfair County* Turner County* Irwin County* Wilcox County*

Head Coach: Kip Hall

Key Players Tyree Johnson Quant Williams J.J. Johnson Delijah Gilbert Leo Colmenero Keagan Meeks Todd Jones K.K. Riley

TE R/DB R/DB

6’3”

190

Lanier County

Bulldogs GHSA 2-A 2013 Record:

Region: 1-5 / Overall: 2-8 111 points earned / 291 points against

Schedule

Lanier County, a Much-Improved Team Over 2013 The Lanier County Bulldogs have a big advantage this season over last year. And they also have an equally big disadvantage. Which one will make a bigger statement? That’s always hard to say, but all signs point to the Bulldogs enjoying a better season in 2014. In 2013, the Bulldogs went 2-8 (1-5 in region play) under first-year Head Coach Phillip Johnson. He’s back this year and so is most of Lanier County’s offensive line and the linebackers. That’s the Bulldogs’ big advantage – four starters from the line will be back as will a speedy and aggressive group of linebackers. The bad news? Whoever is under center will be taking their first varsity snaps. Gone is last year’s do-everything quarterback, James Jenrette. He scored eight touchdowns, rushed for 709 yards, and threw for 540 more. At the end of spring drills, Coach Johnson hadn’t named Jenrette’s replacement. Vying for the job are senior Marcillo Brockington, junior Robert Zirkle, and freshman Keyonte Williams. Brockington, at 5’9” and 170 pounds, is listed as an athlete on the depth chart; however, having him under center gives Coach Johnson and the rest of the Lanier staff a great deal of flexibility with the offense. Johnson expects the three to have a spirited battle throughout the

summer and preseason drills. The Bulldogs will have to be in fantastic shape heading into the season. Many of the players won’t come off the field. For example, the offensive line will double as the defensive line when the possessions change over; Marvin Brockington (6’1,” 260), Ethan Hampton (6’2,” 305), Martavis Wade (5’8,” 270), and Aaron Tucker (5’9,” 220) are all big, strong, and will play both ways. Cole Dinges (6,’ 240) is slated to play exclusively on the offensive line. All are returning starters and will play important roles in the Bulldogs’ success this year. Other key returners include linebacker/ running back J.T. Williams (5’8,” 190), safety/wide receiver Calvin Wright (5’10,” 170), wide receiver Deandre Johnson (6’1,” 180), linebacker/fullback Austin Davis (5’11,” 220), and defensive end/fullback D.J. McNeill (5’11,” 230). Lanier County may have only won two games last year, but one of those wins came against Wilcox County; it was the first time the Bulldogs had beaten Wilcox in school history. This year, Lanier has a head coach with another year of experience under his belt, a very good offensive line, and some talented skill guys. If they can overcome inexperience at quarterback, Lanier should enjoy a much better 2014 campaign.

Aug Sept Oct Nov

22 29 05 19 26 03 17 24 31 07

*region game

Home Away

Randolph-Clay Bacon County Wheeler County Wilcox County* Atkinson County* Turner County* Irwin County* Clinch County* Telfair County* Charlton County*

Roquemore Stadium Capacity: 3,500 Head Coach: Phillip Johnson

Key Players Robert Zirkle Q Keyonte Williams Q Marcillo Brockington 5’9” 170 Marvin Brockington 6’1” 260 Ethan Hampton 6’2” 305 Martavis Wade 5’8” 270 Aaron Tucker 5’9” 220 Cole Dinges OL 6’ 240 J.T. Williams LB/RB 5’8” 190 Calvin Wright S/WR 5’10” 170 Deandre Johnson WR 6’1” 180 Austin Davis LB/FB 5’11” 220 D.J. McNeill DE/FB 5’11” 230

Photos Courtsey of the atlanta Journal Constitution

Sherwood Christian

Eagles

GISA 3-AA 2013 Record:

Region: 0-5 / Overall: 2-9 165 points earned / 381 points against

Schedule

Eagles Return Great Deal of Experience, Begin Play in New League Every season brings something new to the table. For the 2014 Sherwood Christian Eagles, almost everything is new. The Eagles are playing in a new league with new opponents – nine of the 10 teams on their regular season schedule are new. It brings an air of excitement and anticipation to the program, and gives the Sherwood faithful reason to believe that this year will turn out much better than that of 2013. Sherwood is fast and talented at the skill positions for 2014. Nearly everyone is back; 18 of 22 starters return from last year. The biggest weakness is depth. The Eagles are a small team number-wise, and just about everyone plays both ways. Conditioning is always an issue; last year, the Eagles had problems running out of gas in the second half, particularly late in the season. This year, conditioning is a big part of the Sherwood

program. Head Coach Otis Covington wants his team to be fit enough to play four solid quarters each week. Quarterback Chris Thomas (5’10,” 170), who accounted for 1,570 yards of total offense and 14 total touchdowns, returns for another year under center. Kenney Brown (6’1,” 190), who had 112 tackles and three sacks in 2013, and Steven Toskey (5’10,” 200), who had 65 tackles and nine sacks of his own, also return. All three were AllRegion players a year ago and will have to make big plays for the Eagles again this year. The returning experience and playing in a new league have the Eagles excited about 2014. They expect to be very competitive in their new league and look forward to a successful regular season and a long playoff run.

Aug Sept Oct Nov

22 29 05 19 26 03 10 24 31 07

*region game

Home Away

Abbeville Christian Glenwood Fullington Academy Lyman Ward Military Academy Calvary Christian Academy* Thomas Jefferson Academy Covenant Academy* Creekside Academy* Central Fellowship* Community Christian*

Head Coach: Otis Covington

Key Players Chris Thomas Q Kenney Brown Steven Toskey

5’10” 6’1” 5’10”

170 190 200

Knights Remain One of GISA’s 3A Favorites In some ways, it wasn’t a typical year in 2013 for the Deerfield-Windsor Knights. In others, it was more of the same. You have to go back to 2007 to find a Knights team that won fewer than 10 games. And since 2007, the Knights have won three state titles. So last year’s 8-5 record was a departure from the win totals of recent years. However, Deerfield-Windsor remained at the top of the GISA 3A classification heap, advancing to the state semifinals before losing on the road to Stratford Academy. This season, despite having just seven returning starters (two on offense, five on defense), the Knights expect to continue to be one of the teams to beat at the region and state level. Most of the team’s leaders from last year are gone (Matthew Fox, 1,198 rushing yards and 16 total touchdowns; Tripp Presley, 650 yards in the air; and Nick Michas, 112 total tackles). However, leading receiver Austin Fallaw (6’4,”

175) is back. He and fullback/defensive back Chris Boswell (6,’ 185) are the only offensive starters who are returning from 2013. On the other hand, the defense is in pretty good shape. In addition to Boswell, one lineman (end Michael Perrine, 6’2,” 210), two other defensive backs (Will Calhoun, 6,’ 170 and Aaron McNutt, 6’1,” 170), and a linebacker (Austin Caine, 6,’ 212) are back, along with kicker Harry Vildibill (5’8,” 170). The Knights’ schedule looks very similar to last year, though powerhouse Valwood and a resurgent Brookwood are now in their region. Deerfield-Windsor doesn’t have a lot of depth, but they are a fast, explosive team with a record of success over the last few years that few teams in South Georgia can touch. Head Coach Allen Lowe and his staff have some challenges to overcome. However, the Knights ought to remain one of the teams to beat in GISA 3A.

DeerfieldWindsor

Knights GISA 1-AAA 2013 Record:

Region: 3-2 / Overall: 8-5 321 points earned / 230 points against

Schedule Aug Sept Oct

22 29 05 12 19 26 03 10 24 31

Home Away

*region game

Maclay NFC Southwest Georgia Westfield School Westwood School* Tiftarea Academy* Brookwood School* Southland Academy* Terrell Academy* Valwood School*

Key Players

Photos Courtsey of the Albany Herald

Austin Fallaw Chris Boswell Michael Perrine Will Calhoun Aaron McNutt Austin Caine Harry Vildibill

R FB/DB DL DB DB LB K

6’4” 6’ 6’2” 6’ 6’1” 6’ 5’8”

175 185 210 170 170 212 170

Head Coach: Allen Lowe

Warriors GISA 3-AAA 2013 Record:

Region: 3-2 / Overall: 6-6 302 points earned / 349 points against

Brookwood Returns Tremendous Talent from Last Year’s 6-6 Team Brookwood Head Coach Shane Boggs’s first year back in Thomasville was a pretty good one. He coached the Warriors from 2003 to 2008 and coached them to a state title in 2007. After being gone for four years to coach in Florida and Tennessee, Boggs returned to Thomasville and led the Warriors to a 6-6 record and an appearance in the second round of the state playoffs. Brookwood’s season ended at the hands of eventual state champion Memorial Day. This year, the Warriors have a year of experience in Boggs’s system, and they return 18 players, including quarterback Cole Deese (5’10,” 175), running back Taylor Patterson (6,’ 192), and a talented trio of receivers: Jake Piazza (6’1,” 175), Peyton Latmore (6’1,” 200), and Aulston

Head Coach: Shane Boggs

Key Players Cole Deese Taylor Patterson Jake Piazza Peyton Latmore Aulston Moore Chris Harrell

Q RB R R R FB

5’10” 6’ 6’1” 6’1” 6’ 5’10”

175 192 175 200 150 180

Moore (6,’ 150). Fullback Chris Harrell (5’10,” 180) returns, as do five offensive linemen, two defensive linemen, four linebackers, and a safety. Coach Boggs has been successful at every place he’s been. Of course the Brookwood faithfuls remember the state title from 2007, and last year’s 6-6 campaign was a big improvement over the previous year’s 3-8 mark. With this many talented players coming back, everything points to another solid year under Boggs’s leadership. If there is a problem, it’s the region in which Brookwood plays. They have as region opponents one of the best private school programs in the state: the Valwood Valiants. Valwood won the 2012 state title and played for a championship last year. In two years under Head Coach Ashley Henderson, the Valiants have lost just one game. To win a seventh region title, the Warriors will have to get past Valwood. The Valiants also return a strong team this year, which means Brookwood is going to have its work cut out. The Warriors haven’t won more games than they’ve lost since Boggs left in 2008. That, however, ought to be a streak they end in 2014. The Georgia High School Football Historians Association contributed to this story.

Schedule Aug Sept Oct

29 05 12 19 26 03 10 17 24 31

*region game

Bell,FL Georgia Christian John Paul II Southwest Georgia Southland Academy* Deerfield-Windsor* Terrell Academy* Tiftarea Academy* Valwood School* Westwood School*

Home Away

Generals GISA 3-AA 2013 Record:

JV Overall Record: 3-4

Schedule

Generals Begin Year Two of Football For the first time in many years, the Georgia Christian Generals fielded a football team in 2013. The Generals played a junior varsity schedule and won three out of seven games.

Head Coach: Kent Copeland

Aug Sep Oct

22 29 05 12 26 03 10 17 24 31

*region game

Home Away

David Emanuel Academy Tiftarea Academy Brookwood School First Presbyterian Christian R.F. Morris Terrell Academy Piedmont Academy Crisp Academy Aucilla Southwest Georgia

This year, everyone is back and ready to play a varsity schedule. The Generals will compete in GISA 3-AA. It’s going to be a challenge, but Head Coach Kent Copeland, his staff, and his team are ready to play. Football knowledge and experience aren’t the deepest among the Georgia Christian players; however, they are athletic and willing to learn the game. And Coach Copeland and his staff are willing to teach. “We’ve come a long way, and we’re going to be competitive and play hard. I expect to see a muchimproved group of young men when we take the field. Last year, we didn’t know what to expect and small mistakes took us out of games. I’m excited about this team, and the coaches are ready to begin teaching,” said Coach Copeland. Anytime a school starts a program, the players on those first couple of teams have some lumps to take. But Lowndes County is a football mecca of sorts for South Georgia. Teams in the community don’t struggle for too long. This may not be the easiest year for the Generals, but they will get better pretty quickly.

81 81

Berrien

Rebels

Raymond Jones Memorial Stadium

GHSA 1-AA 2013 Record:

Rebels Return Same Head Coach for First Time Since 2010 It’s hard to build a successful program if there is no stability at the top. The Berrien Rebels have been an embattled program for many years. The kids have worked hard and played as well as they could, but Nashville just isn’t an easy place to play football. For each of the last three years, the Rebels have had a new head coach. The 2014 season marks the first time in a while that a head coach has stayed around for a second season. And the Rebels have a pretty good one in Ed Pilcher. Last year, Berrien had a three-game winning streak. Unfortunately, they lost their next seven straight and finished the year 3-7. As bad as that may have been, it tied their best record since 2009’s 5-5 mark. This year, Berrien has 14 starters back - eight on offense, six on defense - as well as stability at the head coaching position. Among those 14 starters are several leaders from last year’s team. What will make things difficult, however, is Berrien’s schedule; nine of the 10 teams they will play went to the postseason last year. So the Rebels will definitely have their work cut out for them.

The Rebels have several weapons returning, including quarterback Blake Guthrie (5’10,” 150), who threw for 565 yards in 2014. His favorite target, receiver Dalton Ingram (5’10,” 160), is back. So is last year’s leading scorer, running back Quinton Tisby (5’8,” 170), who accounted for 16 touchdowns in 2013. Berrien also has four offensive linemen returning, including guard Gabe Davis, 6’2,” 280, as well as four linebackers, a pair of tight ends, and two defensive backs. All told, the Rebels are in better shape heading into 2014 than they have been in a long time. Their coach is back. So are several really good players spread out across all positions. It’s never going to be easy in Berrien County, and this year’s schedule doesn’t help matters at all, but all signs point to a recovery of sorts for the Rebel program. The Rebels haven’t been to the playoffs since 1993; will this be the year they break that cycle? It won’t be easy, but they have a better shot this year than they have had in a long, long time.

Region: 0-6 / Overall: 3-7 234 points earned / 262 points against

Schedule Aug Sept Oct Nov

29 05 12 26 03 10 17 24 31 07

*region game

Home Away

Irwin County Cook Clinch County Bleckley County Brooks County* Early County* Thomasville* Seminole County* Fitzgerald* Pelham*

Head Coach: Ed Pilcher

Key Players Blake Guthrie Dalton Ingram Quinton Tisby Gabe Davis

Q R RB OL

5’10” 5’10” 5’8” 6’2”

150 160 170 280

Vision

We have amped up our vision for the 2014-15 academic year with a desire to reach more athletes than ever with the truth of God’s Word. Last year we were humbled to distribute over 3,000 copies of God’s Game Plan (FCA Camp Bibles)! This was no small endeavor. You do the math; we were able to purchase those Bibles at $10.00 each last year. (This year they are going up to $12.00 each.) That means our area donors gave $30,000 to ensure that we could place a copy of God’s Word in the hands of every coach, athlete, and student that requested one! If you would like to join our team of donors and help us distribute 4,000 Bibles this year, they are packaged 12 per case at $144 per case. How many cases would you like to be responsible for delivering into the hands of those hungry for the truth? The next phase of our vision is to train and equip our adult and student leaders to lead well on our campuses, courts, fields, and streets. The last Saturday in September is our ever-growing Student Leadership Training at Wild Adventures Theme Park. Last year we were able to train over 400 adults and students! The numbers are already looking like they will better than double this year. We have adult and student leaders coming from all over Georgia and North Florida. For more information concerning this and all upcoming events, visit our web page: www.segafca.org Finally, this fall we will be venturing out onto local church campuses all over our area for FCA Day! Last year was our first attempt at this opportunity to firstly partner with area churches, secondly seek volunteers, and thirdly ask for financial support. We are home missionaries in the

Fellowship of Christian Athletes. Our support, resources, and events are funded by our communities. Who better to partner with in this endeavor than our local churches? When we sponsor evangelistic outreach events, the church is where we send our students to be discipled. We are very excited that our volunteer team is growing as well as our Leadership Advisory Board. If you see members of our board in the community, please let them know how much you appreciate them and what they are doing to help us forge a better place to live and raise our families. 2014-15 Southeast Georgia Fellowship of Christian Athletes Leadership Board: John Holt, Chairman Bert Chancy, Vice Chairman Jaybez Floyd, Secretary Alex Patterson Dean Brooks Steve Wansley Charlie Crews Chris Manwell Ashley Moorman David Waller, Jr. Bobby Wiseman Thomas Reed SEGA FCA Office 229-245-1717 SEGA FCA

@SEGAFCA