South Georgia March 2016 Edition

Making Waves

Michael Weatherby Lowndes High School

Third Generation Athlete Alexis Burns | Carver High School

Bearcats Senior Commits to The Bulldogs

tyree Crump | Bainbridge High School A Mountain To Climb

Jake Parker | Valwood School

Viking Duo

Tiberius Drocea and Gary Osby Pine Grove Middle School

The Wildcat Tradition:

It’s All About The Black and Gold

NEWEST MEMBER OF THE LOS ANGELES ANGELS March 2016

Kaleb Cowart

THE

HUGHSTON DIFFERENCE

• Providing you, for over 60 years, with research, education, and treatment • Jack Hughston Memorial Hospital is the only hospital in the region and state* to receive both Healthgrades® 2016 Orthopedic Surgery, and Joint Replacement Excellence Awards in 2016

YESTERDAY. TODAY. TOMORROW.

*Columbus, GA/AL

• Our onsite surgical center is convenient, cost-effective, and makes your comfort and safety a top priority • Expanding near you with new physicians, locations, and trauma facilities

LOCATIONS: ALABAMA Auburn Dothan Phenix City FLORIDA Fort Walton Beach Orange Park Sanford

GEORGIA Albany Columbus LaGrange Lawrenceville Moultrie Thomaston Thomasville Valdosta TENNESSEE Nashville

706-324-6661 1-800-331-2910 www.hughston.com

IN THIS ISSUE 11 Fast Breaks: Rance Gillespie

National Athletic Training Month Quick Hits

19 Newest Member of the Los Angeles Angels Kaleb Cowart Cook County High School

24 A Mountain To Climb Jake Parker Valwood School

28 Two Sets of Sisters Playing Together

Madelyn and Caroline Boren and Abby and Mary Weston Courville Columbus High School

30 The Wildcat Tradition: It’s All About The Black and Gold

34 Making Waves Michael Weatherby Lowndes High School

37 The Fastest Teen of All Time Just Turned Pro Candace Hill Rockdale County High School

38 Bearcats Senior Commits to The Bulldogs Tyree Crump Bainbridge High School

40 In the Community: Renee Moss A Triathlete, In And Out Of Competition

44 Soccer Academy Uses Sports to Reach Kids at

Home And Abroad

South Georgia Soccer Club

48 Third Generation Athlete Alexis Burns Carver High School

50 Vikings Duo

Tiberius Drocea and Gary Osby Pine Grove Middle School

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Wildcat Pride: Echols County Seniors Prepare For The Road To College Kameron Coggins and Logan Hill

FROM THE PUBLISHER

22 March, as hard as it is to believe, we will soon be preparing for the postseason in spring sports. As I write this, we don’t yet have the state champions for the winter sports. By the time you read this, though, basketball, wrestling, swimming, and other winter sports should be done. Will we have any state champions? Let’s hope so. And let’s all get ready to enjoy the spring weather as we venture out and support our local teams and athletes.

In the Game 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 Media 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 2016 Dykes Publishing Group, Inc. All rights reserved. ISSN 1945-1458.

Contributors:

Publisher Mark Dykes Editors Mark Dykes Cole Parker Graphics Ashlyn Peek Cover Photography Marque Milla Reese Feature Photography Micki Krzynski Micki K Photography Lindsi Jones Lindsi Jones Photography Marque Milla Reese Milla Creationz Photography Jerry Christenson Christenson Studio Feature Writers Robert Preston Jr. James Washington Beth Welch Cole Parker Copy Editors James Washington Beth Welch Advertising/Marketing Mark Dykes mark@itgsportsnetwork.com Cole Parker cole@itgsportsnetwork.com Website Manager Cole Parker

Tell us what you thought about the Feburary issue of In the Game! info@itgsportsnetwork.com 10

Questions with: Facts & Figures: Middle School Athlete: Amanda Allen The Helping Hand Tydreke Thomas Hahira Middle School Buford High School of Dylan Jarvis Four Young Runners Who Could Change the Sport for South Georgia

Tift County gymnast makes U.S. Navy veteran coaches Lee immediate impact: Khloe Parker

County rifle team to top three in the state: Al Shuette

Worth County senior is headed to

AUBURN Anfernee McLemore

February 2016

Here at In the Game Sports Network, we have the opportunity to cover some of the most talented student-athletes in the state, if not the country.

The level of talent that we have right here in our area is incredible, and it gets better each year. Year-round training and conditioning programs, tremendous coaching, and amazing facilities have all contributed to turning our little corner of Georgia into a hotbed of athletic talent.

Over the years, we’ve had a number of our athletes play at the highest levels of sport – Division I programs, minor league baseball, overseas professional leagues, Major League Baseball, and the National Football League. We’ve even had a few Olympic hopefuls.

Catching up with those who have been successful in their post-high school careers is one of the true joys of what we do here at In the Game. We have

been around long enough now that we’re starting to see the athletes we cover settle into their careers – whether it be in sports or in a non-athletic field. This month, we spent a few minutes with one of the best young athletes Georgia has seen in the last decade.

Kaleb Cowart, a Cook Hornet, absolutely demolished his competition on the baseball diamond a few years ago. He was widely recognized as one of the best young prospects in the nation. He ended up being drafted in the first round by the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim and enjoyed what was initially a very promising start to his professional career.

The good times didn’t last, and after a couple of years, his career stalled. In 2015, he experienced a resurgence of sorts, and we caught up with him during the offseason. How is he doing? Flip through this edition for an update.

In addition to Kaleb’s feature, we have stories on a talented pair of softball players from Echols County, a life-changing mission trip hosted by an area soccer club, a football player with a tragic and inspiring story, a 16-year-old track prodigy from the metro area who has turned pro, and a Facts and Figures summary of the career of an area football coach who left high school for the Division I coaching ranks.

As we begin the month of

FAST BREAK

Most Common Injuries Seen In ERs For Sports In 2013 Strain/sprain 451,480

Fracture 249,500

Contusion or abrasion 210,640

Concusions 163,670

National Athletic Training Month: It’s Nothing “Personal”

written by: James Washington | photography courtesy of Vereen Rehabilitation Center

Imagine you’re in the biggest game of your life.

The entire school is depending on you, the star, to carry the team to victory in what has been touted as the most important game in school history. You start off on a tear, opening up a huge lead; however, as the game nears crunch time, your crosstown rivals manage to close the gap and make it a contest late. And then, to complete surprise, the worst happens: your knee gives way, and you go toppling to the ground.

Your team manages to hold on to win, but now you’re on crutches. Luckily, your injury is not severe; thankfully, the biggest reason that your injury wasn’t worse was due to the swift and effective efforts of your school’s athletic trainer. The trainer was able to quickly diagnose the problem and provide care before more attention could be provided.

March is National Athletic Training Month, and in celebration, In the Game Magazine has taken the time to recognize these unsung heroes and educate our readers as to what exactly an athletic trainer does. Perhaps the most important distinction to make known in regards to athletic trainers? They are not the same as “personal trainers”. Their jobs and daily expectations differ greatly.

At a minimum, athletic trainers: • Provide physical medicine, as well as preventa- tive and rehabilitation services • Treat a wide variety of patients, including (but not limited to) professional, college, and sec- ondary school athletes, as well as youth athletes,

dancers, musicians, and military personnel • Work in a variety of locations, including schools, clin ics, hospitals, and manufacturing plants (among others) • Prevent, diagnose, and treat acute and chronic injuries • Coordinate care with physicians and other health care professionals The key difference of note is the fact that while personal trainers are apt to educate masses on the importance of getting or staying in shape, athletic trainers are more adequately prepared to tend to those in need once injuries actually occur. This is also reflected in their respective levels of training.

Athletic trainers are required to earn, at minimum, a bachelor’s degree in their field. They must also pass a comprehensive exam in order to earn credentials with the ATC (Athletic Trainer, Certified) credential.

Furthermore, athletic trainers must regularly participate in continuing education in order to keep their knowledge and skills current, while also adhering to standards set by a national certifying agency and to a national code of ethics. Personal trainers may or may not have higher education or certification, or participation in continuing education.

Whether you’re an athlete, a parent, or a fan, chances are that you have either seen or crossed paths with an athletic trainer. The next time you see one of them, make sure to thank them for all of their efforts. What they do behind the scenes makes it possible to enjoy what you see on the field of competition at institutions all over the world.

Other/not stated 141,330

Laceration 85,560

Dislocation 33,300

Common Body Injuries

Head

14%

Face

7%

Fingers

12%

Knees

9%

Ankles

15%

This information is courtesy of usatoday.com

FAST BREAK

Coach Gillespie’s career summarized in numbers: 6: The number of years Gillespie coached at Valdosta High, from 2010-2015.

49: Number of games Gillespie’s Wildcats won.

20: How many games Gillespie lost at Valdosta.

71%: Coach Gillespie’s winning percentage at Valdosta.

RANCE GILLESPIE

4: Number of times his Wildcats lost in the first round of the playoffs.

1: Region championships, which VHS won in 2011 3: Number of wins over crosstown rival Lowndes High. The Wildcats also lost three games to Lowndes during Gillespie’s career at Valdosta.

9: Total number of playoff games.

4: Total number of playoff wins.

written by: Robert Preston Jr. | photography by: Michael Chapman

When I wrote Valdosta High’s preseason story last summer, I had a feeling I would be writing about a Rance Gillespie-led Wildcats team for the last time. You could almost use the term “embattled” when describing Gillespie’s tenure at Valdosta High. He won a lot of games, but his teams didn’t have a great postseason record. And this from a head coach who had won two state titles at his previous stop.

Part of the problem, I figured, was that Valdosta wasn’t a 6A program. The Wildcats played up, which put them at a competitive disadvantage.

No matter the reason, Gillespie’s ‘Cats didn’t fare well in the playoffs. And at Valdosta High, poor playoff performance will not be tolerated.

Just a few weeks after the season ended, Gillespie took the job of co-offensive coordinator at Georgia Southern University, where he had previously served as offensive coordinator under Chris Hatcher. He and former Valdosta State head coach David Dean will share the offensive coordinator duties, which in and of itself is an in-

teresting development.

Though Valdosta didn’t win a state championship – or even get close, really – Gillespie’s time in Valdosta was a success. He won games, made the playoffs, brought home a region title, and ran a solid program. Coach Gillespie stabilized what was, at the time of his arrival, a program on the ropes, and he brought back a sense of pride and tradition.

13: Most games the Wildcats played in a season under Gillespie, which took place in 2010, his first year on the job.

9 (again): Number of All-State Wildcats Gillespie coached at Valdosta.

16: The number of head coaches the Wildcats have had during their history.

5: The number of coaches in Valdosta’s history who stayed longer than Gillespie: Mike Herndon, Bobby Hooks, Wright Bazemore, Nick Hyder, and Mike O’Brien.

This information came from the Georgia High School Football Historians Association.

Crazy

Football Facts It wasn’t a requirement for football players to wear a helmet in the NFL until 1943 Footballs were never actually made out of pig skin

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inthegamesportsnetwork.com

During a regular NFL game you are likely to watch the following: 11 minutes of actual playing time, 3 seconds of cheerleaders, 17 minutes of replays and 67 minutes of players just standing there.

This information is courtesy of idealphysicaltherapy.com

FAST BREAK

HOME IS WHERE THE HEART IS Valwood Head Football Coach Stays written by: James Washington

Like Father, Like Son The Signing Day Saga written by: James Washington

National Signing Day has come and gone; on the first Wednesday of February, high school seniors were officially eligible to sign a binding National Letter of Intent for college football with any school that is a member of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). All around the country, cameras recorded the memories as high school stars announced their decisions. Some caught onlookers by surprise; others simply confirmed verbal commitments that had been made prior. While the day has become a spectacle for many, perhaps extra eyes trained on a few particular individuals. Below is a brief list of young men who are the latest in a pipeline of gridiron greatness. Each one of these players share a single common thread: their fathers suited up and played on Sundays, playing football at the highest level in the National Football League.

In the fall, they will look to continue the paths that their fathers paved, hoping to one day hear their names called on the biggest stage.

Jair Anderson (WR)

(Northview, Johns Creek, Georgia) Son of Willie Anderson (Attended Auburn) College: Georgia Tech

Andrew Boselli (OG)

(Episcopal School, Jacksonville, Florida) Son of Tony Boselli (Attended University of Southern California) College: Florida State (already enrolled)

Baylen Buchanan (CB)

(Peachtree Ridge, Suwanee, Georgia) Son of Ray Buchanan (Attended Louisville) College: Tennessee

Rayshad Lewis (CB, WR)

(Bishop Moore, Orlando, Florida) Son of Ray Lewis (Attended Miami) College: Utah State

Bryce Matthews (OL)

(Brentwood Academy, Brentwood, Tennessee) Son of Jason Matthews (Attended Texas A&M) College: Ole Miss

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Thaddeus Moss (DL,TE)

(Mallard Creek, Charlotte, North Carolina) Son of Randy Moss (Attended Marshall) College: North Carolina State

Lorenzo Neal (DT, G)

(St. Thomas Catholic, Houston, Texas) Son of Lorenzo Neal (Attended Fresno State) College: Purdue

Tyler Tupa (WR)

(Brecksville-Broadview Heights, Broadview Heights, Ohio) Son of Tom Tupa (Attended Ohio State) College: Ohio

Antoine Winfield, Jr. (FS,SS)

(The Woodlands, The Woodlands, Texas) Son of Antoine Winfield (Attended Ohio State) College: Minnesota

After deliberation, Valwood head football coach Ashley Henderson has made the decision to remain in his current position over the Valiants, withdrawing his name from consideration for the head coaching position at his alma mater, Valdosta High School.

Henderson, who played for legendary Wildcats coach Nick Hyder in the early 90s, says that he has no intentions of parting ways with the Valiants any time soon.

“I’m in it for the long haul,” Coach Henderson says. “Valwood is a special place full of a bunch of special people.”

Taking over as Valiants head coach in 2012, Henderson has amassed quite the record at Valwood. He has compiled a record of 48-5 (.906) and led the team to two GISA State Championship wins: one in 2012 (in Class AA) and the most recent in 2015 in Class AAA. In 2013, the Valiants also competed for a potential third title against Memorial Day School in Macon, Georgia at Mercer University.

“We’ve got a lot going on here,” Coach Henderson says.

“Valwood has been very good to me and my family.

We’re in the process of doing some big things here, and I just felt that I should make my decision official.

Everybody dreams of returning to their alma mater.

But after this decision, it helps clear everything and allows us to focus on the future here at Valwood.”

HENDERSON - RODEMAKER

BY THE NUMBERS

The decision has been finalized: On February 8, 2016, the Board of Education unanimously decided to anoint Alan Rodemaker the 16th head coach in the storied history of the Valdosta Wildcats. This decision came shortly after the other leading candidate, current Valwood head coach Ashley Henderson, withdrew his name from consideration and made the decision to remain with the Valiants.

Looking at the numbers, the Valdosta football program was bound to be in extremely capable hands either way.

Here are just a few numbers that showcase the ability and success of both of these gifted and talented coaches.

Ashley Henderson, Head Coach, Valwood School Head Coaching Career: 2012-Present Classification: GISA Class AAA (2014-Present); GISA Class AA (2012-13) Overall Record: 48-5 (.906) Career Highlights: GISA Class AA State Championship (2012); GISA Class AAA State Championship (2015); GISA Class AA State Runner-Up (2013); GISA Class AAA Coach of the Year (2014); GISA Class AA Coach of the Year (2013); Led Valwood to a perfect 14-0 record in 2012

Alan Rodemaker, Head Coach, Valdosta High School Head Coaching Career: 2016-Present Classification: GHSA Class AAAAAA (2012-Present); GHSA Class AAAAA (2010-2011) Overall Record: 49-20 (.710) Career Highlights: Led a Wildcats’ defensive unit that held opposing offenses to 13.6 points per game in 2014 (including four shutouts) and 12.8 points per game in 2011; Region 1-AAAAA Champion in 2011 *Rodemaker has not yet coached a game at the helm for the Wildcats; therefore, the statistics compiled represent his time as defensive coordinator for the team, the position in which he served from 2010 until his recent head coaching appointment.

Experience personal care with Hughston Kevin J. Collins, MD

General Orthopaedics, Arthroscopic & Joint Replacement Surgery, Sports Medicine A native of Macon, Georgia. Dr. Collins received his undergraduate degree from Mercer University. He graduated from medical school at Mercer University School of Medicine where he served two terms as class president. He completed his training in Orthopaedic Surgery at Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Overton Brooks VA Medical Center, and Shriners Hospital for Children in Shreveport, Louisiana. He then elected to complete a one year Sports Medicine Fellowship at The Hughston Foundation in Columbus, Georgia.

Team Orthopaedist Colquitt County High School, Valdosta State & Thomas Universities %RDUG &HUWLÀHG LQ Orthopaedics Surgery & Sports Medicine Fellowship Trained in Arthroscopy & Sports Medicine

'U &ROOLQV LV %RDUG &HUWL¿HG LQ 2UWKRSDHGLF 6XUJHU\ +H DOVR KDV DGGLWLRQDO %RDUG &HUWL¿FDWLRQ LQ 6SRUWV 0HGLFLQH +H LV D PHPEHU RI WKH American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, the American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine, and the Southern Orthopaedic Association.

In addition to General Orthopaedics, Dr. Collins specializes in Sports Medicine, Arthroscopic Surgery, Shoulder and Knee injuries. He continues academic research in Sports Medicine at The Hughston Foundation.

He is a team Orthopaedic Physician for Valdosta State University where he is involved in the Athletic Training education program. He is also the head team Orthopaedic Physician for Thomas University and the Colquitt County Packers. Outside of work and sport events coverage Dr. Collins enjoys family activities with his wife and his three daughters.

Performing surgery at these highly recognized locations: Smith Northview Hospital in Valdosta, GA and Jack Hughston Memorial Hospital in Phenix City, AL.

Moultrie

207 31st Ave. SE Moultrie, GA 31768

Thomasville

202 S. Madison St. Thomasville, GA 31792

Valdosta

229-333-9736 1-800-331-2910 www.hughston.com

4340 King’s Way Valdosta, GA 31602

Waycross

2540 Memorial Dr. Waycross, GA 31502

Thomasville

Shop Smart Shop Local 1515 East Jackson St - Thomasville, GA 31792

1 800 255 1282 www.thomasvilleford.com

WHERE THEY ARE NOW

KALEB COWART written by: Robert Preston Jr. | photography by: Marque Milla Reese

MLB Games

34 1 HOME RUN 4

RBIs Fielding %

.962

WHERE THEY ARE NOW

“The game is so fast. It’s the best of the best out there every day. You really have to play within yourself.”

June 2009. I wrote a Player Spotlight feature on two Cook Hornets – Kaleb Cowart and D.J. Johnson.

The duo had terrorized opponents for their entire high school careers and were among the best baseball players in the state. Six years later, one of the pair made it all the way to the Major Leagues.

It was supposed to be easy for Kaleb Cowart. He had committed to play college baseball for Florida State University. But the Anaheim Angels of Los Angeles took care of that when they selected Cowart in the first round, 18th overall, of the 2010 draft. A phone call, a contract, and a $2.3 million signing bonus later, and Cowart was a professional baseball player. The path to the big leagues is never easy,

but for such a highly regarded prospect as Cowart, making it to the majors was supposed to be an inevitability.

But it almost didn’t happen.

Early in his minor league career, Cowart seemed to be progressing just fine. His defense has never been questioned, and he was hitting well. By 2013, Cowart was in Double A with Arkansas. It was supposed to be one of his final stops on the way to the big league team. Instead, it almost ended his career. Cowart had two poor seasons in Arkansas, hitting .221 and .223.

“I had lost my way. I had forgotten the player I was and what I was capable of,” he recalls. “It wasn’t easy when I was struggling. I wasn’t sure where my career IN THE GAME

19

Did You Know?

Pete Rose, who played for the Cincinnati Reds and then was banned from baseball for life for betting on games while managing the team, holds the all-time record for hits (4,256) and games played (3,562).

The first World Series was played between Pittsburgh and Boston in 1903 and was a nine-game series.

Boston won the series 5-3.

In 2001, San Francisco’s Barry Bonds broke the alltime single-season home run record when he hit 73.

He broke the mark of 70, set by St. Louis Cardinals first baseman Mark McGwire in 1998.

Fourteen players have hit four home runs in one game: Bobby Lowe, Ed Delahanty, Lou Gehrig, Chuck Klein, Pat Seerey, Gil Hodges, Joe Adcock, Rocky Colavito, Willie Mays, Mike Schmidt, Bob Horner, Mark Whiten, Mike Cameron and Shawn Green.

This information is courtesy of factmonster.com

was going. I had a good support system behind me, and they stuck with me. The Lord blessed me with another chance.”

Cowart found himself in Single A at the start of the 2015 season. He was going down instead of up. Then his hitting coach, Brent del Chiaro, noticed a few things about Cowart’s swing. Over the years, Cowart had altered his swing little a little. By 2015, it looked very different than it had when he was hitting well early in his career.

Del Chiaro and Cowart went to work. He started hitting better and making improvements game by game. The Angels took notice and reversed Cowart’s course; he finally started going back up. He made it to the Triple A Salt Lake Bees before season’s end. Then, as so often the case, a few key moves at the top opened up a door for Cowart to finally step through.

On August 18, 2015, after starting the year in A ball, Cowart stepped onto the field against the Chicago White Sox. “I was hitting well and playing good defense. They gave me a shot,”

His first 34 games were a tremendous learning experience. And he hopes to build on that experience in the 2016 season.

he says. Cowart played 34 games at the end of the year. He finished with a .174 batting average, one home run, and four RBIs. Defensively, he made two errors and came away with a .962 fielding percentage. “It was fun again. Everything felt great.”

What did he notice first and foremost about baseball at the Major League level? “The game is so fast. It’s the best of the best out there every day. You really have to play within yourself,” he says.

His first 34 games were a tremendous learning experience. And he hopes to build on that experience in the 2016 season. Cowart spent the winter in Adel, working out in Valdosta and hitting every day. “Right now, my future is up for grabs. I’m going to go out this year and try to win a roster spot. I don’t care if it’s at third base or as a utility player. I’ve played all over the infield, so it’s whatever they need. I’m going to try to earn a spot and do the best I can.”

A MOUNTAIN TO CLIMB written by: Cole Parker | photography by: Marque Milla Reese

“

It changed me into a young man who had to grow up quickly. I had to face the reality and see that nothing I can do will ever change what happened.

It isn’t often that an older brother is able to publicly admit just how proud he is of his younger brother, yet here I am, and speaking for two.

Jake Parker, the youngest of the three sons of Steve and Debby Parker, has risen from the shadows of his family’s legacy, the shadows of his own expectations, and the shadows of unspeakable tragedy within that same family.

The entire Parker family has left its imprint on the Lowndes school system. From administration to athletics, the Parkers have had a presence as Vikings for over 40 years, leaving it impossible for Jake not to walk into lofty expectations. Myself, Austin Parker, Zach Parker, Casey Parker (now Bacon), Courtney Parker (now Fleming), and Karen Parker (now Bennett) are all names that are recognizable by Lowndes faculty and fans alike, but each for different reasons. State championships, national championships, MVPs, playing at the next level, highlights on ESPN’s Top 10, and going on to coach have all become staples in the Parker family.

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”

However, while excellence in academics, athletics, and character was always the standard, each individual had to find their way to stay true to the family values, but also to themselves.

That is no automatic process, and understandably so, Jake felt the weight of that pressure early on in his career as a football player.

“At first, the allure of playing on Friday nights in Martin Stadium seemed like it was the greatest thing in the world,” Jake says. “Getting to hear about it everywhere and getting to see it played out, I was all for the idea of doing the same. It wasn’t until I actually got in high school that I realized that it would also be the hardest part. I felt as any kid would; I felt that I had to be just as good or be better than my brothers and family. This mindset drove me to work harder, but it made getting to their level the focus of my entire career. The end result, however, was that it also made me feel like a failure when I didn’t quickly obtain the same level of fame.”

As a young quarterback coming into Lowndes High School, Jake was burdened by the

weight of comparison to myself (Lowndes’ starting quarterback in 2009 and 2010), all whilst trying to compete for a starting job.

He was determined, goal oriented, and had an unquestionable work ethic as he gained weight and strength, improved his speed and agility, and trained to improve his throwing motion and footwork on his way to being Lowndes’ starting quarterback.

However, hard work doesn’t always pay off, and by the offseason workouts of his freshman summer, the grind of being a student-athlete had begun to slowly wear on Jake.

Then, on July 16th, 2013, everything irreversibly changed.

Our oldest brother, Austin, died in a tragic hiking accident at the age of 23.

Fierce independence and an adventurous spirit spurred Austin to move to Montana, but this same ambition proved to be his downfall. Upon hiking alone up Electric Peak, a mountain in Yellowstone National Park that is appropriately and famously named because of its lightning storms and static electricity, Austin found himself near the

There is a lot going on beneath the surface of Jake Parker. A prime example is that Jake wore an undershirt featuring the number 84, right in the middle of his chest, each Friday night. This homage to his brother, Austin, who also wore the number 84, was unseen and unknown to most of the world. The crazy part? It was given to him at random by the equipment staff before the start of the season.

IN THE GAME

25

peak as an ominous lightning storm quickly rolled in. With time against him and static discharges providing reminders of the apparent urgency, Austin made a fatal mistake in his attempt to descend the mountain to safety.

While we will never know exactly what happened on that mountain that caused him to fall, after over 72 hours of search and rescue efforts, his remains were found at the bottom of a large scree cliff.

Minutes later, a phone call, instantly followed by anguish; a family completely ravaged by grief. The screaming, crying, and denial of that day permanently embedded in his mind.

Days later, a funeral; almost calloused from the pain as his brother was laid in his final resting place. Attempting to celebrate his life instead of mourning his death became a seemingly impossible struggle that would extend far beyond that day.

Weeks, months, and years later, lying in the ruins of Austin’s memory, is a heartbroken family still plagued by pain, confusion, and conflict. Jake, who was only 15 years old at the time, was and is certainly no exception.

“Austin’s death influenced me in more ways than I can count; mostly in ways I can’t even see,” he says.

“Mere words lack the power and depth to communicate the fullness of that feeling and that impact. But one thing is clear: it made me look at my life through an entirely different lens.”

Football had been put into perspective in the most sobering way possible. The trivial pursuit of local fame and success was revealed as shallow in comparison to the indescribable loss of his brother, who was his role model and one of his closest friends.

During such formative years, Jake was faced with the immense complexity of trying to cope and establish a new normal. While the Parker family and Austin’s friends grieved, the rest of the world had kept spinning. As you would expect, Jake fell behind in his pursuit of being the starting quarterback.

“I gradually realized that I would not be accomplishing the goals I set so long ago,” he says.

“That fact started to mix with my

deep-rooted anger and frustration with my brother’s passing, making for a deadly combination.

I no longer enjoyed football and certainly didn’t see it as important anymore. Therefore, I got rid of it.”

Football had lost its meaning, its worth, and ultimately, its necessity. After tolerating his sophomore season, Jake walked away from the game the following January. For the next calendar year, his life took a different direction.

“My life shifted to enjoying every moment I could, most often through hunting, farming, and spending time with my family,” he says. “Life became much simpler.

It wasn’t until later that an opportunity to start fresh came along.”

During that year during which Jake was not playing football, Ashley Henderson, head football coach at Valwood, saw an opportunity before him. Sure, Coach Henderson saw the dormant football potential within Jake, but he also saw far beyond that as the two also bore the burden of an uncommon similarity.

Coach Henderson also lost his older brother, Doug, at an early age, and he understood what a traumatic experience that could

be. However, he got into coaching in order to develop young boys into young men, and he saw that football could be a vehicle for Jake’s progression past his painful memories as opposed to dwelling in them. How? Football wasn’t meant to be a joyless job, a pursuit of fame and fortune, or something done out of obligation; it is instead the means of finding joy in a game while developing character within impressionable and growing men.

Coach Henderson’s offer of a fresh start and proper positioning of football in his life gradually became attractive to Jake, and after many conversations and much consideration, Jake made the decision to transfer to Valwood.

Football, however, was far from the only reason he transferred.

“Coach Henderson is the main reason I came to Valwood,” Jake says. “I’d never had a football coach impress me like he did. It wasn’t his history, his style, or his talk, but it was his pure motives and intentions. He deeply cares about his players, and he knew how to make football fun. I did not know that feeling for the majority of my life. However, it went beyond Coach Hen helping me realize that football could be fun; he saw that I needed to play again to prove it to myself that I could enjoy football, and most importantly, not let my past haunt my future.”

While Jake’s past is one that could easily haunt, when he first stepped on Valwood’s campus in January of 2015, it became clear that he was not going to allow that to be the case.

His move to Valwood during the offseason further proved that the decision encompassed more than just football, but once he got settled in to a new school and new day-to-day life, football became the task at hand. Knowing Jake, that’s all it took: a task that needed completing. He had walked

into a program where state championships were expected, and he was going to go get one.

So he went to work. He frequented the weight room, film room, and practice field, as he only had one season to learn a new system, get back into football mode, and lead the Valiants on the field. To get back into playing form, he bulked up to 200 pounds, further dropped his 40-yard dash time to 4.5 seconds, and vastly improved other stat lines like his vertical jump. However, there was one particularly important factor that couldn’t be improved anywhere other than on the practice and game fields: readjusting to having a rush of defenders in his face.

“Thanks to (quarterbacks) Coach (John) Lastinger, I went from run-crazy QB to being able to comfortably sit in the pocket within a single season. He took my raw talent and successfully refined my skills, all while encouraging me and having a great time together.”

After numerous statement wins throughout the regular season against defending state champions and region rivals, the Valiants were defeated in the region championship game against Deerfield-Windsor, placing them as the second seed in Region 3-AAA as they headed into the playoffs. It was that loss and seeding that would require them to defeat three consecutive number-one seeds on the road in order to bring the title back to Valwood.

That’s exactly what happened, and in grand fashion.

This unprecedented milestone was accomplished by a cumulative total of 11 points (7 of which were scored on a pick-6 to halt the opponents’ final drive in the closing seconds) as Valwood won their final three games of the 2015 season, including the state championship rematch against Deerfield-Windsor. Pulse pound-

ing, last minute scoring drives and defensive stands made for what is likely the most thrilling postseason run in Valwood’s history, and likely beyond.

Behind the curtain of the 2015 State Champion Valwood Valiants was a strong group of senior leaders, a coaching staff that inspired, a deeply rooted joy in the game, and a quarterback with a reason to play and something to prove, but only to himself.

“After everything I had gone through, the suffering on and off of the field, I finally felt a sense of peace,” Jake says. “I had fulfilled what I started so many years ago.”

With that season, that championship win, that peace of mind, Jake has decided to step away from football for good as he pre-

“Coach Henderson is the main reason I came to Valwood. I’d never had a football coach impress me like he did.”

pares to attend college this fall.

“I have been blessed with an amazing senior year; we were able to succeed and finish as champions, but this is where it ends for me,” he says. “I appreciate all the support and lessons I obtained from football, but my focus now shifts to using those lessons in college and then in the military.”

There is no better closure and sense of finality than going out as a champion, and Jake has earned a graceful exit from the game. With a ring on his finger, memories that will last a lifetime, and the personal development of his character through the fires of numerous trials, the game has nothing left to offer him.

With a life marked by perseverance, strength, and leadership, he now shifts his attention to the ultimate challenge: becoming a member of our military’s elite, the Navy SEALs. “I have wanted to be a part of this elite unit for most of my life,” Jake says. “I am well aware

of the rigorous physical, mental, and emotional training, as well as the eighty percent dropout rate during SEAL training, but that challenge makes becoming a SEAL all the more attractive. I want to prove that I am worthy, I want to be pushed to unknown places, and I want to be the best of the best for my country. I refuse to fail.”

Staring up from the dark shadow of the mountain before him, Jake Parker could have crumpled. His family’s legacy, his own expectations, and chiefly the death of his oldest brother could have easily caused him to lay idly in pity or fear. But instead of avoiding the mountain of his early life’s struggles, he just started climbing. One step at time, with the end in mind, he climbed.

Through unspeakable grief, he climbed. Through a deck stacked against him, through the pressure of expectations, and through every single thing that came his way, he climbed. The mountain before him didn’t in-

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timidate him; it motivated him.

“All of the pain, all of the hurt, all of the grief; it is fuel to the fire that burns within me every single day,” he says. “I could feel sorry for myself, claim that it wasn’t fair, or crawl in a hole everyday and not come out. But instead, I set the bar high and hope that with this fire burning, I can accomplish great things, just like I know Austin would want me to.“ I can now confidently say this: mission accomplished. Earning the respect of your older brothers is an extremely difficult feat, but Jake has managed to add that to his list of recent accomplishments. But here’s the important thing: it has nothing to do with his success on the field; it’s the man he has become, and is continuing to become, off of it.

Coming from one brother that is extremely proud of him, if there is one thing in this world that I am sure of, it’s this: Austin would be too.

Follow us at: Equal Opportunity Institution A Unit of the Technical College System of Georgia

wiregrass.edu

“Do not fear. I must always return to my roots, my family, my friends, and other loved ones — because it is you that allows me to persevere when no one else thinks that I can do it or make it. You are, and will remain, my touchstones, beacons in stormy seas, and cool respites in the blistering heat that life can at times force us to endure. That fact will never change … I love and respect each of you, and I will see you again.” – Austin Parker’s blog, June 26

Check This Out So you think you know tennis, do you? Perhaps you may know who the top players are these days, and know a reasonable amount of history about specific tournaments and the like, but these interesting records and facts about tennis should definitely add to your repertoire of professional tennis know-how: American Jimmy Connors won 109 singles titles in his incredible career, which included 8 Majors. For women, Martina Navratilova was the all-time champ with 167 singles titles!

You may know this one due to its recent occurrence, but in 2010 a first round Wimbledon match between John Isner and Nicolas Mahut endured for 11 hours and 5 minutes. It lasted over three full days as the players struggled to break their tremendous respective serves. Isner finally won the exhausting battle.

Two sets of sisters playing tennis “They bring knowledge of each other’s strengths and weaknesses. They can encourage and help each other while challenging each other at the same time.” written by: Beth Welch | photography by: Jerry Christenson

The roster for Columbus High School’s girls tennis team shows four athletes who share two surnames. It’s not a misprint. Two sets of sisters are playing for the Blue Devils this tennis season.

Madelyn and Caroline Boren and Abby and Mary Weston Courville are the siblings on the team. Madelyn Boren and Abby Courville are seniors at Columbus High, Caroline Boren is a sophomore, and Mary Weston Courville is a freshman.

The four young women have been playing tennis for a combined total of 44 years.

They were friends before they all landed at the same high school, according to Traci Courville, mother of Abby and Mary Weston.

She also noted that the girls have been playing the sport together since the older girls were about 12 years old. Since that time, both the Boren and Courville sisters have racked up quite a list of accomplishments as tennis athletes, including numerous honors and awards.

Abby and Madelyn have made the Columbus Ledger-Enquirer’s All-Bi-City list for tennis each year of their high school careers.

Madelyn was named the Ledger-Enquirer’s Player of the Year as a sophomore. The seniors are team co-captains with Madelyn 28

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playing #1 singles and Abby #1 doubles.

Caroline Boren plays #2 singles on the team and made the All-Bi-City list last year.

This is Mary Weston’s first year playing high school tennis, but she has already gained quite a reputation on the tennis circuit. As a participant in the 14-and-under age group in tournament play, she ranked in the top ten in Georgia; the top 25 in the Southern Section, which encompasses 10 states; and the top 200 in the nation. She currently competes in the Girls 16s and has state, sectional, and national rankings.

All four tennis athletes agree that their primary reason for choosing to attend Columbus High School was based on the academic standards of the school. Madelyn confirms the tennis program at CHS was a bonus that came with the decision.

Academics might have been top priority in selecting a high school to attend, but the younger sisters say having an older sibling at the school sealed the deal.

Caroline Boren feels the arrangement has been beneficial for her right from the beginning. Her big sister’s presence helped ease freshman anxieties.

“It was familiar,” Caroline said. “I already knew someone here, and I already knew

people she (Madelyn) was hanging out with, so it was good for me.”

Abby and Mary Weston have played tennis together practically all their lives.

Going to high school together was sort of a natural progression. Being siblings, though, doesn’t mean things are always great. Having your little sister around so much can be difficult.

“I don’t mind it,” Abby said.

Being the younger sibling sometimes has its own problems. Often, people make comparisons to the older family member, or there is a lack of identity other than being someone’s little sister. Mary Weston said she is OK being known as Abby’s sister and that playing tennis adds to the relationship.

“It gives us something to talk about, something to have in common,” Mary Weston said.

When asked if any of the sisters were competitive with each other, fingers immediately pointed to the Boren sisters.

“They are more so than we are,” Abby said with a laugh.

Madelyn Boren owns up to the accusation.

“I am really, really competitive,” Madelyn said.

The two seniors made their college decisions and will not be playing tennis

Check Out More!

The shortest match occurred nearly 100 years ago at the 1922 Wimbledon Final, where Suzanne Lenglen (a tremendous athlete who won 8 Majors) dispatched of Molla Mallory (a star in her own right with 8 US Open titles) in just 23 minutes!

Mallory actually took two games in the first set, but ultimately was disposed of rather quickly!

Though he hasn’t had much success on the ATP Tour, Samuel Groth has one heck of a serve, setting the serve speed record in 2012, registering at 163.4 mph.

Andre Agassi was the king of the hard court, collecting 40 outdoor hard court titles. For women, Chris Evert claimed 53!

This information is courtesy of visual.ly/men-vs-women-tennis

sets of siblings playing on a team. She feels the Boren and Courville sisters not only bring talent to the tennis program, but also enhance the team concept.

“They bring knowledge of each other’s strengths and weaknesses,” Hill said. “They can encourage and help each other while challenging each other at the same time.

They bring a sense of family to our team, and the other players on the team join right in. We are a really close group, and I think it shows on and off the court.”

So, do the girls behave more like sisters or teammates when it comes to playing tennis?

“I see a little bit of both,” Hill said. “At practice, they sometimes seem more like siblings, but during matches, they are definitely teammates.”

Ivo Karlovic is currently the oldest man in professional tennis at age 36. He also happens to be the biggest, standing tall at 6’11”. For women, it’s the Japanese Kimiko Date-Krumn, 44 years old!

She retired back in 1996 only to come back in 2008, and she can still play!

This information is courtesy of blog.tennistours.com

Men break serve

The longest rally ever lasted

of the time

between Vicki Nelson and Jean Hepner at the US Tournament in 1984

29 MINUTES 643 SHOTS

13.5 ACES

Women break serve

Rallies in women’s singles matches are significantly longer

Women’s matches on average have

34.8% of the time

On average Men’s matches have per set

7.1 SEC PER RALLY 5.2 SEC PER RALLY 4.2 ACES men

23.5%

women

vs

Men Women

at the next level. Caroline is leaving her options open. As a sophomore, she has a little more time to see how her game fits into college plans. Of the four girls, only Mary Weston is definite about pursuing college athletics.

Abby, Madelyn, and Caroline were part of Columbus High’s team that had a 15-5 record last season and made it to the Class AAAAA second round. The addition of Mary Weston improves the odds of making it all the way to the winner’s circle.

“We had a really strong team last year, and she only adds to that strength,” said MikelAnna Hill, head girls tennis coach, of the younger Courville sister.

Now in her fourth season as head coach at CHS, Hill thinks it unusual to have two

Surprisingly, it’s Guillermo Vilas, the Argentinean who won 47 clay court tournaments. Rafael Nadal, the current king of clay, could possibly break this record one day… For the women, it was Evert again, claiming 66 clay titles, making her the most dominant tennis player on both hard and clay court!

than those in men’s singles matches

11 HOURS 05 MINS

Longest match for men’s in Wimbledon 2010

6 HOURS 31 MINS

per set

Longest match for women’s in Central Fidelity Banks International 1984

The Wildcat Tradition:

FACT OR FICTION REMEMBER THE TITANS Did Coach Boone really give the “We are the Titans” speech?

Coach Boone is an excellent motivational speaker and gave a lot of speeches; at one time or another he most likely said something similar to the speech in the movie.

He also never talked about winning, but by playing our best and leaving everything on the field, we could leave the field with our heads held high no matter what the score. His favorite saying was “We are going to do this for us!” But, with his North Carolina accent it always sounded like he said “We are going to do this for Russ!” As soon as he would turn away or go into the Coach’s room we would all look around and say “Who the heck is Russ?”

Did the restaurant incident happen?

This incident may not have actually happened, but there were places of business with the attitude portrayed by the owner in that scene in certain parts of the country at that time.

KEEP GOING! 30

written by: James Washington and Cole Parker

In 1971, recently deseg-

regated T.C. Williams High School in Alexandria, Virginia, hired Herman Boone to spearhead their football program. By the end of the season, his team had fought their way to a state title.

The football team’s accomplishments were eventually recreated (somewhat fictitiously, according to numerous accounts) in the 2000 Disney feature film Remember the Titans. The feelgood tale of heroism and courage in the face of racial prejudice and bias served to be a huge hit, grossing $136.7 million in box

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It’s All about the Black and Gold

office sales alone.

While the movie was a tremendous success, its root cannot be ignored. The movie heavily centers on the hire of an African American to replace a white coach, Bill Yoast (who decides to stay in town, despite other offers, to work as an assistant coach on Boone’s staff). Boone, Yoast, and many of the team’s players are subjected to undue tension for various reasons. In the early stages of the film, the biases even rest themselves in the hearts of numerous players on the team. But, as expected

from a Disney production, the team members band together and overcome their differences.

Near the movie’s closing, the narrator (Bill Yoast’s daughter, Sheryl) says that the Titans not only earned a state title; they also finished second in the voting for the national championship. Shortly after the release of Remember the Titans, I found myself wondering (since it wasn’t mentioned in the film for obvious reasons): If the Titans did all of this and only finished second in the country, who came in first?

It didn’t take much work to find

MORE

FACT OR FICTION

REMEMBER THE TITANS Did everyone really get along on the team or was there a lot of conflict between each other and even the coaches because it was a different era?

Of course not everyone on a team of 80 players and coaches is going to get along and be best friends, we did respect each other and many of us are good friends. We never had any fights off the field as depicted in the movie. There were of course several ‘pushing matches’ on the field by a couple guys on the very rare occasion, but it is hard to play a violent game without the occasional loss of temper. The parties involved normally worked their differences out while they ran their mile together.

“I think that’s where most of the kids’ minds were. We were just trying to play football.”

(Ronnie Bass, player)

While many are thrilled about the future of the program in the hands of Coach Rodemaker, the selection has met some resistance. Leading up to the appointment of coach Rodemaker, the Valdosta community and fan base was divided about the nature of the applicants. the answer. After a quick Internet search, I found confirmation: T.C. Williams actually tied for second with Booker T. Washington High School in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Coming in first, and securing (yet another) national championship? The Valdosta High School Wildcats.

The heritage

of Valdosta, Georgia, appropriately named “Titletown, USA” by ESPN in 2008, is heavily based on the winning tradition that has come to be expected within the walls of Valdosta High School. The team has claimed an astonishing 41 region, 23 state, and six national championships in

its illustrious history.

Gracing the walls of the David S. Waller Sr. Valdosta Wildcat Museum are the names and likenesses of former Valdosta greats, including players such as Buck Belue, William “Red” Dawson, and Stanford “Stan” Rome. Also included in the nostalgia are the notable accomplishments of storied coaches such as Wright Bazemore and Nick Hyder, who together were responsible for 480 wins over 50 seasons and 21 of the 23 state titles to the Wildcats’ name.

In January 2016, news broke that Rance Gillespie, the Wild-

cats’ head coach of the last six seasons, would be leaving the school after accepting an offer to serve as co-offensive coordinator with former Valdosta State University head coach David Dean at Georgia Southern University.

For Gillespie, the move will be a “homecoming” of sorts: He was the offensive coordinator for the Eagles from 2007-09. During his time leading Valdosta, he led the team to a playoff berth in every season of his tenure, including clinching a region title in 2011.

Unfortunately, his prowess failed to secure the state and national championships that locals have

Did Coach Boone receive threats of violence and have bricks thrown through his window?

Coach Boone did receive threats, he did not share all of them with his players.

Things were thrown into his yard and through his window, once a toilet was thrown through his window.

Did we really run six plays?

The foundation of the offense consisted of six plays; they were all variations of the triple option veer. In addition to the basic running plays, which could be run from several different formations, we had a set of passing plays and a few other plays, traps, sweeps, screens, etc. The basic six plays each had three options and could be run in either direction, so in reality we had a lot of plays.

This information is courtesy of 71originaltitans.com The photo is courtesy of americanfootballfilms. com and beckett.com

BLACKGREENBLUEHITEORANGE BLACKGREENBLUEHITEORANGE BLACKGREENBLUEHITEORANGEBLACKGREENBLACK32

come to expect from the renowned program.

The hunt for a worthy successor began immediately upon Gillespie’s announcement, and the field was quickly narrowed down to three candidates: Alan Rodemaker of Valdosta High, Ashley Henderson of Valwood, and Maurice Freeman of Brooks County.

After days of rigorous interviews, Feb. 8 marked a turning point. That morning, Ashley Henderson officially withdrew his name from consideration to sign a multi-year contract with Valwood.

That evening, the Valdosta Board of Education passed a unanimous vote to appoint Alan Rodemaker as the next head football coach of the Valdosta Wildcats.

While many are thrilled about the program’s future in Rodemaker’s hands, the selection has met some resistance. Leading up to Rodemaker’s appointment, the Valdosta community and fan base was divided about the nature of the applicants.

The point of this article is not to defend or disapprove of the hiring of Alan Rodemaker; the point of this article is to look at one leading point of conversation during the search for the man that would take over the position. As with any job opening, applicants are going to vary in experience, success, and style, but in this particular case, another factor was brought to the forefront of conversation: race.

Let’s face it:

Not only are we living in a time when race is too often thrown around as a motivating factor for just about everything, but we are also living in South Georgia, where, in our recent history, a simple differentiating factor such as race has been used as a benefit, a crutch, and a source of blame and creating distance between individuals.

Rumors made their way around the city that, regardless of who was hired to follow the Gillespie era, race would be a part of the discussion. If the new coach were to be white, was there an equally, or possibly more, qualified African American coach in the air of discussion? And, on the other side: If an African American was hired to the position, did race play a factor in his appointment?

We have seen it rear its head before. On a larger scale, the National Football League implemented what is known as the “Rooney Rule”

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Coach Rodemaker has quite the task before him, but the leadership of the Valdosta High program clearly believes he is up to the task.

in 2003. Named after Daniel “Dan” Rooney (owner of the Pittsburgh Steelers, chairman of the league’s diversity committee, and son of Steelers founder Arthur “Art” Rooney Sr.), the rule requires that teams interview minority candidates before making a decision on their coaching hire. Since the rule’s implementation, the number of head coaches has indeed increased; also of note, multiple minority head coaches have led their teams to Super Bowl victories.

While it can be incredibly difficult to fathom that race still plays such a major role in today’s society, facts are facts. While blatant, public racism is no longer as prevalent, deeply rooted prejudices and biases still have detrimental impacts upon our society, manifesting itself within individuals and systems alike. And without policies such as the Rooney Rule, it can be argued that many minority applicants may still never receive their fair share of opportunity. It can be painful to consider, but it cannot be argued that unfair judgment still exists in our world. A qualified coach, no matter the background, should be able to accommodate job requirements in an exceptional manner. Race is not, nor should it ever be, a blockade of opportunity.

In the history of the Wildcats’ program, this assignment has never been given to someone of African American descent. However, I’m not going to advocate giving, or denying, someone a job or advancement based solely on his or her race. The most memorable coaches to lead Valdosta High School have shared a list of qualities. They have been determined, possessed a strong desire to win, a background of relative success in their craft, and an ability to mentor, support, and relate to their players in both sports-related and daily off-the-field issues.

A coach

is expected to fill roles that extend far beyond what the title implies. Coaches are teachers, mentors, and confidants in the most trying times. A valid argument could be that a coach’s race and upbringing may enable him or her to better relate to particular offthe-field issues or concerns of his or her players, namely those that stem from their shared experiences. This holds true for white and minority coaches alike, but given the high percentage of African American students and athletes at Valdosta

Injuries In The NFL NFL players have collectively sustained more than 1,300 injuries on the field. Below are just a few of the injuries sustained.

Head 96

Hand 63

Shoulder 116

Upper Leg 155

Ankle 206

Hip 47 Knee 300

Foot 93 This information is courtesy of Simple Therapy.

TEST YOUR KNOWLEGE What was the fastes score in the Super Bowl history?

When and where was the first NFL Pro Bowl played?

What NFL quarterback has the most games in which he passed for 400 or more yards?

Peyton Manning holds the record for the most 400 yard passing games with 17. Drew Brees and Dan Marino are tied for second with 15.

is one that has been built on winning: national championships, state championships, region championships, and rivalry games. The standard of the team, coach, and program as a whole has not changed in that regard. No one that takes the head coach position of the Wildcats can fail to meet that standard and keep his job, so that should be the leading criteria.

And it appears that is was. Coach Rodemaker has quite the task before him, but the leadership of the Valdosta High program clearly believes he is up to the task. Chatters of continued discontent still ripple through the community, but Coach Rodemaker has the ability to silence his critics by winning football games, loving his players, and maintaining the level of intensity and passion that he has become known for.

Regardless, Alan Rodemaker now sits at the helm of the most storied football program in the country. The Valdosta faithful should support the coaches, the team, and most importantly, the players, as they strive for greatness in the 2016 season.

The first NFL Pro Bowl was played on January 14, 1951 (for the 1950 season) in the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. In that game the American Conference defeated the National Conference 28-27.

During an

unforgettable and emotionally driven scene in Remember the Titans, Coach Boone addresses his players prior to heading to preseason camp. He splits his players up in the simplest way possible: offense and defense. He starts his speech to his players with “I don’t care if you’re black, green, blue, white, or orange…” before splitting them up according to their side of the line of scrimmage.

Regardless of when you watch this film, if you are familiar with the legacy of the Valdosta Wildcats, one thing should ring true: Players who have contributed to state and national championship teams in Winnersville have been of all shapes, sizes, and ethnicities. The coaching staff has followed suit, and the head coaching position should be no different.

The Valdosta Wildcats tradition

Let’s face it: not only are we living in a time where race is too often thrown around as a motivating factor for just about everything, we are also living in South Georgia, where, in our recent history, a simple differentiating factor such as race has been used as a benefit, a crutch, and a source of blame and creating distance between individuals.

In Super Bowl XLVIII (2014) the Seattle Seahawks scored on the first play of the game when the opening snap flew over Peyton Manning’s head and was recovered by Knowshon Moreno for a safety. The play took 12 seconds eclipsing the previous record of 14 seconds when Devin Hester scored for the Chicago Bears on the opening kickoff in Super Bowl XLI in 2007.

High School, this would almost be an unspoken benefit for an African American candidate.

That may be an additional, almost intrinsic strength of any given African-American coach, but that is only one of a seemingly endless number of qualifications. Another coach, regardless of race, may be more qualified for the position on other grounds, such as a better résumé of winning, better X’s and O’s mind, and countless other factors on and off the field. One single factor, such as the ability to better relate to one race represented on the team, should never be the sole contributing factor to a hire.

While coaches may sometimes best relate through experiences that are unique to their ethnicities, this does not mean coaches are unable to relate to their players of different ethnicities. A student-athlete can and should feel loved, supported, and bettered by their coaches, even if there is a gap between sympathy and empathy due to ethnic backgrounds.

But, as previously stated, the value or relative significance of this gap must be measured in comparison to the other strengths and weaknesses of each and every candidate. Each candidate, no matter the skin color, has pros and cons; some are unique to that race, but most are shared through their common humanity and the love of the job.

This information is courtesy of sportstrivia-nut.com

MAKING WAVES Viking Junior Tackles the Wakeboard Circuit written by: James Washington | photography by: Marque Milla Reese

Surfing. Water skiing. Snowboarding.

Depending on the enthusiast, one can be difficult to choose over the other. All require a certain amount of endurance, physical ability, and patience to gain experience. And, depending on who you ask, you will likely receive varying answers as to which of the three reigns supreme. The simplest solution? Combine elements of all three into one sport.

Wakeboarders are usually towed by motorboats; however, other options are also used, including winches and closedcourse cable systems. Boards are buoyant and are usually comprised of foam, wood, or honeycomb and mixed with resin or fiberglass; metal screws are used for the placement of fins or bindings.

The sport is fairly new to the world of water sports, and it is beginning to catch on in the southern United States; particularly in Georgia and Florida. While enthusiasts 34

inthegamesportsnetwork.com

are growing in number in the Atlanta area, Valdosta has not been seeing as rapid a growth. One young man, however, has taken quite the liking to the sport. And even more so, he has started to make a name for himself through competition.

Michael Weatherby is currently a junior at Lowndes High School in Valdosta, Georgia. On the surface, he comes across as your typical student-athlete: he is studious, performs well in the classroom (he maintains good grades while also taking Advanced Placement courses), and maintains a focus that would put anyone over the top.

“Michael is such a cool kid,” says Luke Tilt, co-owner of the Valdosta Wake Compound. “He’s always willing to learn, he’s extremely humble, and he’s always listening. He always wants to find ways to advance out here.”

The Valdosta Wake Compound, locat-

ed in Valdosta (off Exit 13 on I-75), allows fans of the sport to hone their skills on the water. The compound is entering its first full season, but has been open in other locations for the last three years.

Although he hasn’t seen the water as much recently, it is almost an expectation to see Michael at the VWC on a daily basis.

He enjoys the time spent on the water; he also thoroughly enjoys the opportunity to reach out and make new friends through the sport.

“There’s constant motivation out there,” Michael says. “Most of the guys out there are in their 20s, they’re pretty experienced. I like being able to watch them and learn from them. We all get along great…It’s just chill vibes out there.”

Michael is deeply motivated in his craft; even after a debilitating injury, he came back stronger than ever.

“I remember he got hurt, away from the

“He’s always willing to learn, he’s extremely humble, and he’s always listening. He always wants to find ways to advance out here.” - Luke IN THE GAME

35

Michael is deeply motivated in his craft; even after a debilitating injury, he came back stronger than ever. compound,” Luke says. “I think he had broken his leg. Once he was cleared to get back out on the water, he went right to it. He had been thinking about a big trick he wanted to learn to land…and he just went right out there and nailed it. There was no leading up to with smaller tricks or getting used to the water.

He just nailed it.”

Michael takes his skills to various locations, including Atlanta. He also competes on occasion; he placed third in his most recent contest.

“Valdosta’s got, by far, one of the best compounds around,” Michael says. “I go other places for the competition, because a lot of people around here aren’t that familiar with, or interested in, the sport. But it’s a

lot of fun; my hope is that more people will branch out and start giving it a try.”

The VWC will be hosting competitions and events of its own in the near future; Luke anticipates three to four major events in 2016, including one that will be sponsored by Nike. In addition to running the compound, he has quite a bit of experience himself; he has been involved in the sport for almost 15 years. And, given his experience, it is all the more impressive that Luke views Michael in such high regard.

“Not only is he dedicated to improving on the water; he is a tremendous help around the complex,” Luke says. “He’s incredibly focused and responsible. We actually hired him; he’s the only person under 20 that we’ve brought on up here. If he’s not out on the water, he’s somewhere around the complex, looking for things to fix. We really appreciate having him around.”

The fastest teen of all time just turned pro – at 16 years old written by: Robert Preston Jr. | photography courtesy of www.ajc.com

Candace Hill, 17, lives in Conyers. She’s a sophomore at Rockdale County High School, and she’s the fastest high school runner in the state. You won’t, however, be reading about her bid for a state championship this year in track. It’s not that she couldn’t win a state title.

She would almost certainly win every race she entered. Hill isn’t just the fastest teen in Georgia; she’s the fastest female teen of all time.

And Hill is now a pro, a member of ASICS professional team, and can no longer compete in high school competition.

Last year, Hill became the first female teen to break the 11-second mark in the 100 meters. She ran a 10.98 at the Brooks PR Invitational in Washington in June of 2015. Her historic run completely altered the course of her future. Shortly after breaking the 11-second mark, Gatorade named Hill the National Girl’s Track and Field Athlete of the Year. In so winning, she joined Marion Jones as the only sophomore to ever win the award. Two weeks later, Hill earned a spot in the 2015 World Youth Championships in Colombia.

She didn’t turn in another sub-11 second

performance at the world championships; however, she still took first place in the 100 meters. Hill also won the 200 meters as well.

After winning the world championships, Hill decided to turn pro. By doing so, she would be forfeiting the opportunity to run in high school or college competitions. She signed a 10-year contract with ASICS and became a professional sprinter before she had even had her driver’s license for a year.

A relative late-comer to the track, she didn’t start running until she was in the seventh grade. Hill progressed quickly and broke several state records as a freshman. Then came her record-setting performance as a sophomore. The early success has her pursuing her ultimate goal – the Olympic Games – about four years early. Hill will likely seek a spot on the Olympic team for the 2016 Games in Rio de Janeiro. Will she make it? It’s a long shot, but if her recent success is any indicator, she has as good a shot as anybody.

Candace Hill. Remember the name. You’re going to be hearing it a lot more going forward.

CNN.com and Wikipedia.org contributed to this story.

FACTS TO RUN WITH Short interval training is an excellent way to burn fat. Sprinting for 8 seconds and then doing a slow run for 12 seconds in the span of 20 minutes can burn five times more fat than jogging for 40 minutes in uniform speed.

The New York Times reported that Alzheimer’s disease can be prevented through running. According to the report, a study made by Wahington University scientists found that elderly mice put on a running program experienced less dementia then those that didn’t run.

In the United States, there were 44.6 million pairs of running footwear sold in 2012 amounting to $3.04 billion in sales. It’s also been estimated that about 1 billion running shoes are sold around the world annually.

The yearly average injury rates of runners is between 24% - 68%. About 2% - 11% involve the hips while 13% - 17% are shin splints.

This information courtesy of marathontrainingschedule.com

Bearcats Senior Commits to

THE BULLDOGS written by: James Washington | photography by: Lindis Jones

“

I didn’t tell anybody but her,” he says. “It was strictly between us. At the end of the day, I do what I do because I want to show my mother what she’s done for me. She raised me on her own, and I want to be the best I can be so that she knows how much I appreciate her and everything she’s done. My parents are my number-one motivation.

Check This Out

5,987

Michael Jordan, who retired in January 1999 but returned to the league in 2001, has scored more points (5,987) in the playoffs than any other player.

38

”

November 11, 2015. The NCAA began its week- “Also, Georgia gives me more of an opportunity to long Early Signing Period in which high school se- come in and contribute right away. I really felt that niors were able to officially sign their National Letter I could make a difference in their program.” of Intent and commit to the college of their choice.

Standing 6’2”, Tyree is a combo guard and says that In Bainbridge, Georgia, all eyes were on one young he’s comfortable filling in at either the point or shootman. And as the news unfolded, a city bursting ing guard position. Outside of school, he has been with pride didn’t hesitate to join in the jubilation. a member of Showtime Hoops, an AAU basketball Tyree Crump, with a swift stroke of the pen, made team comprised of players from Georgia and Florida. his choice formal. This fall, he will be attending the “I’m always trying to improve,” he says. “That’s what I University of Georgia in Athens. He will remain in love about this game; there is a constant opportunity to state, and he will be a Bulldog. The options were develop. I just want to continue to work so that I can be tremendous; he had the best player possible.” been contacted by “I’m always trying to improve,” He’s a four-year memmany of the big names ber of the Bainbridge in the world of college he says. “That’s what I love about Bearcats varsity baskethoops. And although this game; there is a constant ball team. An outstandFlorida, Florida State, ing presence, he has Memphis, Tennessee, opportunity to develop. I just want compiled career averand the University of to continue to work so that I can be ages of over 21 points, Connecticut (among 4.5 rebounds, and 3 the best player possible.” others) came calling, assists per game. As a Tyree chose to remain home. And his thought pro- sophomore, he was named to the Class AAAAA Allcess was much more simple than expected.

State Second Team. After his junior campaign, he ”Signing with Georgia makes it easier for my fam- was awarded a spot on the Class AAAA All-State ily to come see me play if they want to,” Tyree says. First Team by the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. And The American Basketball Association (ABA) was a 10-team rival league to the NBA that began play in the 1967-68 season and folded nine years later

inthegamesportsnetwork.com

after the 1975-76 season.

Four current NBA teams – Indiana, Denver, New York, and San Antonio – originated in the ABA.

Two leagues called the National Basketball League (NBL) and the Basketball Association of America (BAA) merged

Courtesy of factmonster.com

after the 1948-49 season to become today’s National Basketball Association (NBA).

TEST YOUR KNOWLEGE 1

To acquire the ball after a missed shot is called a_________.

A. Lay up B. Foul C. Free throw D. Rebound

2

How many points is a basket worth if shot from inside of the 3-point line?

A. 1 C. 3

3

B. 2 D. 4

Which shot has the highest percentage of going in the basket?

A. 3 Point Shot B. Lay-up C. Fade away D. Free throw

4

Two technical fouls result in removal from the game.

A. True B. False

5

A defensive strategy where everyone guards an area is called a zone defense.

A. True

6 although, as of this writing, his final season has yet to be completed, his 20.7 points, 4 rebounds, 3.3 assists, and 2.5 steals per game have his team sitting at 15-7 (9-3 in Region 1-AAAA) and fighting for a postseason berth.

In his freshman season, while competing in Class AAAAA, the team made the postseason but fell in the first round with an overtime defeat at the hands of the Creekside Seminoles (Fairburn, Ga.).

In 2014, the Bearcats made it to the Elite Eight of the GHSA Class AAAA State Playoffs before a 69-48 loss to Warner Robins. Last season, the team failed to make it to the dance.

“I love to win,” he says. “These awards, all that is nice, and I love seeing my hard work pay off. But, in all honesty, my ‘crowning moment’ hasn’t happened yet; my biggest accomplishment will be winning a state championship. I still believe we can do it, because I play with a strong group of guys that are just as hungry as I am.”

By the time you read this, the smoke will have cleared, the playoffs will have neared completion, and the GHSA will have crowned a 2016 Class AAAA State Champion. Perhaps it will be the Bainbridge Bearcats. However, even if it’s not, Tyree can head to the University of Georgia with his head held high. He has put in the work and given it his all, and now his undying work ethic will take him to the next level. He is looking to study sports medicine and aspires to one day open his own sports-related business. Regardless of the avenue, he wants to remain close to the game that he has loved since he was an 8-year-old playing for fun with his friends.

“I really hope that my work ethic shines and sets an example in the (Bainbridge) community,” he says. “A lot of the kids around here look up to me, and I always want to be sure that I’m setting a positive example for them. I want them to understand that hard work and dedication can take you anywhere.”

B. False

A __________ occurs when an offensive player reaches a desired position first, causing a defensive player to go around him/her; delaying the progress of that defender.

A. assit B. pivot C. steal D. screen

Flip for answers.

When it came to signing his Letter of Intent, Tyree says that only one person knew of his decision beforehand: his mother, Shanttell Crump. He holds a special place in his heart for his family, but none more so than his mother, who raised him as a single parent after his father, Tyree Wilburn, passed away prior to the younger Tyree’s birth.

The first “hoops” were actually just peach baskets and the first backboards were made of wire.

Courtesy of factmonster.com

James Naismith, a teacher at a YMCA in Springfield, Massachusetts, is credited with inventing basketball in 1891.

Answers

player has ever scored in one game.

1. D 2. B 3. B 4. A 5. A 6. D

On March 2, 1962, Philadelphia center Wilt Chamberlain scored 100 points in one game against New York. That is the most one

IN THE GAME

39

How Many Calories Does An Endurance Athlete Burn In 30 Minutes of Exercise?

(results based on male weighing 190 lbs and a female weighing 140 lbs.)

14-16 MPH

408 Calories 336 Calories

Freestyle

377 Calories 377 Calories

7 MPH

444 Calories 365 Calories Increased muscular endurance has benefits ranging from improved athletic performance for activities like running and cycling, to assisting in day-today activities such as walking through the grocery store or carrying a baby in your arms.

You can improve your muscular endurance using the basic principles of fitness, which include exercise frequency, intensity, time and type. Be sure to slowly increase exercise frequency, intensity and duration to avoid overuse injuries.

Vary the types of activities you do to challenge your muscles and avoid training plateaus.

This information is courtesy of livestrong.com and healthstatus.com

40

Renee Moss A TRIATHLETE, IN AND OUT OF COMPETITION written by: James Washington | photography by: Micki K Photography

For those familiar with the triathlon, it is known club to get local triathletes together. The benefits that the events are twofold. On one hand, suc- are endless. It helps people branch out, it processful competition takes a great deal of prepa- vides safety to run in groups, and you never know ration, determination, and effort. On the other, who you will meet.” the end results, including personal health and the Established in 2012, the Rose City Tri Club fobuilding of bonds and relationships, cannot be cuses on promoting a healthy and active lifestyle measured by finish times or mileage. through involvement in organized endurance Thomasville resident and 12-year triathlete Re- events. The club strives to provide opportuninee Moss has taken her love of remaining active ties for experience advancement for triathletes, to another level in the last few years. Through whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been the Rose City Tri Club, she connects with runners, engaged for years, or you’re simply looking for a swimmers, and cyclists from around the area. To group of people with whom you can stay in shape. her credit, she is somewhat of a triathlete in her Members connect year-round to exchange tips everyday life as well. She remains extremely busy, and ideas regarding things such as training, gear, whether in competition or in the business world. racing, and nutrition.

The Triathlete “We are heading into Upon moving to “We just want to em- our fourth full season,” Thomasville, Renee’s Renee says. “We ended power people. We husband, Clayton, the 2015 season with began to notice 95 active members; infirmly believe that two things during cluded in that total are his visits to the local you can’t be fulfilled about a dozen youth YMCA. One: there Our total without making time members. was a high concennumbers are outstandfor yourself. Most ing for this area; there tration of running enthusiasts, and so many people importantly, we want are two: there was no that are interested in established organirunning and getting in people to get out zation in the area to shape. I’m really proud there and have fun!” of how everything has cater to them.

“Clayton is excome together!”

-Renee Moss tremely goal-orientSince its inception, ed; we both are,” Renee says. “He came to me one the club has received sponsorship from numerday and said that there needed to be some sort of ous businesses, including Farmer’s Daughter

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Vineyards, Thomasville YMCA, Dash, and many more. The club hosts get-togethers, including barbecues, raffles, and much more. Since its inception, the daily duties have fallen more in Renee’s lap (although her husband still helps as necessary); Renee also gives tremendous credit to Lance and Alison Parker, who have stepped up to assist with ad sales and event planning.

“In the past, we have even raffled off Ironman 140.6 and 70.3 entries,” she says. “Essentially, the package pays for the winner to compete in an Ironman event. It normally costs around $600, so we make sure to tell all entrants, don’t sign up for the raffle if you don’t intend to enter the competition!”

The Graphic Designer

Aside from running and managing the daily business that comes along with the Rose City Tri Club, Renee has also been a graphic artist since 1998.

Currently, she does freelance work in the Thomasville area.

“It sort of happened by accident,” she says. “I got my degree in advertising from University of Florida and worked out of Atlanta for a while.”

While the artistry may have found its way into her life unexpectedly, Renee doesn’t hesitate to express her love for what she does. She even comments that a great of her work is done at no cost and in the hopes of helping out local businesses.

“A majority of the work that I do currently is geared towards community benefit,” she says. “I also design all of the gear for the Tri Club. Having unique attire helps with our identity. It also helps

members feel like they are a part of something bigger; like they are part of a team.”

The Mother

Born in Pennsylvania and raised in Florida, Renee was salutatorian of her graduating high school class, earning an associate’s degree upon completing high school as well. After receiving a bachelor’s degree in advertising at the age of 20, she also earned a master’s degree in mass communication. She eventually relocated to Atlanta, where she met her future husband.

“We’re both athletic,” she says. “ Clayton was an athlete in college at the University of Kentucky. It was a funny coincidence because we later found out that our families knew each other well, but the two of us had never met. We even had some mutual friends in the Atlanta area.”

The two were married in 2010 and eventually landed in Thomasville. Together, they have two children; their daughter, Charlee, will be turning 4 in March, and their son, John Cayman, is 18 months.

For more information about the Rose City Tri Club, visit the official website of the club at rosecitytriclub. com or via email at reneegator@gmail.com.

Triathlon Factoids

The youngest person to ever do an Ironman was 14-yearold Rodkey Faust from Rathdru, Idaho. He completed the February 1982 Ironman Triathlon World Championship in 13:36:17 In 1982, 23-year-old college student Julie Moss had one of the most famous Ironman finishes of all time and because it was filmed on ABC’s Wide World of Sports, millions watched her as she literally crawled to the finish.

Suddenly, the popularity of triathlon boomed.

Dave Scott was the first Ironman to be inducted into the Ironman Hall of Fame in 1993. Dave is also a great supporter of Team In Training having been one of our national spokespersons. He is often seen at triathlon events wearing a TNT tri suit!

The slowest finish time ever recorded was 26:20:00 set by 73-year-old Walt Stack in 1981.

This information is courtesy of tnttxg.blogspot.com

Soccer Academy Uses Sports to Reach Kids

at Home and Abroad

written by: Robert Preston Jr. One of the many beautiful aspects of the gospel is that, while it has remained unchanged for over 2,000 years, it can still be applied through new methods in order to reach those who have never heard the message. Southern Soccer Academy (SSA) South Georgia, an affiliate of the Atlanta-based Southern Soccer Academy, is a division of 116 Sports Ministries (which takes its name from Romans 1:16) and is dedicated to exposing youth to the highest levels of soccer and reaching them for Christ. While the gospel message is incorporated into everything the club does, SSA South Georgia upped the ante last July when the club took a group of kids to Jamaica for a mission trip.

According to Robert Peterson, Director of Sports Operations for SSA South 44

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Georgia, 15 young men ages 14-18 from all over the area went on the trip. The kids trained and played with soccer teams from Jamaica while also performing mission work in the country. “We were there for a week. We played four games that week and also did both mission work and discipleship for the kids who went. Many of them hadn’t traveled before, and they hadn’t seen how people in other countries lived,” he says.

The SSA South Georgia team visited orphanages and ministered to the kids who were there. It provided the soccer players with an opportunity to brighten the days of the orphans while also showing them the love of Christ. “At one orphanage in particular, all the kids had a disability of some kind. We hung out with them,

played some basketball with them, and gave them a break from their routine,” recalls Peterson. At the end of each day, coaches met with the team members and discussed what they had seen and done.

As is usually the case with trips like this, the work made more of an impact on the kids who went than it did on those to whom they ministered. “We put smiles on the faces of the kids we visited, but we also saw a tremendous impact on our players,” says Peterson. Several of the players made decisions to follow Christ, and others re-dedicated their lives. “They saw that they need to be more mindful of what they use and what they waste. It also showed them that they can make a difference anywhere. The important thing is to give people time and let them know you

Did You Know?

A soccer field is called a “pitch” because every regulation field is pitched — or sloped — 5 degrees upwards from one end to the other. The teams switch sides after each half so each team has to play slightly uphill for half the match.

care. Several of our players said they were going to get more involved volunteering when they got back home.”

And what about the soccer they played in Jamaica? “We competed well with the kids down there. We won our first game, tied another game, and lost two games. In our last game, we played a team from a local school.

They had been playing together for a long time and had several Jamaican national players. They put it on us pretty good. It was an eye-opener, but we played well. It showed the kids that they

can train more and get even better. It was a great experience,” says Peterson.

Moving forward, SSA South Georgia would like to take more mission trips like the one in July. There are plenty of opportunities abroad for both ministry and soccer; the biggest issue is, of course, funding. “Cost is always a factor. We’re trying to raise money so we can take some kids who otherwise wouldn’t have an opportunity to go. We’d like for this to be an annual trip. Soccer is great, and we want to train kids to play at a high level, but very few can make their living playing soccer.

But anyone can make a difference in the lives of others,” says Peterson.

Known as “soccer” in the United States, the sport is known as “football” elsewhere. But the game’s original name was actually “basket-ball” because the first goals were overturned wicker baskets.

From 1994 to 1998, the English Premier League had red, yellow and teal cards. Teal cards were used for possible fouls that were to be reviewed by instant replay.

In 2002 the XEPL, a soccer league launched by the WWE’s Vince McMahon, played four games in the United Kingdom. The league folded due to lack of attendance and too many injuries from the trap doors placed throughout the field.

This information is courtesy of medium.com

FINANCIAL FACTS

Beware of Tax Scams Did you know that tax time can be prime time for scammers and identity thieves?

The danger is that these crooks take advantage of tax season to get their hands on your money or personal information that they can use in other scams.

You should be on the lookout for things such as phone and email or text phishing tax scams.

Fraudsters set the trap by calling and posing as IRS employees or sending official-looking email seeking personal information.

They will either tell you that you owe money that needs to be paid immediately or you will face some sort of punishment, or that you have a refund coming but they need more information.

What they really want from you is personal information such as Social Security or bank account numbers - information they can use to get at your money or use to apply for credit cards or loans in your name.

Or they might tell you that they will clear your tax problem if you immediately pay them via a pre-loaded debit card or money wire transfer.

Don’t fall for it. Once you pay that way, you’ll never see that money again.

You might also receive official-looking email claiming to be from the IRS, asking you to update personal or tax information.

Don’t be tempted. Don’t believe the requests or threats. And don’t click on any of the links.

Links like this can take you to fake sites that either collect personal data or infect your computer with viruses.

Just so you know: The IRS says it never calls to demand immediate payment, ask for any specific form of payment method, ask for credit or debit card information over the phone, or threaten to call local law enforcement.

Did You

KNOW? The inaugural season of the WNBA was 1997.

Eight teams competed in the WNBA’s first season. Original franchises were located in Charlotte, Cleveland, Detroit, Houston, New York, Phoenix, Sacramento, and Utah. Tina Thompson was the first player chosen in the inaugural WNBA Draft and the first MVP was Cynthia Cooper. In its first season, the WNBA drew more than one million fans.

The Houston Comets own the distinction of winning the first WNBA championship, defeating the NY Liberty Women’s basketball dates back to 1892, when women at Smith College began playing the sport invented by Dr. James Naismith. Today, the sport is played worldwide. Women’s basketball follows mostly the same rules as men’s basketball, with the exception that the ball is smaller.

In 1936, a team called the All American Red Heads competed in exhibition games across the country against men’s teams playing by men ‘s rules. The Red Heads, one of the first pro women’s basketball squads, were very popular and would play up to 200 games a year.

Members of the Red Heads were required to wear makeup, don red wigs, or tint their hair crimson.

Pat Summitt is the alltime winningest coach at any level in college basketball. She has won eight national championships and recorded more than 1,000 victories.

This information is courtesy of ehow.com

Third generation athlete written by: Beth Welch | photography by: Jerry Christenson She played pick-up basketball with older male cousins when she was pretty young, and that’s how Alexis Burns got her first exposure to basketball.

Maybe that experience gave her a passion for playing the sport, but it could be argued the Carver High School senior literally inherited her love of the game.

Burns comes from a long line of ballplayers. She said her dad played the sport at Carver back in the day, but interestingly, Burns, who has committed to play basketball at Jacksonville University, is a third generation female basketball player. Her mother, Tamara Burns, played middle school and high school basketball in Columbus. Alexis Burns’ grandmother, Lillie Burns, actually played semi-pro ball at one point in her life. Although the youngest Burns athlete said she hears her mother’s voice the loudest in the stands during a Carver game, she listens to the advice of both women when it comes to basketball.

“We talk about basketball,” Burns says. “They

48 inthegamesportsnetwork.com

sometimes tell me some things. Mostly, they are just real supportive of me. So is my grandfather and brother.”

Her love for the sport combined with a lot of natural talent and a good work ethic has given Burns a shot at playing basketball for a NCAA Division I team. The Jacksonville University women’s basketball program won out over five or six other serious offers the 17-year-old considered. Burns committed in the fall to play for the Dolphins.

The early choice has allowed the 5-foot-8 two-sport athlete the opportunity to play her final seasons of volleyball and basketball with a sense of relief.

“It was a big decision,” Burns says, smiling. “I’m glad it’s over. I am ready to go, to start a new chapter in my life, but now it’s just about playing for fun.”

Last year, Burns averaged 18 points, eight rebounds, and four steals per game. At interview time, the right-handed small forward, who is quick on her feet and makes the most of every opportunity presented to her, was in the middle of her senior

“Coach Woods was the one,” Burns said. “He told me I could do it. It started with him.”

“I AM LOOKING FORWARD TO EARNING A PLACE ON THE TEAM.” season, so stats were unavailable. Her high-scoring game to date netted 23 points for her team, but Burns’ personal best during her high school career is 29 points.

Before arriving at Carver as a freshman, Burns played basketball in middle school and with other organizations. She credits her coach in the Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) for recognizing her talent and giving her the motivation to strive to attend college on a basketball scholarship.

“Coach Woods was the one,” Burns says. “He told me I could do it. It started with him.”

The Carver standout has been a varsity starter all four years of high school. She said she was told by Carver head girls coach Anson Hundley that if she did the work she was supposed to do, she would have playing time. Burns proved she had what it took to be a member of the team and earned a place on the roster. It wasn’t easy. According to Burns, Hundley was tough, but she got the job done.

At one point in her freshman year, Burns was playing on at least three teams at a time. She was a starter with the varsity, played JV at Carver, and was also continuing her play with the AAU Georgia Jaguars team. Learning to play with so many different athletes and under the direction of various coaches is something Burns hopes has helped prepare her to take her game to the next level.

Burns made her official visit to Jacksonville University in Jacksonville, Florida, last year. She said she liked the staff and everyone she met on the trip almost from the first introduction. She was impressed with the facilities and felt like she was “home.” As far as the women’s basketball program goes, Burns said she likes the idea that the team plays her kind of game.

2015 Burns Averaged Per Game

18 8

Body Injuries in Basketball 8.8%

“They played my type of ball,” Burns says. “It is aggressive and takes it to the hole. I am looking forward to earning a place on the team.”

In the four years Burns has played at Carver, she has seen the program improve. For her senior year as a team captain, she would like to help lead the Tigers to the region championship and then on to a state title. Carver advanced to the first round of the playoffs last season, and Burns believes they have the right team and coaching staff to make it to the winner’s circle.

She has come a long way since she was the little girl playing basketball with her older cousins. Occasionally, she gets in a quick game with the guys. All grown up and a seasoned athlete, does she ever win?

“Oh yeah,” Burns says, laughing.

GIRLS

11.2% 16.6% 13.0% 36.0% 12.2%

BOYS

11.5% 14.7% 10.3% 38.3%

This information is courtesy of momsteam.com

PERSONAL BEST HIGH-SCORING GAME

29

POINTS

POINTS

REBOUNDS

4

STEALS

IN THE GAME

49

Vikings

DUO Perfection is an Ongoing Process

written by: James Washington | Lindsi Jones Photography

Pine Grove Middle School (Valdosta, Georgia) takes pride in the tradition of building young students into the leaders of the future. With such a rich sports heritage in the city, the athletic side of the pursuit is important, but the academic success of every individual that walks the halls of the school takes priority above all. With a school motto of “Preparing Great Minds,” it is apparent where focus lies within the institution.

In the case of two exceptional student-athletes, the quest for excellence is one that has been readily accepted. More impressive, however, is the fact that both of these young men have done so while seeing success in multiple sports throughout their middle-school careers.

Eighth-graders Tiberius Drocea and Gary Osby have made Pine Grove proud, both academically and in their respective athletic crafts. In the classroom, both young men are at the top of their class; Drocea currently boasts a 92 GPA (on a scale of 100), while Osby is also carrying an A average.

50

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“Both Tiberius and Gary live by our motto ‘Perfect Effort’," says Steve Holley, Pine Grove Middle School’s athletic director and head football coach. “They demonstrate this attitude in the classroom and athletic programs. This attitude is infectious and causes our other athletes to follow their example.

They are well on their way to being successful in whichever avenue they follow.”

Drocea is the true personification of the term well-rounded. On top of performing near the top of his class academically, he faithfully shoulders a tremendous load in athletics. He contributed as a running back and outside linebacker during football season, and he wrestles in the 160-pound weight class for the Vikings. As if that’s not already enough, he will also be seen in the spring as he suits up as a centerfielder, catcher, and pitcher for the school’s baseball team.

“I like football the most because I like contact, and I feel like I am best at it,” Drocea says. “I have always been able to get better because I have the best coaches that a kid can ask for.”

While he said that football is his favorite sport, it is apparent that his talent carries over into all areas. In addition to being named a Player of the Week for the football team, he has also earned numerous medals for his wrestling accomplishments. While he doesn’t currently compete outside of school in any areas, he is considering getting some extra training and practice in with the South Georgia Athletic Club Devil Dogs, a locally based traveling wrestling program. When he is not performing with teams at school, he is still constantly working.

“I like to play outside, either sports or just running for a little bit,” Drocea says. “I don’t like to stay inside all day.”

Drocea has plans to continue his path of excellence at the next level; he wants to play all three of his sports in high school next year. Academically, his favorite subject is math, and he currently has aspirations to study engineering at Florida State University.

“Florida State has a really nice school,” Drocea says. “Also, I like their football team.”

Similar to his friend and football teammate, Osby was also a running back and linebacker for the Vikings’ program. He is a three-sport athlete as well; however, his other two sports of choice are basketball (where he plays small forward) and track (where he competes in the high jump, 400-meters, 4x100, and shot put).

Like Drocea, Osby’s talents shine far beyond the classroom; he was named the Most Valuable Player for the basketball team for his work in his seventh-grade season (2014-15).

Osby’s accomplishments are a testa-

ment to his hard work and never-say-die attitude. He credits his coaches for his growth over the last few years and greatly appreciates what they have done for him.

understands that if you only put in half the effort, you will only get half of the results.”

Osby’s high standards, both in academia and in his athletic pursuits, are evident in his everyday actions. He holds himself to a strict list of expectations and morals rooted in character, integrity, and honesty. He makes sure to always pay attention Drocea in the classroom, and he reserves his social life for after his priorities are properly handled. While still a few years away, he has aspirations of attending either Florida State or the University of Georgia and would like to pursue some

“I have always been able to get better because I have the best coaches that a kid can ask for.” - Tiberius “The coaches and teachers at Pine Grove always want me to be the best player and student that I can, with no exceptions,” Osby says. “I think that they will always remember that I am the type of student-athlete that

Tiberius Drocea on Gary Osby: “Gary has meant a lot to me, and I think as we get older, we’ll both continue to excel in school and in sports. He is one of the best friends that I have had at Pine Grove. We only have one class together, and if he needs extra help, or I do, we help each other out.”

“Gary and Tiberius possess characteristics that place them on the popular end of the school’s social setting, which, through the YME program, can help to positively influence other students through their acts of leadership.”

-Derrick Yarbrough 52

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form of math-related studies.

“I always respect my coaches and their decisions,” Osby says. “I try to hold myself accountable for every decision that I make. Team success is my priority; I don’t go out there looking to necessarily be the star. And in the classroom, I am going to make sure that nobody outworks me.”

Not only do both young men shine in athletics and academics, but they are both active in other extracurricular activities. Topping that list is their membership in Pine Grove’s Young Men of Excellence (formerly known as Young Men Enterprise). As members of YME, young male students under the leadership of faculty mentors are taught irreplaceable lessons about critical issues, such as dealing with academic struggles, developing appropriate social behaviors, and avoiding peer pressure.

“Gary and Tiberius possess characteristics that place them on the popular end of the school’s social setting, which, through the YME program, can help to positively influence other students through their acts of leadership,” says Derrick Yarbrough, lead advisor of the YME program. “On top of that, they were chosen to participate based on their attitude and willingness to want to become active leaders in all walks of life.”

Adolescence can be one of the most difficult times of a person’s life. School, sports, and personal growth all battle to take precedence during those formative years. But Pine Grove Middle is doing an exceptional job of crafting their students to successfully handle all pressures that may come their way. Drocea and Osby are perfect examples of those efforts.

Gary Osby on Tiberius Drocea: “Tiberius has always been there, pushing me to do better as a teammate, a to pick each other up. Oftentimes, there have been situations when I need

and outside of sports, he knows how to prioritize academics. Sometimes we have some motivation, and Tiberius is always one of the first people that I look to.�

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THIS IS PERIODIZATION…AT EDGE! written by: Daniel Bayman, MS, CSCS

Welcome to Edge Performance. This month’s article will be covering periodization, how it relates to the successful athlete, and how we here at Edge utilize this training tool to help our athletes perform at peak levels.

Periodization is the concept that strength and conditioning professionals manipulate variables, such as training specificity, intensity, and volume, into blocks of time, that best suit individual athletes’ needs and sports. The figure below shows a sample periodization model for the high school baseball player that also competes in a summer league.

Now this example can be broken down into more complicated periodization models, but instead let’s go into depth on the last line. First, we have the “Transition Phase: this phase is an influential component of developing skilled athletes because it is the phase were we are able to break down athletes movements, help them recover from a long season, as well as gather everything needed to prepare them for the next season. Contrary to popular belief, in order to be great at a sport, you do not always have to train directly for that sport. In fact, this has been shown to lead to many sport specific overuse injuries in high school athletes. Edge utilizes orderly transition phases, to combat against such injuries.

Second, we have the “General Preparation Phase” (GPP): this phase is where we lay a firm foundation for the athlete to build on, again avoiding to many sport specific exercises. We focus on building the athletes work capacity and usually try to gain back some of the muscle mass lost during the previous season. The GPP is a fundamental component that leads

directly into a more sport “Specific Preparation Phase” (SPP), also known as off-season and pre-season respectively. Unfortunately, most young athletes, coaches, and parents see this period as the only period of training an athlete should focus on. And while it is great to work hard in the off-season and pre-season, when there is usually more time to devote to strength and power training, it is just as important to maintain that strength and power throughout the entire season.

Which leads us to the final phase: the “Competition Phase”.

This phase can occupy half, if not more, of an athletes’ year. Imagine you or your child works hard six months out of the year, reaching peak physical condition just as the season starts, and then slowly but surely, sport skill increases in-season, but size, strength, speed, and power development decrease until it is time to jump into a strength and conditioning program again.

Now, better than you were, but not as great as you should be, it is time to play “catch-up”, until the next season starts.

Think of an annual periodization

plan as an escalator. You prepare and warm-up before taking the first step on; this is the Transition Phase. At first you walk slowly up, the GPP, than speed walk to the top, the SPP. Just as you reach the top, decisions need to be made; skip in-season training, in which case the escalator slowly lowers you until the season ends, or you can choose to in-season train, stepping off the escalator, maintaining all you’ve worked for, and make your way to the next escalator, to your next level of performance.

This is what Edge wants to help you accomplish: an annual periodization program that develops the athlete to consistently progress, throughout their competitive careers, no matter how long or short. To find out more about this topic and Edge Performance, reach out on Facebook at: www. facebook.com/edgevaldosta or through email at: edgevaldosta@ gmail.com. We encourage you to keep an eye out for Edge Performance, and see if there is any way we can help you find your edge.

WILDCAT PRIDE Echols County Seniors Prepare for the Road to College written by: James Washington | photography by: Micki K Photography

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Echols County. It’s a small locale nestled on Georgia’s southern border; the 421- square mile area is home to about 4,000. The county seat is the town of Statenville; as of the last census, it was home to just over 1,000 people. Everybody knows everybody, and it’s the kind of close-knit community in which you never have to look far in a time of need.

It is in this small community that we find Kameron Coggins and Logan Hill. Both picked up the game of softball at the age of 4, and it has proven to work wonders in both of their lives as have blossomed into terrific student-athletes, both sitting at the top of Echols County High School’s Class of 2016. Their hard work has also paid off on the diamond; the girls were part of a Wildcats softball team that went to the postseason for the first time in school history, finishing third in the state playoffs in their final campaign.

“Everyone here feels like family,” Logan says. “It’s a small place; there’s one red light, but it’s like one big family. I can’t think of anyone here that would hesitate to help you if it was needed.”

Lifelong friends and teammates, the two will soon go their separate ways as college begins in the fall. But time and distance will never change what these young women have done for each other and the Echols County faithful.

“The level of companionship and support here is unbelievable,” Kameron says. “Everyone, especially our senior class, is so close. I feel like everyone in the community is here for encouragement and positivity.”

Kameron Coggins

Senior pitcher and first baseman Kameron Coggins has had quite the impressive career. In her four years as a varsity member of the Echols County softball program, she has collected numerous awards, including being a recipient of numerous All-Region and All-State First Team nods.

As a freshman and senior, she was named Region 2-A Pitcher of the Year and was an All-Region First Team member all four years of her high school career.

The numbers speak for themselves:

Over the course of her career with the Wildcats (in which she went 48-14 on the mound), Kameron struck out an astounding 450 batters (including 234 in her final season), finished with a 1.25 ERA, and held down a .363 batting average.

While her awards have been complemented by regular remarkable outings by the softball team, Kameron’s maturity speaks volumes about the role that losses have played in her growth as a student-athlete.

“Sports have been very instrumental

in developing my character, Kameron says. “Like life, sports can be full of ups and downs. While winning can be self -fulfilling, it’s the losses that have had the biggest impact on my character. Learning to hold my head up and getting back up after a tough loss has really helped me mature and prepare me for some of the curveballs that life can throw at us.”

The multi-talented student-athlete has done a tremendous job performing at the highest level on the diamond, on the basketball court, and in the classroom

Kameron Coggins on Logan Hill: “Logan has always been a true friend to me and has always had my back on and off the field.

It’s going to be different when we go our separate ways to college because we’ve always had that catcher pitcher duo and an inseparable bond, but I know she is going to do great things at Upstate. She’s an amazing friend and a beast of a catcher!”

(where she has maintained a perfect 4.0 grade point average). It was only a matter of time before colleges began approaching her. Eventually, Kameron made the decision to sign a Letter of Intent with Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College in Tifton, Georgia.

“I heard from a few other schools,” she says. “I had always wanted to go to ABAC, even before softball was a possibility there. But what finally won me over was (head coach) Jennifer Martinez; she’s a former collegiate pitcher herself (Martinez attended the University of Arizona).

Her experience and ability to perform at the highest level will definitely help me; I would love to continue to play softball after ABAC.” She would like to either earn a postgraduate degree in biology and become a physician’s assistant or study agricultural business. But one thing is for sure: no matter where she goes or what she does, Kameron is going to continue to make Echols County proud.

Logan Hill

Logan Hill is one of the rare types of student-athlete that you may be fortunate enough to encounter in your lifetime. She exudes a confidence that somehow manages to crack her humble exterior, her talent speaks volumes, and her academic prowess is of the highest degree.

As a four-year member of the Wildcats’ softball team, she posted quite an impressive resume: 92 runs scored, 76 runs batted in, 57 doubles, two homeruns, and a .539 batting average.

Only adding to her skill on the diamond is her ability on the hardwood. As a fouryear member of the basketball team, her accomplishments were just as staggering; she took home Region 2-A Offensive Player of the Year honors in each of the last three seasons.

“I can play pretty much any position on the floor,” Logan says. “I don’t really have a preference.”

However, keeping in true fashion of the concept of a student-athlete, perhaps the most admirable statistic that Logan has recorded has come on the other side of the equation. Like Kameron, she holds a 4.0 grade point average.

Providing such a high caliber of performance in both athletics and academia, it is only appropriate that collegiate scouts had Logan as a top priority on their radar.

In the end, she chose to join the softball team at the University of South Carolina Upstate (a Division I school located in Spartanburg, South Carolina), and officially committed by signing her letter of intent on Tuesday, November 17.

Logan Hill on Kameron Coggins: “I’ve known Kameron practically my whole life. She my best friend; more like a sister to me. Even our parents are great friends, and they have been since before we were born. On the field, it’s almost like a ‘twin telepathy’ thing between us. We feed off each other so well, and that kind of relationship is irreplaceable.”

“When I visited (USC Upstate), it just felt like home,” she says. “I also had offers from Valdosta State, Troy University, and a few others, but Upstate just felt like a big family.”

As a Spartan, she will be making a sixhour and 340-mile drive to compete in the Atlantic Sun Conference against the likes of Lipscomb (Nashville, Tennessee), Kennesaw State (Kennesaw, Georgia), and the University of North Florida (Jacksonville, Florida). Last season, USC Upstate finished with an impressive record of 4410 (18-2 and first place in the conference) and made a trip to the NCAA tournament.

The team has been voted to finish second (behind Lipscomb) this year according to the A-Sun Conference preseason polls.

The next level will bring a multitude of new experiences for Logan. But perhaps one of the biggest changes will be the alterations to her coaching staff. Since she first suited up, Logan has been taught by Rebecca and Shelby Hill. Away from the diamond, she knows them by much more special titles: Mom and Dad. Under Spartans’ head coach Chris Hawkins, it will be her first time playing for someone other than her parents.

“I’m definitely going to miss the car rides,” she says. “After games, I’m used to getting pointers and tips from my parents about my game and what I can work on, and I won’t have that anymore. But I don’t think it will be too hard to transition because Coach Hawkins is dedicated to helping his players succeed, so he is always willing to help out.”

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