South Georgia October/November 2018 Edition by ITG Next Magazine

SOUTH GEORGIA BASKETBALL PREVIEWS

Dynamic Duo Riley Blampied & Megan Bloodworth Crisp Co. High School

Mann on a Mission Emmanuel Mann Jordan Vocational High School

IN THE

GAME

Trezman Marshall, Clinch Co. High School

OCT/NOV 2018

NEW! School Pages

Panther Great Headed to Athens

In The Game | 1

In The Game | 3

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

ARE YOU In?

South Georgia

In the Game Be relentless. Pursue your goals with passionate determination. Do not allow anyone, even yourself, to stop you. Stay In the Game. Live In the Game.

Anna Limoges EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

In The Game | 5

6 | itgnext.com

visit

itgnext.com

In The Game | 7

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

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

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

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

www.fmb.net Member FDIC

8 | itgnext.com

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

IN THIS ISSUE 19 32 35 36 38 41 44 47 48 50 51 54 56 61 78 79 80 82

Player Profiles South Georgia’s Top Athletes

Progression with a Purpose Rod Redding, Tift Co. High School Is the Gap Closing?

Pop Warner Thrives In Its 6TH Year In Titletown Panther Great Headed to Athens Trezman Marshall – Clinch Co. High School Great Work Done in the Summer, Greater Work to be Done in the Fall FCA

Dual-Enrolled Athlete Combines Love of Academics and Softball Emily Holmes, Northside High School Sunset Farm Tailgate Winners Where He Wants to Be DeMario Jones, Valdosta

School Pages

64 67 69 70 71 72 73 74 76

Crisp Academy Tiftaera Academy Valwood School Cairo High School Thomas Co. Central High School Valdosta High School Colquitt Co. High School Lowndes High School Tift Co. High School

Mann on a Mission Emmanuel Mann, Jordan Vocational High School A Spike in Volleyball in South Georgia Sharks Roll Over Limitations Houston Co. Sharks

South Georgia Basketball Previews Dynamic Duo Riley Blampied & Megan Bloodworth, Crisp Co. High School 10 Questions With Amanda Hefner Columbus High School Does Garoppolo Deserve It?

Recipe for Success Essence Cody, Valdosta Middle School Offseason Moves

In The Game | 9

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

All 100% Committed to You. Prince of Albany 2701 Ledo Road

Albany

(229)432-6271

10 | itgnext.com

Prince Automotive Prince Ford 1410 Hwy. 82 W. 109 Westgreen Hwy.

Tifton

(229)382-2525

Douglas

Prince Automotive 4550 N. Valdosta Rd.

(912)384-2600

www.princeauto.com

Valdosta (229)242-3311

From the Publisher School is back in session, and high school sports are in full swing! With the new school year comes feelings of renewal and resolution. It is a blank slate for all the teams in South Georgia. Who will stand above the rest this year? In this issue of In the Game, we highlighted Trezman Marshall, a superstar from Clinch County. This soon-to-be Bulldog plays quarterback and running back on offense and linebacker on defense. He is off to a great season, and we look forward to seeing him in action on Friday nights. We also discuss the growth of volleyball in schools across South Georgia. Many schools like Colquitt County and Lowndes have programs that are only a couple of years old, while other teams like Houston County and Valwood are a little more established and even hold region titles. We meet Emily Holmes of Northside High School in Columbus, Georgia, a softball player who is not only juggling sports and high school classes but college classes as well. The Sharks are a wheelchair basketball team from Houston County that has won their sixth straight state championship last season. Their star player, Jordan Kozlowski, was named to the 2018 U.S. Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s National Wheelchair Basketball Team. This issue is filled with stories of strength and courage. Here at In the Game we feel so lucky to be a presence in this wonderful community. While we continue to keep you updated on different sports across South Georgia, it is the people behind these sports we love to highlight. Whether is it a student excelling academically, or an athlete pushing the boundaries of the sport, or a coach who is inspiring the next generation, we are here to tell their stories. We continue to come across athletes, coaches, and community members who really hone in on what living life In the Game means: living each day with passion, determination, and positivity. We canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t wait to see what this school year brings and to continue sharing the stories of those who inspire us each and every day. If you know of any athlete, coach, or program that embodies this spirit, head to our website to nominate them to be featured in our magazine. We thank you for your continued support of your local athletic programs and In the Game. Follow us on social media @itgnext and visit us at www.itgnext.com in order to #StayInTheGame!

In the Game Apparel @ITGNext

South Georgia Team Publisher Mark Dykes Editor Anna Limoges Magazine Director Anna Limoges Graphics Mandy Douthit Cover Photography Micki Krzynski Micki K Photography Player Profiles Photography Eric Vinson Feature Photography Micki Krzynski Micki K Photography Eric Vinson Jennifer Jones Dezmond Kimbrough Feature Writers Beth Welch Phil Jones Alex Dunn Dominic Ligon Kaylee Kopke Justin Chandler Jon Nelson Copy Editors Anna Limoges Beth Welch Julie Jernigan Advertising/Marketing Mark Dykes mark@itgnext.com Digital Manager Mandy Douthit

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

Friday Night Lights Tee

Womens Live In the Game Tee

Go to

Zippered Hoodie

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

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

In The Game | 11

Contributors

Mark Dykes

Mandy Douthit

aNNA Limoges

Chief Executive Officer

Creative Director

editor

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

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

After four years as an interdisciplinary studies major at Valdosta State University and three semesters as an ITG intern, Anna has remained a member of the team as an editor. Since her start in early 2016, she has devoted her editorial eye and organizational prowess to the ITG team. More importantly, although she claims to be a fan of the New Orleans Saints, there is fortunately no other sign of such irrational fandom.

Susannah Parmenter

Kendra Ehrenberg Video Coordinator

Beth WElch Columbus Area Editor

NF Area Coordinator

A native of Tampa, Florida, Kendra is a recent graduate of the University of North Florida (Swoop!). Playing soccer most of her life, she is excited to work for a company that highlights student-athletes. She is currently living her dream of combining her love of sports and journalism into one career. When Kendra's not busy crying over the Bolts’ loss to the Caps last year, she is a dog mom to her sweet pup Sandy.

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

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

Jenna Daines Marketing coordinator During her undergraduate career, Jenna continuously proved herself a scholar-leader in her multi-sport athletics and academic pursuits as a Valdosta State Blazer. Now as an alumna she heads marketing and the management of the ITG Next Ambassador Program. Her goal is to mentor and lead the high school liaisons in their career development and community involvement. Go Blazers!

Matt Carter Account Executive Matt Carter is a Jacksonville native. After playing college baseball for four years and graduating with his B.S. in business management, Matt is now coaching both college and youth baseball. He is an avid Jaguars fan and will be yelling “DUVAL” with his wife, Kayla, all season long, as they are season ticket holders.

Micki Krzynski

Eric Vinson

Phil Jones

Alex Dunn

Contributing Photographer

Contributing Writer

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

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

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

Alex is a VSU graduate and contributing writer for In the Game. After interning for a year, she decided to continue writing for ITG after graduation. Now, she works for the Marietta Daily Journal, where she proofreads and designs page layouts for their publications. She uses her experience as a copy editing intern for ITG to help with the sports pages the most, while also using her freelance to keep her writing skills fresh. However, she only knows how well the Braves are doing when she is placing the game finals on the pages.

12 | itgnext.com

Dezmond Kimbrough

Julie Jergans

Contributing Writer

Photography Intern

Copy Editing Intern

Dominic was born in Mobile, Alabama, but claims Georgia as home too. Although he’s lived half of his life in both states, he remains loyal to his Auburn Tigers. (War Eagle, baby!) He recently graduated with a Bachelor’s of Fine Arts in communications from Valodsta State University. Poetry was his introduction into the writing world, as he’s hosted and participated in numerous local open mic events. Creative expression through literature is a tremendous passion of his.

Dezmond was born in Columbus, Georgia, but raised in both Columbus and Atlanta throughout his life. He has always loved the creative side of life, from audio arts to visual, with photography being his connecting point. Moving around more than most when young contributed to his photography, allowing him to observe the different perspectives through the lens. Put your bet on him; he won’t let you down like his Falcons do him.

Julie is a South Georgia native and senior at Valdosta State University who is majoring in English with a minor in journalism. This is her first semester with ITG as an intern copy editor and writer, and she already feels at home. When she’s not in the office, she’s in class or working in VSU’s Spectator office. After graduation, she hopes to continue providing unbiased news to the community. More importantly, she hopes Auburn can continue their momentum this season well after halftime.

Justin Chandler

Devion Lewis

Journalism Intern

Videography Intern

Kaylee was born in Miami, but raised in Madison County, Florida, since the age of 9. She has always been a lover of reading and writing from a young age. She is in her last year of college and will be getting a Bachelor’s of Science degree in media communications and editing, writing, and media from Florida State University. She is still hoping that she can go to a home game in her last year when the Seminoles play decently and win.

Justin Chandler is a senior mass media major at Valdosta State University. He recently brought his talents to In the Game in the fall of 2018. He has been writing most of his life, whether it be songs, stories, scripts, or articles. He is a man of many words and shows it through his writing. Justin has lived in Valdosta since he was 4 years old. He has a passion for sports and wishes to take his skills to the next level after graduation. He is a die-hard FSU fan and will be traveling with them as their season tumbles downhill.

Devion is an Atlanta native who found his way to Valdosta State after a short stint at UGA. He is a senior mass media major at VSU who joined ITG in 2018 as a video intern. Before working with ITG, Devion sharpened his skills through a series of passion projects and school assignments. His ultimate goal is to create media for a living, facing new challenges and experiences daily. Devion hopes to go far in life as a media professional, hopefully further than OKC in the playoffs.

Kaylee Kopke

Malik Shannon

Jensen Armstrong

Marketing Intern

Malik Shannon was born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia, but decided to attend Valdosta State University to double major in marketing and management. Joining the team in the fall of 2018, Malik brought his vibrant energy and enthusiasm to our social media and marketing department. He is a natural leader and gives great ideas to help build ITG as a brand. Malik plans to remain in the sports industry with big aspirations of owning his own sports agency. If Malik stays focused and remains hardworking, hopefully he won’t fall short like his Atlanta Falcons do every year.

Jensen is from Fernandina Beach, Florida, and is currently a student at Valdosta State University. She is majoring in public relations with a minor in sports management. Growing up playing sports and watching her brother and dad play influenced her passion for sports. She hopes to continue in the sports field in her future endeavors. She will do whatever it takes to get to the top, seemingly unlike her Florida Gators football team.

BE IN THE GAME

Dominic Ligon

In The Game | 13

14 | itgnext.com

In The Game | 15

ITG Next Ambassadors 2018-19

Julia Tucker

Sydney Wheeler

Emma Dent

Colquitt Co. - Senior

Lowndes - Freshman

Bridget Beck

Auburne Mobley

Rylee Watson

Taylor Holmes

Pelham - Junior

Thomas Co. Central - Junior

Tift Co. - Junior

Tift Co. - Senior

Anna Cook

Dallas Hunt

Will Matt

Bryanne Mathis

Tiftarea - Senior

Valdosta - Senior

16 | itgnext.com

Shayla Jackson Lowndes - Junior

Not Pictured: Carter Stewart Tiftarea - Senior

Abby Carswell Tiftarea - Senior

Will Matt Tiftarea - Senior

Peyton Matt Tiftarea - Senior

Amelia Mutert Valdosta - Junior

Jude Ard Kennedy Kimbro Valwood - Junior

Ray Gordon Valwood - Senior

Zach Paulk

Valdosta - Senior

Valwood - Junior

Elizabeth Evans Valwood - Junior

Join ITG Next Ambassadors During the 2017-18 school year, In the Game launched its inaugural ITG Next Ambassador Program. Ideal candidates are high school students who have a strong social media presence and exhibit academic excellence, outstanding character, and strong commitment to their schools and communities. Ambassadors are given the opportunity to contribute to the vision of In the Game and to play an important role in developing our brand through apparel, social media, events, and content creation. They will also represent the ITG Next brand within their respective schools and communities. Be a part of In the Gameâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2018-19 Ambassador Program!

Nominate someone or apply online at itgnext.com/ambassador-program In The Game | 17

Here for the HOME TEAMS Proudly serving all of South Georgia & North Florida for over 50 years.

18 | itgnext.com

Kalleigh Webb Lowndes High School Competition Cheer

What is the most memorable moment of your sports career to date? Winning region was a major highlight in my sports career. Who has helped you the most in your sports career? My parents have helped me the most by taking me to practices for countless hours and encouraging me when I feel like I canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t do something. After your sports career is over, what do you see yourself doing? I see myself working in an all-star cheer gym mentoring little kids and encouraging them to cheer for their school.

In The Game | 19

Abbey Arnett Coffee High School Cross-Country, Swim, Track What is the most memorable moment of your sports career to date? My most memorable moment was in my sophomore year cross country season. I was sick the day before and the day of the region championship. I had my doubts, but I ended up pushing and winning the region title for the first time. Who is your biggest sports inspiration? My biggest sports inspiration is Katelyn Toughy. She is 16 years old, and she holds many national records in cross country and track. If you could play any other sport, what would it be? I would probably play soccer because it requires a lot of endurance, focus, and concentration. With running, I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t really have good coordination, and I think that is something that would be good to have.

20 | itgnext.com

CBCBank now offers ! sJ Chool DeBit CarDs C !

4701482536

211681

36211681 47034825 08/20 PANTHER

FAN 1680

420148008621

ust another Commitment to our ommunity

$10 will Be DonateD to your sChool for eaCh CarD printeD. CBCBank

CommercialBankingCo

07/21 PACKER BA CKER

4301480086

211681 08/20

BLAZER FAN

03/21

GENERAL FAN 420146008621

1680 05/21

VIKING FAN

1680

420148008621

0 410148008673168 09/21

WARRIOR FAN

VALIANT FAN

www.cbcbank.com

Member FDIC

42014800862116

42014800

EAGLE FAN

BLUE DEV

86211680

80 03/20

IL FAN

4101480086211680

Committed to You - Our Customer, Our Community

WILDCAT FAN

05/20

02 03/2 /211

Travis Tisdale Lowndes High School Football - Running Back

What is the most memorable moment of your sports career to date? The most memorable moment was playing Parkview High School during 11th grade when I ran my first kickoff back for a touchdown. Who has helped you the most in your sports career? In my sports career, my friends Mike and Tayvon helped me the most because they brought me out of my shell. I am the quiet guy in the group. What makes you different from everyone else? I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t talk; I show!

In The Game | 23

Toâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Nyiah Edney Lee Co. High School Volleyball - Middle Blocker What is the most memorable moment of your sports career to date? The most memorable moment of my sports career is when I became the No. 1 blocker in the 6A region averaging seven blocks per game. Who has helped you the most in your sports career? My parents and my coach have helped me the most. My parents are the ones who pushed me to play volleyball and are my support system. My coach, Tondra Davis, has helped me by constantly working with me to perfect my craft. She is literally my second mother. After your sports career is over, what do you see yourself doing? I see myself going to college to major in criminology and later on becoming a criminal prosecuting attorney. I also see myself modeling sports attire.

24 | itgnext.com

一攀眀夀攀愀爀✀猀䔀瘀攀㜀㨀㌀瀀洀琀椀愀愀戀愀渀欀昀椀攀氀搀

䜀刀伀唀倀倀刀䤀䌀䤀一䜀 ☀ 䘀唀一䐀刀䄀䤀匀䤀一䜀伀倀倀伀刀吀唀一䤀吀䤀䔀匀䄀嘀䄀䤀䰀䄀䈀䰀䔀

䌀伀一吀䄀䌀吀㨀䨀伀刀䐀䄀一䄀䰀䰀䔀刀䐀䤀一䜀䄀吀㤀㐀ⴀ㜀㤀㠀ⴀ㔀㤀㤀㈀漀爀䨀伀刀䐀䄀一䀀䨀䄀堀匀倀伀刀吀匀⸀䌀伀䴀

䘀漀爀洀漀爀攀椀渀昀漀瘀椀猀椀琀吀愀砀匀氀愀礀攀爀䈀漀眀氀⸀挀漀洀

In The Game | 25

Earn collge credit while in high school!

Nate Henderson, Senior

Fitzgerald High School and Dual Enrollment Student at Wiregrass

Contact your high school counselor or Wiregrass High School Coordinator today at highschoolservices@wiregrass.edu

wiregrass

g e o r g i a t e c h n i c a l c o l l e g eÂŽ

ACCREDITED

program

wiregrass.edu An Equal Opportunity Institution A Unit of the Technical College System of Georgia

Anna Marie Saunders Colquitt Co. High School Sideline Cheerleader

What is the most memorable moment of your sports career to date? When my team and I won overall supreme routine at FCA Cheer Camp is my most memorable moment. After your sports career is over, what do you see yourself doing? I hope to attend UGA and study criminal justice. What makes you different from everyone else? Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m a very positive, bubbly person. I try my hardest to bring a light and fun energy to everything I do.

In The Game | 27

Roman Harrison Bainbridge High School Football - Defensive Tackle, Defensive End What is the most memorable moment of your sports career to date? I loved being a part of the region championship team in 2015. Who has helped you the most in your sports career? Throughout my sports career, it was mostly my parents, but during the past few years, my high school coaches have helped me tremendously. Who is your biggest athletic inspiration? It is definitely LeBron James because he is a great leader on and off the court.

28 | itgnext.com

2018 Football Banquet 12.11.18 6:30pm In The Game | 29

L2501

southerntractorandoutdoors.com 2815 Gillionville Rd Albany, GA 31721

1205 Veterans Pkwy N. Moultrie, GA 31788

visit itgnext.com

Charlotte Augenstein Deerfield-Windsor School Cross-Country, Track & Field

What is the most memorable moment of your sports career to date? My most memorable moment was the 2018 state track meet during the 800-meter race. What makes you different from everyone else? I think sports are definitely mostly mental. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all about mental game and mental strength. Who is your biggest sports inspiration? Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Sydney McGlaughlin because she came straight out of high school and completely blew everyone out of the water.

In The Game | 31

Progression with a Purpose Written by: Dominic Ligon Photography by: Micki K. Photography

The true test of character begins with the ability to persevere through the highs and lows of any situation, and only the best are able to survive the road to success. Rod Redding has proven this statement to be true. “Football gave me life and life lessons,” said Redding, a senior at Tift County High School. He has had a football in his hands since before he could remember, and now is proving that through hard work, determination, confidence, and consistency anything can be obtained on and off the field. Redding is the definition of a leader. He said that during his younger days being surrounded by older friends and family inadvertently gave him leadership skills when he transitioned back to being around kids his own age. Blue Devils head coach Ashley Anders gave Redding high praise when describing his interaction with his teammates. “Rod leads by example; he

constantly pays his dues and works harder than the average Joe,” Anders said. “He makes the extra effort to go above and beyond for the little things. His attention to detail gives him the respect of the team and staff. Every time he speaks, his fellow teammates listen due to his ability to radiate such genuine emotions for what he is discussing. When you talk about accountability, Redding is the first name that pops up in the coaching staff’s minds. He puts his all into his craft and is a pure workaholic. I don’t think he’s ever missed a practice ever since his freshman year, and if that’s not reliable, I don’t know what is.” Redding is an adaptable defensive threat who consistently finds a way to impact the game. “Rod is a true student of the game and is a defensive back by trade,” Anders said. “His talents also allow him to play nickelback, strong safetyn and free safety. He can play anywhere for us with no hesitation and has a strong foot-

Every time he speaks, his fellow teammates listen due to his ability to radiate such genuine emotions for what he is discussing. — Ashley Anders

It would be absolutely impossible to pinpoint one specific play because Rod is always where he’s supposed to be on the field. He is a natural playmaker that is always in position and studies the game in depth. — Ashley Anders

ball IQ. Rod is able to grasp the little details of the game while in action.” Redding is a great asset on and off the field and according to Anders can be described in three words: reliable, charismatic, and competitive. When Redding is not on the football field, you can catch him on either the wrestling mat or running the 400- and 800-meter dashes on the track. He is an all-around athlete, and when he isn’t participating in sports, you can find him working his part-time job to stay busy and productive. When asked to describe the most memorable play that Redding has been involved in, Anders said: “It would be absolutely impossible to pinpoint one specific play because Rod is always where he’s supposed to be on the field. He is a natural playmaker that is always in position and studies the game in depth.” Just as much as he studies the game, Redding also shows the same attentiveness to his academics. He is a super respectful young man and a great student who puts his studies first. Redding admitted that his progress did not happen overnight. He worked from being a freshman who didn’t play varsity to one of the most important starters on the Blue Devils team. However, he doesn’t let his success get to his head because he knows nothing is permanent. He credited his mother for supporting his football career. He said that his family is his backbone, and he would not be in this position if it was not for them. It seems as if the sky’s the limit for Rod Redding.

Top 14 NFL Rookies Leading Into the 2018 Season

1. Sam Darnold (Jets QB)

2. Saquon Barkley (Giants RB)

8. Josh Rosen (Cardinals QB)

9. Marcus Davenport (Saints DE)

3. Derwin James (Chargers Safety)

10. Minkah Fitzpatrick (Dolphins Safety)

5. Josh Jackson (Packers CB)

12. Christian Kirk (Cardinals WR)

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

34 | itgnext.com

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

14. Rasheem Griffin (Seahawks DE)

Forbes' 2018 Highest Paid Female Athletes

Forbes' 2018 Highest Paid Male Athletes

Courtesy of askdrbrown.org

Courtesy of oregonsportsnews.com

Serena Williams

Floyd Mayweather

Total earnings: $18.1 million

Total earnings: $285 million

Is the Gap Closing? Written by: Justin Chandler

Courtesy of blacklabelexperience.com

Caroline Wozniacki Total earnings: $13 million

Courtesy of nypost.com

Sloane Stephens Total earnings: $11.2 million

Courtesy of bbva.com/

Garbine Muguruza Total earnings: $11 million

There is without a doubt a difference in the amount of money male athletes are paid compared to female athletes. In 2017, Serena Williams was the only female to make it on Forbes list of top 100 highest paid athletes coming in at 51. It is now 2018, and the new list has no female athletes among the highest paid. The pay gap seems to be stretching as time passes. Male sports such as college and professional football, major league baseball, men’s college and professional basketball, and men’s golf are at a higher demand than other sports. However, women are more visible in sports now than ever before. So, it seems that some progress is being made, albeit not monetarily. The sports world is and always has been male dominated, which is part of the reason why we see such a massive difference in pay between male and female athletes. Using college football as an example, more so than not, most people show favoritism towards the college football team of their choice. With that favoritism, schools generate revenue from ticket sales, television ratings, merchandise sales, etc. The same can be said about professional football, men’s college and professional basketball and men’s golf. These sports alone generate enough revenue to make sure the participating athletes or the schools the athletes play for are well compensated. However, not all sports have such a massive difference in payouts. In tennis, four of the sport’s most important events, the Grand Slams, introduced equal pay for men and women back in 2007. A big reason top male players still earn more is due to more lucrative sponsorship and endorsement deals. Controlling the gender pay gap to generate equal pay between male and female athletes is a tough subject when you look at the difference in the amount of revenue that is brought in by each sport. Contractual conditions, sponsorships, and endorsements also have a major impact on why male athletes see more money than female athletes. At the end of the day, it comes down to the interests of the audience and what they want to spend their money on. The more revenue being brought in, the more money athletes see.

Courtesy of 101greatgoals.com

Lionel Messi

Total earnings: $108 million

Courtesy of sport360.com

Cristiano Ronaldo Total earnings: $108 million

Courtesy of sportingnews.com

Conor McGregor Total earnings: $99 million

In The Game | 35

Pop Warner Thrives in 6TH Year in Titletown

Written by: Phil Jones | Photography courtesy of Pop Warner of Valdosta

As a former player for the Valdosta Wildcats, James Gatlin knows how important football is for the city of Valdosta. After all, it didn’t get the name Titletown for nothing. With Valdosta High School as the winningest program in the country, Lowndes High School as one of Georgia’s top programs year after year in the state’s largest classification, Valwood as a multiple state championship winner in GISA, Georgia Christian continuing to show its commitment to football, and VSU shaking up Saturdays, it’s easy to see that football is a commitment in this town. But for Gatlin, with two sons wanting to play youth football, he felt Valdosta needed something more. That something was the Pop Warner football program. Established in 1929, Pop Warner is like many of the youth leagues that offer children the opportunity to learn football at a young age. But, as Gatlin explained, there are several differences and opportunities that separate Pop Warner from the existing youth leagues. “Pop Warner gives our teams a chance to compete against other

teams from outside of Georgia, and in the six years of our existence, we have done that,” Gaitlin said. In fact, the Valdosta Pop Warner program became the first Georgia program to make it to the Pop Warner Super Bowl. In just its third year of existence, the Valdosta chapter, known as the Titletown Titans, traveled to Orlando in 2016. Despite losing to a Pop Warner team from Point Lamo, California, Gatlin realized his dream of the local Pop Warner teams gaining national recognition. There are other differences within the Pop Warner program such as weight restrictions and age restrictions. The Valdosta chapter consists of three teams: Tiny Mites, Mighty Mites, and Junior Pee Wee. The Tiny Mites consists of children ages 5-7 who weigh less than 75 pounds. The Mighty Mites, which consists of children ages 7-9, must weigh less than 100 pounds. Junior Pee Wee, which is made up of nine- and 10-year-olds, must weigh less than 115 pounds. Elevenyear-olds may also play as long as they weigh 95 pounds or less. Originally, a Pee Wee

division was offered for ages 9-12, but Gatlin dropped the group due to conflicts with the middle school programs. Another difference that separates Pop Warner from other youth leagues is that it only maintains team stats instead of maintaining individual player stats. Gatlin said the difference is clear. “Pop Warner stresses the importance of playing as a team instead of the ‘I’ mentality,” he said. For any player wanting to participate in Pop Warner, Gatlin said they must literally make the grade. “Our league requires all participants to maintain a 2.0 grade point average,” he said. “That may not seem too hard, but it makes each player accountable at the end of the day.” Now in its sixth year, Gatlin said the Valdosta Pop Warner program has not only met its goals, but has actually exceeded them. “We started out with 54 players in our first year, and last year we reached our participant high with 104 players,” he said.

Gatlin hopes that as the Valdosta Pop Warner program gains more attention, it will continue to attract more young players looking to learn the game while making the grade. 36 | itgnext.com

visit itgnext.com

In The Game | 37

Panther Great Headed TO ATHENS Written by: Phil Jones | Photography by: Micki K. Photography

Trezman Marshall is the latest in a long line of college-bound football superstars who call Clinch County home. The senior plays basketball at Clinch in addition to his football accomplishments, but make no mistake, it’s what he’s done on the football field that’s got the attention of everyone around — especially college recruiters nationwide. He plays quarterback and running back on offense and linebacker on defense, a position that seems to be where colleges prefer him.

38 | itgnext.com

Many stars have come out of Jim Dickerson’s Homerville football factory, yet Marshall is the first Clinch County player ever nominated as an AJC Super 11 player, an honor recognizing the top 11 players in the state of Georgia. Dickerson also admitted that with all of the great players who have come from Clinch County, it would be tough to put any one of those players above Marshall. “We’ve certainly had guys that have garnered attention, but nothing like Trezman,” Dickerson said. “What he’s able to do from anywhere on the football field — offense or defense, it doesn’t matter — it is just incredible.” Marshall was born and raised in Homerville, Georgia, and is the son of Marlina Lacey and Marcus Burton. His football journey began when he started playing rec league football, then he moved on to the middle school level. This is where things started coming together for Marshall and his future in football. Dickerson said he was watching the Clinch County Middle School football program in 2014 when he noticed a running back who stood out among his teammates and opponents. Dickerson remembers one game in partic-

ular: “It was a playoff game b e t w e e n our middle school team and Dooly County’s middle school program,” he said. “It was an exciting game with an electric atmosphere that night. There “It was an exciting game with was a young an electric atmosphere that man running night. There was a young man the ball on of- running the ball on offense, and fense, and no- nobody wanted to tackle him. body wanted He looked like a man amongst to tackle him. boys out there.” He looked — Jim Dickerson like a man amongst boys son games and the first out there.” The young man was playoff game, Marshall returned to score a rushMarshall. Seeing Marshall’s tal- ing touchdown in the ent on display in middle GHSA Class 1A Public Championship school, Dickerson knew State he had something spe- game, leading his Pancial and elevated Mar- thers squad to the title. In fact, despite playshall to the Panther varsity squad in his freshman ing in only a handful of season. Marshall’s im- regular season and playpact was felt right away off games, Marshall finas a starting running ish ed his first season of back on offense and as varsity football with nine touchdowns a linebacker on defense. rushing Then in Week 4, Marshall on 108 carries with 817 suffered a broken collar- yards rushing. From his limited time bone in practice, sidelining him for the rest of at quarterback, he comthe regular season. The pleted 15 of 37 passes only way he would play for 232 yards and three again was if Clinch was touchdowns. In a limited to make it to the playoffs, role on defense, he finished with three tackles. which they did. Despite missing all That 2015 season also but three regular sea- marked the first of two

state championships attempts for 679 yards that Marshall played a and 14 touchdowns. He major role in. He was made 70 tackles on denow well known in the fense. state of Georgia as “one As a sophomore, Marto watch.” shall hoped for another That offseason, Mar- state championship, but a shall attended a camp familiar opponent stood in Athens at the Univer- in the way. Macintosh sity of Georgia. It was County Academy and at this camp that the Clinch played in the regDogs became the first ular season, with Clinch team to extend an offer winning that game, but to the Clinch County in the state championship ninth-grader, but that game, Marshall suffered only got the recruiting an injury at some point ball rolling. in the first There were “If you want to talk half. subsequent Accordabout one game where offers from ing to Dickthe impact of Trezman erson, the Florida, F l o r i d a was felt, it was that Pa n t h e r s State, Al- state game against weren’t exa b a m a , Macintosh. We were actly sure Ole Miss, a completely different when the Michigan, team without him.” injury ocArkansas, — Jim Dickerson curred, but Tennessee, still, the and several team trainothers. er approached him in In the 2016 season, the locker room at halfClinch once again made time with bad news: Mara deep run into the state shall had suffered a torn playoffs, and Marshall labrum. Clinch would be was a big part of his forced to play without its team’s success, this time star recruit in the second mostly on defense. Still, half. The Panthers were even in a limited role on not the same team withthe offensive side, he out him. finished with stats that “If you want to talk rival those of a full-time about one game where player: 91 carries for the impact of Trezman 595 yards rushing and was felt, it was that state nine touchdowns. When game against Macinhe threw the football, he tosh,” Dickerson said. completed 33 of 72 pass “We were a completely In The Game | 39

“We’ve certainly had players that have garnered attention for their physical ability, but nothing like Trezman. I think he’s the best to ever come through here. We just don’t have athletes here at Clinch like Trezman. You’re talking about 6’2” and 235 pounds. Unreal.” — Jim Dickerson different team without him.” Macintosh came back to defeat Clinch County and win the state title. The 2017 season saw Marshall return to play primarily on offense. He finished with 974 yards rushing on 107 carries and an incredible 20 rushing touchdowns in the Clinch single-wing offense. He completed 13 of 34 pass attempts for 154 yards in an offense that is built to primarily run the football. On defense, he finish ed with 30 tackles. The numbers Marshall posted year after year continued to gain the attention of college recruiters from coast to coast. Since 2000, the Panthers have won five state titles, four under Dickerson. They also have 12 region championships. They have won with extremely talented football players, but according to Dickerson, perhaps none have been better than Marshall. “We’ve certainly had players that have garnered attention for their 40 | itgnext.com

physical ability, but nothing like Trezman,” Dickerson said. “I think he’s the best to ever come through here. We just don’t have athletes here at Clinch like Trezman. You’re talking about 6’2” and 235 pounds. Unreal.” Dickerson recounted a University of Miami assistant coach who was visiting at the high school one day. “We were walking the halls, and Trezman passes us,” Dickerson said. “The coach turned to look at Trezman and asked, ‘Who’s that kid? I can tell you, coach, that without seeing one second of film on him, we (Miami) are interested in him.’” Currently, Marshall is committed to UGA. He did so back in April of this year, having been recruited by Bulldog head coach Kirby Smart and coach Glenn Schuman. The Panthers are still in the early stages of the 2018 season, and Marshall is already showing signs of another great season. In just three games, he has four rushing touchdowns and 275 yards rushing on 22 carries. He also has completed 40 percent of his pass attempts. As if the athletic achievements weren’t impressive enough, Dickerson said Marshall is going to graduate early, having met all of his academic requirements.

For Dickerson and Clinch County fans, it’s time to say goodbye to perhaps the greatest player to ever don a Panther uniform. For Georgia

Bulldog fans, it will be time to welcome in one of the best two-way players in the state of Georgia.

Great Work Done in the Summer Greater Work to be Done in the Fall Summer was awesome! We here at Southeast Georgia FCA have seen God move in mighty ways and witnessed firsthand how the Holy Spirit can transform lives and change hearts. This was the best camp season we have had to date. We had students, athletes, and coaches attend camps in Valdosta; Statesboro at Georgia Southern University; Albany One Day Football Camp; Faith in Football in Clinch County; Girls basketball and softball camps in Albany, Georgia; and an FCA Outdoor Canoe Camp with Brooks County coaches and senior football players. Overall, 1,010 students attended camps with 112 salvations and 78 rededications. We had the pleasure of hosting Jeff Duke, the author and creator of â&#x20AC;&#x153;3Dimensional Coaching,â&#x20AC;? in Valdosta where he spoke to all area coaches, assistants, and athletic staff. This informative workshop was held at the Jennett Lecture Hall at Valdosta State University on July 13 from 8 a.m. to noon. Duke teaches that every human being is made up of mind, body, and spirit and that sports today pay more attention to the physical, leaving out the mind and body. It is important for a coach to practice coaching on all three levels of the athlete. The Christ Makes Winners Rally was held on Wednesday, Aug. 16 at First Baptist Church in Valdosta, and everyone was welcome

to come at 6 p.m. for free food. The doors opened at 6:20 p.m., and the rally was from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Our guest speakers were students from various schools who gave their testimonies on the impact FCA had throughout their high school careers and how it will help them be a better Godly example in the future. Justin Crenshaw and various praise team members led worship. We had our annual Leadership Training at Wild Adventures on Sept. 16, 2018. Check in began at 8 a.m., and the program began at 9 a.m. and lasted until noon. This annual event keeps getting better and better every year. Students learn how to lead others in their huddles at school and are given the opportunity to share Christ at the same time. It is with great excitement that we make the official public announcement that for the Southeast Georgia FCA Spring Fundraising Banquet, the guest speaker is Dan Mullen, head football coach at the University of Florida. There will be an opportunity to purchase table sponsorships around the first part of November. You may see one of our board members or call the FCA office and talk to Meg at (229) 245-1717. The ministry of FCA covets your prayers as we seek to reach every student, every athlete, and every coach on every campus to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ!

All sports. All injuries. All year long. No matter the sport, no matter the season, the Phoebe orthopaedics and sports medicine team works hard to get their patients back to what they love. From the field to diagnosis and treatment you can count on Phoebeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s certified athletic trainers, orthopaedic specialists and physical therapists for a team approach to top-quality care. To learn how Phoebeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s comprehensive orthopaedic and sports medicine team can help you, visit phoebeortho.com.

Phoebe Orthopaedics of Albany

Phoebe Orthopaedics of Americus

2709 Meredyth Drive, Suite 450 | Albany, Georgia

132 US Highway 280 West, Suite B | Americus, Georgia

Troy Skidmore, DO Nur Nurbhai, DO Anie Uyoe, MD Jordan Knoefler, MD

John Fennessy, MD

229-312-5000

229-931-6830

In The Game | 43

Dual-Enrolled Athlete Combines Love of Academics and Softball Written by: Beth Welch Photography by: Jennifer Jones

The move from Tennessee to Columbus, Georgia, in the fall of 2015 was difficult for Emily Holmes. Arriving one week before school started, she toured high schools, but after walking through the halls of Northside High School, Holmes had a feeling it was the place for her. Back then, Holmes was a freshman, and while all freshmen are new to a school, she didn’t know anyone or have a connection to anything. That is until a teacher asked students to tell what they liked to do. Holmes’ response was that she played softball. A student beside her was a softball player as well. The shared passion for the sport made the connection for the two students, and following Holmes’ try-out later that same day, a great friendship began.

“Once I got there, I kind of bonded with her, and then the team just really took me in,” Holmes said. “Most of my friends that I got my freshman year were from the softball team.”

The newcomer was impressive from the beginning. She made the varsity team and was a starter her first season. Holmes plays second base and centerfield. At one point, she was asked to catch because of the loss of a graduating senior. She accepted the new role without question and also spent time at third base. The Lady Patriots came close to capturing a state title in 2016. It was disappointing to end the season without taking home a championship trophy; however, even before the 2017 season got underway, Holmes got a glimpse of what was possible. “At FCA camp, it wasn’t hard,” she said. “It just clicked. We all clicked. It was all one big team. Every part of our play was good. I thought, ‘This is our year.‘ I really thought it.” With each game played, the Lady Patriots drew closer to the goal of a state title. Holmes played “all over the place” last season. Wherever they needed her, she was more than willing to step up. Once the team progressed all the way to the finals, she confessed there was some pressure. Northside had been in the same place the year before and didn’t 44 | itgnext.com

make it. The right-handed versatile athlete was positioned in centerfield for the last game. When it was over, the Lady Patriots were victorious. “I’d say fun is kind of an understatement,” she said with a smile. It should be noted that Holmes was dual-enrolled at Columbus State University last year while also attending Northside. For her junior year, Holmes’ NHS classes were mostly AP classes. She carried quite an academic load while also practicing softball and playing in the postseason. Always a good student, Holmes said she knows academics are the vital part of her life right now. As much was she loves playing softball, she understands academics have lifelong dividends. Fortunately for the 17-year-old, she gets to play softball after her Northside days are over. She committed to playing at CSU following graduation and hopes to pursue the medical field. The senior has a 3.8 GPA and is enrolled at Northside but attends CSU. One of six seniors on the Lady Patriots team this fall, Holmes has a feeling they have the potential to make it back to the playoffs and beyond. Willing to play anywhere at any time sums up Holmes’ attitude. Apparently, her coaches have capitalized on that because Holmes has played just about every position available.

“The only place I haven’t been is right field,” Holmes said, laughing. “And, of course, first base. That’s probably because I am only 5’2.””

Guide for Selecting a Glove Position is key to selecting a glove, but preference can be factored in as well.

Pocket Size

An outfielder’s glove is bigger than an infielder’s to allow outfielders to catch fly balls with more ease. A shortstop or second baseman would typically want a more shallow pocket, so they can get the ball out quicker.

Webbing

There are different types of webbings found in gloves for softball players, including i-web, basket web, closed web, single post web, dual post web, modified trapeze web, and trapeze web. An infielder’s glove should have a looser webbing so she is not catching dirt when catching a grounder. The looser webbing also allows for the player to get the ball out faster.

Padding

This also depends on the position. The catcher has the most padding to protect her hand and fingers. Corner positions like first and third base may want more padding as well.

Wrist Adjustments

Some gloves are made with wrist adjusters to make the glove fit snug. These adjusters can be made of snap, Velcro, or laces.

Material

Gloves can be made of leather, synthetic materials, mesh, and treated leather. While leather is often preferred, some choose the treated leather for a quicker break-in period. Information courtesy of activekids.com

visit itgnext.com In The Game | 45

Sunset Farm Foods Tailgate Competition Congratulations to all our Sunset Farm Foods Tailgate of the Week winners! New winners are chosen every week and will receive a gift basket of quality meats for their next tailgate. Want to be a winner? Show us what youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got at your next local game!

Week 1 Winners - Cairo

Week 2 Winners - Tift

Week 3 Winners - Valdosta

Week 4 Winners - Lowndes

Week 5 Winners - Jacksonville

Where He Wants to Be Written by: Phil Jones | Photography by: Dezmond Kimbrough

Demario Jones was raised to be a coach, mentor, and much more to the youth of Valdosta High School.

Jones is the current defensive line coach for the Wildcats football team, and he also serves as director of football operations. Jones, like a lot of coaches, made the decision to enter coaching after finishing as a player. After playing football in high school, in college, and even for a short time professionally overseas, he came back home to be a coach. But for Jones, you can say that he

48 | itgnext.com

was always destined to be a coach from his childhood. Jones was born and raised in Jacksonville, Florida, where his father, Carl, was the head football coach at Raines High School. According to Jones, that’s where his love for coaching began. “Coaching’s been in my blood,” he said. “My dad was a coach, and that’s how I got into it.” In addition to growing up as the son of a coach, Jones was also influenced by several successful coaches as a player. As a defensive lineman at Raines High School from

2002 to 2005, he played for coach Welton Coffey, who years earlier had led Raines to its first state championship in school history. From there Jones went on to play at Valdosta State University from 2007 to 2010, where he played for head coach David Dean and several Blazer assistant coaches, including Earl Chambers, the current LaGrange High School head coach. After graduating from VSU and playing in Germany in the former NFL Europe league, Jones returned home to Jacksonville in the fall of 2011 and landed his first coaching job as an assistant football coach at Andrew Jackson High School. In 2012 Jones landed back at VSU, this time as a defensive assistant to Chambers. Then in 2013, Jones found his way to his current coaching home at Valdosta High School, where he is defensive line coach and director of football operations. For Jones, he always

“Jacksonville is where I grew up, but Valdosta is home. This is where I want to be.” — Demario Jones knew coaching was what he was destined to do. After all, he grew up the son of a coach and has been involved with the game either as a player or coach for practically his entire life. Jones admits that coaching is much more than just the x’s and o’s and Friday night lights. “As a coach of young men, I realize that I make a difference in their lives,” he said. “Day in and day out, I spend more time with these young men and see how much they need

mentoring. I was blessed to come from a two-parent home, but a lot of our kids do not. We stand in as parents for many of these young men helping them achieve their goals and objectives, both on and off the field.” Jones added that he realizes his job is to help Valdosta do well under the lights. “I know you have to win to stay here, and I never lose sight of that,” he said. “But hearing these kids tell you at the end of the day that they love you is truly the most rewarding thing about what I do.” Despite growing up playing and coaching in Jacksonville, Jones knows where he wants to be. “Jacksonville is where I grew up, but Valdosta is home,” he said. “This is where I want to be.”

And you can bet the young men of Valdosta High School want him there, also.

WWW.SGSC.EDU | HAWKNATION@SGSC.EDU

DOUGLAS: 912.260.4206

| WAYCROSS: 912.449.7600

Mann on a Mission Written by: Beth Welch Photography by: Jennifer Jones

Jordan Vocational High School’s football program had challenges in recent years. With a revolving door of head coaches moving in and out of the program, three in the last four years to be exact, the Red Jackets have been considered an easy win for some opponents. One athlete has a plan to change that. Emmanuel Mann is a senior at JVHS and the varsity’s starting quarterback. The 18-year-old is zoned for attendance at the Columbus school, but Mann had options. He chose Jordan.

“People always talk bad about Jordan,” Mann said. “They say you can’t make it out of Jordan (to the next level). I just wanted to see if I could try to make it out of Jordan.” Ever since arriving as a freshman, Mann had a goal of restoring respect to the football program while playing a game he dearly loves. The 6-foot-

50 | itgnext.com

tall, 170-pound athlete hasn’t been all talk, either. As a junior, Mann passed for 1,062 yards and is credited with 13 touchdowns. He is listed as a three-star recruit by several recruiting websites and is No. 32 on the 2019 Top Dual-Threat Quarterback Recruits list by 247Sports.com. Last year was tough for the Red Jackets, though. The team went 0-10, and head coach Justin Newman was relieved of his duties after just two seasons. The coaching change meant Mann started out his freshman year with one coach, was under the direction of Newman for his sophomore and junior seasons, and is now playing for new Jordan hire Joe Kegler. Still, Mann has found a way to push ahead. “Developing relationships with the coaches is important,” Mann said. “It’s not anything (coaching changes) I have control over. I have to com-

plete the mission.” The Jordan quarterback’s mission actually got started at the age of 9 when he found a passion for playing football. Mann continued football throughout middle school, but had a slow start with the sport his freshman year at Jordan. When Newman came on staff, Mann said he was singled out by the new coach to play quarterback for the first time. “Newman fell in love with me,” Mann said with a laugh. Just when things began to look up for the sophomore, he broke his right arm in a scrimmage game. Mann missed several games due to the injury, but healed in record time to come back as the starting quarterback. During his junior season, despite the lack of wins, Mann excelled, which led to attention from recruiters. Among those schools who have expressed interest are Alabama, Georgia, and Tulane.

It can be a lot of pressure to be a top recruited athlete. It also can lead to an egotistical attitude if you’re not careful. Emmanuel Mann is handling the pressure, and his mother is making sure his ego stays in check.

“My mom is always telling me to stay humble and to be grateful for the talent God has given me,” Mann said with a smile. “I hear that all the time. Like, every two days I hear that.” In January he attended the Army National Combine in San Antonio, Texas. To date, only one school has made an offer, but Mann is more concerned about playing his best game than who might be in the stands watching. Perhaps a bit unusual for a three-star athlete is that Mann is a multiple-sport athlete at Jordan. He plays basketball and is a member of the Red Jackets track and field team. Fleet of foot, it’s no surprise Mann runs relays, but the natural athlete also participates in the long jump and high jump events. Because there is no pit for Mann to practice high

jumps prior to a meet, his actual competition performances are the only time he ever jumps. Mann has received track offers because of his speed (40-yard dash in 4.4) and has a personal best in the high jump of 6.6 feet. While he weighs offers and plays his best in three sports, Mann is always thinking of the mission to get recruited and regain school respect. “When people see Jordan on the schedule, they automatically put a ‘W’ on that game,” Mann said. “I’m tired of that. Coach K really knows what he is doing. This is the year we change some things.”

A Spike in Volleyball in South Georgia Written by: Kaylee Kopke Photography by: Dezmond Kimbrough

High school volleyball is growing in popularity in South Georgia. Although that spread has been slow, it’s been consistent. Many schools in the area have grown their programs in recent years, with some even winning region or state championships. Several South Georgia athletes even participate in club ball to keep their skills sharp in the offseason. Even schools that had not previously offer volleybll as a sport have started their own programs. Per the request of many of their student-athletes, Colquitt County High School jumped on the volleyball train. About 220 ladies initially showed interest in the arrival of competitive volleyball in the Colquitt County School System, and the school began its first volleyball season last fall. Ronald and Sarah Fowler, a married coaching duo, took the reins of the Colquitt volleyball team this season.

“I was well aware of Colquitt County High School’s athletic tradition,” Ronald Fowler, a Bainbridge, Georgia, native, said. “Colquitt County has first-class facilities, an amazing fan base, and a very supportive administration. When my wife and I noticed the opening in November of 2017, we knew we had to apply.” With previous experience in Jackson County — taking the team from five wins the previous season all the way to a school record of 33 wins, achieving the first area championship in 21 years, and making an Elite Eight appearance — Colquitt County is in good hands this season with the husband-and-wife team. “The new standard for Colquitt County volleyball is that we are going to work hard and compete for every point,” Ronald Fowler said. “If a team beats us, our goal is to make them earn every point. We have a saying, ‘If the ball hits the floor, we hit the floor.’ This simply means that if the ball lands on our side of the net, we expect bodies to be laying out and girls doing everything in their willpower to not let the ball drop. Another core value for Colquitt County volleyball is communication. Teams that do not communi-

In the coming years, I want people to mention Colquitt County when discussing volleyball in the state of Georgia.

— Ronald Fowler

In The Game | 51

cate well in volleyball typically do not do well in the match. My wife and I have incorporated numerous drills to help with this back in June.” This new standard will help them in their increased schedule this season, which started Aug. 9 with a scrimmage at Thomas County Central. Then the Lady Packers were set to play at Lee County High School on Aug. 14. Their first home game was against Mitchell County on Aug. 16. Early County, Valwood, and Thomasville are also on the schedule this season. Ronald Fowler said his overall goal for the season is to compete for the region championship, something he wants to accomplish every year. “Some would say this is a very ambitious goal due to the fact that every other team in our region has been playing for five plus years, with Camden County having over 15 years of experience,” he said. “In the coming years, I want people to mention Colquitt County when discussing volleyball in the state of Georgia.” With this goal in mind, at the end of basketball season they will be making some upgrades to the already wonderful facilities in Colquitt County to allow them to field more teams. Also, this year was the inaugural season for their JV team. In January they will begin work with their inaugural group of middle school players.

Schools such as Lowndes, Tift, Valdosta, Lee County, Brooks County, Mitchell County, and various others also have volleyball programs and are working to get the sport of volleyball more prominent in the South Georgia area. Having the option of playing this sport gives female students the opportunity to find a new passion in something that they were not previously exposed to. Not only that, but it gives athletes from other sports like basketball or softball the option to try a new and interesting sport.

Dynamic Volleyball Warmup 1. Side Lunge

2. Squat Knee-Ups

3. Toy Soldiers

Perform this exercise by rocking to the right and back to the left.

Preform a squat and go directly into bringing the knee up to the chest.

Kick your right leg to your right hand, then do the same on your left side.

52 | itgnext.com

Football Update FSU a Bust? The Florida State Seminoles faced off against ACC rival Virginia Tech on Sept. 3 in Tallahassee, and the former national champions couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t keep up. Florida State finished the game with five turnovers and no touchdowns. Three of those turnovers were interceptions thrown by returning starter Deandre Francois. It isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t looking too good for the Noles after losing 24-3 to the Hokies and being completely removed from the top 25. It was only the first game of the season, so we will see if they can bounce back from that sloppy loss as the season progresses. Image courtesy of chopchat.com

NFL Donating $1 Million to Hurricane Florence Relief

Image courtesy of nypost.com

Highest Paid NFL Player in History Aaron Rodgers just became the highest paid player in NFL history. The superstar quarterback and the Green Bay Packers came to an agreement on a fouryear contract extension worth $134 million with $103 million guaranteed. With a Super Bowl win, two MVP awards, and six Pro Bowl selections under his belt, this contract is well-deserved. The future hall-of-famer has secured the bag and plans to back it up this upcoming season.

Image courtesy of popsci.com

The National Football League is doing its part to help the victims of Hurricane Florence. On Sept. 16, the NFL Foundation announced a $1 million contribution to Hurricane Florence relief efforts. The league says the money will be distributed to organizations on the ground that can meet the immediate needs of those most impacted by the storm.

NFL Power Rankings Leading Into the 2018 Season

1. Minnesota Vikings

2. Los Angeles Rams

6. Atlanta Falcons

7. Pittsburgh Steelers

3. New Orleans Saints

8. Jacksonville Jaguars

5. Philadelphia Eagles

10. Los Angeles Chargers

4. New England Patriots

9. Green Bay Packers

In The Game | 53

The Houston County Sharks are not your average basketball team. They promote the idea that there are no physical limitations that can’t be overcome by playing the game in wheelchairs.

Christy Jones, an orthopedic impaired teacher for the Houston County School System, has been teaching adaptive sports for 11 years. Jones pitched to the Houston County Board of Education about starting a program in the district, and it was granted with tremendous support. “Not only does it provide support for the players, it also gives the parents a network of support and friendship,” Jones said. “Since our team consists of players from all of the county, not just one school, they get to build friendships with students they might have never met before but have similar diagnoses or issues.” Wheelchair basketball does not differ from regular basketball as much as people think. The kids play on the same court with the same height basketball

goal and shoot three pointers from the same distance. The same basketball skills are still taught, with the exception of teaching kids how to do those skills while pushing and steering a wheelchair. Stephen Roberson, an adapted physical education specialist, has been teaching for Houston County for six years.

Sharks Roll Over Limitations

Written by: Alex Dunn | Photography by: Eric Vinson

“I could write a book on the positive effects I’ve witnessed throughout the years coaching these athletes,” Roberson said.

He and Jones have the same view of the positive impact the adapted sports program has on its players. “Our program provides exercise, acceptance and builds self-confidence while at the same time encouraging independence for our players,” Jones said. “That is a great formula for a well-rounded student athlete.” Roberson believes the team is so successful because of the support they get from the school board, the community, and the athletes’ parents. “That support enables us to work very hard,” he said. “We ex-

“Since our team consists of players from all of the county, not just one school, they get to build friendships with students they might have never met before but have similar diagnoses or issues.” — Christy Jones 54 | itgnext.com

— PHOTOGRAPHY —

“To help my teammates continue to win and experience state championships is one of the greatest experiences, and seeing the excitement and joy on their faces will last me a lifetime.” — Jordan Kozloski

Contact info: cevinson9216@gmail.com 229-412-1296 Eric Vinson

pect our athletes to give 100 percent regardless of disability or limitations. Over the years, we have been successful because we put in the work necessary for that success.” The Sharks’ star player, senior Jordan Kozloski, has been on the team for 10 years. Kozloski suffered a traumatic accident when she was 2 years old that resulted in her left leg being amputated above the knee. Being given the opportunity to do what she loves has had a great impact on her life. “It has opened my life wide open,” Kozloski said. “We are a family. The greatest part of it is being able to mentor the younger players and help them learn the skills and lessons I have learned over the past 11 years. To help my teammates continue to win and experience state championships is one of the greatest experiences, and seeing the

excitement and joy on their faces will last me a lifetime.” Although the adaptive sport is strictly played in wheelchairs, some players — like Kozloski, who has a prosthetic — don’t require a chair for daily life, according to Jones. Jones said this upcoming season has plenty in store for the team.

“This year we are starting our year off hungry and ready to fight to regain our titles in these sports,” she said. “In 10 years, the Sharks have won 21 state championships between the three sports that we play. Our seniors want to go out with all three titles back in Houston County. They are pushing themselves and their teammates harder than ever at practice.”

evdreamswild

South Georgia Basketball Previews Written by: Phil Jones Photography by: Micki K. Photography

In Class 7A basketball, last season saw the reclamation project of the Colquitt County boys basketball program continue under head coach Andy Harden. He led the Packers to their second consecutive winning season last year, finishing 14-10. That may not seem like much of a big deal to outsiders, but when you consider that the Packers hadn’t had back-to-back winning seasons since the 1999-2000/2000-01 seasons, it becomes clear just how much Harden accomplished, especially when you consider a program that has been in the shadow of Rush Propst’s championship-caliber football program. The Packers finished as the No. 2 team in Region 1-7A and lost in the second round of the state playoffs. If the Pack are to continue their winning ways, they’ll have to do it without Harden. He resigned in August to accept an assistant principal position at Willie Williams Middle School. (A new head coach had not yet been named at the time of this story). The Packers will also have to do without several key players from the last two seasons under Harden. That includes starters Jy Andrews, Nizarre Thompson, Jarvis Christopher, and standout Cam Singletary. The Lady Packers of head coach Rondesha Williams will have to fill some mighty big shoes as well. Colquitt will be forced to replace all time leading scorer Za’Nautica Downs, Diamond Hall, and Akia Sutton. Williams will count on up and coming players Camille Singletary and Naia Benefield to help lead the Lady Pack this season. The Lowndes girls won the region last season, finishing with a 20-7 record. Head coach Brittany Bell resigned, forcing a search for her replacement. Enter new coach Antonia Tookes, who comes from the Pelham Lady Hornets, where she was head coach for the past 8 seasons. Tookes has 19 total years of coaching experience and will inherit a Viketttes team that sees the return of junior standout Tiffany Smith, but wil be without Region Player of the Year Jamesha “Fearless” Samuel, who signed with Georgia Southwestern University in Americus. The Lowndes boys of head coach Donnie Holland will have to find replacements for top scorer Will Fernandez, Kevin Adams, and Alex Johnson. Tift County’s boys team won their sixth straight region championship last year, but head coach Chris Wade will have to replace Marqavious Johnson, Rashad Bateman, and Region Player of the Year Montavious Terrell. Despite predictions that last year would be a rebuilding year for Julie Connor’s Lady Devils, the Tift girls surprised everyone by making it to the region championship game after finishing as the region’s No. 4 seed. Despite a loss in the region championship game against Lowndes, the Lady Devils advanced to the Sweet 16 of the Class 7A playoffs. Connor will have Nicky Jones back this year to help lead the Lady Devils. 56 | itgnext.com

In Class 6A-Region 1, the Valdosta Lady Wildcats and head coach Edward Wilcox are hoping to repeat the success of last year’s stellar season. The Lady ‘Cats finsished with an outstanding 22-8 record and won the region championship. In the state playoffs, Valdosta won their first three contests, starting with a 59-42 victory in Round 1 over Richmond Hill. In Round 2, Valdosta easily handled Greenbrier by a 67-51 score, advancing to the Elite Eight. There, the magical season came to a crashing halt for Wilcox and his Lady ‘Cats, as Douglas County crushed the hopes of a state title for Valdosta with a convincing 86-63 victory. Wilcox and Valdosta must put the loss behind them and focus on getting ready for another run this season, which just may hold a ton of promise when you consider Valdosta’s returning contributors. Returning this year are starters seniors Nia Allen and Taylor L. Taylor. Also back this season are juniors Ja’Mya Johnson and Jayla Cody. Even with those four players returning, Wilcox and his staff will miss the standout play of Asia Harrison, who will graduate and signed to continue her playing career with Augusta University. Wilcox thinks his team can make another good run at a region championship. “I believe this season will be another good one if we continue to improve defensively, offensively, and if we stay away from the injury bug,” Wilcox said. “I hope that we can go further than the Elite Eight and eventually make it to the Final Four.” Wilcox said he thinks the region could be as tough top to bottom as its ever been. “The teams to watch in our region this upcoming season will be all of the region teams, in my opinion. We respect everyone, and know that anyone can be beaten on any given night.” The Lady Wildcats of Valdosta High School will open the regular season on Nov. 17 as one of the participants in the Dacula Holiday Classic Tournament. The Valdosta Wildcats of head coach Antonio Haynes won 15 games last season, including six region wins, good enough for an appearance in the region championship game against champion Coffee County, the No. 2 seed, and a birth in the state playoffs. But a quick exit was the result, a tough first-round loss against Bradwell Institute in front of an enthusiastic home crowd. Haynes and the Cats must now prepare for the upcoming season without playmakers and top scorers Keon Williams (14.2 ppg) ,Kylan Jefferson (9.8 ppg), and Ty Wallace (11.5 ppg), who have all graduated. Its not easy to replace 37 points per game, but Haynes and the ‘Cats have to hope that players like Jaheim Bell and Jaylin Jones will step up. Valdosta opens the season on Nov. 30 at home against the Cook High Hornets.

2017-18 was a great season for Region 1-5A, with the Warner Robins Demons being named the state champions. The Demons won the region regular season by going undefeated with a 10-0 record, defeating Harris County in the region championship game, then dismissing opponent after opponent in the state playoffs, including the championship win over Miller Grove 67-64. Warner Robins finished with a 28-3 overall record. But, that was last year. Can Warner Robins and head coach Jamaal Garman possibly repeat this upcoming season? That depends on if they can replace several playmakers who were key to the amazing run last season, including Jacolbey Owens, who hit the game-winning 3-pointer to give Warner Robins its first ever state championship in basketball. Other playmakers who will not return are Nelson Phillips and Jaydon Norman. That’s three of 10 seniors from last year’s team who will not be back. Keep in mind that the Demons roster consisted of 13 total players. Losing 10 seniors means Garman has a lot of talent to replace. The three returning players are Trevon Williams, Jacobi Coleman, and Keshun Houser. The Thomas County Central Yellow Jackets enjoyed their best season last year since 2016-17. That was with just seven victories, which underscores just how far the jackets still have to go before they can count on competing for region championships. That may not be too much of a reach, considering that three of their seven wins last year were over region opponents. Of course, the Jackets and head coach Levi Williams need more playmakers like Tay Cooksey, who led Thomas County Central with over 11 points per game, over three rebounds, and was a defensive menace, averaging 2.1 steals per game. Cooksey was named Second Team All-Region last year. Teammates Deondre Sullivan and K.J. Williams received honorable mention. Cooksey and Sullivan have graduated, while Williams will be back this season.

The Cairo boys and girls basketball teams are coming off what could be described as a forgettable season for both teams. The young Syrupmakers boys team of head coach Ike Chance got off to a promising 2-2 start, but the season took a turn south after that. With no senior leadership on the floor, Cairo’s boys lost 19 of their final 21 games, including their last 15 games, en route to a disappointing 4-23 season. The good news is that every single player on the roster will return this year. That group includes All-Region Honorable Mention player Philliek Byrden, who was one of the consistent scorers for Cairo. The Syrupmakers will look for a positive start to open the season as they travel to Columbus to take on Shaw on Nov. 30. The Lady Syrupmakers’ season was a little better, as they finished 12-14 and 6-8 in region play. The good news is that their leading scorer, All-Region selection Chambria Vickers, will return to lead her squad this season. Chambria led her team with a per game average of 11.9 points. She shot a red hot 44.7 percent from the field and grabbed an average of 7.5 rebounds per game. Cairo will open the season at Thomasville on Dec. 1.

10 Youngest Active NBA Players Name

Birth Date

Team

Isaac Bonga

Nov. 8, 1999

LA Lakers

Jaren Jackson

Sept. 15, 1999

Memphis Grizzlies

Kevin Knox

Aug. 11, 1999

New York Knicks

Troy Brown Jr.

July 28, 1999

Washington Wizards

Anfernee Simons June 8, 1999

Portland Trail Blazers

Zhaire Smith

June 4, 1999

Philadelphia 76ers

Dzanan Musa

May 8, 1999

Brooklyn Nets

Wendell Carter

April 16, 1999

Chicago Bulls

Marvin Bagley

March 14, 1999

Sacramento Kings

Luka Doncic

Feb. 28, 1999

Dallas Mavericks

In The Game | 57

The Cook High boys basketball squad had a standout season last year, finishing first in Region 1-3A in the regular season. It was the first time since 1992 that a Cook High Hornets boys basketball team had finished first in the region; they went 19-10 overall and won 9 of 10 region games. The Hornets advanced to the state playoffs, where they defeated Pierce County in the opening round 67-59 before bowing out in Round 2 to Jenkins of Savannah. The upcoming season may be an uphill climb for head coach Jeremy Brown, as he loses 10 seniors to graduation. Among those key players who contributed to last year’s success but won’t be back this season are Corey Fulton, Vincent Gray, Bobby Griffin, and Kelvin Covington. Brown will rely on returning contributors Hezekiah Sermons and Ontio Miller to lead the Hornets on the floor this year if they are to return to prominence in Region 1-3A. The Lady Hornets, meanwhile, could be very good in 2018-19. After finishing last season with a 15-14 record, including a 6-2 region record, Cook lost a tough region championship game against Monroe. The Lady Hornets advanced to the state playoffs, where they defeated Long County in Round 1 before losing to Beach High of Savannah in the second round. Head coach Clemmie Foster will have the services of Rodrica “Sweetie” Styles back this season. She went over the 1,000-point mark of her career, scoring last season as a junior, and her scoring prowess will be counted on to lead the Lady Hornets this upcoming season. Also returning to help the Lady Hornets are Taliyah Carter and Brannon Allen. Both Cook teams will open the regular season on Nov. 30 on the road at Valdosta High School.

58 | itgnext.com

The 2017-18 basketball season was good for a couple of programs in South Georgia’s section of Class 2A. The Thomasville Bulldogs boys team brought home the school’s very first state championship in basketball. The Bulldogs of head coach Ben Tillman soundly defeated an overmatched Vidalia boys team 66-31 in the finale at the Macon Centreplex. The Bulldogs defeated Early County in the region championship game before cruising through the state playoffs en route to their dominating title performance. Thomasville finished with 28 victories for the season. Looking to the upcoming season, Thomasville will be without a major weapon, McDonald’s All-American Reggie Perry. He led the Dogs last year with 21 points per game and double-digit assists. To say he will be missed is an understatement. Perry took his hardwood talents to Mississippi State University, keeping himself a Bulldog for at least a few more years. Despite the loss of Perry, Tillman will have the majority of his starting unit returning this season, so opponents of the Bulldogs hoping for a fall off from Thomasville may be disappointed. Returning are starters Titus Wright, Vonterius Woolbright, Quindarius Thomas, and Adrian McQueen. Wright is a major inside presence at 6’9”, but his presence will be felt all over the court. He will be counted on as the go-to guy this season for Thomasville. The Dogs begin defense of their state championship on Nov. 23 as they participate in the Mark Clayton Memorial Basketball Tournament. Their opponent has yet to be determined. The Thomasville Lady Bulldogs finished 11-14 last season, earning the No. 3 seed in Region 1-2A with an even 4-4 mark. The Lady Bulldogs did make the state playoffs, but lost in the opening round to Swainsboro 63-46. Looking ahead to the upcoming season, the news is mixed; Thomasville returns a few key players, but lost some good ones. Returning to lead the effort this season will be Tre’Oncia Andrews, one of the Lady Dogs’ leading scorers from last season. Joining her will be Osiha Dent and Lindsey Tillman for head coach Carmenonique Dawson. Naomi Toles, a First Team All-Region selection, was both an offensive and defensive standout for the Lady Bulldogs, and she will be missed. Zoey Jackson, an All-Region selection, will also not return. The Thomasville Lady Bulldogs will open the 2018-19 campaign on Nov. 19 as part of the pre-Thanksgiving Tournament at Shaw High School in Columbus.

2019 Top 10 Male High School Basketball Recruits in Georgia Name Team Isaac Okoro

McEachern

Marcus Watson

Daniel Ramsey

Deerfield-Windsor

Elias King Kyle Sturdivant

Buford

Lincoln Academy Norcross

Jaylin Williams

Brantley County

Jalyn McCreary

Kennesaw Mountain

Chase Hunter Westlake Jared Jones

In Class 1A, the Pelham Lady Hornets will look to somehow replace two major pieces of its basketball program heading into the upcoming season. After leading the Lady Hornets to a Class 1A Public state championship two seasons ago and an outstanding 27-3 overall record and 16-1 region record last season, head coach Antonia Tookes has left the program to become the new head coach at Lowndes High School. Tookes will take over the reigns of the Vikettes program after Brittany Bell resigned. Taking over as the new head coach of the Lady Hornets will be Jeray Randall, a 13-year former assistant with the Pelham boys basketball program. Randall will take over a solid program left behind by Tookes, but it won’t include a player he is very familiar with: daughter Mohagany Randall. The Region 1-1A Player of the Year graduated after leading the Lady Hornets to the Elite Eight in the state playoffs, where they lost to Marion County. Randall signed to play college basketball with Benedict College. The Pelham Boys, meanwhile, are coming off a great season themselves. They finished with a 23-6 overall record and a 13-3 region mark, advancing to the state playoffs. They won their first-round match against Washington-Wilkes before losing in the second round to Manchester High. Head coach John Hamilton must replace eight seniors, including shooting guard Dewaun Jones, who averaged 11.1 points per game last season. The Pelham boys and girls teams will open the season on Nov. 30 with home games against their Miller County counterparts. In Ashburn, Turner County girls head basketball coach Shedrick Office will have to replace daughter and leading scorer from last year’s team Zakiyah Office. She averaged 19.6 points per game to lead her team to a 19-9 overall record and a 12-4 region mark. The Lady Rebels and Office will have the services of returning junior Mya Byrd, a shooting guard. The Turner County boys, who have long been one of the most dominant boys basketball programs in South Georgia regardless of classification, are hoping to put last year’s dismal season behind them. The Rebels are coming off one of their worst seasons ever, finishing 9-18 overall, with just six region victories. Lanier County looks to build on the success of last year’s region championship, as they finished with 25 wins and a trip to the Elite Eight, where their remarkable season came to an end at the hands of Montgomery County. They’ll be without top scorer Jay Foster, however, who has graduated. The Irwin County Indians boys squad looks toward another march to the playoffs after just getting in as the No. 4 team out of Region 2-1A but suffering an early exit, losing in the opening round to Terrell County. The Irwin girls are hoping for a better showing this season, after finishing 9-14 overall and 6-10 in region play and missing the playoffs. The Ocilla teams will face off with rival Fitzgerald at home on Dec. 4. Echols County and Mitchell County girls teams are hoping for a return trip to the playoffs in 2018-19, but are hoping to make it just a bit further this year, after each team suffered first round losses in the Class 1A playoffs. Meanwhile, the Mitchell County boys and both boys and girls teams from Baconton Charter are looking to make it back to the playoffs after missing postseason play last year.

Pebblebrook

Issa Muhammad Lakeside In The Game | 59

Top 10 NBA Player Rankings Name Team Lebron James

LA Lakers

Kevin Durant

Golden State Warriors

Anthony Davis

New Orleans Pelicans

Stephen Curry

Golden State Warriors

James Harden Kawhi Leonard

Houston Rockets

Toronto Raptors

Giannis Antetokounmpo Milwaukee Bucks

The Deerfield-Windsor boys basketball team will enter the upcoming season without a familiar face that has been on the Knights’ bench for over 35 years. Longtime boys head coach and athletic director Gordy Gruhl announced that he was stepping down after a lengthy tenure at the Albany GISA school. In his last season at the helm of Deerfield-Windsor, he led the Knights to an Elite Eight appearance in the 3A GISA state playoffs, where their season and Gruhl’s long-standing career came to an end with a 70-53 loss to Trinity Christian. The new Deerfield-Windsor boys basketball coach will be Bill Cefaratti, who comes from Atlanta GHSA powerhouse program Holy Innocents Episcopal, where he was an assistant coach for multiple sports teams. Cefaratti inherits a team that finished 19-5 last season, including 6-3 in the region. Cefaratti will also inherit one of the most powerful players in the state of Georgia in power forward Daniel Ramsey. He is an Xavier of Cincinnati commit and was an All-Region and All-State selection last season. Nick Dixon and All-Region standout Ronnie Bates will be key returners for Cefaratti and the Knights. Gone to graduation is All-Region performer Ethan Merritt. Deerfield-Windsor and their new coach will open the season Nov. 17 in Sylvester against the Worth County Rams. The Valwood boys of head coach Andy Stamchror enjoyed one of their most successful seasons last year, finishing 19-6 overall, and advancing to the final four of the GISA Class 3A playoffs. The Valiant boys were led by Region Player of the Year Cam Walker, along with All-Region selections J.D. Scurry, Grant McClendon, and Billy McClendon. Looking ahead to the upcoming season, Stamchror and the Valiants will be without Walker, Scurry, and Grant McClendon. Billy McClendon returns, along with Zack Paulk. The Westwood girls also enjoyed a season to remember, going undefeated with a perfect 28-0 record and winning the GISA Class 60 | itgnext.com

Russell Westbrook

Oklahoma City Thunder

Chris Paul

Houston Rockets

Joel Embiid

Philadelphia 76ers

2A state championship with a dominating 56-32 victory over Brentwood in the final. The Lady Wildcats overcame adversity, as they endured a change in head coaches after the first 14 games. Gail Lee took over for the suspended Derrick Harris and kept the momentum going all the way through to the championship. The Wildcats were led all season and in the championship game by Gracie Pollock, Abby Santos, Brianna Thompson, and Karlie Jones. The good news for Westwood is that each of those players will return this season, with only one senior — McKenlee Coleman — graduating. The Lady Wildcats will begin the upcoming season and defense of their state championship with a home game, hosting Windsor Academy Dec. 14. The Brookwood Lady Warriors will return several starters and contributors from last season’s Region 3-3A runner-up squad, including floor leader Mollie Vick, who averaged 12 points per game last season for Brookwood. Also returning is Jordan Thompson, who averaged 14 points per game. A key member of the successful Warriors basketball team will not be back in 2018-19. Gone is former head coach Kim Taylor. Taylor led Brookwood to within one win of the region championship the last two years, and she will be missed. Taking her place will be a coach who comes from an area of the country that is certainly no stranger to the game of basketball. Todd Webb will take over the Lady Warriors program beginning this season. He is a Kentucky native and has spent the last four years as head coach of Kentucky high school basketball power Hopkins County Central High School. The Brookwood boys, meanwhile, are looking to rebound from a six-win season and will have the services of returning contributors Jacob Atkinson and defensive specialist Jack Bolita. The Thomasville school will open the season at home Nov. 27 against Jefferson County.

Dynamic Duo Written by: Justin Chandler | Photography by: Dezmond Kimbrough

Junior Riley Blampied and sophomore Megan Bloodworth are softball stars at Crisp County High School who have been swinging the bat since they were 4 years old. Both ladies started out playing teeball and have worked hard to be the best ever since. “Their drive to be the best athletes they can be pushes them to have remarkable work ethics,” said Ben Robbins, Crisp County softball coach. As eighth-graders, Blampied and Bloodworth both played junior varsity softball for the high school team. That was when they started getting noticed by major Division I colleges. Blampied was even selected to the USA Select Elite All-American Team for the class of 2016. While Blampied and Bloodworth were in contact with multiple colleges during their recruitment jour-

Their drive to be the best athletes they can be pushes them to have remarkable work ethics. — Ben Robbins

neys, they both ultimately committed to The University of Alabama their freshman years. They visited a number of schools, but both players knew in their hearts that Alabama was where they wanted to go. As of now, Blampied and Bloodworth are working hard to bring a championship to Crisp County.

“We should make it to Columbus (where the playoffs will be held this year),” Blampied said. “I think we could do that, Elite Eight, and if we play how we should, then we should have a shot to win it.”

Both have winning attitudes, and it shows on and off the field.

In The Game | 61

In the classroom or the field, both put the time in and get after it. — Ben Robbins

“In the classroom or on the field, both put the time in and get after it,” Robbins said. Their love for the game matches their work ethic. They are hitting and practicing every day, working out and running after practice, and putting everything they have into being the best they can be. They play side by side and have wonderful chemistry as teammates. Bloodworth plays third base, while Blampied is right next to her at shortstop.

“It’s so fun because I get to look at shortstop, and I know that if something happens, she has my back,” Bloodworth said.

This chemistry will follow them to The University of Alabama, where they will again play side by side under coach Patrick Murphy for the Crimson Tide. Robbins is happy for the girls and their decision to verbally commit to Alabama. “They both come from families that are involved and supportive of both their academics and softball,” he said. “Both were informed and took their time.” The passion Bloodworth and Blampied have for softball is unmatched. The love they share for the game drives them to keep pushing. When asked what keeps them motivated to continue pushing forward, they responded by saying how much fun they have playing the sport and wanting to be the best at what they do. They are driven by their love for softball, and their families are behind them every step of the way. They are becoming leaders on their team and continuing to build leadership skills as they grow, thanks in part to the efforts of Robbins and his staff. Alongside Robbins, the rest of the coaching staff, and the Crisp County softball team, Bloodworth and Blampied will continue to prosper on and off the field. Earlier this season, the Crisp County Cougars took on and beat Cook County, who fell short to Calhoun last year in the state championship match. This win gave both players the confidence to believe that this season has the potential to be better than ever.

Going forward, the ladies are focused on growing as a team, working hard, and continuing to lock in wins. By keeping up the hard work, Bloodworth and Blampied will be more than ready when it is finally time to say goodbye to Georgia and hello to Alabama.

62 | itgnext.com

Residential • Commercial New Construction • Service LICENSED / BONDED / INSURED

GA Lic #CN7050 • FL Lic #CAC058168

WWW.WALLERHVAC.COM

Thomasville, GA 15 Williamsburg Ave # 25 229.225.1200

Valdosta, GA

405 N. St. Augustine Rd 229.244.1200

Crisp Academy Offers CHAMPS Program Choosing Healthy Activities and Methods Promoting Safety is an educational program developed and implemented by the Georgia Sheriff’s Association in 2003. The program’s mission is “to provide an educational program for Georgia’s youth, which provides guidance, and the skills, ability, and knowledge to be safe, healthy, and happy in preparation for a successful life.” The program is concluded with a graduation at the end of the year.

2018 Football Schedule 9/28

@ Flint River Academy

10/5

Piedmont Academy

10/12

Terrell Academy

10/19

Piedmont Academy

10/25

Fullington Academy

11/2

@ Westwood

64 | itgnext.com

Football Is Back The 2018-19 football season is back at Crisp Academy. In their first game back to 11-man football since 2015, the Wildcats fought hard to get a win over the Monsignor Donovan Rams. The Wildcats were determined to defeat the Rams, keeping that common goal in mind throughout the game. They ran out the clock at the very end, winning 36-0.

4-H Available for Wildcats 4-H is the youth education branch of the Cooperative Extension Service, a program of the United States Department of Agriculture. The program focuses on the personal growth of the club member. Life skills development is built into 4-H projects, activities, and events to help youth become contributing, productive, self-directed members of society. 4-H is available at Crisp Academy for grades five through 12.

66 | itgnext.com

visit itgnext.com

Shotgun Team Wins 1st Tiftarea Academy’s shotgun team won first place at their first tournament of the season. Coty James led the team, claiming H.O.A and winning first place in individual skeet, trap, and sporting clays. Over 50 shooters from five schools competed in the tournament.

Pink Out Cancer! Tiftarea cheerleaders collected $278.15 in donations for the Tifton Breast Cancer Awareness Foundation during the JV and varsity softball Pink Out games in September.

Written by: Anna Cook

Anna Sumner Tiftarea Academy Gymnastics What is your favorite memory from your high school career? I went to Chicago last year to one of the biggest meets in the country. I knew I wasn’t going to win, but I competed and had a good time. I didn’t do too well, and I face planted into the vault twice; however, I managed to finish up. Then we went to the awards ceremony, and I won the meet. I think the best memory in my career was standing on top of that podium.

add us @ITGNext

What is one thing that excites you about competing at the college level? It would definitely be competing with a team. Like with club gym, you’re just competing for yourself, but in college you are competing for a team score. I’m excited to be able to contribute and help the team win. In The Game | 67

The ADC Team is proud to support

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

We want to recognize a few members of our ADC family who are in different stages of beating breast cancer: Lynn Correll, Voncille Hair, Elizabeth Norman, Wanda Roe, Allison King, Cheryl Smith and Angela Harrell. Breast cancer has affected many others in our ADC family. We want to lift them all up in prayer and offer our continued love and support. Please join us in praying for all breast cancer patients, affected families, and survivors of breast cancer. We will be raising awareness for breast cancer research the entire month of October. We hope that you will join us so that one day breast cancer will be eliminated.

For more information on how you can help please visit www.nationalbreastcancer.org/breast-cancer-awareness-month

Voted in South SouthGeorgia Georgia Voted Best Best Dentist Dentist in 2010 2016! 2010 through through 2018! 3211 Wildwood Plantation Dr. www.adcteam.com • 229.242.4441 Ashley Moorman, DMD • J. Barclay Woodward, DMD • Bill Moorman, DMD Members of American Dental Association, Georgia Dental Association, Academy of General Dentistry, American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry

68 | itgnext.com

There’s a Train a Comin’

Another Henderson Leading the Valiants

Written by: Kennedy Kimbro

The Valwood Valiants have a new head coach this season. Justin Henderson, brother to former head coach Ashley Henderson, now leads the Valiants. Four games in and the Valiants are looking good with a 3-1 record. Justin Henderson is also the former defensive coordinator, so he has worked closely with his brother over the years. Ashley Henderson won a state title last year and is the most winning coach in Valwood history.

“We’re on the train tracks with a full head of steam,” said Cam Carter, Valwood senior running back and linebacker, about this year’s team. Those words reflect his style of play in two different ways. Carter is 5’5” and 170 pounds, but do not let those numbers make you think that he runs the ball softly. He will tuck the ball with his head down and hit you off the track. In three games, Carter had 33 carries for 188 yards and a touchdown. While at middle linebacker, he can be viewed as a train on the other side of the track finding the ball on either side of the field or straight up the middle. He is going to stop the offense in their tracks. Being a threat on both sides of the ball is why the phrase “Cam Can” has been cheered during all the Valiants games this season. Those words can also be used for the plans Carter has made for joining the military after graduation. So, when you hear the train coming down the tracks, it may not necessarily be the one running parallel to Valwood. On Friday nights at Goddard Field, it is the Valiants with their full head of steam hitting the opponents in hopes for another state title.

Image courtesy of valdostadailytimes.com

Working Toward Playoffs

visit itgnext.com

Valwood volleyball is looking up as they move forward into the season. They earned third in their season opener at Dominion Christian’s Endless Summer tournament. They went 5-1, defeating Harvester and Dominion Christian, then went on to beat Creekside and Notre Dame. As volleyball is growing in South Georgia, Valwood is taking a liking to it. Besides their regular season matches, they recently played in a three-team match at Valdosta High School, earning two wins. Moving forward into the middle of the season, Valwood volleyball doesn’t plan on slowing down. Racking up wins and making their way to the state playoffs at the end of the season is priority. In The Game | 69

Aldair Cortes Soaring as an Eagle

Image courtesy of wctv.tv

Out With the Old, in With the New

Coming from the small town of Cairo, Georgia, Aldair Cortes is already making a name for himself at Georgia Southern University. Cortes played three seasons at Cairo High School. He became a three-time All-State selection and a four-time All-Region selection. He scored 108 goals and tallied 59 assists during his years in Cairo. As a freshman at GSU, Cortes became the second Eagle to earn Sun Belt Freshman of the Year honors. Standing at 5’9”, 150 pounds, Cortes has all the assets of a great soccer player and has already proven his worth in his first season as a true freshman. As the 2018 season begins, GSU has a record of 2-0-1 with Cortes averaging 2.3 goals per game. It is safe to say that he has followed up his successful career at Cairo High and still has more to prove as he enters his sophomore season as an Eagle.

It is a new school year for the students of Cairo High School, and with a new year comes improvements. The school’s cafeteria received a makeover over the summer with new paint and flooring. New tables and more comfortable chairs will also be added to match the changes made to the cafeteria. The school is proud of these changes and is providing a better atmosphere for their students to enjoy their mid-day meals. The new improvements will go well with the school’s nutrition program, which supports learning by promoting a healthy eating environment with healthy eating habits. This goes to show that the school’s primary focus is its students. Cairo High School is moving on from the past and looking towards the future as they better prepare their students for life after high school. A small change can go a long way and ultimately bring bigger and better change to those involved.

“Your Kind of Bank”

600 N. Broad St. Cairo, Ga 39828

Cairo High School 2018 College Success Award Winner The College Success Award recognizes high schools across the country who go above and beyond just graduating their students. It is the first award that recognizes schools where students enroll in college and are prepared for college-level courses. This award launched in 2018 and recognizes schools in nine states for their college preparation. Cairo High School is a part of the first group of schools to receive this award, which shows that the school has been effective in making sure their students aren’t going into college without any knowledge of what to expect. Applying for college can be intimidating, and having a helping hand during that process helps ease the stress tremendously. Having an idea of what is coming is a comfortable feeling, and Cairo High School has done their job by doing just that for their students. Congratulations to Cairo High School for this well-deserved award.

Contact Kevin today for a complete financial review. 229-377-0880 22 3rd Ave NW | Cairo, Ga 39828 kevin@kevinrossfinancial.com

* Securities offered through Securities America, Inc., member FINRA/SPIC Kevin A. Ross, Registered Representative Advisory Services offered through Securities America Advisors, Inc. Kevin Ross Financial Services and Securities America are separate companies.

PROBE Fair Thomas County Central High School held its annual PROBE Fair Sept. 14. Representatives from more than 40 colleges and universities were in attendance. Students from TCCHS and neighboring schools were invited to attend the fair. Students and their families could visit the various booths and ask questions about topics important to college acceptance, including applications and financial aid options. The fair is an important tool to aid students in determining which colleges and universities in the state and region might best suit their post-secondary plans. The PROBE fair is a great opportunity for the students to get a clear understanding of what to do post-graduation, and they can make a knowledgeable decision on the colleges that they wish to attend.

Students Team up with First Responders to Honor the Fallen Thomas County Central High School is proud of the students who woke up extra early on Sept. 11 to run with Thomas Countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first responders from the fire station downtown to the Jackets' Nest. That day was also the Thomasville Professional Firefighters 9-11 Stair Climb in remembrance of the Sept. 11 attacks.

#TCImpactslives #TheJacketWay

AP Success for Yellow Jackets For the 2017-18 school year, according to data compiled by AP program officials, 80 percent of TCCHS AP students who took AP exams earned a score of three or higher on each exam taken. This is an increase of one percent from last year. It is also 19 percent higher than both the state and global average of 61 percent.

1205 Veterans Pkwy N. Moultrie, GA 31788 2815 Gillionville Rd Albany, GA 31721

southerntractorandoutdoors.com

M5-111

New Year, New School Hundreds celebrated the grand opening of the new Valdosta High School. After two years of construction, the more than 400,000 square foot high school houses 77 general classrooms, 35 specialty classrooms, and 14 science labs and will offer students more than 200 courses.

Words With a Wildcat Written by: Bryanne Mathis

Tate Rodamaker is the starting quarter back for Valdosta High School. Bryanne Mathis: Are you ready to play against Colquitt? Tate Rodamaker: Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m ready and excited. We have been preparing

for this game since the start of the season!

Beta Club Awarded National School of Distinction to Valdosta The National Beta Club is proud to announce that Valdosta High School was awarded the 2017-18 National School of Distinction. This award is an honor that recognizes Beta chapters striving toward academic achievement, exemplary character, demonstrated leadership, and service to others. With an ongoing quest to instill these qualities in more students, the National Beta School of Distinction Award is designed to award those schools that show an increase in membership for the current school year.

72 | itgnext.com

visit itgnext.com

Packers at the Top of 7A Rankings Colquitt County football is always a team that brings competition to the field. With two undefeated seasons and a pair of state championships in 2014 and 2015, along with a state championship appearance last year, the Packers don’t plan on slowing down. After their defeat of rival Valdosta High School, the Packers were ranked No. 1 in the state of Georgia. The Packers are no stranger to being at the top, considering their track record. As the season progresses, coach Rush Propst will be pushing his players to keep the pace in hopes of another state championship. Image courtesy of Colquitt Co. High School

AP Program Participation Increases Colquitt County High School has made a significant increase in participation for their advanced placement program. The College Board named 30 local students as AP Scholars, which is the most in the school’s history. Reaching this mile stone is wonderful for the program, and they plan to keep progressing. The College Board’s AP program provides academically prepared students the chance to take college-level courses while still in high school. These courses earn them college credit before they graduate, leading them into college well prepared. Colquitt County High School is growing and moving forward in their efforts to graduate more students and ensure they are prepared for what is next.

Bringing the Opera to Colquitt The Colquitt County Arts Center is hosting the Peach State Opera and bringing its production of “La Bohème” to the city. There will be a one-time showing of the play at 3 p.m. on Oct. 7. All proceeds will go toward the Colquitt County Tempo Club’s spring trip to Italy. The Peach State Opera will also be working closely with Colquitt County High School’s acapella choir. They will be the ensemble for the production. The students will have the chance to perform with a professional opera company, something most of the students have never done before.

In The Game | 73

Madison May Written by: Shayla Jackson

Of course, our No. 1 goal is winning a state championship, and since it’s my senior year, it’s my last chance to achieve that goal. I will do everything I can to help the team make that dream come true. Yes, I am happy with how the season is going so far, but you can never be satisfied. That is why we continue to work hard and get better every day. My favorite memory was our first game last year at state playing against Parkview. With two outs, I hit a three-run home run to put us on top. I have been playing softball for 12 years. I think what made me love this sport so much is the friends I have made along the way. Nothing is more fun than going to play the sport you love with the people you love. I just recently committed on a scholarship to Clemson University, where I will further my softball and academic careers. Go Tigers! In my opinion, having a good attitude and effort is the most important key to being successful. In this sport, you can’t control anything except your attitude and effort, so once you make those great, you’ll love the outcomes. I have worn the No. 15 for the past four years, and I am a utility player. Throughout high school, I have started at multiple positions, and currently I am the starting short stop. My greatest advice for someone that is wanting to play softball is to just go have fun.

3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.

Ally Williams

Written by: Emma Dent

Ally Williams is a freshman at Lowndes High School who plays in the Georgia Bridgemen marching band. She has been in love with band ever since she started playing in sixth grade. “I wanted to do marching band because it gives me the opportunity to be with people just like me who push themselves to do better,” Williams said. Williams’ family has had a huge impact on her band career, especially her father, who earned a degree in music performance. She also said her sister is her biggest inspiration. “My biggest inspiration for marching band was my sister, Abby, because she always made band her first priority and never gave up at any point in time,” Williams said. She hopes to inspire anyone thinking about joining to definitely do it. She explained that band has had a great impact on her life. “It makes me push myself further than I could've imagined in the past,” Williams said. She said she feels as if she can do so much more now. Every student in band is required to show up every day, no excuses, and according to Williams it is a life-changing sport. Williams added that the band is like “one big family,” and their relationship with each other is close. “The band includes over 400 performers, who perform not only every game the Vikings play, but also competes in two different competitions each year,” Williams said.

Lowndes High School Reconstruction to Begin in 2019 Written by:

Lowndes High School is moving forward with their reconstruction plans for some of the older buildings on campus. The project is expected to be finished in 2021. Accommodations such as temporary classrooms for students will be made on campus during construction. They are looking to tear down older builings and replace them with new ones. These new buildings will have more classrooms and a new performance arts center for theater students. The state is funding $20 million the $50 million cost of the renovations. Lowndes High School is looking forward to providing better facilities and a healthier environment for their students.

Someone you can count on.

1213 Baytree Rd Valdosta, GA 31602 (229) 244-9856 3310 Bemiss Rd Valdosta, GA 31605 (229) 247-6677

Barry Broome 74 | itgnext.com

2725 Madison Hwy Valdosta, GA 31601 (229) 671-4264

8369 State Road 6 West Jasper, FL 32052 (386)638-0020

Blue Devils’ No. 1 Fan Written by: Taylor Holmes

Taylor Walker is one of the biggest Blue Devils football fans that Tift County High School has ever seen. When she isn’t yelling “Go Devs!” as she watches our boys play, she’s urging the student section to get up, yell, and have fun. You will never catch her anywhere other than Brodie Field on Friday nights, and she will always be dressed out in the student section theme, no matter if the game is home or away.

“I love going to watch the Blue Devils,” Walker said. “When I dress up and go to football games, I make the best memories because I am so hyped up. Everybody is dressed out and spirited, and it makes me so happy! Senior year is all about making memories.”

She is a perfect embodiment of what it means to be a Blue Devil, and in her own words, she is a “Blue Devil for life!” Every school needs a fan like Taylor Walker.

Tift Students Selected for State Advisory Council Three Tift County students were selected by state school superintendent Richard Woods to serve on his 2018-19 Student Advisory Council. Senior Haley Alexander, junior Chase Beckham, and sophomore Karoline Ponder will meet with Woods throughout the school year to discuss the impact of state policies in the classroom and will participate in service projects to benefit their schools and peers. Members were selected from approximately 1,000 applicants from public schools all over the state based on community service experience and their ideas for improving public education.

76 | itgnext.com

visit itgnext.com

CBCBank now offers ! sJ Chool DeBit CarDs C !

4701482536

211681

36211681 47034825 08/20 PANTHER

FAN 1680

420148008621

ust another Commitment to our ommunity

$10 will Be DonateD to your sChool for eaCh CarD printeD. CBCBank

CommercialBankingCo

07/21 PACKER BA CKER

4301480086

211681 08/20

BLAZER FAN

03/21

GENERAL FAN 420146008621

1680 05/21

VIKING FAN

1680

420148008621

0 410148008673168 09/21

WARRIOR FAN

VALIANT FAN

www.cbcbank.com

Member FDIC

42014800862116

42014800

EAGLE FAN

BLUE DEV

86211680

80 03/20

IL FAN

4101480086211680

Committed to You - Our Customer, Our Community

WILDCAT FAN

05/20

02 03/2 /211

10 Questions With Amanda Hefner

Written by: Beth Welch Photography by: Jennifer Jones

Competition cheerleading is currently underway, and state championships take place in November. Columbus High School’s cheer program, known for producing championship teams and collegiate cheer athletes, has undergone a rebuilding process. Now the program is coached by former Columbus High cheerleader and current CHS teacher Amanda Hefner. ITG recently sat down with Hefner and asked her 10 questions. ITG: When did you graduate? Amanda Hefner: I graduated from Columbus High School in 2004. ITG: You were a cheer athlete? AH: I was a varsity football and competition cheerleader during all four years of high school. I was a gymnast my whole life, and when I got to high school, I decided to use my tumbling ability as a cheerleader. I also cheered all-star for United of Columbus. My CHS coach was Gaye Wells, who is now one of my coworkers and friends. ITG: You’ve been the cheer coach for how long? AH: This is my fifth year as competition cheer coach. When Mrs. Macdonald retired as coach, Dr. Crumbs asked if I would take over. I had no returning cheerleaders, so I had to rebuild with incoming eighth-graders. We had to compete JV with only 14 girls my first year, and we won third in the state last year. ITG: You also teach? AH: I currently teach ninth-grade honors biology. This is my ninth year teaching science at Columbus. ITG: How many athletes are in your program? AH: We currently have 17 girls on the squad. We usually have 16-20 girls because you can only have 16 girls on the floor at a time. The others are alternates. ITG: How did Blue Devils fare last fall? AH: Last year we placed first in our region and third in the state. ITG: Cheer athletes sometimes do not get recognition for the athleticism the sport requires. How do you respond? AH: Competition cheerleaders are not your typical cheer squad cheering on the sidelines of a football or basketball game. When I hear people say cheerleaders are not athletes, I sit back, laugh, and wait for my girls to perform. I need not say a word because their athleticism speaks for itself. ITG: Goals this season? AH: I had 10 seniors graduate last year, so we have a young but very talented squad. When you have a new squad, you have to learn to work together as a team. I have been pleasantly surprised with the dedication and hard work of these young girls, and I believe they will step up to the challenge again this year. ITG: Any new rules or changes for competition routines? AH: The cheer rubric changed significantly last year. The new rubric allows for specific judges to focus on specific aspects of the routine and specialize in those components instead of having to watch and judge the entire routine. I believe the new system is much more accurate. ITG: What is the best thing about coaching cheer athletes at Columbus High School? AH: The bond you form with the girls. I get to be their school mom; I look out for them and keep them straight! 78 | itgnext.com

Amanda Waller Hefner

Job Title/Position: Science teacher and head competition cheer coach Hometown: Columbus, Georgia Education (high school and college): Columbus High School, 2004; Bachelor of Science, University of Georgia, 2008; Master of Secondary Education in Science, Columbus State University, 2012 Athletic Awards or Accomplishments: Fouryear scholar athlete — I was a varsity athlete all four years at CHS while maintaining a GPA over 4.0. Coaching/Career Awards or Accomplishments: I was a Top 10 Teacher of the Year Honoree for MCSD this past year. Family: Husband, Matthew Hefner; three boys — Colton, 8; Tanner, 5; and Parker, 2 Hobbies or leisure time activities: FUNNY! What leisure time would I have with three young boys? Person you most admire: My mom is my hero! She made motherhood and working look so easy, and she is the best grandparent to these boys! We are so fortunate to have family living close by to help us. I would not last a day without her help!

Odell Beckham Jr. Becomes Highest Paid Wide Receiver in History

Image courtesy of www.usatoday.com

Does Garoppolo Deserve It? Written by Justin Chandler

Jimmy Garoppolo became the highest-paid player in NFL history when the San Francisco 49ers signed the young quarterback to a five-year $137.5 million contract with a $7 million signing bonus back in February of 2018. Garoppolo’s contract was just recently surpassed by Aaron Rodgers, quarterback for the Green Bay Packers, who received a four-year $134 million contract with $103 million guaranteed. But the question is, does he deserve those millions? Drafted to the New England Patriots in the second-round of the 2014 NFL draft, Garoppolo spent three years as a backup to Veteran Quarterback Tom Brady. In those three years, he won two Super Bowls with the Patriots. In October of 2017, he was acquired in a trade by the 49ers which landed the Patriots a second-round pick in the 2018 NFL draft. Garoppolo’s high praise comes because he has never been beaten as an NFL starter. Back in 2016 during Tom Brady’s four-game Deflategate suspension, he won his first two games as an NFL starter. When he was traded in 2017, he started the last five games for the 49ers, closing out the season with five wins. Garoppolo is heading in to the 2018 NFL season with an undefeated record as a starter. It’s obvious why 49ers General Manager John Lynch wasn’t going to let him slip away after closing out the 2017 season the way he did, so they wrote up a contract, one that made him the highest-paid player in NFL history at the time of the signing. San Francisco was itching for a franchise quarterback, and they paid top dollar to make sure they got one. So far it has paid off, but will this streak extend into the 2018 season? NFL fans are waiting to find out. A record-breaking contract for a quarterback who has only seven career starts is a major investment. Some may think he doesn’t deserve such a significant pay raise, but at the end of the day, it was a decision made by the 49ers franchise in hopes Garoppolo will bring them a Super Bowl in the near future. The 49ers will have a difficult first game against the top ranked Minnesota Vikings in week one. As the season progresses, we will see what Jimmy Garoppolo is made of.

Superstar wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. and the New York Giants have agreed to a 5-year, $95 million contract with $65 million guaranteed. This will be the largest contract received by a wide out NFL history. It is well deserved considering Beckham’s track record consisting of three pro bowl selections, and that he was the 2014 offensive rookie of the year. It has been a long road coming for Odell. Bouncing back from his gruesome ankle injury last season, he is expected to put up high numbers for the Giants. We will see how that plays out for the New York wide out as the season progresses!

Image courtesy of elitesportsny.com

Top 14 NFL Rookies Leading Into the 2018 Season

1. Sam Darnold (Jets QB)

2. Saquon Barkley (Giants RB)

8. Josh Rosen (Cardinals QB)

9. Marcus Davenport (Saints DE)

3. Derwin James (Chargers Safety)

10. Minkah Fitzpatrick (Dolphins Safety)

5. Josh Jackson (Packers CB)

12. Christian Kirk (Cardinals WR)

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

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

14. Rasheem Griffin (Seahawks DE) In The Game | 79

Recipe for Success Written by: Justin Chandler Photography by: Micki K. Photographer

Talent mixed with WNBA. She plays bashard work makes a won- ketball for the school, but derful recipe for success. also plays for an AAU team Essence Cody is talent- where she is coached by ed and a hard worker Joseph Foster. on and off the court. “She’s special,” Foster Standing at 6’3”, Cody is said. “She has qualities an eightthat you grader at can’t teach.” Va l d o s t a Cody is Middle becoming School an ambaswho plays sador in the for the south as middle she paves school the way for and high other athschool letes her age teams. and youngShe was er. When one of just coaches three midcome and dle school see Cody, it players segives other lected for players the the Ball N She’s special. She opportunity Prep USA has qualities that to impress Select Futhose coachtures ros- you can’t teach. es and poster to play sibly receive against the — Joseph Foster recognition Rise Canor even an ada Select offer. team this past year. She Cody is projected right has received interest now in her class to be No. from North Carolina and 7 in the country, but she the University of Florida doesn’t let the hype get along with many other to her head. She stays on schools. She was also her grind, working out and the 2017-18 ITG Next running every day. She Female Youth Athlete of stays focused in school the Year award. and gets good grades. It is safe to say that Her mother is extremely Cody is making her mark supportive of her dreams here in South Georgia. and aspirations and is by She’s played basketball her side every step of the since she was 6 years old way. along with her older sis“In the years of doter. Her goal is to play in ing this, you couldn’t ask college, and then in the for a more supportive 80 | itgnext.com

parent,” Foster said of Cody’s mother. Cody has played with kids from all over the country during her travels as a basketball player, playing on courts in Canada and Las Vegas.

“It was great, and I learned different skills and met new people,” Cody said on playing in Canada.

Multiple Division I colleges are interested in Cody and come to watch her play and practice. She receives letters in the mail from schools that want her to come for a visit. She enjoys getting that attention, but still doesn’t let it take away from her hustle. She knows she still has work to do to become better. Her older sister, Jayla Cody, is also supportive of her younger sister. They play and practice with each other often, sometimes even playing against each other whether it be in scrimmages or one-on-one at home. Essence Cody is continuing to grow in the sport and pushes herself to be better every day. With the support of her family and coaches, she will have great success on and off the court.

Image courtesy of stampedeblue.com

Kenny Moore and the Indianapolis Colts Written by: Justin Chandler

Offseason Moves Written by: Jon Nelson

The turnover rate for coaches in Georgia high school football is usually around 20 percent every year. This means about 80 coaches (give or take) swap locations year in and year out. It could be for family, lack of a desired result, or thinking they’ve done all they can and being ready for another challenge. And there are challenges around every corner in a top-three state for high school football in the country. Jeff Fisher at High School Football America does an algorithm every year, and this is the first time that Georgia is at that number. I think that’s really cool. It gives these coaches that have switched locations a chance to get a clean start and try to rebuild their current program into the success they want. I’ll give you a few examples this time around to keep an eye on going forward. The successes may not be immediate, they may be relative, but they’re still something to look at. My first example is Stewart County’s Royal Knights head coach Ashley Hardin. In his first year in Lumpkin, he helped revive programs at Taylor County, Jenkins County, Twiggs County, and Northeast-Macon. They got off to a 2-0 start for the first time since the program began in 2008. Stewart was 8-91 in its first 10 seasons. Perry, Georgia, was 3-0 for the first time since 1998 after a 30-27 victory over Westside (Macon). Second-year coach Kevin Smith is 8-5 at a school that hasn't had a winning record since going 6-5 in 2012. Clifford Fedd is in his second year at Dutchtown. They got off to a 3-0 start as well in a region that has Stockbridge, Woodland, Jones County, and the Bulldogs chasing after the region title. Greyhounds coach Justin Rogers warned me about Dutchtown coming into 2018, but they had only given up 3 points in August. Rick Tomberlin is back coaching at his alma mater, Appling County. Corey Jarvis is at Dooly County after a career in the Atlanta metro. Joe Kegler is back in Columbus as a head coach at Jordan. Robert Edwards moved from Greene County to Riverwood. Ashley Henderson is at Thomas County Central after a successful run at Valwood. Erik Soliday has moved over to the Tifton area. Ken Cofer is at Wilcox County now in the Region of Doom in 1A, and Olten Downs is now in Albany at Westover. This all makes what is going on that much more exciting. All the optimism, all the big names, and all the big programs looking to make a statement now get to have new chapters with a lot of highly-qualified coaches ready to show their weekly work off on Friday nights. So, dear reader, what move in the offseason are you looking at under the microscope? Let us know @itgnext on all the social media platforms and reach out to me on Twitter (@OSGNelson), Facebook, and Instagram (@cutesportsguy). Play it safe everyone. I’ll talk to you at the stadium!

82 | itgnext.com

Kenny Moore, a Valdosta native, is now a starting defensive back for the Indianapolis Colts. Playing only one year of football at Lowndes High School his senior year, he was offered a chance to play at Valdosta State University. At the end of his college career, he had racked up 171 tackles, two sacks, and 11 interceptions. Standing at 5’9, 179 pounds, Moore didn’t know if he could make it in the NFL. He proved a lot of people wrong when he was signed as a free agent by the New England Patriots. He was then traded to the Colts, where a series of injuries to defensive backs put him at the top of the depth chart. Moore started five of the last 16 games for the Colts, recording his first professional interception against the Broncos. We look forward to seeing a lot of Kenny Moore this upcoming season!

Image courtesy of si.com/tennis

Serena Williams Controversy at U.S. Open Written by: Justin Chandler

Serena Williams received a $17,000 fine from the U.S. Tennis Association for her outburst during her loss in the U.S. Open. She was penalized during the match for being coached from the stands. Billie Jean King, a pioneer in women’s rights and sports, tweeted: “When a man does the same, he’s ‘outspoken’ and there are no repercussions. Thank you, Serena Williams, for calling out this double standard. More voices are needed to do the same.” Four days after this controversy, tennis umpires are reportedly considering a boycott of Serena Williams matches.

♦ Azalea’s Restaurant & Lounge ♦ Full Service Amenities ♦ Meeting & Reception Facilities ♦ First Class Accommodations ♦ 40” Flat Panel HD Televisions ♦ Family, Executive & Jacuzzi Suites ♦ Fitness Center & Business Center ♦ Hot Tub & Large Swimming Pool ♦ Complimentary Airport Shuttle

HOLIDAY INN HOTEL & CONFERENCE CENTER

I-75 (Exit 16) ♦ 1805 West Hill Avenue ♦ Valdosta, GA (229) 244-1111 (800) 465-4329 “Best Hotel and Meeting Place for Teams” www.WilliamsHotelGroup.com

Exit 16 229-249-8800 Valdosta

Exit 18 229-249-8900 Valdosta

Exit 18 229-244-7600 Valdosta

Exit 62 229-382-3300 Tifton

Exit 18 229-249-8880 Valdosta

Exit 16 229-244-1111 Valdosta

Exit 18 229-249-2000 Valdosta

Exit 62 229-382-8100 Tifton

Owned and operated by Williams Investment Company A proud part of South Georgia’s growth since 1963

Exit 16 229-249-1000 Valdosta Exit 62 229-3828250 Tifton

Exit 16 229-249-8000 Valdosta

Exit 39 229-896-4574 Adel

Exit 18 229-244-8440 Valdosta

Exit 62 229-382-8505 Tifton