8.26.21 by Over the Mountain Journal

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THURSDAY, AUGUST 26, 2021

SPORTS

IT’S A SNAP! AND JUST LIKE THAT, IT’S TIME FOR FOOTBALL AGAIN.

FOOTBALL AUGUST 26, 2021

2021 OVER THE MOUNTAIN HIGH SCHOOL

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

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STEPPING OUT 2021

Jake Thompson scores a touchdown in Mountain Brook’s 33-3 win over Vestavia Hills on Aug. 20. See story in regular Sports section of this issue.

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

INSIDE

KEY PLAYERS TO WATCH BRIARWOOD PAGE 6

HOMEWOOD PAGE 8

HOOVER PAGE 10

JOHN CARROLL PAGE 12

MOUNTAIN BROOK PAGE 14

OAK MOUNTAIN PAGE 18

SPAIN PARK PAGE 20

Team Profiles \\\ Schedules \\\ Team Pictures \\\ New Era \\\ Mr. Football 1991

VESTAVIA HILLS PAGE 24

Journal photo by Lee Walls

Over the Mountain high schools have kicked off their seasons, and we want to make sure you’re as prepared as your favorite team. To help you get the most out of your Friday Night Lights experience, we’ve put together a special football section spotlighting every school in our coverage area. Read about talented players to watch on the field, meet the new coaches who are pacing the sidelines, and check out each team’s prospects for the exciting weeks ahead. Our cover photos are from last week’s Mountain Brook-Vestavia Hills game, the Spartans beat the Rebels 33-3; and Spain ParkHuntsville game, the Jags won 37-13. But there’s much more football to go, so get ready for the most wonderful time of the year – in Alabama, anyway.

2 • Thursday, August 26, 2021

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

OPINION/CONTENTS

Inside

Murphy’s Law

S TAKE A HIKE Vestavia Hills Rotary’s Hike the Hill fundraiser returns PAGE 4

EVERYDAY REMINDER Mountain Brook hosts Tri-City 20th anniversary Patriot Day PAGE 6

FORGED WITH PURPOSE Jewelry line Elia Fulmen aims to foster communities of empowerment PAGE 8

IN WITH THE NEW In B. Prince’s 40th year, customers return to rediscover style PAGE 14

chool finally is in session (a people – but there’s a contingency out cheer goes up from summerthere who are (I know this is hard to weary parents everywhere), but imagine) gala averse, people for now that students and staff are back in whom the phrase “please just send a the building, it’s becoming obvious check” would bring untold joy. Or that some of the equipment is in serimaybe you’re one of those on-theous need of repair. The band uniforms fence people who kind of like going to are threadbare, the computers are outthe gala but dislike all the work that dated, and the playground slide is one goes into it. And boy, howdy, a lot of bolt away from liability status. It’s work goes into it. Even if you manage time to start fundraising. to dodge Ms. Meanwell’s organizing In years past, that would mean that summons, you will be asked to buy and sell tickets. You’ll be asked to President Marjorie Meanswell and her Sue Murphy contribute to the class auction basPTA posse would light the lights, haul ket. You’ll wind up buying a new out the table decorations and throw dress and securing a babysitter, who some whiz-bang gala event. They’d will also want a check. While at the enlist a healthy host of sponsors, Writing the check. gala, you’ll dutifully buy some gather silent auction items and find a caterer who could produce fabuThat’s the bottom line unrelated basket (or even your own) filled with things you probably lous food on a less-than-fabulous that keeps the school would have already purchased if budget. The word would go out, and everybody who was anybody bottom line afloat. And you really, really wanted them. A lot of parents weren’t all that would show up at the appointed we can still do that. excited about the student sales bit, time in glittered apparel, checkeither. All those friends and family books in hand. phone calls, all the pickup and Alternately, students would be delivery? None of it was fun. One friend pointedly told recruited as a door-to-door sales force, mustered forth her daughter she would buy her a 12-inch teddy bear at a school assembly where, with great fanfare, they and promise to sing the song of her choice upon comwould be told that if they sold $100,000 worth of mand if she would please, please not participate. chocolate bars, they would win a 6-inch stuffed teddy Jeans days, T-shirt sales, raffle tickets – all these bear that plays “Raindrops Keep Falling on my Head.” things have been billed as a necessary evil of underNow, sadly, with COVID numbers spiking higher, funded education, but are they really? Right now, there those efforts may be ill-advised. But here’s the good are parents out there who are pleading with the adminnews: even without sequins or DJ’s or a litany of “Hi, istration, “What would it take to make all this go Mr. (insert name here), I’m raising money for …,” away? Give me a number. I’ll write you a check.” school coffers can be quickly brought to overflowing. Writing the check. That’s the bottom line that keeps Think about it. The whole point of fundraising the school bottom line afloat. And we can still do that. activities is to persuade people to give you money. As The band needs uniforms, computers are outdated, long as their check-writing arms are still functioning, the playground slide is one bolt away from liability they can pass money on to you with no gala effort at status. The answer this year is simple: just write a all. check. Now, maybe it wouldn’t be as much fun – for some

ABOUT TOWN 3 FASHION 14 NEWS 6 SCHOOLS 16 LIFE 8 SPORTS 20 SOCIAL 10

otmj.com With everything that’s happening “Over the Mountain,” it can be difficult to keep up. That’s why we have launched the OTMJ newsletter. Published every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday - we’ll give you a quick recap of the latest news, sports and social events as well as a heads up on upcoming events so you won’t miss any of the interesting and fun happenings in the Greater Birmingham metro area. To sign up for our newsletter, visit otmj.com. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram, @overthemountainjournal, for daily updates on what’s going on around town, too.

Over the Mountain Views Hear Ye, Hear Ye! Birmingham Zoo Hosts Annual Fairy Tale Celebration

OVER THE MOUNTAIN

August 26, 2021 JOU RNAL Publisher & Editor: Maury Wald Copy Editor: Virginia Martin Features Writer: Donna Cornelius Staff Writers: Emily Williams-Robertshaw, Sam Prickett Photographer: Jordan Wald Editorial Assistant: Stacie Galbraith Sports: Rubin E. Grant Contributors: Susan Murphy, June Mathews, Emil Wald, Marvin Gentry, Lee Walls, Bryan Bunch Advertising Sales: Julie Trammell Edwards, Tommy Wald, Gail Kidd Journal photo by Jordan Wald

Vol. 31, No. 26

Over The Mountain Journal is a suburban bi-weekly newspaper delivered to Mountain Brook, Homewood, Vestavia Hills, Hoover and North Shelby County areas. Subscriptions for The Journal are available for $24 yearly. Mail to: Over the Mountain Journal, P.O. Box 660502, Vestavia Hills, AL 35216. Phone: (205) 823-9646. E-mail the editorial department at editorial@otmj.com. E-mail our advertising department at mwald@otmj.com. Find us on the Web at otmj.com. Copyright 2021 Over The Mountain Journal, Inc. All rights reserved. The Journal is not responsible for return of photos, copy and other unsolicited materials submitted. To have materials returned, please specify when submitting and provide a stamped, self-addressed envelope. All materials submitted are subject to editorial review and may be edited or declined without notification.

Check It Out

Once upon a time at the Birmingham Zoo, a fairy taleinspired event brought in children to meet and mingle with some of their favorite princes and princesses. The day began with a Pancakes and Princesses breakfast in the Junior League of Birmingham–Hugh Kaul Children’s Zoo. Kids dressed in their fairy tale best were treated to pancakes, eggs, sausage and fruit as well as photos with characters. Fairy Tale and Frogs Day followed at the Henley Park Lawn with more photo ops and free admission to zoo rides and attractions. The event was Aug. 14.

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AUG. 26 - SEPT. 8 Thurs., Aug. 26 Homeplate Heroes Stage Play

The Negro Southern League Museum will present a snapshot of Negro League Baseball history featuring actors with the Make It Happen Theatre Company. The production is written by Alicia Johnson-Williams and directed by LaShanna Tripp and Eric Marable. When: 7-9 p.m. Where: Vulcan Park & Museum Website: visitvulcan.com

Thursday, August 26, 2021 • 3

ABOUT TOWN live music. Proceeds from attraction wristbands, $10, will benefit the Homewood High School Band. When: 4:30-8:30 p.m. Where: Patriot Park Website: homewoodparks.com/ special-events

Fairy Tale Ball

Childcare Resources will host its annual kid-friendly gala, featuring a DJ dance party, character meet-andgreets, crafts, a Jedi academy, a silent auction, gourmet hors d’oeuvres and more. Masks are required. When: 5:30 p.m. Where: Hyatt Regency Birmingham, The Wynfrey Hotel

Website: ccr-bhm.org/fairy-tale-ball

Journey of Hope

United Ability will host its annual event in a hybrid format, including a limited in-person event and an online live stream. The event will include performances by Mountain Brook native Alie B. Gorrie, along with Evan Ruggiero and Blake Stadnik. Funds raised will support the organization’s mission to support children and adults with disabilities. When: 6 p.m. Where: Red Mountain Theatre Arts Campus Website: unitedability.org/ journeyofhope/

Magic City Wine Fest This fourth annual event will feature wines and beers from different regions around the world, along with life music and food. A portion of each ticket sold will benefit the Birmingham Zoo. When: 6-9 p.m. Where: The Birmingham Zoo Website: magiccitywinefest.com

Thurs., Sept. 2 Party on the Patio

Sept. 1-Oct. 3 Cahaba River Fry-Down

virtually to raise funds for efforts to protect and restore the Cahaba River watershed. The event will culminate on Oct. 3 with a live-streamed Grand Finale from 12 p.m. until 4 p.m. Website: frydown.com

The Cahaba River society will host its annual catfish cooking competition

Shop Cahaba Heights will host its monthly event series featuring extended shopping hours and pop-up shopping. This month’s installment

ABOUT TOWN continued on page 4

Aug. 26-28 Lil’ Lambs Consignment Sale

Trinity United Methodist Church will host its annual consignment sale featuring gently worn clothing, toys and furniture. A ticketed presale will take place on Aug. 26, followed by a public sale on Aug. 27 and a discount day on Aug. 28, featuring 50% off of select items. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the ministries and mission of the church and a number of unsold items will be donated to local families and organizations. Where: Trinity United Methodist Church Website: trinitybirmingham.com/kids/lil-lambs/

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Fri., Aug. 27 R(un) for One

The 10th annual 5K and Fun Run is hosted by Lifeline Children’s Services, raising funds for the organization’s international orphan care ministry. When: 8 a.m. Where: Veterans Park Website: p2p.onecause.com/2021runforone/event/run-for-onebirmingham-al

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Sat., Aug. 28 Just A Call Away 5K

The Crisis Center Inc. will host its seventh annual 5K both in-person and virtually. Virtual participants can submit how many miles they run or walk through Aug. 28. The in-person run will include a fun run as well as an awards ceremony. When: 8 a.m., in-person race start Where: Patriot Park Website: runsignup.com/Race/ AL/Homewood/ACallAway5K

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HCSF Cornhole Tournament

The Hoover City Schools Foundation will host a corn hole tournament, open to both competitive and noncompetitive teams. Social teams will play for a variety of prizes while competing teams will earn cash prizes for first, second and third place. When: 10 a.m. Where: The Village at Brock’s Gap Website: hoovercsf.org/ events/

Back to School Bash

The City of Homewood Parks and Recreation Department will host its annual event to celebrate the new school year, including an array of rides, bounce houses, food and

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4 • Thursday, August 26, 2021

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

ABOUT TOWN

By Emily Williams-Robertshaw

will be Tailgate-themed in honor of the 2021 football season. Guests are encouraged to wear the colors of their favorite teams while enjoying tailgate tastings, giveaways and more. When: 3-9 p.m. Where: The Heights Village Website: “Shopcahabaheights” Facebook Page

SAVE THE DATE Thurs., Sept. 9 Evening of Dreams

Sozo Children International will host this annual fundraising gala featuring dinner and a live auction. Funds raised will support the ministry’s efforts to serve at-risk children in Uganda. When: 5:30-7 p.m. Where: the Club Website: sozochildren. org/2021dinner

Recruiting Helping Hands

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

The Vestavia Hills Rotary Club is bringing back its month-long Hike the Hill fundraiser this year to bring the community together to support Vestavia Hills City Schools. While the event is only in its second year, it has grown immensely. The 2021 event will take place from Sept. 1 through Sept. 30, expanding to include five routes through the Vestavia Hills community. Taking into account COVID-19 pandemic concerns, the fundraiser allows participants to complete community hikes on their own time while social distancing. For more than three decades, the Vestavia Hills Rotary Club has supported the school system. It now is offering three scholarships to Vestavia Hills High School seniors each year, as well as supporting programs such as the math, debate and robotics teams. “The reason this event works is because the community gets behind us, that includes our business sponsors and individuals,” said Hike the Hill chair and Rotary member Kent Howard. “Without their support and providing those funds, none of this would be possible.” Support comes from city government, as well. At a city council meeting Aug. 9, Howard and fellow Rotarians were in attendance as Mayor Ashley Curry introduced a proclamation naming September “Hike the Hill Month.” Howard said last year’s event established a good foundation for growth, creating distinct branding as well as introducing the event to the community. This year, the local business community has flooded the event with support. “We targeted a few restaurants in different Vestavia Hills neighborhoods to reach out to: Mudtown Eat & Drink, The Ridge, Moe’s BBQ, Martin’s BBQ and Dunkin Donuts,” Howard said. “Each will be giving 10% discounts during the month of

At a Vestavia Hills city council meeting on Aug. 9, Mayor Ashley Curry introduced a proclamation naming September “Hike the Hill Month.” Vestavia Rotary Club members in attendance included, from left, George Gammill, Keith Covington, Joe Strickland, Don Wiginton, Kent Howard and Joe Perez.

Take a Hike

Vestavia Hills Rotary’s Hike the Hill Month-Long Fundraiser Returns in September September if you show up wearing your Hike the Hill T-shirt.” In addition, each person who registers will be given a $5 Taco Mama discount card. “The idea to expand came about after last year’s event,” Howard said. “Liberty Park reached out and asked if they could have a course.” It sparked an idea to establish accessible routes throughout the city. While people can complete their hike anywhere they wish, there are five designated Hike the Hill routes this year, including the Liberty Park route and the original hike from Little Shades Creek up Morgan Road past Vestavia Hills High School. There will be a hike by Cahaba Heights Elementary School; one near Vestavia Hills Elementary West, from Wald Park to the Vestavia City Center; and another near Vestavia Elementary East. “Just a couple of weeks ago, we had some folks from the Vestavia

ZooRendezvous

The Zoo will host its largest fundraiser of the year in a virtual format with a limited, in-person Roaring 20s themed celebration, beginning with an online auction launching on Sept. 2. Dining experiences for virtual guests include a charcuterie and champagne package, a Tito’s Handmade Vodka cocktail kit or a dessert tray. Dining orders must be placed by Aug. 27. Funds raised will benefit the zoo’s Emergency Animal Fund. When: 6:45 p.m. Where: The Birmingham Zoo/ online Website: birminghamzoo.com

Sept. 10-11 At Home

The Alabama Ballet will kick-off its 2021-22 season with a performance featuring selected highlights from the ballet’s repertory, including historically

Hills Elementary East community asking to have a hike from the school to Shades Crest,” Howard said. According to Howard, Rotarians were at Vestavia Hills City Schools on Meet the Teacher day passing out fliers for the event. In addition, the system’s Parent Teacher Organization has been spreading the word. “We are fortunate in this community that we have well-funded schools, but any time we can help raise some additional dollars, it just helps provide more programming for the students,” he said. When folks register to participate in Hike the Hill, they have the opportunity to choose a PTO team to support. A portion of the registration funds will directly benefit the chosen PTO’s efforts to provide grants to support student education.

Starts Sept. 1

On Sept. 1, an opening ceremony will take place about 11 a.m. at the

significant, classical works from world-renowned choreographers and first-time looks at up-andcoming contemporary artists. This year’s production will feature Joseph Mazilier’s “Paquita,” Roger VanFleteren’s “Shostakovich,” and Donnette Cannonie’s “The Place in Between.” When: showtimes vary Where: Alabama Ballet Center for Dance Website: alabamaballet.org/ at-home/

Sat., Sept. 11 Fall Plant Sale

The Birmingham Botanical Gardens will host its annual fall fundraiser featuring hundreds of plant varieties for sale with expert advice from seasoned Gardners. Members Only online shopping will be available on Aug. 27, with a members only

original route. This year’s official Hike the Hill starter will feature VHHS band director Jerell Horton cutting the ribbon to officially start the hike. In addition, Vestavia Hills Rotary Club Teachers of the Year will serve as honorary hikers. Rotary club members will spend each Sunday in September at a new route. The first 20 hikers to show up in their T-shirts will receive coupons for a free personal pan pizza from Donato’s Pizza. There also will be a number of prize drawings throughout the month. “We need to encourage people to get out, be active and take some of these challenges on,” Howard said. The club will host a closing celebration on the final Sunday of the month from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the original Hike the Hill route. Howard said Rotarians plan to give out a number of prizes, including two annual passes to Wald Park’s facilities.

in-person priority shopping event from 4-5:30 p.m. on Sept. 10. When: 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Where: Birmingham Botanical Gardens Website: bbgardens.org/fall-plant-sale

Sept. 11-12 BirmingFAM Festival

The event will feature local music, food, vendors and more to raise funds for the Jones Valley Teaching Farm. Where: TrimTab Brewing Co. Website: birmingfamfest.com

Sun., Sept. 12 Birmingham Walking Tours: Downtown Churches

Vulcan Park and Museum will host walking tours of Birmingham’s downtown churches, featuring

Howard hopes the event remains a fixture on the Vestavia Hills civic calendar and helps the Vestavia Hills Rotary Club maintain a relationship with community members. The club has been a fixture in the community for nearly five decades, and plans to celebrate its 50th anniversary in November. “We want to expose more and more people to Rotary and the work that we do not only here but around the world,” he said. Hike the Hill is just the tip of the iceberg for the service organization. Vestavia Hills Rotary participates in many community-based projects throughout the year. Each December, members spend Saturdays participating in the Salvation Army’s Christmas bell ringing. In 2020 and 2021, the club established “workday Saturdays” at Veterans’ Memorial Park to show appreciation for the country’s veterans. Members participate in cleaning and maintaining the park. Vestavia Hills Rotary also lends helping hands to the Central Alabama Community Food Bank, packaging food stores for distribution to those who are food insecure. Through donations and other clubwide work efforts, the Vestavia Hills Rotary Club serves Alabamians who are vulnerable to hunger. “We’re always looking for new members, people who are interested in the community and who are interested in making a difference in that community,” Howard said. “There are always volunteer opportunities. There are more opportunities out there than we have people, so hopefully we will pick up some new members to help continue to live out our motto of ‘Service above Self.’” The club meets at Southminster Presbyterian Church every first and third Tuesday of the month at 11:45 a.m. For more information, visit vestaviarotary.org.

discussions about architecture, history, and more. Churches include Cathedral of St. Paul, First Presbyterian Church, Cathedral Church of the Advent, First United Methodist Church and 16th Street Baptist Church. Registration is $25 for museum members and $40 for nonmembers. When: 2-4 p.m. Where: Vulcan Park and Museum Website: visitvulcan.com

Thurs., Sept. 16 Tapas and Taps

Lane Parke will host a fundraising event sponsored by Crawford Square Real Estate Advisors benefiting Magic Moments of Birmingham. Festivities will include local beer, small plates, music and auctions. When: 6-9 p.m. Where: Lane Parke Website: laneparke.com

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NEWS

6 • Thursday, August 26, 2021

Everyday Reminder Mountain Brook Hosts Tri-City 20th Anniversary Patriot Day Ceremony

By Emily Williams-Robertshaw

‘Never Forget’

Hoover to Host Patriot Day Ceremony and Stair Climb

The city of Hoover will commemorate the 20th anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks with its annual Patriot Day Remembrance Ceremony, followed by a Climb to Remember stair climb. The Remembrance Ceremony, held each year on Sept. 11, will take place at 8:30 a.m. in the food court at the Galleria. It will include music from local schoolchildren as well as a keynote speaker.

‘These were people who were running toward the danger, not away from it.’

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

This year is the 20th anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. The cities of Homewood, Mountain Brook and Vestavia Hills will gather in Crestline Village on Sept. 11 for an annual Patriot Day Ceremony. Ceremonial bells will ring and a moment of silence will be taken to honor the 2,977 lives lost, including more than 340 first responders, as hijacked planes struck the Twin Towers at the World Trade Center and the Pentagon, and Brian Hastings, United Flight director of the 93 was crashed Alabama Emergency Management in a field in Pennsylvania. Agency, will be the keynote speaker. The ceremony will take place in the O’Neal Library parking lot, beneath the shadow of a large American flag that will be hoisted high by fire trucks from each of the host cities’ fire departments. Nearby, a memorial installed at the Mountain Brook Fire Department’s Fire Station 1 showcases a beam of steel from the World Trade Center Towers. The 9/11 memorial serves as an everyday reminder of the terrorist attacks. Mountain Brook was set to host last year’s ceremony, but the event was canceled because of pandemic health and safety measures. Keynote speaker will be Brian Hastings, director of the Alabama Emergency Management Agency. Born in Germany and raised in Chicago, Hastings has a family history of military service. His father was an officer with the U.S. Army. A passion for service led him to join the U.S. Airforce Academy and subsequently the U.S. Air Force, in which he served from 1990 until his retirement as a colonel in 2017. In his military career, he earned the Bronze Star for his service in

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Afghanistan, two Legion of Merit Medals and three Meritorious Service Medals. The ceremony also will include music performed by the Mountain Brook High School jazz band. For more information, visit mtnbrookchamber.org.

The cities of Homewood, Mountain Brook and Vestavia Hills will gather in Crestline Village on Sept. 11 for an annual Patriot Day Ceremony.

Three Hundred Forty-Three firefighters and 70 police officers lost their lives that Tuesday morning when terrorists used airplanes to attack buildings in New York and Washington, D.C., and another plane was crashed in a rural area of Pennsylvania. According to city officials, event organizers wanted to do something special this year to honor the 20th anniversary of the terrorist attacks. “I am always humbled when I do a stair climb and think about what those men and women were going through before they died,” Hoover Fire Chief Clay Bentley said in a release. “We want to do this to memorialize and remember the lives lost.” The Climb to Remember stair climb will include participants walking stairs the equivalent of the 110 stories that had been in the World Trade Center’s twin towers. It will take place in the north parking deck of the mall, and participants will have the opportunity to wear a lanyard with a picture and name to honor a fallen first responder from 9/11 as they climb. “When we think of 9/11, we say, ‘Never forget’ and by having this, we all remember the sacrifices people gave to their city that day,” Hoover Police Chief Nick Derzis said. “These were people who were running toward the danger, not away from it. Anything we can do to remember that day is humbling — especially for police officers and firefighters.” Participation in the stair climb is free, but donations will be accepted for the Hoover Public Safety Charity Foundation. Those who wish to participate in the Climb to Remember can register at hooveralabama.gov. No registration is needed to attend the ceremony. —Emily Williams-Robertshaw

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Photo courtesy St. Vincent’s Foundation

Bill Kotti has extensive experience in health care fundraising.

William P. Kotti to Lead St. Vincent’s Foundation

Ascension St. Vincent’s recently announced that William “Bill” Kotti, PhD, has been selected as the new president of St. Vincent’s Foundation, becoming its third leader in 37 years. Kotti has extensive experience in health care fundraising, serving most recently for the Ascension Texas market as chief development officer and executive director of development at Dell Seton Medical Center/University of Texas in Austin. Kotti has served as president/chief development officer at the Medical College of Virginia Foundation and associate vice president for academic development at Emory University, and

Thursday, August 26, 2021 • 7

NEWS

he has held executive positions at Johns Hopkins University and the University of South Carolina. “In Bill we have found a proven mission-driven leader who is passionate about patient care,” said Wayne Carmello-Harper, chief mission integration officer at Ascension St. Vincent’s. “We are excited to see the impact Bill and his team will have as we continue our 123-year legacy of caring for our community.” “I look forward to expanding on the already great work of St. Vincent’s Foundation and meeting the faithful donors, community leaders, grateful patients and physicians,” Kotti said.

POWER THAT MOVES

Charles Barkley will appear Saturday at a rally to encourage widespread vaccination against COVID19. Barkley, who is from Leeds, attended Auburn University and became an NBA basketball star, has been a major advocate for the vaccine. The rally is being presented by the University of Alabama at Birmingham Minority Health & Health Disparities Research Center at Legion Field from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday. Free walk-up and drivethru vaccines will be offered during those hours, according to a statement from UAB. Food trucks will be onsite, and free T-shirts will be given to the first 300 people to be vaccinated. Celeste Reese-Willis, M.D., a family and urgent care physician, will lead the team giving drive-thru vaccines, and Alabama Regional Medical Services will be administering the walk-up vaccinations. Barkley is set to speak at about 11:30 a.m. to encourage and support those getting vaccinated. He will not be available for autographs. “I am grateful that Charles agreed to help us encourage Alabamians to get vaccinated,” said Mona Fouad, director of UAB’s minority center and

Photo UAB

Get Stuck With Chuck at Vaccine Rally

Barkley, who is from Leeds, attended Auburn University and became an NBA basketball star, has been a major advocate for the vaccine.

principal investigator for the Community Engagement Alliance against COVID-19 Disparities. “Charles is a longtime supporter of the MHRC who is passionate about addressing health disparities,” she said. “He brings his unique voice to the urgent need to stop the spread of COVID-19 by increasing the number of vaccinated people in Alabama.” The community engagement alliance, V-94 radio and WVTM-TV are sponsoring the event. Anyone 12 or older is eligible to receive the vaccine.

NIA MYA REESE

Nia Mya Reese is no ordinary 12-year-old. Not only did she write a best-selling book at the age of 8, but she has also inspired countless others to pursue their dreams. Her children’s books are dedicated to empowering children of color. As a Power Mover, Nia Mya’s career is just beginning, and Alabama Power proudly shines a light on her accomplishments, her impact and her incredible future.

LIFE

8 • Thursday, August 26, 2021

By Emily Williams-Robertshaw

Backed by scientific data, most notably sourced from Marc A. Zimmerman of the University of Michigan, Athena Collective identified a three-step method to create lasting change that first inspires empowered people and then fosters communities of empowerment to create lasting cultural change. “We felt like society was missing the first two parts of the process,” she said. While Athena Collective offers programming that focuses on supporting female entrepreneurs, Elia Fulmen seeks to reach people in their daily lives

Building a Community

“The reason that the trunk show model was so important is that the charms are also meant to be discussed,” Wright said. “That would facilitate the community-building component.” While trunk shows have been on the back burner for much of Elia Fulmen’s existence, thus far, the inability to meet people in person has generated an opportunity to establish an empowered community online. Each charm has a unique number that initial-

‘It is the most moving thing to read a note that a woman is sending another who is maybe going through a tough time.’

Photos courtesy Elia Fulmen

irmingham-based fine jewelry brand Elia Fulmen seeks to foster empowered communities one charm at a time. The mission of the gold vermeil jewelry line, established by Birmingham resident Whitney Wright, is not so much about the product as its purpose. “When I meet new people, most assume that I am a brand advocate, so they’ll ask me how I met ‘Elia,’” Wright said. The name of the company was inspired by Athena, the goddess of many things, including wisdom, courage, justice and civilization. Elia, Greek for olive, represents the olive trees that Athena would plant as a gesture of good will and peace after conquering cities. Fulmen, Latin for lightning bolt, represents Athena’s power. She was granted exclusive use of Zeus’ lightning bolts. The line’s main players are the charms that feature a variety of symbols, each representing four words of empowerment. “They are meant to be worn not just (as) jewelry,” Wright said. “The jewelry represents something that you embody.” The charms can be worn on the brand’s necklace chain, which has a clasp patented by Wright, or a set of threader-style earrings. While symbols are conceived by the Elia Fulmen team, many have been inspired by customers or people tied to the brand after being asked what is important to them. “During the pandemic, our highest selling charm was Peace of Mind,” Wright said. The symbol is of an olive branch and its words of empowerment are balanced, mindful, calm and collected. During the pandemic, the popularity shifted to a True North charm, the Equality charm and, now that people are returning to offices, the Workhorse and Hammer charms. Charms are packaged with intention as well. “When you open it, whether it’s for you or someone sent it to you, it’s immediately clear why it was sent,” Wright said. While she never envisioned a career designing jewelry, Wright conceived the idea for Elia Fulmen and began working toward launching the brand in mid-December 2019. “I felt so goofy,” she said. “I took out a pencil and a piece of paper and drew some things.” The focus for point-of-sale would be trunk shows, which would create an opportunity for customers to discuss the purpose of the product. Wright was planning to travel to New York City on March 9, 2020, for a series of trunk shows. “I had a friend in New York City who said, ‘You can’t come up here,’” Wright said. While a full picture of the COVID-19 pandemic still was forming in the South, Wright’s friend was seeing runs on ATMs among other signs of public panic. In response to impending shutdowns and travel limitations, the company quickly pivoted to create a website and transition to e-commerce. “A big component of what Elia Fulmen is is creating communities of women,” Wright said. “The pandemic turned out to be an awesome opportunity to do that.”

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Whitney Wright

Forged With Purpose

Jewelry Line Elia Fulmen Aims to Foster Communities of Empowerment

Empowerment Theory

“I am not a jewelry person,” Wright said. “It was never my dream to be a jewelry designer or to be in this space. Elia Fulmen really is a byproduct of the work I started doing with Athena Collective.” Athena Collective is a Birmingham-based gender equity program Wright co-founded with Nicole Carpenter more than five years ago. A Chicago native, Wright began her career in engineering but frequently shifted gears. She studied journalism, went to culinary school, worked as a chef and ended up in New York City working for startups. She had been married, given birth to her daughter and been divorced, and eventually she saw she needed a change.

“New York is an amazing place to live for a stint,” she said, but it isn’t a great place to raise a family. She accepted a job with Time, Inc., which brought her to Birmingham for the first time. “I think living in Alabama, more than any other place, has made me a better mother, a better daughter, a better sister, a better friend, a better businesswoman, just because I’ve been exposed and proximate to things I previously didn’t know or understand,” she said. As she transitioned to working for a management fund, she began to get inspiration for Athena Collective. The initial mission was to identify effective ways to foster a culture that empowers women.

ly was intended to be used to catalog each charm’s journey as it was traded among people. People would take that number and reference a digital catalog that includes the stories of the women who wore it. “We were getting these stories that were private to their specific charm number, but the stories were so amazing and inspiring,” Wright said. Some of them have been shared anonymously on Elia Fulmen’s social media. One woman shared her journey undergoing thyroid surgery and spoke about the sense of empowerment she felt wearing her necklace with the charm positioned right by her scar. “We’ll be redoing the charm model a little bit so everyone can see each other’s stories,” she said. “You can search broadly by charm, but each of the stories are so moving.” By far, she said, her favorite part of the process is the stories, whether she reads them or hears them when she meets people. “It’s nice to sell jewelry and be able to make a living, but I’m in it because I have met incredible women who inspire me,” she said. As the business has grown, she refuses to hire co-packers or distributors for the products. When she packs the shipments herself, she gets to read the gift notes. “It is the most moving thing to read a note that a woman is sending another who is maybe going through a tough time.” She has also seen numerous husbands purchase charms as gifts for their wives who

recently have given birth. The notes speak about how the men are in awe of their partners’ strength. It’s not only a great experience for her but also her daughter, who helps out for a fee of $0.25 per box. “It always makes me happy for her to see her mother building something that is so meaningful,” Wright said. She also has had the opportunity to partner with other female-led businesses locally and nationally. She will soon partner with Hey Mama, a resource for working mothers that soon will launch a local network. “It’s what this is all about fundamentally,” Wright said. “This is the brand mission. To get women together to collaborate and build communities. For more information, visit eliafulmen.com.

LIFE

Linly Heflin Unit Collaborates with Gus Mayer to Host 62nd Annual Scholarship Fashion Show The Linly Heflin Unit will celebrate its 62nd annual Scholarship Fashion Show on Oct. 13. The annual event is the primary fundraiser for the organization. After canceling last year’s event because of pandemic restrictions, the cocktail gala will return this year and will be hosted at The Club. This year’s event will feature a fashion show coordinated with help from Gus Mayer, highlighting featured designer Zang Toi. The Linly Heflin Unit is named in honor of Birmingham resident Linly Heflin, who helped establish a Red Cross surgical dressing unit during World War I to support war efforts at home. Following Heflin’s death in 1919, the Linly Heflin Unit was established to continue her work. In 1923, the organization began awarding scholarships to women to

Thursday, August 26, 2021 • 9

Photo courtesy Linly Heflin Unit

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

From left, Jeff Pizitz, Gus Mayer owner; Cameron Crowe, fashion show chair; Jean Oliver, Linly Heflin president; and Chuck Mallett, Gus Mayer president.

attend college. Despite pandemic limitations, the organization was able to award scholarships of $9,000 per year for up to four years to 100 young women pursuing undergraduate degrees at Alabama universities. For more information, visit linlyheflin.org.

Rare Opportunity 4 Lots Available

Homesites for Sale in Prestigious Gated Vestavia Hills Community: $109,000 Only 4 lots remain in the exclusive community of Viridian, one mile off Highway 31 on Tyler Road, convenient to Birmingham’s major Interstates, shopping and recreation. Bring your builder or let Wedgworth Construction design and build your dream home.

www.wedgworth.net

Mike Wedgworth (205) 365-4344

cookmuseum.org

SOCIAL

Journal photos by Jordan Wald Journal photo by

10 • Thursday, August 26, 2021

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Abby Kilmury and Karlin Fleming.

From left, Ricky and Nancy Bromberg, Jean Smallwood and Suzan Doidge.

THURSDAY NIGHT LIVE Mountain Brook Chamber Junior Board Raises Money for Merchants Hit by COVID

Ross Beshear and Scot Augustson.

Evelyn Poole, Whitman Wesley and Chris Boehm. John and Virginia McCary with daughters Julia and Porter, and Tricia and Stephen Moake.

Emily Gradner and Kim McGuire.

he Mountain Brook Chamber of Commerce junior board presented a music and food event Aug. 12 to raise money to help merchants in the city survive the effects of the pandemic. Thursday Night Live was the first fundraiser organized by the junior board, which was established in 2019. It was held in the O’Neal Library parking lot and raised money to go into the chamber’s Merchant Relief Fund. The event included live music from Pioneer Chicken Stand, drinks, local food and vendors and raffle prizes. ❖

Ali Money, Taylor Mott and Lauren Tatum.

Sam Gaston, Walter Crye, Stewart Welch, William Phillips and Adam Greenhalgh.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Thursday, August 26, 2021 • 11

SOCIAL 2021

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

free & open to the public

From left, Nadav Raviv, Audra Seachris, Patrick McKinney, Audrey Pannell and Heath Bostick.

A Good Pour

September 11 AT B I R M I N G H A M B OTA N I C A L G A R D E N S

Wine-O-logy Tasting Event Held as Part of BRW In conjunction with Birmingham Restaurant Week, the annual Wine-ology event was hosted at Vino & Gallery Bar on Aug. 18. Guests sampled flights of five wines provided by United-Johnson Brothers alongside hors d’oeuvres provided by Sysco foods. After tasting, attendees could pick a complimentary glass of their favorite wine, with bottles available for purchase. Funds raised through the event benefit Birmingham Restaurant Week’s mission to stimulate the local economy and celebrate Birmingham’s award-winning restaurant scene. ❖

MEMBERS-ONLY ONLINE SHOPPING Friday, August 27 MEMBERS SHOP IN PERSON Friday, September 10 | 4–5:30 p.m.

bbgardens.org A facility of the Birmingham Park and Recreation Board, Birmingham Botanical Gardens is the result of a public/private partnership between the City of Birmingham and the nonprofit Friends of Birmingham Botanical Gardens, a mission-driven membership organization that seeks to protect, nurture, and share the wonders of the Gardens.

Chuck Cargal, Bill Stoefhaas, Wayne Wood and James Robinson.

Toni Herrera-Bast, Mike Thompson, James Robinson and Richard Carnaggio.

Keith and Taylor Cargal.

CAHABA HEIGHTS 4200 Oakview Lane 970-7997 shrose.com Matt Foster, Dusten Zientek and Wayne Wood.

12 • Thursday, August 26, 2021

PLAY BALL Parkinson Association Unveils New Alabama License Plate at Regions Field

End Polio Now Birmingham Rotaract Bowls for Dollars to Defeat Polio

Members and supporters of the Rotaract Club of Birmingham populated the lanes of Vestavia Bowl on Aug. 14 as the organization hosted a Pin Down Polio fundraiser. Guests laced up their shoes and took part in two hours of bowling along with food and drinks to raise funds for Rotary International’s End Polio Now Campaign. The campaign seeks to eradicate polio, one of Rotary International’s longest-standing efforts. More than 2.5 billion immunizations have been administered to children in 122 countries. The campaign culminates with World Polio Day on Oct. 24. ❖

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

From left, Dan Thomasson with George and Sybil Newton.

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

The Birmingham Barons’ Aug. 15 game against the Chattanooga Lookouts was canceled due to weather, but that didn’t stop the party as the Parkinson Association of Alabama hosted a kickoff party for its new Step Up to the Plate campaign. Hosted in the Diamonds Direct ballroom, the fundraiser included food, fun and networking opportunities as well as the unveiling of the new Parkinson

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

SOCIAL

Brian Corbett and Bibby Bailey.

Tony Steadman and Leisa Pitts.

Association of Alabama specialty state license plate. For each $50 license plate purchase, the association will receive $41.25. The organization is working toward a goal of 250 pre-commitment purchases to make the campaign successful. Instructions to purchase a pre-com-

mitment for the license plate can be found at parkinsonalabama.com under the Resources and Support. Funds raised will support the association’s mission to improve the quality of life for patients, caregivers and families affected by Parkinson’s Disease in Alabama. ❖

Visit The Shops of The Assistance League of Birmingham Come browse some of the local artists’ creations! Unique gifts for every occasion. While here shop Encore the specialty thrift store. Encore funds Operation School Bell which provides new clothing for needy school children in the Birmingham area.

Join Us and Lend a Hand!

Carey Thomasson and Patti Hughes.

Above, from left, Baily Martin, Alex Occypok, Matt Vogelsang, Taylor Hardy and Erin Kendall. Below, front, James Yacup; back, Miller Duncan, Macy Vintson, Katelyn Cutshall and Philip Elrod.

Tomi Kate O’Neal and Robert Fuentes.

Roman BRantley aRt, antiques Gifts & DecoR

Open Saturdays after Labor Day AL Assistance League Birmingham 1755 Oxmoor Rd. (205) 870-5555 • Albhm@bellsouth.net

Summer Hours: Tues. - Fri. 10:30-5:00 pm (or by appointment) 2790 BM Montgomery Street Homewood, AL • 205.460.1224

Laura Klein and Molly Shuster. fRank fleminG

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Thursday, August 26, 2021 • 13

Photo courtesy SVC

SOCIAL

Best Pet Portraits From left, Molly Bee Bloetscher, Mike Meeks, Sandra Wilson, Zane Rhoades, Liz Warren, Pam Wood, Rosemarie Kramer, Roberta Atkinson, Diane Ray, Shirley Brown, Betsy Cooper, Char Bonsack, Debbie Reid, Cheryl Floyd, Linda Griggs and Jonnie Venglik.

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August 26th-September 3rd Large selection

Symphony Volunteer Council Hosts First Meeting Since 2020

The Symphony Volunteer Council recently held its first in-person meeting since February 2020. Members discussed plans to host the organization’s first social of the year on Sept. 14. The largest volunteer organization for the Alabama Symphony Orchestra, the council promotes the orchestra through fundraising and other support activities, including the Lois Pickard Music Scholarship Competition and the Decorators’ ShowHouse. Attending the meeting were Roberta Atkinson, Molly Bee Bloetscher, Char Bonsack, Shirley Brown, Betsy Cooper, Cheryl Floyd, Linda Griggs, Rosemarie Kramer, Mike Meeks, Diane Ray, Debbie Reid, Zane Rhoades, Jonnie Venglik, Liz Warren, Sandra Wilson and Pam Wood. ❖

Weekly Shipments

To: Becky From: Over the Mountain Journal 823-9646 ph, Date: August 2021

Christine’s Canterbury

This is your AD PROOF FOR OVERon THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL for th sales representative as soon as possible to approve y

Tues.-Sat. 10-4:00 5620 Cahaba Valley Road

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Thirteen Distinctive New Homes in Vestavia Hills 2404 Canterbury Road ~ (205) 555-1234 On the crest of Shades Mountain overlooking Oxmoor Valley, Walnut Hill epitomizes a Wedgworth community: beautiful homes, great views, and energysmart construction. Minutes from I-65 and downtown Birmingham, these thirteen home sites surround a central park. With lots starting at $200,000, Walnut Hill provides a unique opportunity for you to create a custom home in one of Birmingham’s most desirable areas.

To: From: Date:

Attic Antiques Over The Mountain Journal, PHONE: 205-823-9646 FAX: 205-824-1246 August

To: Jean From: Over the Mountain Journal Date: Aug. 2021

This is your ad proof for the 8/26/2021 ISSUE OF OTMJ. Please contact your sales represen your ad or make changes.

www.wedgworth.net Please make sure all information is correct, including address a This is your AD PROOF from the OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL for the Mike Wedgworth (205) 365-4344 August 26, 2021 issue. Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246.

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If we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the Friday before the press date, your ad will run as is. We print the paper Monday.

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FASHION

14 • Thursday, August 26, 2021

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

In With the New In B. Prince’s 40th Year, Customers Return to Rediscover Style

By Emily Williams-Robertshaw

Up for the Hunt

Dolatabadi grew up with a respect for fashion, something his father, mother and grandmother always had a great interest in. He also has a passion for the hunt when it comes to finding interesting and eclectic pieces that suit the store’s unique, individual-driven sense of style. “I can’t stop myself,” he said. “If I’m out of town and I go into a store, I can’t help but start digging and searching.” It also is important for his staff to get involved in the process of stocking the store. They are like a family. “When I go to market, I come home and show everyone the buys that I’ve looked at,” he said. “I’ll send an email to everyone with different styles, and they submit to me what they like. “As a result, we get an overall impression, so when the things come in, everybody is invested because everybody has been a part of it.”

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

hile 2020 was the year of social distancing and e-commerce, local retailers have seen a distinct return to stores this summer as people rediscover their own style. According to B. Prince owner Bezshan Dolatabadi, the store began getting an insurgence of customers beginning in April. That rise has continued through June and July, which normally are slow months for the store. Among the shoppers are previous customers who haven’t been to the shop in a while. “They wanted to rediscover and start fresh,” Dolatabadi said. “They didn’t want to look back.” Dolatabadi has been working at B. Prince since it was founded in 1981. For many years, he managed much of the operation as founders Betsy and Peter Printz transitioned into retirement, and in 2015, he was able to buy the store. “I love the relationships with people, because we have customers who have shopped with us for the whole 40 years, and their daughters and granddaughters are shopping with us,” he said. Dolatabadi moved the clothing store from its former location at Brookwood Village to Lane Parke in Mountain Brook, incorporating new branding and infusing more of his own influence into the shop’s unique sense of discovery. “Sometimes it is like a museum, I have customers who have come in for years and probably have only bought a few items, but they come in quite regularly just to get inspiration, walk around and look,” Dolatabadi said. “That’s a compliment to us.” The layout of the store reflects the eclectic style of Dolatabadi and his staff. “There’s always room for something new,” he said. He wants people to spend time in the store, hunting for pieces they didn’t see at first glance with support from his staff.

According to B. Prince owner Bezshan Dolatabadi, above, the store began getting an insurgence of customers beginning in April. That rise has continued through June and July, which normally are slow months for the store.

‘There is definitely still room for that hands-on experience with someone who has become a friend, who knows your style, who can call you when things come in.’ B. PRINCE OWNER BEZSHAN DOLATABADI

One of the reasons he firmly believes brickand-mortar clothing stores continue to remain relevant despite growing e-commerce platforms is that interpersonal experience customers have with staff members. “There is definitely still room for that handson experience with someone who has become a friend, who knows your style, who can call you when things come in,” he said. After 40 years in the business, he still loves pretty much everything about it. “I still love the creative side, doing the buying and merchandising the store,” he said. “This morning I spent two hours ‘repainting the store,’ putting different collections together and making the store look appealing.” Right after moving to the Lane Parke location, Dolatabadi married his wife, Andrea, and she has taken on the role of business manager. “She’s got a great head for numbers,” he said. “She also got our website up and running. That’s not my expertise, but watching her do that and seeing how it connects to the front of the store has really reinfused my sense of creativity.”

Tough COVID-19 Year

The past year and a half have been a mixture of downfalls and successes.

“What’s been tough with COVID is not being able to go to market and touch fabrics and textiles,” Dolatabadi said. He is optimistic about his plans to return to market in Paris in October, but he also sees that it may be put on hold again. “We are as apprehensive about the future as a lot of people are, but at the same time, we’re welcoming a better time,” he said. Nevertheless, the store has continued to stock unique pieces through Dolatabadi’s years-long relationships with designers around the world. Another bright light was the introduction of the store’s virtual fashion shows, which periodically are released on social media. It’s one of the things that carried Dolatabadi and his staff through the weeks-long pandemic shutdowns. “When customers started coming back into the store, they kept telling us, ‘Please, don’t stop,’” he said. “So, we still do those virtual shows and we get comments and calls about them every day. That’s something that we never would have learned without this pandemic.” While some things are uncertain, B. Prince is a constant in serving the community distinctive fashion and a creative experience.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Thursday, August 26, 2021 • 15

FASHION

What’s In for Fall Fashion 2021? ‘Classic Styles But with A Comfortable and Modern Twist’

Trends last fall focused on accessories as people created collections of masks. People traded suits and slacks for sweatpants and leggings. We caught up with local retailers to see how fashion has evolved this summer and what is in store this fall. What trends are you most excited about for fall of 2021?

“We are very excited about the amount of luxe fabrics and vibrant colors that are making an appearance for fall 2021,” said B. Prince owner Bezshan Dolatabadi. “Rich cashmere sweaters paired with full skirts. Lace up boots on clunkier soles round out the look and not only give it an edge but also are comfortable and perfect for our current lifestyle.” Flip Flops and What Nots owner Kathleen Roberts has seen trends focus on, “all of the casual coolweather clothes and fashion tennis shoes, as well as cute lug sole boots and cozy sweaters.” Katherine McRee, co-owner of The Lili Pad and Gigi’s Tween, offers two perspectives. At the Lili Pad, children’s clothing for the fall is trending back to classic styles but with a comfortable and modern twist. Tween styles at Gigi’s feature, “anything velvet, straight leg mom jeans and smocked ruffle skirts,” she said. “I always love fall,” said Gina Saab, owner of Second Hand Rose. “This fall, I’m excited about the colors: army green, merlots, blues. It’s a great color palette.” “I’m most excited about the luxurious textures and rich colors,” said Laurel Bassett, owner of Town & Country. She notes that key features include “lush velvets and soft knits in brighter colors that are a little unexpected for fall.” 2020 was all about accessories, what pieces or products have been popular this summer?

“This summer, the accessory that

we have had most requests for are pearls,” Dolatabadi said. “Our inhouse jewelry designer, Louise Abroms, has created all lengths and sizes that look great with just a T-shirt and jeans.” “It seems like earrings are always an easy pick-me-up,” Roberts said. She’s loving pieces that feature sparkle, wood and beads. The Lili Pad is stocking Southern style T-shirts, Aftco shorts and Properly Tied shorts for the boys. For girls, it’s all about hair accessories. “The top trend is water-proof hair bows,” McRee said. At Gigi’s, McRee’s favorites for fall are smiley face trucker hats, beaded friendship bracelets, earrings and fuzzy pajama shorts. This summer, Saab saw customers focus on hoop earrings and layered necklaces as accessories. “Kimonos continue to be a strong category, since they fit every size and are easy to dress up or down,” Bassett said. “Fun earrings, necklaces and lightweight scarves are always a great way to add style, personality and a pop of color to any outfit.” How has the pandemic shaped future fashion trends?

“We did believe that the pandemic would really put a casual influence on fashion going forward, but in speaking to the designers and companies that we represent, we find a current decline in requests for athleisure and sweats and an increase in desire for beautiful clothing with interesting design,” Dolatabadi said. “We are relieved!” “With everyone working from home, it seems casual is the name of the game,” Roberts said. “That’s a good thing, because that’s what (Flip Flops and What Nots) does – comfort and casual shoes and clothes to make you feel good and look good.” “Over the past few months, we have seen more and more people wanting to dress up,” McRee said.

“People are finding their style through fashion statements. The evolution of fashion from 2020-21 is more dressy than casual and comfy.” “Athleisure has always been a big seller for us, but we definitely have seen a bigger demand for it,” Saab said. For Bassett, the attention designers have paid to comfort continues to thrive. “All of our clothing lines are now offering more casual styles as part of their collection,” Bassett said. “Thankfully, there is a renewed focus on soft knits and fabrics that feel good to wear.” Have you seen a significant change in the retail industry in comparison to 2020?

“We have seen a change,” Dolatabadi said. “It did not occur until mid-April of this year, but business rebounded. I think that it was due to vaccinated customers feeling comfortable getting out and finally going places. Up to now, we are still being visited by people who are on their first shopping trip in over a year!” “Our customers have been so great to come in and shop,” Roberts said. “There is nothing like shopping in

person. I like to touch, feel and try on.” In 2020, McRee saw major changes, with the retail market shrinking due to business closures and halts in production that disrupted the supply chain. “The demand for products has skyrocketed since 2020 and people have a renewed appreciation and love for small, local businesses,” she said. “2021 has brought positive change in the retail world and we are all a little more patient, kind and understanding.” “We, like everyone else, were greatly affected by the pandemic,” Saab said. “Once the country started opening up and people are getting to go places, we have gotten very busy.” She added that the consignment store is packed with merchandise, with about half of the inventory being brand new pieces with tags still attached. According to Bassett, shoppers are embracing change. “People are going places again, even if they may be in smaller groups,” she said. “Our customers are ready to have fresh looks to wear. Everyone is definitely sick of the clothes they wore in 2020 and ready for something fresh and new.” —Emily Williams-Robertshaw

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Rehab Reality... by Judy Butler

Athletes with Addiction

Admitting a drug or alcohol problem can be difficult especially for athletes. Not only is there the fear of losing the possible fame and recognition, but also the loss of the stimulant that he of she has become dependent on. Injuries in sportsl can open the door to drug dependency. Many times we don’t realize the dependence because it’s become part of our life. For instance, just one more drink before heading out… while this seems innocent enough and is – that one more drink can derail an otherwise perfectly normal life. The saying that “life’s full of unexpected turns” is so true. That one drink is the one that the police officer smells when he pulls you over for not coming to a full and complete stop at a stop sign, or one of your tail lights is out, or you swerve to reach for your phone. It doesn’t help that you’ve just left an area where bars are located. Results: DUI, suspended license, and driver’s school. We’ve had clients who have faced the issues of alcoholism and have said “the favorite drink of an alcoholic is the next one” and “an alcoholic is not one who drinks too much, but one who can’t get enough”. Now in our eleventh year we’ve heard it all. The important thing is that because we’re small with only 6 clients at a time we understand and can help clients come to grips with their issues whether it’s with alcohol or drugs. Each person is able to get the attention needed to help identify the what-ifs and whys in his or her life.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

SCHOOLS

Chapman, a seventh grade student at Mountain Brook Junior High, is one of two Alabama children to be featured in the seven-book series.

Mountain Brook’s Callie Chapman and her children’s book series Glitter the Unicorn will be featured in a new book series, Young Change Makers, by Stacy C. Bauer. Chapman, a seventh grade student at Mountain Brook Junior High, is one of two Alabama children to be featured in the seven-book series. The series highlights more than 80 trailblazing youths from around the world who are taking action to change their communities in positive ways.

Bauer, an educator, wanted others to know the stories of ordinary kids who were doing extraordinary things. “I created ‘Young Change Makers’ because I kept having recurring thoughts about using my author voice to write about kids making a difference and inspiring change,” Bauer said in a release. “These are some absolutely incredible kids. From raising money to helping the sick, to planting over a billion trees worldwide, these kids are so caring, inspir-

VHEW PTO Welcomes New Students and Families New students to Vestavia Hills Elementary West were welcomed by the school’s PTO with two events to kick off the school year. On Aug. 5, new kindergartners and first-time West students gathered at the school’s playground for a popsicle party. Students and parents connected with new friends and celebrated the start of the 2021-2022 year. PTO distributed “I love West” sunglasses to kids. More than 80 families attended the first PTO event of the year. On Aug. 11, the first day of school, parents of kindergartners were invited to attend a “Boohoo Yahoo” breakfast after dropping off their students.

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“We know the kids weren’t the only ones nervous about the first day of kindergarten,” said Melissa Simmons, West PTO president. “Boohoo Yahoo allowed parents to drink some coffee and cheer or cry together as they commemorated this milestone in their children’s lives.” Parents also received a brief introduction to the PTO and were encouraged to join.

Photo courtesy Hoover City Schools

ing, selfless and kind. “They are taking action to spread joy and love, and I am so excited to share their stories.” Chapman will be featured in book three of the series. She has written four books: “Glitter the Unicorn,” “Glitter the Unicorn Goes to the Beach,” “Glitter the Unicorn Goes to the Moon” and “Chandler the Best Unicorn Rider.” Chapman donates all proceeds from the book sales to Children’s of Alabama, and the money is used to buy art supplies. She has donated $11,500, with plans to make another donation of $8,500 in September. In addition, she has won a number of awards recently: “Glitter the Unicorn Goes to the Beach” earned a silver distinction from Mom’s Choice Awards; “Glitter the Unicorn Goes to the Moon” was named a New York Book Festival runner-up in the children’s book category; and “Chandler the Best Unicorn Rider” received Purple Dragonfly honorable mention in three categories, best cover design, school issues and youth author fiction. In addition, “Glitter the Unicorn Goes to the Beach” recently was read by Sarah Ferguson, duchess of York, in her YouTube reading series “Fergie and Friends.” For more information, visit Glittertheunicorn.com.

Photo courtesy VHEW

Photos courtesy Callie Chapman

MBJH’s Callie Chapman Recognized for Children’s Book Series

Hoover City Schools Superintendent Dee Fowler; Trace Crossings counselor Terri Coleman; Alabama Superintendent Dr. Eric Mackey; and Hoover Assistant Superintendent Dr. Ron Dodson.

Trace Crossings’ Terri Coleman Named Alabama Counselor of the Year

Trace Crossings Counselor Terri Coleman has been named Alabama Counselor of the Year by the Alabama School Counselor’s Association. She now is in the running for National Counselor of the Year. At the Hoover Board of Education’s Aug. 9 meeting, Superintendent Dee Fowler recognized Coleman, and a video presentation was shown featuring Trace Crossings administration and students singing Coleman’s praises. “We’re thankful for her,” said Trace Crossings Principal Quincy Collins. “She has been a source of pride here at our school and we just hope that she can continue to do well in all of her endeavors.” Trace Crossings Elementary School recently was named the most diverse school in the state by Niche. com and has students from 35 countries who speak 25 languages. At an American School Counselor Association in July in Las Vegas, Coleman’s counseling program was named a program of distinction. “Our school counseling program does an amazing job of meeting the needs of all of our students,” Coleman states in the video. Coleman, a Hoover resident, said

she first was drawn to school counseling because of her poor experiences with her own elementary school counselor. She has been a counselor for 12 years, the past five of those at Trace Crossings. Coleman said many of her students enter the classroom with their walls up, and it is her duty to show them that those walls can be let down. The motto she shares with students is that she may not teach math and science, but her lessons are just as long-lasting. Programs highlighted in her presentation include Buc’s Club, which stands for believe, unite and contribute. In that student organization, kids come up with ways to give back to the school and the community. Students involved in the Bully Busters Club came up with the school’s Kindness Box program, in which kids can write kind notes to one another anonymously in an effort to make all students feel appreciated and included. “The kids at Trace Crossings mean everything to me,” Coleman said. “I know that my position as a counselor is a calling. I don’t really look at it oftentimes as a job.”

Spain Park to Host Annual Cheer Program The cheerleaders at Spain Park High School will host their annual Jag Spirit Clinic for middle school students Aug. 25, 4-6 p.m., and Aug. 26, 4-6 p.m. Participants will learn traditional Spain Park cheers and a cheer dance routine that will be performed in front of the Jag Nation during the pregame show for the Spain Park vs. Briarwood game Aug. 27. The cost to attend the clinic is $45, which includes a T-shirt. Payment ay be made by going to myschoolfees, click on Public Items, then SPHS Athletics, then Cheer.

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

16 • Thursday, August 26, 2021

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Team to Beat? Spain Park Opens Volleyball Season With Juanita Boddie Title

Thursday, August 26, 2021 • 17

SPORTS 185 digs, 64 aces and 50 blocks last season. “Audrey has been with me for five years, a long time,” Bowen said. “I think she is the best player in the state. When we needed another setter last year, she stepped into that role. She has the best hands of any player in the state. She can play any position. She can play libero and of course she shoulders the role as our outside hitter. I’m not taking anything away from Rya, but I am a little biased.” Rothman, junior outside hitter Emily Breazeale, senior right side hit-

ter Bella Halyard, senior middle blocker Olivia Myers and junior middle blocker McKinney Shea, who also will play right side depending on the situation and opponent, give the Jags a formidable front row. Paige Ingersoll, another senior outside hitter, shows a great deal of leadership, Bowen said. The other senior is outside hitter Brooke Gober. Two other key players for the Jags are junior libero Brooklyn Allison, one of the best defensive specialists in the state, and junior setter Lilly Johnson. “Last year’s success doesn’t roll

over into this year and this group has to find its own identity,” Bowen said. “You can’t overlook the other teams in central Alabama. There are a lot of good teams around here. “The expectations are the same as they have been for the last eight years. We have a standard and a culture that we hold them to every day. I feel like they do a good job of having accountability. “We’ve got to play to our standards and we have to move forward and learn from our failures. We have a lot to prove to each other and everyone.”

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Above, junior setter Lilly Johnson. Versatile 6-foot-4 senior outside hitter Audrey Rothman, right, is committed to Florida State for indoor and beach volleyball.

By Rubin E. Grant Spain Park volleyball coach Kellye Bowen doesn’t put much stock in rankings. When the AL.com preseason volleyball poll came out with the Jaguars perched at No. 1 in Class 7A, Bowen greeted it with a shrug. “What matters is how you play in October,” she said, referring to the postseason. “The main question is, are we just an August or September team? It boils down to how we play in October.” The Jags were a pretty good October team in 2020, reaching the Class 7A finals before losing to crosstown rival Hoover and finishing with a 27-11 record. They have started this season in dominating fashion. Spain Park won the 39th Juanita Boddie Invitational last weekend at the Finley Center in Hoover. The Jags were 8-0 in the tournament and didn’t drop a set, sweeping Bayside Academy in two sets (2518, 25-21) in the finals to win the Boddie for the first time in school history. “I think it was a tremendous effort by our group,” Bowen said. “I thought all 13 players played their role and did their job really well. They played to their potential and then some. “We were down in a couple matches and came back. When you play that many matches in two days, you get tired and you’re going to make mistakes, but when they made a mistake, they did a good job of bouncing back. I think the best word to describe it is resilient.” The Jags (10-0) opened the season

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last Thursday at home with two-set sweeps of James Clemens and Buckhorn. Spain Park has the bulk of its 2020 team returning this season, including five seniors and eight juniors. “They are seasoned, let’s call them that,” Bowen said. At the head of the class, figuratively and literally, is versatile 6-foot-4 senior outside hitter Audrey Rothman, who Bowen considers the top player in the state ahead of Hoover’s Rya McKinnon, who was the 2020 Alabama Gatorade Volleyball Player of the Year. Rothman is committed to Florida State for indoor and beach volleyball. She recorded 512 kills, 244 assists,

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

SPORTS

FOOTBALL

ing the Lions to a 41-17 victory. Reebals ran for 104 yards on 11 carries and three touchdowns on runs of 1, 80 and 2 yards. He also caught five passes for 78 yards and another score. Vizzina was a perfect 14 of 14 passing for 190 yards and two touchdowns, a 42-yarder to Luke Gilbert and a 56-yarder to Reebals. Vizzina also rushed nine times for 54 yards and a touchdown.

From page 20

sweep and we thought we’d give it a whirl and it ended up being our best play of the game. We must have run it 25 times.” Mountain Brook’s defense also was superb, holding Vestavia Hills to only 118 total yards and nearly recording a shutout. The Rebels didn’t score until the final minute, when Ben Keene kicked a 21-yard field goal. Yeager was surprised by the lopsided outcome. “Going in, I thought it would be a street fight,” he said. “It really concerned me with so many young guys playing. I was impressed by the number of new kids that got to go in and how well they performed. It’s a legacy of the leaders from last year who passed the torch to the new leaders this year.”

Journal photo by Lee Walls

Meredith Stars in Hoover Debut

Smith Off to Flying Start for Oak Mountain

Mountain Brook’s defense also was superb, holding Vestavia Hills to only 118 total yards and nearly recording a shutout.

In a preseason interview, Hoover coach Josh Niblett said new Bucs quarterback Bennett Meredith had the “it” factor. Meredith, a transfer from Spain Park, showed “it” last Saturday in the Bucs’ opener on a big stage. He completed 16 of 26 Bennett Meredith passes for 333 yards and three touchdowns, leading Hoover to an impressive 38-14 victory against North Gwinnett, Georgia, in the 30th Corky Kell Classic at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. Meredith passed for 305 yards and three touchdowns in the first half alone and ran for another score as the Bucs built a 31-14 halftime lead. Hoover played without four key starters, including dynamic junior receiver R.J. Hamilton. But senior receiver Cotton Peters more than made up for his absence with seven receptions for 137 yards and touchdown catches of 44 and 30 yards. Ahamari Williams led the Bucs on the ground with 118 yards rushing on 14 carries, including a 34-yard touchdown run in the second half.

passes for 131 yards, including a 21-yard scoring toss to Clay Spencer. Smallwood also rushed for 83 yards on 15 carries. The Jags had 492 yards total offense. Senior kicker Braxton Sumpter booted three field goals, covering 35, 26 and 52 yards. The 52-yarder came as time expired in the opening half.

Spain Park Runs Past Huntsville

Late Field Goal Lifts Homewood

Spain Park unveiled its new option offense with striking results. The Jaguars rolled up 361 yards on the ground and produced two 100yard rushers in a 37-13 thrashing of visiting Huntsville. Junior Zamir Farris ran for 129 yards on 12 carries and scored on a 21-yard touchdown run. Sophomore Zavier Long rushed for 113 yards on 16 attempts and scored three touchdowns on runs of 11, 21 and 41 yards. Spain Park junior quarterback Evan Smallwood completed 13 of 18

Oak Mountain senior quarterback Evan Smith, the 2020 OTMJ Offensive Player of the Year, began his final season with a bang, ensuring new Eagles head coach Tyler Crane a win in his debut. Smith ran for 196 yards and two touchdowns and passed for two more as Oak Mountain routed Chelsea 46-19, breaking away from a 13-13 halftime tie. Smith, who has committed to Northwestern, scored on runs of 47 and 69 yards and threw touchdown passes of 24 yards to Cade George and 26 yards to Ethan Hammett. Senior running back C.J. Branson scored twice on runs of 37 and 36 yards, and junior running back Trey Vassell had a 5-yard scoring run for the Eagles.

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

John Carroll Opens With a Shutout

Spain Park senior kicker Braxton Sumpter, left, booted three field goals, covering 35, 26 and 52 yards. The 52-yarder came as time expired in the opening half. Freshman Jarod Smith, right, pressures Huntsville’s quarterback.

J.C. Daniel kicked a 27-yard field goal with five seconds remaining to give Homewood a season-opening 37-34 victory at Hillcrest-Tuscaloosa. Junior quarterback Woods Ray had a big game for the Patriots, accounting for more than 300 yards total offense and five touchdowns. He completed 14 of 29 passes for 282 yards and four touchdowns and ran for 80 yards and a score. Junior receiver Jackson Parris caught five passes for 124 yards and two touchdowns, and Aron Marsch

caught four passes for 90 yards and a score. The teams were tied after each of the first three quarters – 7-7 after the first, 20-20 at halftime and 34-34 after three quarters, setting the stage for Daniel’s game-winner.

Reebals, Vizzina Spark Briarwood

Briarwood’s dynamic duo of senior running back Luke Reebals and junior quarterback Christopher Vizzina proved too much to handle for visiting Madison Academy, lead-

John Carroll Catholic’s defense turned in a dominating performance as the Cavaliers shut out visiting Fultondale 27-0. The Cavs recorded five sacks and eight tackles for losses and forced three turnovers. John Carroll’s defense also scored the first points of the game with a safety late in the first quarter. The offense did its share. Sophomore quarterback Carson McFadden completed 9 of 17 passes for 128 yards and three touchdowns, and senior running back Aaron Mason ran for 101 yards and a score. McFadden’s three touchdown passes went to three different receivers, Quad Harrison, Christian Harris and Derrick Davis Jr.

Vestavia Hills Hires New Softball Coach John Simmons has been named the new softball coach at Vestavia Hills High School. The Vestavia Hills Board of Education made the announcement Aug. 9 after a called meeting. Simmons has spent his entire 27-year education career at Hayden High School and had been the school’s head softball coach since 1999. He compiled a 659-299 overall record with the Wildcats, including state championships in 2013 and 2019. He was named ASWA Softball Coach of the Year in 2013 and was

selected to coach in the 2016 AHSAA North/South All-Star Game. Simmons replaces Lissa Walker, who accepted a coaching and teaching position at Port St. Joe High School in Florida after coaching the Rebels for 10 years. She will serve as Port St. Joe’s head volleyball and softball coach. Walker took Vestavia Hills to the state tournament in four of her 10 years, including the 2021 season in the spring. Simmons is no stranger to Vestavia Hills. He served from 1992 to 1994 as the city’s field and gym

supervisor while working for the Vestavia Hills Parks and Recreation Department. Vestavia Hills City Schools athletic director Myra Miles said she was “thrilled to welcome coach Simmons and his family” to the community. “When we talked with other teams, coaches, and administrators about coach Simmons, we kept hearing the same message: that he’s a great man, his teams are always prepared and play with grit, and he leads with class and respect,” Miles said. —Rubin E. Grant

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Thursday, August 26, 2021 • 19

SPORTS

‘Tuesday Night Lights’

Girls Flag Football Kicks Off This Fall at Homewood, Other Alabama High Schools

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

By Rubin E. Grant

Mountain Brook’s defense also was superb, holding Vestavia Hills to only 118 total yards and nearly recording a shutout. Below, Homewood’s Shawnise Gregory and John Carroll’s Kaitlin Gilchrist at the net.

HOMEWOOD From page 20

“The girls have worked hard and not just the seniors. I get real excited about where we are. We had a real good offseason. We played in a ton of tournaments and in a power league. It let our younger kids play against stronger competition.” Despite her lack of preparation last year, Freedman led Homewood to the Class 6A Sweet 16 before getting eliminated by eventual runner-up Hartselle and finishing with a 30-18 record. Most of the top players from that team return, earning the Patriots the No. 1 ranking in Class 6A in the AL. com preseason poll. “Last year, the strength of our team were juniors. Now, they’re seniors with an extra year of experience,” Freedman said. “We’ve got five seniors and all five have the ability to play in college.” The Patriots have a strong front row, featuring 6-foot senior outside hitter Olivia Brown and senior right side hitter Mackenzie Yoakum. Brown had 369 kills, 325 digs, 46 blocks and 31 aces last season. “Olivia is a dominant player who has gotten a lot of interest from colleges,” Freedman said. “Mackenzie Yoakum is being recruited by a number of schools.” Senior Lilly Janas is a defensive specialist, senior Haley Callaham anchors the defense and senior Olivia Outman is a talented setter. “She had a good summer playing on a travel team coached by Haven O’Quinn, the coach at BirminghamSouthern,” Freedman said of Outman. “She has really grown as a player. “This is a talented group of seniors who also provide leadership. They lead by example and a product of that is great team chemistry.” The Patriots also have a talented

junior class. “Sydney Humes is a great defensive player as a defensive specialist and libero,” Freedman said. “Shawnise Gregory is the first middle. She’s a competitive golfer. She has improved a lot and is a lot more powerful. Mary Przybysz is a setter and hitter. She’s such a good all-round player who can fill whatever role we need. She has more experience setting, but she’s also capable of hitting on the opposite side.” Two other juniors are Mary Larkin Mullins and Kaylin Rezek. “We also have two sophomores, Grace Brown, Olivia’s little sister who also has a 26-inch vertical jump, and Carson Jarmon,” Freedman said. The Patriots opened the season last Thursday with a 3-0 sweep at home against John Carroll Catholic, 25-21, 25-13, 25-14. Olivia Brown had 15 kills and Yoakum added six. Gregory had four kills and three blocks and

Outman tallied 22 assists, two blocks and one kill. The Patriots then went 5-1 in the 39th Juanita Boddie Invitational, losing to Bayside Academy in the quarterfinals to finish in a three-way tie for fifth place last weekend at the Finley Center in Hoover. “We’ve got a long way to go,” Freedman said. “We feel pretty good, but now we have a target on our back. We’re in a tough area with Mountain Brook, Chelsea and Briarwood. Every team in our area is very competitive. It’s going to be a challenge for us. It’s unfortunate that only two of us make it out. “We’re taking everything one step at a time. We’re going to stay focused, humble and hungry. We’re going to practice to the best of our ability and play to the best of our ability. If we do that, the outcome will take care of itself. We just want to compete every time we step on the court.”

Rebecca Shields played multiple sports when she attended Vestavia Hills High School, including volleyball and softball, but there’s one sport she wished she could have played: flag football. “I would have loved to play flag football, but it wasn’t in high school,” Shields said. “The options for female athletes were limited.” That is no longer the case. This fall, Shields will get a chance to coach a flag football team at Homewood High School. The Alabama High School Athletic Association, in partnership with the Atlanta Falcons and NFL Flag, announced last spring that girls flag football will be a sanctioned sport in 2021. “After discussions with the Atlanta Falcons for several months, we are excited to be adding this girls sport for our membership. We think it will grow rapidly,” AHSAA Executive Director Alvin Briggs said at the time of the announcement. “The AHSAA appreciates the support, commitment and funding being provided by the Atlanta Falcons, the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation and NFL Flag.” In addition to the Falcons and the Blank Family Foundation monetary support, Nike will provide girls flag apparel to assist the AHSAA with launching girls flag football throughout the state. Shields said she is thrilled to see girls flag football come to Alabama high schools. “We’re really excited,” she said. “The more opportunities we have for female athletes the better. Before, the only fall sports we had for girls was volleyball and cross-county, so adding flag football is a positive.”

60 Teams

AHSAA Assistant Director Jeff Segars said close to 60 schools have signed up to play girls flag football this fall. The plan is to have a seasonending tournament with a championship game the Wednesday of the Super 7 at Protective Field in Birmingham. Homewood is one of six Over the Mountain schools that will field a

team. The others are Hoover, Vestavia Hills, Spain Park, John Carroll Catholic and Oak Mountain. Shields landed the job of coaching after a conversation with Patriots Athletics Director Doug Gann. “I was talking to Doug and we discussed some other people and he asked me if I was interested and I said sure,” Shields said. ““I love football, all of it. I’m looking forward to growing the sport.” Shields, a triathlete, has coached a number of sports, including tennis, swimming, softball and volleyball. “I’ve been around athletics all my life,” she said. She played softball at Wagner

Homewood is one of six Over the Mountain schools that will field a team. The others are Hoover, Vestavia Hills, Spain Park, John Carroll Catholic and Oak Mountain. College in New York, then moved to Atlanta after college and ended up playing in a flag football league. “It was fun,” she said. “We had a little adult league, but it was co-ed because they didn’t have a league for just females.” Shields said she doesn’t know what to expect this fall in the first year of the Homewood program. “We had an organizational meeting and the girls were excited,” she said. “The girls are excited about the opportunity to play. We had 67 girls who said there are interested. “We haven’t picked a team yet. We’re having tryouts coming up. It definitely won’t be 67 on the team.” Shields said the games will be in a 7-on-7 format, and Homewood’s first contest will be tri-match against Hewitt-Trussville and a TBA opponent on Sept. 28 or Oct. 5, a Tuesday night, at Waldrop Stadium. “We’re calling it ‘Tuesday Night Lights,’” she said.

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❖ Girls Flag Football Kicks Off This Fall at Homewood,

Other Alabama High Schools, Page 19 ❖ Vestavia Hills Hires New Softball Coach, Page 18 ❖ 2021 OTM Football Special Section, Inside

SPORTS Thursday, August 26, 2021 ❖ OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Team to Beat? Spain Park Opens Volleyball Season With Juanita Boddie Title, Page 17

FOOTBALL RECAP

‘I Thought It Would be a Street Fight’ New Players Step Up as Mountain Brook Knocks Off Vestavia Hills

The Patriots opened the season last Thursday with a 3-0 sweep at home against John Carroll Catholic. Above, Grace Brown and Lilly Janas in action against the Cavs.

‘Night and Day’

Journal photo by Lee Walls

Mountain Brook football coach Chris Yeager was concerned going into the Spartans’ 2021 season opener against rival Vestavia Hills. The Spartans entered the game with a plethora of new faces following the graduation of 36 seniors from the 2020 team, which reached the Class 6A semifinals. “We had a lot of kids who had never played in a big game before, and then they were playing against our rival,” Yeager said. The Spartans’ newcomers alleviated Yeager’s uneasiness with a convincing 33-3 victory last Friday at Spartan Stadium, ruining the debut of new Rebels coach Sean Calhoun. Perhaps no one had more to do with putting Yeager at ease than junior quarterback John Colvin. Playing with poise and confidence in his first varsity start, Colvin completed 11 of 17 passes for 172 yards and the three touchdowns, all to senior receiver Jake Thompson. “The best example of someone who hadn’t been in that situation (of a big game) is John Colvin,” Yeager said. “He started last year against Thompson when Strother Gibbs was

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

By Rubin E. Grant

Make An Informed Decision!

Freedman Has Homewood Volleyball Team Primed for a Title Run z

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

Playing with poise and confidence in his first varsity start, John Colvin, above, completed 11 of 17 passes for 172 yards and the three touchdowns. Left, Spain Park junior Zamir Farris ran for 129 yards on 12 carries and scored on a 21-yard touchdown run in the Jags 37-13 thrashing of Huntsville.

hurt, but we didn’t put the game in his hands. This time we put it all on him and he was the best example of how the new kids responded. He knows how to process information and make good decisions.” Thompson caught five passes for 55 yards with touchdown catches of 16, 12 and 2 yards. The Spartans built a 26-0 halftime lead while using a play legendary coach Buddy Anderson ran successfully throughout his 43 years at the helm of Vestavia Hills. Anderson retired at the end of last season.

The simple off-tackle running play paid immediate dividends for the Spartans when running back Cole Gamble took a handoff from Colvin and burst 27 yards off the right tackle on the first play of the game. “What happened is we were watching film, trying to get a feel for their personnel,” Yeager said. “We saw that play and thought it might be a good play for us. We did a simple handoff, but they usually tossed it. “It was our version of the Buddy Anderson See FOOTBALL, page 18

By Rubin E. Grant Andie Freedman had little time to prepare for her first season as the Homewood Patriots’ volleyball coach last year. She wasn’t hired until July, barely a month before the 2020 season started. But this year, as she embarks on her second season, she has a firm grasp on the program. “It’s like night and day,” Freedman said. “I’ve had an offseason to work with them and a summer. I got to make out the schedule and I tried to schedule the best competition to help us improve throughout the season and continue to grow. See HOMEWOOD, page 19

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FOOTBALL

2021 OVER THE MOUNTAIN HIGH SCHOOL

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

OTMJ.COM

STEPPING OUT 2021

Jake Thompson scores a touchdown in Mountain Brook’s 33-3 win over Vestavia Hills on Aug. 20. See story in regular Sports section of this issue.

INSIDE

KEY PLAYERS TO WATCH BRIARWOOD PAGE 6

HOMEWOOD PAGE 8

HOOVER PAGE 10

JOHN CARROLL PAGE 12

MOUNTAIN BROOK PAGE 14

OAK MOUNTAIN PAGE 18

SPAIN PARK PAGE 20

VESTAVIA HILLS

Team Profiles \\\ Schedules \\\ Team Pictures \\\ New Era \\\ Mr. Football 1991

PAGE 24

Journal photo by Lee Walls

AUGUST 26, 2021

2 • Thursday, August 26, 2021

OTM FOOTBALL

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

WHIRLWIND TRANSITION Calhoun Adapting as He Embarks on First Season as Vestavia Hills Football Coach

By Rubin E. Grant

Journal photo by Lee Walls

or the past seven months, Sean Calhoun has been so busy with non-football-related stuff that he has had little time to think about following a legend as Vestavia Hills’ new football coach. Calhoun was hired in January to replace Buddy Anderson, who had been Vestavia Hills’ head coach since 1978 and retired at the end of the 2020 campaign. In his 43 seasons at the helm, Anderson became the winningest high school coach in state history with a 346-160 record and won two state championships. Calhoun knew all that when he took the job, but other things have kept him from dwelling on it. “It has been a whirlwind, getting my foot on the ground, getting acclimated and getting my feet wet,” Calhoun said. Calhoun and his family – his wife Kellie and three school-aged children, Cade, Cora and Cambry – had to move from Georgia to Alabama. He had spent the past five seasons as head coach at Carrolton, ‘There’s no more Georgia. pressure on me than He received plenty of what I put on myself. I support from the Vestavia Hills community during want to win every game the transition, especially and I’m going to do my from Vestavia Hills High Principal Tonya Rozell. best to do that.’ “Once I got here, we SEAN CALHOUN held a fundraising event and we had really good support, people wanting us to be successful and lending a helping hand, such as with our living situation,” Calhoun said. “We lived with the principal’s parents for a while. They are salt of the earth people.” The family finally found a house after five months of searching, though they still are looking for a church. If all that weren’t enough, the Rebels’ football stadium was unavailable at times because a new track was being installed around the field and there was construction going on throughout the summer on the fieldhouse, which houses the head coach’s office. “We’ve been displaced and not able to be in the stadium much,” Calhoun said. “We’ve had to practice on the baseball field. I’ve been in two different offices while the work on the fieldhouse gets done. We’ve had to learn to adapt, but that’s life.” Meanwhile, Calhoun arrived while COVID19 restrictions were in place. football operations director; Bert Newton, son “When I got here in January, there were a of former Homewood coach Bob Newton, as bunch of (COVID) protocols,” he said. “I had the defensive coordinator; David Lundberg, gotten used to all that stuff in Georgia and had who had been an assistant at Hueytown, as the to get used to how they do things here at offensive line coach and running game coordiVestavia Hills and the state of Alabama. All the nator; John Rodgers, who had been at protocols in place are for everyone’s safety and Hartselle, as the linebackers coach; and Patrick that’s what’s important. Everybody running a Bonovitch, a Vestavia Hills alumnus and forprogram has been affected in some way or mer Spain Park assistant, as running backs another.” coach. Building a New Team They joined returning assistants Jake When Calhoun finally had some time to do James, Greg Smith and Brent Welborn, all what he was hired to do — coach football — Vestavia alums; and Sammy Queen. he familiarized himself with the players and Calhoun also revamped the Rebels’ offense, made some new additions to the coaching installing the popular spread formation, and staff. the Newton hire ensured the Rebels would He brought in Mickey Reville as a new play an attacking style of defense.

“We’ve got to compete as hard as we can, play sound football and be physical, especially with the people we play on our schedule,” he said. Apparently, players like the approach Calhoun is taking. Participation numbers were so high during the spring and summer that the weight room could not hold the entire team at once. The Rebels fell to longtime rival Mountain Brook to open the 2021 season on Aug. 20. (See story in regular Sports section of this issue). A week before the game, Calhoun said, “Our kids are ready to compete. They’re tired of just seeing each other and hitting each other in practice. I’m just as excited to see them play. They have worked hard.”

In preparation for his first season, Calhoun also spent time with Anderson, getting advice from the coach who spent 49 years at Vestavia Hills, the first six as an assistant. “He definitely helped a lot,” Calhoun said. “We would meet regularly and talk, but it was more than just football stuff. It was about life and other stuff, getting to know this place. Coach Anderson is Vestavia Hills, so who better to ask?” As far as following the legendary coach, Calhoun doesn’t believe he’s under any pressure to produce a state championship contender in his first season. “There’s no more pressure on me than what I put on myself,” he said. “I want to win every game and I’m going to do my best to do that.”

Thursday, August 26, 2021 • 3

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

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4 • Thursday, August 26, 2021

OTM FOOTBALL LOOK BACK

MR. FOOTBALL

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Davis’ Legendary Career at Homewood Ended With State’s Top Honor By Rubin E. Grant

Robert Davis, photographed at Walrop Stadium last week, is currently working with his brother to remodel houses for resale or rent and has three grown children.

Davis was highly recruited and signed with LSU. He was named a Freshman All-American in 1992 but struggled academically and had some off-the-field issues that forced him to transfer. He wound up at UAB. “My mom had gotten sick and I didn’t see her for a whole year,” Davis said. “At the end of the ’92 season, I finally got in touch with her and so I came home to get closer to her. I talked to Gene Bartow, who was the AD (athletics director) at UAB, and he told me they wanted to do something big at UAB. He offered me a scholarship and I took it.” Davis played two years for UAB, in 1994 and 1996, but after surgery for a bulging disk in his back, he decided to forgo any attempt to play

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

henever there’s a discussion about who is the greatest running back to ever play at an Over the Mountain high school, one of the names near the top of any list — if not the top — is Robert Davis. Davis had a record-setting career at Homewood in the early 1990s and 30 years ago was named the state’s 1991 Mr. Football, the first Over the Mountain player to earn the award. He’s the only player from Homewood to ever win it. His on-the-field exploits were legendary. At 5-foot-10, 180 pounds, Davis had the ability to elude defenders, accelerate in an instant and dash to the end zone. “Robert was a different kind of cat,” said David Jones, Homewood’s offensive coordinator when Davis was there. “He was shifty, but he wasn’t a shake and bake guy. He had the ability to shift his weight just before a defender was about to strike him, avoid the contact and go.” During Davis’ senior Davis set the stage for his Mr. Football award season, in 1991, his during his junior year in Mr. Football season, he 1990, when he rushed for 2,258 yards and scored a rushed for 2,432 yards then-single-season state and finished his career record 36 touchdowns, leading the Patriots to a with a then-state record runner-up finish in Class 6,542 yards and 87 5A. According to Jones, career touchdowns. Davis and Blount tailback Sherman Williams “put on a show” in the 1990 Class 5A championship game, which Blount won 36-24. Davis rushed for 271 yards on 26 carries and caught a TD pass. Williams, who later played at Alabama and in the NFL for the Dallas Cowboys, rushed for 168 yards and scored twice, once receiving and once rushing. During Davis’ senior season, in 1991, his Mr. Football season, he rushed for 2,432 yards and finished his career with a then-state record 6,542 yards and 87 career touchdowns. “He could have run for a record number of yards that would have never been touched,” Jones said. “Most of the regular-season games he played only half a game because coach (Gerald) Gann didn’t want to run up the score on anybody. When you handed him the ball, there was no way Robert was going to go half speed. “I remember during the 1991 season, we were playing Erwin (now Center Point) (and) we were up 30-something points at halftime. In the locker room, I told coach Gann we needed to get Robert community in Birmingham. After the divorce, he lived with his mother and was supposed to ready to play in the third and fourth quarters attend Phillips High School, but his mother when we got to the playoffs. He said OK and moved to Detroit the summer before his freshagreed to let him play the first series of the third man year in high school. quarter. Davis enrolled at Henry Ford High School in “But our defense forced them to punt and we Detroit and was practicing with the football blocked the punt and picked it up and scored a team when his mother’s brother got sick and touchdown. Robert walked over to me and said, they returned to Birmingham. When they moved ‘Coach, will I still get to go in?’ I asked coach back, Davis decided to live with his dad, who Gann and he shook his head. Robert unstrapped his chin strap because it wasn’t going to happen.” had moved to Homewood. “Homewood taught me a whole lot,” Davis Tumultuous Years said in a recent interview. “I grew up through Davis wound up at Homewood in a roundthe years in Homewood. about way. His parents divorced when he was 7 “That was the highlight of my career. I while the family was living in the Norwood enjoyed every minute of it.”

professional football. Since then, he has had his share of ups and down and worked a number of jobs. He is currently working with his brother to remodel houses for resale or rent. “We’ve been doing this for about six years,” said Davis, who has three grown children. As he reflected on winning Mr. Football, Davis, now 49, said, “It was not that big of a deal to me. I was just doing what I knew to do. “It started in Little League when I was playing for the West End Panthers. Walter Payton was my idol and I trained like him, running hills and stadium steps to keep myself in shape. I loved the game and kept my mind mentally ready for any challenge.”

Thursday, August 26, 2021 • 5

OTM FOOTBALL

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

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Over the Mountain

2021 Football Schedule BRIARWOOD HIGH SCHOOL

Date

Opponent

Aug. 20 Aug. 27 Sept. 3 Sept. 9 Sept. 16 Sept. 24 Oct. 1 Oct. 7 Oct. 22 Oct. 29

Date

Location

Madison Academy Spain Park Chelsea Woodlawn Huffman Mortimer Jordan Shades Valley Mountain Brook Homewood Corner

HOME AWAY HOME AWAY AWAY HOME HOME AWAY HOME AWAY

JOHN CARROLL HIGH SCHOOL

Aug. 20 Aug. 27 Sept. 3 Sept. 10 Sept. 17 Sept. 30 Oct. 8 Oct. 15 Oct. 22 Oct. 29

Date Aug. 20 Aug. 27 Sept. 3 Sept. 10 Sept. 17 Sept. 30 Oct. 8 Oct. 15 Oct. 22

Oct. 28

Opponent

Location

Fultondale Moody Carver Cordova Fairfield Parker Ramsay Pleasant Grove Wenonah St. Clair

HOME HOME HOME HOME AWAY AWAY AWAY HOME AWAY AWAY

SPAIN PARK HIGH SCHOOL Opponent

Huntsville Briarwood Hewitt-Trussville Thompson Gadsden City Oak Mountain Hoover Vestavia Hills Tuscaloosa County Hueytown

Location HOME HOME AWAY AWAY HOME HOME HOME AWAY HOME HOME

Date Aug. 20 Aug. 27 Sept. 3 Sept. 10 Sept. 17 Oct. 1 Oct. 8 Oct. 14 Oct. 22 Oct. 29

Date Aug. 20 Aug. 27 Sept. 2 Sept. 10 Sept. 17 Sept. 24 Oct. 7 Oct. 14 Oct. 22 Oct. 28

HOMEWOOD HIGH SCHOOL Opponent

Hillcrest Vestavia Hills McAdory Chelsea Woodlawn Huffman Shades Valley Mountain Brook Briarwood Pelham

Location AWAY HOME AWAY AWAY HOME HOME AWAY HOME AWAY HOME

MTN BROOK HIGH SCHOOL Opponent

Vestavia Hills Huntsville Woodlawn Huffman Shades Valley Thompson Briarwood Homewood Chelsea Austin

Location HOME AWAY HOME HOME AWAY HOME HOME AWAY AWAY HOME

Date

HOOVER HIGH SCHOOL Opponent

Aug. 21 Aug. 27 Sept. 3 Sept. 10 Sept. 17 Sept. 24 Oct. 1 Oct. 8 Oct. 15 Oct. 22

Date

North Gwinnett (GA) ATL Alpharetta (GA) HOME Vestavia Hills HOME Gadsden City AWAY Oak Mountain AWAY Prattville AWAY Hewitt-Trussville HOME Spain Park AWAY Tuscaloosa County AWAY Thompson HOME

OAK MTN. HIGH SCHOOL

Aug. 20 Aug. 27 Sept. 3 Sept. 10 Sept. 17 Sept. 30 Oct. 8 Oct. 15 Oct. 22 Oct. 28

Date

Location

Opponent

Location

Chelsea Pelham Gadsden City Vestavia Hills Hoover Spain Park Tuscaloosa County Thompson Hewitt-Trussville Clay-Chalkville

AWAY AWAY HOME AWAY HOME AWAY HOME AWAY HOME HOME

VESTAVIA HIGH SCHOOL

Aug. 20 Aug. 27 Sept. 3 Sept. 10 Sept. 17 Oct. 1 Oct. 8 Oct. 15 Oct. 22 Oct. 28

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Opponent

Mountain Brook Homewood Hoover Oak Mountain Tuscaloosa County Thompson Hewitt-Trussville Spain Park Gadsden City Shades Valley

Location AWAY AWAY AWAY HOME AWAY HOME AWAY HOME HOME AWAY

6 • Thursday, August 26, 2021

BRIARWOOD CHRISTIAN

Journal photo by Marvin Gentry

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Members of the 2021 Briarwood Christian School varsity football team are: Miller Stubblefield, Luke Gilbert, Caleb Keller, Cooper Higgins, Robert Beason, Brady Waugh, Will Clarck, Grant Dickinson, Mathis Tindall, Ethan Anderson, Grey Reebals, Seth Alford, Josh Thompson, Reeves Pylant, AJ Davis, Nicolas Frost, Vance Hopkins, Reece Garner, Walker Chambless, Will Duncan, Christopher Vizzina, Sawyer Russell, Caleb Ward, Jake Scott, Haddon Stubbs, Riley Margene, Luke Reebals, Nicholas Dicen, Grant Bruce, Colton Williams, Ethan Carr, Jack Cornish, Peyton Steed, Luke Dickinson, Luke Taylor, Sawyer Click, Beau Barnes, Brooks Travis, Wells Connell, Luke Livingston, Caleb Laechelt, Louis Hoff, Adyn Barbour, Spencer Dickinson, Luke Long, Knox Merry, Aidan Punch, Preston King, Gavin McGullion, Max Luster, Cace Reynolds, Anderson O’Neal, Fowler Stutts, Walker Gray, Ike Witt, Hardy Thompson, Trey Saunders, Alex Hudson, Harrison Clemmer, Garrett Harmon, Charlie Heidepriem, Holden Patterson, Jackson Cowden, Andrew Gill, Andy Foust, James-Michael Tedesco, Alex Moorer, Andrew McAdams, Cole Carter, Jason Bess, Luke Schutlz, Brandon Kassouf, Griffin Clark, Rich Connell, John Taylor, Palmer Covin, Reid Hollis, Clay Dorrill, Jay Butler, Jackson Barnes, Gabe Margene, Sam Brewer, Blake Herritt, Peyton Fox, JC Ellerbee and Lude Solomon.

Lions Feature Plenty of Returning Playmakers By Rubin E. Grant

briarwood KEY PLAYERS TO WATCH

OFFENSE

Quarterback

Junior Christopher Vizzina returns for his third season as the starting quarterback. “The best news of all is he’s a junior and I’ll have him next year,” Forester said. “Normally after two

2021 SCHEDULE Aug. 20 Aug. 27 Sept. 3 Sept. 9 Sept. 16 Sept. 24 Oct. 1 Oct. 7 Oct. 22 Oct. 29

Mad. Acad. 41-17(W) @Spain Park Chelsea* @Woodlawn* @Huffman* Mortimer Jordan Shades Valley* @Mountain Brook* Homewood* @Corner

*Conference game

briarwood AT A GLANCE

Journal photo by Marvin Gentry

s he enters his third year as the head coach of the football team at his alma mater, Matthew Forester finally can call the Briarwood Christian Lions his team. “This is the first varsity class to be entirely under me,” Forester said. “We’re really excited about it.” The Lions have had two solid seasons under Forester, including achieving an 8-3 record and reaching the second round of the state playoffs after moving up from Class 5A to 6A in 2020. Forester is eager to see whether the Lions can improve on that showing this season. “We’ve got a lot of returning playmakers on offense and some good players back on defense,” Forester said. “I’m looking forward to seeing how good we can be.” Here’s a position-by-position breakdown of the 2021 Lions:

Briarwood coach Mathew Forester with, from left, Peyton Fox, Alex Moorer, Charlie Heidepriem and Holden Patterson.

years our quarterbacks are heading off to college.”

The 6-foot-4, 200-pound Vizzina already has a bunch of college offers,

Head Coach: Matthew Forester 2020 Record: 8-3 Region: Class 6A Region 5: Homewood, Chelsea, Shades Valley, Huffman, Mountain Brook and Woodlawn. Stadium: Lion Pride Field (5,000)

“He can throw the ball as well as most anyone and he’s smart,” Forester said. Two sophomores, Josh Thompson and Caleb Ward, are battling to be the backup. “They have done a good job preparing themselves,” Forester said. “I’m excited about what we have at quarterback.”

Running Back

Senior Luke Reebals returns for his third season as a starter. “Normally, you don’t have gamechangers like that stay around for three years,” Forester said. “He’s a dynamic playmaker.” Senior Riley Margene and sophomore Cooper Higgins will share the load with Reebals in the backfield.

Receivers

Senior receiver Nicholas Dicen is another experienced skill player returning. “He’s been a steady cog for us,” Forester said. “He has made some big-time plays.” Jay Butler, Ethan Anderson and Sawyer Russell also provide good targets for Vizzina. Peyton Fox will serve as a tight end/H-back.

Offensive Line

including several from Power 5 NCAA Division I programs.

Forester said he’s excited about what the Lions have up front, including returning starters Charlie Heidepriem at center and Alex

BRIARWOOD CHRISTIAN

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Thursday, August 26, 2021 • 7

Tedesco and Jason Bess. DEFENSE

Defensive Line

The Lions have good depth on the defensive line, beginning with senior end Miller Stubblefield, a three-year starter. “He’s a really good athlete,” Forester said. Clay Dorrill will man the other defensive end spot, while the tackles will be Holden Patterson and Max Luster. Preston King and Garrett Harmon provide depth.

Linebacker

Journal file photo by Lee Walls

The linebacking crop will be completely new. “We have three new ones for the first time since 2010,” Forester said. “They have a lot of learning to do, but they’re working hard.” Senior Haddon Stubbs was moved from safety to linebacker to give the unit some experience at the strong side spot. Senior Grant Bruce will play middle linebacker and senior Hardy Thompson will play weak side linebacker. Junior Grant Dickinson and sophomore Adyn Barbour are the top reserves.

Secondary

The 6-foot-4, 200-pound junior quarterback Christopher Vizzina, above, already has a bunch of college offers, including several from Power 5 NCAA Division I programs.

Moorer at center. Moorer started at the guard position last year. The rest of the line will come from a group that includes Harrison Clemmer, Rich Connell, Luke Shultz, Andy Foust, James-Michael

Two seniors are returning to the secondary, Reece Garner and Seth Alford. Both played cornerback last season, but Alford is moving to safety. Others in the mix are Nicolas Frost, Brady Waugh, Grey Reebals and Peyton Steed. “Our secondary will have a new feel,” Forester said. SPECIAL TEAMS

Junior Aidan Punch returns as the placekicker, but he’s being pushed by sophomore Reid Hollis. Stubbs returns to handle the punting duties.

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8 • Thursday, August 26, 2021

HOMEWOOD

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Members of the 2021 Homewood High School varsity football team are: Camron Fortson, Owen Isenhower, Hunter Drake, Mondrell Odell, Jackson Parris, J.C. Daniel, Taylor Patterson, Sam Carr, Charlie Reeves, Aron Marsch, Will Myers, Harris Fowlkes, Woods Ray, Brian Condon, Harvey Ray, Moeen Almansoob, Clay Burdeshaw, Jackson Warren, RC Gartman, Jermald Patterson, C.J. Tidmore, Parker Sansing, Jon Merrell, Logan Hall, Luke Phelps, Aiden Bodkin, Tripp Gann, Skyler Balta, Will Pope, Carter Dabbs, Carter Engle, Calyb Colbert, Jordan Kiwoi, Jackson Nugent, Finn Pennington, Adam Parker, Miller Chapman, Markeis Drake, Henry Watson, Richard Fields, Will Crittenden, Mike Ngei, Maurice Johnson, Jordan Cottrell, Slate Rohrer, Julian Taylor, Jarryd Cline, Taylor Lemmon, Austin Drake, Nick Myers, Luke Keown, Colin Sisk, Jack Watson, Will Terrell, Miles Williams, Graham McLean, Cooper Johnston, Walker Williams, Aaron Ford, Khalil Winchester, Marvin Patrick, Blas Correa, Nicholas Hughes, Dailon Hentley, Jaxon Brooks, William Webb, Joey Galvan, Rigdon Gibbons, Alex Law, Alonzo Lymon, Abdul Maflahi, Hayden Eldridge, Will Keown, Maxy Salazar and Jakari Miller.

Young, Experienced Patriots Ready to Make Another Playoff Run By Rubin E. Grant

homewood KEY PLAYERS TO WATCH

he Homewood Patriots have reached the state playoffs for nine consecutive seasons. Coach Ben Berguson, in his eighth season, believes the ingredients are there to make it 10 years in a row, considering the abundance of talent returning from 2020. “Last year, we were young and inexperienced,” Berguson said. “This year, we’re still young but we do have experience. “We’ve got kids in the right spots. We’ve only got 17 seniors – we will have over 30 next year – but we’ve got a really good nucleus with seven starters back on offense and five on defense.” Here’s a position-by-position breakdown of the 2021 Patriots:

Quarterback

Junior Woods Ray takes over fulltime as the starting quarterback after splitting time with the graduated Brode Susce last year. “He’s the real deal,” Berguson said of Ray. “He can spin it and he can run it too. He’s 6-foot-2, 200 pounds and has the chance to be a (NCAA Division I) Power 5 conference prospect.” Sophomore Harris Fowlkes will back up Ray. “He’s a good runner. He’s a track star. He’s a return specialist on punts and kickoffs, too.”

Aug. 20 Aug. 27 Sept. 3 Sept. 10 Sept. 17 Oct. 1 Oct. 8 Oct. 14 Oct. 22 Oct. 29

@Hillcrest 37 - 34 (W) Vestavia Hills @McAdory @Chelsea* Woodlawn* Huffman* @Shades Valley* Mountain Brook* @Briarwood* Pelham

*Conference game

homewood

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

OFFENSE

2021 SCHEDULE

AT A GLANCE

Homewood coach Ben Berguson with, from left, Cooper Johnston, Harvey Ray, Carter Engle, Woods Ray and Henry Watson.

Running Back

Juniors Mondrell Odell and Jordan Kiwoi will be the primary ballcarriers out of the backfield after junior Sam Carr, the leading rusher last season, was moved to linebacker.

“Mondrell is very dependable and a power guy,” Berguson said. “Jordan is more of a finesse runner.” Junior Calyb Colbert also is in the mix, and Fowlkes will line up at running back in certain situations.

Head Coach: Ben Berguson 2020 Record: 7-5 Region: Class 6A Region 5: Chelsea, Shades Valley, Huffman, Briarwood Christian, Mountain Brook and Woodlawn. Stadium: Waldrop Stadium (5,000)

Receivers

Berguson likes what the Patriots have at receiver. “It’s a solid core and they all have big-play potential,” he said. Junior Jackson Parris and senior

Aron Marsch head up the group. Charlie Reeves, J.C. Daniel and Hunter Drake are also on hand. Berguson said Daniel is probably the fastest player on the team and is the deep threat. Versatile 6-foot-5, 230-pound senior tight end Harvey Ray, the older brother of the quarterback, also will be a target and is a top prospect. He draws high praise from Berguson. “We can do a lot of things with him, playing him at fullback, tight end or flexing him out at wide receiver,” Berguson said. “We throw jump balls up to him all the time.” Junior Tripp Gann will be the backup tight end. Junior Rigdon Gibbons also will play tight end and wide receiver.

Offensive Line

Berguson said this is one of the better offensive lines he has had since he’s been at Homewood. It features senior Miles Williams at left tackle and sophomore Jack Watson at left guard. “He (Watson) started as a freshman, the first freshman lineman I’ve ever had do that,’’ Berguson said. Senior Cooper Johnston will be at center, junior Taylor Lemmon at right guard, and junior Graham McLean at right tackle. Sophomore Jaxon Brooks provides depth. “They’re a solid group,” Berguson said, “and they enjoy playing offensive line. Nobody is huge, but they’re athletic and they all run well. I like this bunch.”

Thursday, August 26, 2021 • 9

HOMEWOOD

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

DEFENSE

Defensive Line

Up front in the 3-4 scheme are junior nose guard Maxy Salazar, who moved over from the offensive line, and ends Mike Ngei, the senior leader, and sophomore Hayden Eldridge. Aaron Ford and Luke Keown, a standout goalkeeper on the soccer team, also will be in the rotation. Berguson likes having Keown on the team. “This is his first year out and he’s turned out to be our biggest surprise,” he said. “He’s a good player.”

Linebacker

Senior outside linebacker Carter Engle and senior inside linebacker Henry Watson return as starters. The other inside starter will be junior Miller Chapman and the other outside starter will be Jon Merrell. Carr and Adam Parker will fill reserve roles inside and outside.

Secondary

Journal file photo by Marvin Gentry

Senior safety Taylor Patterson, a standout baseball player, heads up the secondary. Junior Clay Burdeshaw, from a long line of Burdeshaws in the program, will start at the other safety. Four players are rotating at cornerback: Owen Isenhower, Logan Hall, Parker Sansing and Brian Condon.

“He’s the real deal,” Berguson said of Woods Ray, above. “He can spin it and he can run it too. He’s 6-foot-2, 200 pounds and has the chance to be a (NCAA Division I) Power 5 conference prospect.”

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SPECIAL TEAMS

Daniel will handle the place-kicking duties with newcomer Abdul Maflahi as the punter. “He’s pretty good,” Berguson said. Ford will serve as the backup kicker.

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10 • Thursday, August 26, 2021

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Journal photo by Marvin Gentry

HOOVER

Members of the 2021 Hoover High School varsity football team are: Dale Miller, Ahamari Williams, Paul Thompson, Jay Avery, Bennett Meredith, Jabari Gaines, Cai Mayowa, Ashton Taylor, Sky Niblett, Terrell Jones, RJ Hamilton, Markus Clark, Brody Stacey, Kaleb Jackson, Lamarion McCammon, Cotton Peters, Freddie Dunson, Jack Hausey, Jeremy Cook, Drew Gerstenberg, Samuel Schmidt, Corey Warren, Jacob Finley, Evan Reeder, Jacob Lundy, KJ Law, Harrison Spurling, Josh Giddens, Nemo Anderson, RJ Brackett, Keith Christein, Kamal Amerson, Jordan Norman, Dallas Beck, Jonathan LeBlanc, Riley Knowlton, Josh Carter, Devan Carlisle, Cooper Darty, Bradley Shaw, Toshi Yamamoto, Peyton Argent, Malik Bridges, Logan Ware, Brayden Urban, Andrew Parrish, Logan Roberts, Kodie Brown, Christian Randolph, Carter Milliron, Omarion Simpson, Houston Vessey, Ethan Hubbard, AJ Franklin, Tyrick Harris, John Smitherman, Jordan Washington, Jason Avelar, Justin Kelley, Grant Bonnor, Terry Hinton, Jaylan Harris, Chaleb Powell, Micah Hampton, Armann Moosani, Genaro Sherrod, Christian Baldwin, Michael Nixon, Len Wood, Jack Langley, Chalmers Peters, Josh Whitt, Jordan Woolen, Ethan Blake, Yavah Smith, Kendrick Alexander, DJ Estes, Mehki Hammen and Quincy Dudely.

Bucs Looking to Get Back on Top By Rubin E. Grant

hoover KEY PLAYERS TO WATCH

he script has become all too familiar for the Hoover Bucs. The past three football seasons, the Bucs have reached the Class 7A semifinals only to see their dreams of a state championship dashed with a loss to Thompson.

OFFENSE

Quarterback

2021 SCHEDULE Aug. 21 North Gwinnett (GA) 38 - 14 (W) Aug. 27 Alpharetta (GA) Sept. 3 Vestavia Hills* Sept. 10 @Gadsden City* Sept. 17 @Oak Mountain* Sept. 24 @Prattville Oct. 1 Hewitt-Trussville* Oct. 8 @Spain Park* Oct. 15 @Tuscaloosa County* Oct. 22 Thompson* *Conference game

‘We have to be more disciplined and tougher than everybody we play. But the biggest thing is we’ve got to finish.’ JOSH NIBLETT

hoover

AT A GLANCE

Journal photo by Marvin Gentry

For Hoover, playing and winning state titles is all that matters. Head coach Josh Niblett certainly understands that. “We don’t have a choice but to play for championships, and it doesn’t matter who we have coming back or if (they) are experienced or inexperienced,” Niblett said. Since their 2020 season ended, the Bucs have discussed how they can get back on top. It’s been four seasons since their last state title. “We continuously talk about the process and our standards every day, and every day we try to get better,” Niblett said. “We’re focusing right

Hoover coach Josh Niblett with, from left, front, R.J. Hamilton and Ahamari Williams. Back, Bennett Meredith, Terrell Jones and Marcus Clark.

Head Coach: Josh Niblett 2021 Record: 11-2 Region: Class 7A Region 3: HewittTrussville, Oak Mountain, Spain Park, Thompson, Tuscaloosa County, Vestavia Hills and Gadsden City. Stadium: Buccaneer Stadium (5,000), The Met (10,800)

now on what we have to do. There’s always ways of improving for the coaches and the players.

finish.” Here’s a position-by-position breakdown of 2021 Bucs:

“We have to be more disciplined and tougher than everybody we play. But the biggest thing is we’ve got to

The Bucs will have a new quarterback with Bennett Meredith replacing the graduated Josh Lundy. Meredith transferred from Spain Park, where he passed for more than 3,000 yards and 24 touchdowns in 2020. “We love Bennett,” Niblett said. “We love his game. He’s got the ‘it’ factor. He played in a lot of games last year and has been in this region (Class 7A, Region 3), so he understands the way to approach the game.” Senior Evan Reeder, who started a few games last year when Lundy was injured, will be Meredith’s primary backup. “He’s been in our program for a few years,” Niblett said. “He gives us different things with a different skill set.” Junior Sam Schmidt also is on hand. “We’re excited about his development,” Niblett said.

Running Back

Ahamari Williams is the top running back returning. “He’s a grown man,” Niblett said. “We’ve got to keep him healthy.” Josh Giddens, Lamarion McCammon and Kamal Amerson, a sophomore whose older brothers played for the Bucs, also will get their share of carries. Niblett said Amerson “has a

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Receivers

be one of the best he’s ever had, anchored by Markus Clark, who has committed to Coastal Carolina. “He’s really good,” Niblett said. Corey Warren, who started the past two seasons, and Terrell Jones can play defensive end or defensive tackle. Both have several college offers. Niblett likes newcomer Chaleb Powell, a junior. “He has a chance to be really good. He’s extremely explosive,” he said. Others in the mix are Andrew Parrish, Jordan Norman and Jaylan Harris.

The Bucs have some experience at receiver, led by the dynamic R.J. Hamilton and Cotton Peters. Niblett described Hamilton, a junior, as “a next level” player, although he has already committed to play baseball at Vanderbilt. “He’s got a bright future there, but there are a lot of schools interested in him to play football,” Niblett said. Other receivers expected to play are McCammon, Cai Mayowa, K.J. Law, Chalmers Peters, Jordan Woolen and Freddie Dunson. “We’ve got some depth at receiver, although it’s not very experienced,” Niblett said. The Bucs also will employ tight ends Jabari Gaines and Sky Niblett. “They give us a dynamic most teams don’t have,” Niblett said.

The linebacking corps has talent and depth with Kaleb Jackson, Josh Carter, Bradley Shaw, Ashton Taylor, Jack Langley and D.J. Estes. Paul Thompson will be a hybrid player, playing linebacker and in the secondary, depending on the situation. “We’ve got some depth, but they have to make plays and tackle well,” Niblett said.

Offensive Line

Secondary

The Bucs have three experienced players in the middle up front: senior center Jason Avelar, senior right guard Jordan Washington and senior left guard Houston Vessey, who moved from defensive line to offensive line last season. Junior A.J. Franklin, who started much of the second half last season, will be the right tackle and Ethan Hubbard will be the left tackle. Grant Bonnor will be in the rotation, as will versatile sophomore Hampton Irvine, who can play anywhere along the line. DEFENSE

Defensive Line

Niblett said the defensive line has a chance to

A F A M I LY B A S E D W E A LT H M A N A G E M E N T F I R M

Linebacker

Junior Jay Avery returns at free safety and sophomore Jeremy Cook will be the other safety. Estes and Langley also will play safety in certain situations. Junior Dale Miller returns at cornerback. “He’s one of the best in the state,” Niblett said. The other players who will receive playing time at the other cornerback spot are Jacob Finley, R.J. Brackett, and Dallas Beck. SPECIAL TEAMS

Peyton Argent, who kicked off last year, will be the punter and placekicker. The Bucs also have one of the top long snappers in the nation in Carter Milliron.

O V E R

29 IN years

chance to be special.” Another player in the mix is junior Nemo Anderson, a defensive player who moved to running back. “I like our depth at running back,” Niblett said.

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Journal photo by Marvin Gentry

JOHN CARROLL CATHOLIC

Members of the 2021 John Carroll Catholic varsity football team are: John Michael Wos, Jonah Gibbs, Christian Harper, Quadarius Harrison, Lawrence Johnson Chambers, Aaron Mason, Cj Wyatt, Max Plaia, Zachary Archer, Robert Campbell, Brogan Torchia, Campbell McFadden, Alexander Edwards, Carson McFadden, Tyler Black, James Hallman, Ryan Redmond, Jagger Baguer, Brandon Rashleigh, Alexander Perrin, Spence Tighe, Sebastian Guerrero, Andrew Helton, Jack Maloney, Chase Botthof, Austin Pfarner, Seth Seidenfaden, Koron Wright, Braydon Lowery, Kennedy Bonner, Jacob McMahon, Preston Dowling, Jaxon Perrin, Gregory Shunnarah, Harold (Davis) Deason, Ethan Kelley, Grey Higgins, Tyler Johnson, Anthony Mokry, Fintan Loehr, David Michael Helton, Gabe Wilbur, JP Zarzaur and Jack Chandler.

Cavaliers Eager to ‘Improve Off Last Season’ By Rubin E. Grant

OFFENSE

Quarterback

Sophomore Carson Mcfadden is

2021 SCHEDULE Aug. 20 Aug. 27 Sept. 3 Sept. 10 Sept. 17 Sept. 30 Oct. 8 Oct. 15 Oct. 22 Oct. 29

Fultondale 27 - 0 (W) Moody Carver* Cordova* @Fairfield* @Parker* @Ramsay* Pleasant Grove* @Wenonah* @St. Clair

*Conference game

john carroll

Journal photo by Marvin Gentry

ill Mara isn’t making any promises as he enters his second season as head coach at John Carroll Catholic. The Cavaliers finished 5-5 in his first season at the helm of his alma mater’s football program. John Carroll reached the .500 mark for the first time since 2010, when it was 6-4. Mara hopes 2020 was just the first step toward the heights he wants to reach, but he declared his 2021 team is a work in progress. “Our summer was a little tough because of injuries to kids that happened in other sports,” he said. “We had to hold kids out, so we are in process.” Despite that, there’s a buzz around the Cavaliers’ football program for the first time in years, and fans are eager to see what Mara’s bunch can do for an encore, especially with the team opening the season with four consecutive home games. The Cavaliers will have several players going both ways, showcasing their versatility. “We’re going to improve off last season and take it one week at a time,” Mara said. Here’s a position-by-position breakdown of the 2021 Cavaliers:

Mara said. “He plays over the field.”

john carroll catholic KEY PLAYERS TO WATCH

AT A GLANCE

John Carroll Catholic coach Will Mara with, from left, Quadarius Harrison, Carson McFadden, Aaron Mason and Fintan Loehr.

slated to be the starting quarterback at the outset. He played for Mara in middle school. “He’s been around the system and understands what we’re doing,” Mara said. “He’s a super smart kid.”

Seth Seidenfaden, who also kicks and plays receiver and running back, will play quarterback in certain packages. McFadden’s older brother Campbell also is on hand. He’s per-

Head Coach: Will Mara 2020 Record: 5-5 Region: Class 5A, Region 5: CarverBirmingham, Cordova, Fairfield, Parker, Pleasant Grove, Ramsay and Wenonah. Stadium: Carroll Field (4,000)

haps the Cavs’ most versatile player, lining up at linebacker, defensive end and nose guard and spending time at quarterback, running back and receiver. “You can put him anywhere,”

Running Back

Aaron Mason returns after missing most of the past two seasons because of knee surgeries. A dynamic runner, he started as a freshman and sophomore. Since Mason isn’t 100%, he will see limited time early in the season, allowing Derrick Davis, a transfer from HewittTrussville, to share the load. Seidenfaden also is in the mix along with sophomore Brandon Rashleigh.

Receivers

Versatile Quad Harrison will man all the receiver positions, wide out, slot and tight end. He’s being recruited as a tight end because of his size – 6-foot-4, 210 pounds. “He’s athletic and has great ball kills and footwork,” Mara said. Rounding out the group are Christian Harper, a returning starter, Max Plaia, who is a transfer, Jonah Gibbs and Campbell McFadden.

Offensive Line

Center Davis Deason and guards Greg Shunnarah and Chase Botthof are returning starters on an experienced offensive line. David Michael Helton will also play some at guard. Jacob McMahon will start at left tackle and Jack Chandler at right tackle. Gabe Wilbur provides depth along with Anthony Mokry.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Thursday, August 26, 2021 • 13

JOHN CARROLL CATHOLIC DEFENSE

Defensive Line

Mara is high on his two interior lineman, Tyler Johnson (6-5, 390) and Lawrence Johnson (5-8, 180), no relation. “Tyler — we call him ‘Big T’ — clogs up the middle and Lawrence is mean, mean, mean and quick,” Mara said. Harrison, C.J. Wyatt, Kennedy Bonner and Alex Perrin will rotate at defensive end. “Kennedy is a first-year player, although he’s a senior,” Mara said. “He’s athletic and a quick learner.”

Linebacker

McMahon and Deason are seasoned veterans at linebacker with McMahon calling all the defensive signals on the field. A.J. Edwards and Koron Wright round out the starting linebacking corps.

Secondary

Journal file photo by Jordan Wald

Harper and Gibbs give the Cavs’ two experienced cornerbacks, with John Michael Wos and Sebastian Guerrero also slated to receive playing time. Zach Archer returns at safety. “He understands all the coverages of the defense,” Mara said. Harrison also will line up at the position.

SPECIAL TEAMS

The Cavs linebacking corps will include Alexander (AJ) Edwards, above, and Jacob McMahon, Davis Deason and Koron Wright.

JP Zarzaur, the goalkeeper on the soccer team, has joined the football team and will handle the place-kicking duties. Edwards, Seidenfaden and Guerrero are vying to be the punter.

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14 • Thursday, August 26, 2021

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Journal photo by Marvin Gentry

MOUNTAIN BROOK

Members of the 2021 Mountain Brook High School varsity football team are: Wilder Hines, John Mcmillan, Davis Peterson, Trent Wright, Jake Thompson, Braxton Dean, Mac Mccowan, George Cain, Jones Beavers, Adair Wade, Benjamin Parrott, Kaleb Osborn, Michael Lorino, John Colvin, Reed Harradine, Grady Breland, Jacob Rosenthal, Palin Wilkinson, Jackson Beatty, Coleman Clay, Rob Gillespie, Mac Palmer, Sims Brown, Wells Marks, John Cooper, Joseph Kunze, Will Waldrop, Cole Gamble, Will McIlvaine, Clyde Beavers, Clark Sanderson, Duncan Hulsey, Drew Widener, Evan Bibb, Jackson Burwell, JB Cook, Heath Griffin, Quinn Thomas, Jack King, Alexander Horn, Hudson Young, Slate Sokol, Laurence Barringer, Elliott Bloomston, George Lloyd, Tucker Crawford, Sam Edmunds, JC Adams, Simms Sledge, Gri Cashio, Jack Currie, Charlie Elliott, William Halsey, Ward Holt, Richard Crommelin, Jack Donahue, Vaughn Frost, Glen Hale, Ham Mandell, Sellers Neuendorf, Andrew Naftel, Pete Fruin, Pelham Comer, Carter Kelley, Jackson Short, Sam Hunt, Will Cain, Charlie Comer, Trent Hirn, Joe Green, Billy Radney, William-Grier McDuffie, Ben Burkhart, Wil Lucas, Luke Christopher, John Littleton, Wyatt Brooks, Henry Boehme, Richard Kinsaul, Will Brower, Mac Smith, William Courtenay, Sam Mcpherson, Campbell Miller, Charles Smith, Tompkins Richardson, Watts Alexander, John Abele, Nelson Crawford, Carter Colvin, Rickey Whitworth, John Hendry, Will Troiano, William Tomlin, Drew Bodnar, Nathan Krueger, Will Monroe, Rudy Harrison, Geoffrey Cook, Benjamin Payne, James Hard, Alex Abele, David Miller, Andrew Marks, Ethan Wint, Edward Barze, Jack Windle, Gray Doster, Parker Avery, Grant Johnson, Carl Evans, Max Baltz, Carter Drew, Billy Hoyt, Fields Mendelsohn and Hart James.

Inexperienced Spartans Embracing the Challenge By Rubin E. Grant

mountain brook KEY PLAYERS TO WATCH

Quarterback

2021 SCHEDULE Aug. 20 Aug. 27 Sept. 2 Sept. 10 Sept. 17 Sept. 24 Oct. 7 Oct. 14 Oct. 22 Oct. 28

Vestavia 33 - 3 (W) @Huntsville Woodlawn* Huffman* @Shades Valley* Thompson Briarwood* @Homewood* @Chelsea* Austin

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mountain brook AT A GLANCE

Journal photo by Marvin Gentry

f ever a coach could say his team is in a rebuilding mode, it’s Mountain Brook’s Chris Yeager. The Spartans graduated 36 seniors from their team that went 12-2 and reached the Class 6A semifinals in 2020. But Yeager isn’t feeling sorry for himself going into the 2021 season. He’s just the opposite, embracing the challenge ahead. “We’re going to have a lot of new faces, but that’s fun to me, to see guys get excited about competing and about playing,” Yeager said. “It’s exciting to see a bunch of guys who hadn’t experienced what it’s like to play on Friday nights get excited about it. It’s also exciting to see who are going to be the new leaders to emerge.” The Spartans will have more than 30 seniors again this season, but they are not as seasoned as the seniors from last season. “We’re going to have some new guys who have to step up,” Yeager said. Here’s a position-by-position breakdown of the 2021 Spartans:

OFFENSE

Mountain Brook coach Chris Yeager with, from left, front, Nathan Krueger, Nelson Crawford, Gray Doster. Back, Tompkins Richardson and Edward Barze.

Head Coach: Chris Yeager 2020 Record: 12-2 Region: Class 6A Region 5: Homewood, Chelsea, Shades Valley, Huffman, Briarwood and Woodlawn. Stadium: Spartan Stadium (4,500)

The Spartans have to replace Strother Gibbs, a multi-dimensional three-year starter, at quarterback. Junior John Colvin has emerged as the starter, ahead of junior Benjamin Parrott and sophomore John Cooper on the depth chart. “John (Colvin) is very cerebral,” Yeager said. “He’s a great processor of what we’re doing and he makes good decisions.” Parrott and Cooper are capable backups, according to Yeager. “Ben is a good runner and good athlete,” he said. “John is a mixture of the two. We’ve got to get him prepared to play at this level.”

Running Back

Sophomore Cole Gamble figures to be the Spartans’ primary ball carrier in the running game. “He’s a little different from running backs we’ve had in the past,” Yeager said. “He’s got a burst. He’s got great straight-ahead speed. He’s very talented.” Juniors Will Waldrop, Heath Griffin and Evan Bibb are also in the mix. Seniors George Cain and

See SPARTANS, page 16

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MOUNTAIN BROOK

Thursday, August 26, 2021 • 15

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

MOUNTAIN BROOK

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SPARTANS

Linebacker

From page 14

Michael Lorino will fill the H-back position.

Receivers

The Spartans return several receivers from last season. Among the group are seniors Jake Thompson and Sims Brown,and junior Jackson Beatty, who all started last season. Junior Rob Gillespie and sophomore Clark Sanderson also will get playing time, and Parrot will provide depth. Junior Carter Kelley will play tight end when the Spartans employ one.

Offensive Line

Senior tackle Wilder Hines is the only returning starter on the offensive line. “We lost more there than anywhere,” Yeager said. Seniors Nelson Crawford and Wyatt Brooks were competing for the center spot. Junior Davis Peterson and sophomore Will Courtenay were the leading contenders for the two guard spots and junior Mac Smith was the frontrunner to start at the other tackle spot. Several others also are competing for playing time, including John Abele, Rudy Harrison, Henry Boehme and William Tomlin.

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Secondary

The secondary also will have some new faces with Jones Beavers and Braxton Dean taking over the safety spots and Mac McCowan

‘It’s exciting to see a bunch of guys who hadn’t experienced what it’s like to play on Friday nights get excited about it.’ CHRIS YEAGER

and Will McIlvaine playing cornerback. Senior Elliott Bloomston is the primary reserve in the secondary heading into the season. SPECIAL TEAMS

DEFENSE

Defensive Line

The linebacking corps has plenty of experience. John McMillan is a three-year starter at outside linebacker and Trent Wright returns at middle linebacker. Vaughn Frost and Quinn Thomas also saw plenty of action in 2020. “I feel good about them,” Yeager said.

On the defensive line, senior Tompkins Richardson or junior Geoffrey Cook will take over at nose tackle, while senior Gray Doster and junior Ethan Wint man the defensive end position. Parker Avery, Billy Hoyt, Fields Mendelsohn and Edward Barze provide depth.

Having junior Reed Harradine on the team gives the Spartans one of the top kickers in the state. He’s been their starter since he was a freshman, handling both placekicking and punting duties. “He has to be a college prospect,” Yeager said. Senior Trent Hirn could spell Harradine at punter from time to time.

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18 • Thursday, August 26, 2021

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

OAK MOUNTAIN

Members of the 2021 Oak Mountain High School varsity football team are: CJ Branson, Omar Crooks, Corbit Grundhoefer, Mitch Allen, Trey Vassell, Jah’ki Mullen, Cam Atkinson, Devan Moss, Evan Smith, Cade George, Ethan Hammett, Woodrow Hackbarth “Drody”, Sincere Morgan, Jaylynn Williams, Aiden Laughlin, Garrett Murphy, Quest Agee, Will O’Dell, Owen Carrington, Joseph Regan, Jett Wilson, Carter Lehman, Davion Foster, Bobby Laurey, Chris Weston, Ian Laughlin, Noah Hagadorn, DJ Stone, Hunter Cox, Dejuan Brown, Wesley Neumann, Alex Henry, Drew Fields, Jacob Helgason, Noland Austin, Tyler Lawson, Jesse Palmer, Evan Bussell, Hunter Gaskins, Brandon Lewis, Jacob Porco, Zach Smith, Tory Hudson, Robert Yoder, David Parker, Andrew McCallister, Sean Ray, Nic Rigdon, David Gathu, Davis Coggins, Mason Burnett, John James Coco, Mattox Vines, Crawford Romanowski, Paul Regan, Alfredo Hernandez, Ellis Porch, Colton Cason, Charlie Serra, Sawyer Hutto, Wesley Macdonald, Cordell Williams, Colin Prestriege, Mason Haynes, Hudson Youngblood, Will Wittman, Jack Ronilo, Peyton Swann, Zach Fitzgerald, Tristyn Vardaman, Jackson Blackwell, Max Cude, Corrin Hammett, J.D Miller, Ty Campbell, Gavin Nelson, Luke Oswalt, Jackson Tanner, Daveon Johnson and Caleb Jaworski.

First-Year Coach Hopes Eagles Will Contend for a Title By Rubin E. Grant

oak mountain KEY PLAYERS TO WATCH

2021 SCHEDULE Aug. 20 Aug. 27 Sept. 3 Sept. 10 Sept. 17 Sept. 30 Oct. 8 Oct. 15 Oct. 22 Oct. 28

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*Conference game

oak mountain AT A GLANCE

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

irst-year Oak Mountain head football coach Tyler Crane would like nothing better than to see the Eagles soar again this season – and even higher than they did in 2020. Oak Mountain reached the Class 7A quarterfinals last year before being eliminated by Hoover. “I would like to end this season playing at Protective Stadium,” Crane said, referring to the site of the AHSAA Super 7 championships in December at the new stadium in Birmingham. “In order for us to do that, we have to win every game.” That’s a monumental task, considering Oak Mountain plays in the same region with two-time defending 7A champion Thompson, perennial powerhouse Hoover and highly competitive Hewitt-Trussville. Crane replaces Cris Bell, who was voted the 2020 OTMJ Coach of the Year after leading the Eagles to a 7-5 record and their first playoff victory since 2014. Bell is now the head coach at Scottsboro. Crane comes to Oak Mountain from Central-Phenix City, where he had been an assistant. He previously was an assistant at Oak Mountain in 2016 and 2017. He believes the Eagles have the talent to make a run at a state title this fall. “We’ve got a good amount of

Oak Mountain coach Tyler Crane with, from left, Corbit Grundhoefer, Garrett Murphy, Cam Atkinson and Evan Smith.

Head Coach: 2020 Record: 7-5 Region: Class 7A Region 3: Hoover, Hewitt-Trussville, Gadsden City, Spain Park, Thompson, Tuscaloosa County, Vestavia Hills Stadium: Heardmont Park (5,000)

will be different,” he said. “On defense, we’ll do a lot of the same things we’ve done in the past.” Here’s a position-by-position rundown of the 2021 Eagles: OFFENSE

Quarterback

Senior Evan Smith returns for his senior season. A starter since he was a freshman, he’s one of the top dualthreat quarterbacks in the Southeast. Smith was the unanimous selection for the 2020 OTMJ Offensive Player of the Year honor, finishing the season with 1,719 yards rushing on 171 carries and completing 44 of 103 passing for 620 yards and six scores. He has committed orally to Northwestern. “Evan is our guy,” Crane said. “He’s a good athlete. He’ll have a chance to throw it a little bit more, but we also want to show we’re more than just Evan. We’ve got some other athletes who can make plays in space. I think he’ll have a big year as long as he stays healthy.” The Eagles have two young players backing up Smith, sophomore Drody Hackbarth and freshman Will O’Dell.

Running Back

starters back, some leaders,” he said. “Our players are constantly learning, looking to get better and doing things

the right way. It’s good to see.” The Eagles will have a slightly different look on offense this season

under Crane, going from an option attack to the spread. “It’s nothing complicated, but it

The Eagles will rely on a combination of running backs that include seniors C.J. Branson and Aiden Laughlin and junior Trey Vassell.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

OAK MOUNTAIN

Thursday, August 26, 2021 • 19

Offensive Line

Journal file photo by Marvin Gentry

The Eagles have some experience up front with senior guard Nic Rigdon, senior center Mason Burnett and junior guard Hudson Youngblood. The starting tackles will be juniors Luke Oswalt and Sawyer Hutto, but there’s little depth. “That’s been a big struggle,” Crane said. “We’re trying to build some depth.” DEFENSE

Defensive Line

A starter since he was a freshman, Evan Smith is one of the top dual-threat quarterbacks in the Southeast.

Linebackers

Mattox Vines, Cam Atkinson, Carter Lehman and Jah’ki Mullen will rotate at linebacker. “They will all do the same job at times,” Crane said.

“C.J. is a new kid,” Crane said. “This is the first year he’s played.”

Receivers

Gavin Nelson and Zahc Smith will be the defensive ends while Davis Coggins plays nose tackle. Crane said Nelson and Smith can also slide down the interior, allowing the Eagles to use their outside linebackers as ends.

Crane believes the Eagles have good options at receiving with the likes of seniors Ethan Hammett, Joseph Regan and Cade George. “All three have done well in practice,” Crane said. Peyton Swann, Jack Ronilo, Jackson Blackwell and freshman Zach Fitzgerald will also be in the rotation. “We’ve got guys who can make plays, but it is a matter of playing with confidence,” Crane said. Swann and Blackwell also will serve as hybrid players at tight end, H-back and fullback, along with Laughlin.

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Secondary

Senior Quest Agee and junior Garrett Murphy will man the safety positions, and both will slide down to linebacker at times. Junior Devan Moss and senior Corbit Grundhoefer will start at cornerback. Crane said he is excited to see what juniors Davion Foster and Bobby Laury will do when they get the opportunity to play. SPECIAL TEAMS

Murphy will handle all the kicking chores with Ellis Porch helping out as a punter.

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Journal photo by Marvin Gentry

SPAIN PARK

Members of the 2021 Spain Park High School varsity football team are: Pierson Cole, George Gilbert, Tucker Steed, Brian Alston, Alex Smith, Landon Miller, Jackson Mitchell, Clay Spencer, KJ Rudolph, Evan Smallwood, Eathan Gutkoski, Jamari Mosley, Jerimiah Myers, Kelby Roberson, Mitchell Nutter, Jonas Harrellson, Dee Davis, Jack Kendrick, Colin Cutcliff, CJ Clency, Cameron Flanigan, John Michael Lee, Josyvan Almazan, Angel Ortiz, Jonathan Bibbs, Walker Russell, Caldwell Bussey, Jack Taylor, Keionte Robinson, Stopher Walls, Tyler Walker, Keaton Sandford, Logan Brownlee, Zamir Farris, Eli Johnson, Tyler Hunter, Grayson Brock, Logan Denson, Carter Dickinson, Jack Stewart, Zavier Long, Landon Huey, Jaylon Hatcher, Knox Holston, Evan Bishop, Dillon Orr, Jacob Roe, Braxton Sumpter, Will Duncan, Sam Lee, Chase Wolsoncroft, Aiden Bayne, Conner Langston, Lorenzo Garcia, Parker Stone, Coleman Gray, Conner May, Travis Mann, Sean Corey, Mason Cooper, Thornton Allen, Ashton Sauder, Landon Johnson, Morgan Bowden, Hudson Cahalan, Rayshod Burts, Josh Lewis, Evan Eaker, Alex Lloyd, Cam Mcfarlin, Jassiel Almazan, Grey Burton, Jacob Olsen, Mason Bowden, Micah Ford, Alden Dorn, Jackson Boler, Nikolas Alston, Jarod Smith, Morgan Rich and Jamal Scott.

New-Look Jags Will Be More Run-Oriented By Rubin E. Grant

OFFENSE

Quarterback

Talented quarterback Bennett

spain park KEY PLAYERS TO WATCH 2021 SCHEDULE Aug. 20 Aug. 27 Sept. 3 Sept. 10 Sept. 17 Sept. 30 Oct. 8 Oct. 15 Oct. 22 Oct. 28

Huntsville 37 - 13 (W) Briarwood @Hewitt - Trussville* @Thompson* Gadsden City* Oak Mountain* Hoover* @Vestavia Hills* Tuscaloosa County* Hueytown

*Conference game

spain park AT A GLANCE

Journal photo by Marvin Gentry

or the past few years, Spain Park has attacked opposing defenses with a spread attack. But with several of their skill players on their offense in 2020 transferring to other schools, the Jaguars are changing their look on offense this season. “In high school football, you have to adjust your offense and defense to the kids you’ve got,” Spain Park coach Shawn Raney said. “We’re going to a more option-oriented offense. It fits our personnel better. We are going to be more physical and run the ball more.” The Jags brought in Danny Ward from Oak Mountain to be the offensive coordinator. He was the offensive line coach at Oak Mountain, where they employed the option. Spain Park had a young defense last year and it showed as the Jags allowed 38 points per game. But Raney expects them to be improved this fall. “On defense, we started seven or eight sophomores last year,” he said. “They are all back and are about 20 pounds heavier and stronger, so we’ve got better size and strength. I think we will be better defensively.” Here’s a position-by-position breakdown of the 2021 Jags:

ed to back up Smallwood. “He’s very similar to Evan in what he does,” Raney said.

Spain Park coach Shawn Raney with, from left, Evan Smallwood, Tucker Steed, Tyler Hunter and Conner May.

Meredith transferred to crosstown rival Hoover after passing for more than 3,000 yards and 24 touchdowns for the Jags in 2020. Junior Evan Smallwood will take

over and run the Jags’ new option attack. “He’s a great leader and has been a standout kid since he was at Berry (Middle School),” Raney said. “He’s

Head Coach: Shawn Raney 2020 Record: 4-6 Region: Class 7A Region 3: Hoover, Hewitt-Trussville, Gadsden City, Oak Mountain, Thompson, Tuscaloosa County, Vestavia Hills Stadium: Finley Stadium (5,000)

a real humble kid and a real quiet kid, but the kids love him and want to follow him. We have confidence in his ability to run the stuff we’re running.” Sophomore Mitchell Nutter is slat-

Running Back

The Jags lost plenty of firepower in the backfield when Justin Pegues transferred to Thompson. He had nearly 1,000 yards rushing (570) and receiving (426) last year. Junior Zamir Farris will be the primary threat out of the backfield this season. “He played quite a bit last year,” Raney said. “He’s a smaller back, but he’s really explosive and really fast. He’s also put on 20 pounds. He’s an excellent player.” Sophomore Zavier Long also will get plenty of carries. Junior Evan Bishop will play fullback and serve as the long snapper on kicks.

Receivers

The Jags also took a hit at receiver with Jaylen Ward and David Moultry transferring to Thompson. With them gone, the Jags plan to alternate players at wide out and in the slot. Among the group are Pierson Cole, George Gilbert, Landon Miller, Clay Spencer, Dee Davis and John Michael Lee. With their new offense, the Jags also will employ a tight end for blocking purposes, with two-way players Caldwell Bussey, Jackson Boler and Mason Bowden rotating at the spot. See JAGUARS, page 22

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SPAIN PARK

Thursday, August 26, 2021 • 21

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SPAIN PARK

JAGUARS

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Offensive Line

The Jags have three returning starters on the offensive line, junior center Morgan Bowden (6-foot-1, 220), junior guard Rayshod Burts (5-11, 260) and senior tackle Conner May (6-0, 240). Sophomores Hudson Cahalan (guard) and Conner Langston (tackle) will be the other two starters. “They are big, strong kids,” Raney said. Seniors Travis Mann (center and guard) and Thornton Allen (guard and tackle) will provide depth. DEFENSE

Defensive Line

Bowden, Bussey and Brian Alston give the Jags some experience at defensive end. Alston, a 6-2, 200-pound junior, already has received some college offers. Jarod Smith, a 6-5, 220pound freshman, also figures to play. “He’s got a chance to be special,” Raney said. The Jags will rotate four players at defensive tackle, including returning starters Jamal Scott and Jackson Boler, both seniors. Senior Parker Stone and sophomore Josh Lewis are the backups.

Linebacker

Raney described his linebackers as a “good group.” At the forefront is senior Ethan Gutowski. “He’s the leader of the defense,” Raney said. “He’s a tough, hard-nosed player who has been good for us.” Jonas Harrellson is another returning starter. Also in the mix are Jackson Mitchell, K.J. Rudolph and Landon Huey.

Journal file photo by Jordan Wald

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From page 20

Junior Zamir Farris will be the primary threat out of the backfield this season.

Secondary

The secondary is another position with some experience, including returning starters Alex Smith and Tyler Hunter at cornerback and Jack Kendrick at safety. Senior Tucker Steed and junior Stopher Walls also will play safety, while sophomore Jamari Mosley will be the reserve corner. SPECIAL TEAMS

Talented kicker Drake Tabor graduated, but Raney believes the position is in good hands with senior Braxton Sumpter, whose brother Tyler starred at Spain Park and is now at West Virginia. “Braxton will do all our kicking,” Raney said. “He has really good leg strength. I feel good about him and I feel good about our kicking game.”

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

SPAIN PARK

Thursday, August 26, 2021 • 23

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

VESTAVIA HILLS

Richardson, Fort Edmonds, Morgan McInnis, Sam Carroll, Aiden Black, Gaines Johnson, Cooper Mollison, Zach Lightfoot, Luke Swanzy, John Paul Head, Michael Dobbs, Kohen Nelson, John Clark Williamson, Mitchell Towns, John Martin Richter,

Members of the 2021 Vestavia Hills High School varsity football team are: Will Cox, Luke Turner, Mason Perrigo, Zach Mueller, Kent Vickers, John Ross Ashley, Bryant Agee, Jordan Ross, Jack Davis, Daniel Reynolds, Jackson Ayers, Keown

Audey Stein, Houston Owen, Chris Haynes, Matthew Ledbetter, Dylan Jaquess, Caleb Harwell, James O’Neill, Jay Faulkner, Cole Turner, Chandler Long, Thomas Waudby Jr., McCall Moore, Jaden Daniels, Vince Visser, Kaden Daniels, Colton

Rohling, Jack Brewer, Chase Rose III, Thomas Brown, Russell Luccasen, Michael Lo Re, Davis Stewart, Rob Warnock IV, Jordan Skrabo, Jack Lockhart, Brenden Marshall, Trey Saunders, William Fitzpatrick V, Sims Nichols, Ben Keene, Luke Parsons,

Walker Creel, Greer Smith, Luke Beckham, John Friloux, Charlie Ingram, Loftin Sheppard, Grant Downey, William Douglass, Alec Paraiso, Will Bond, Ford Brown, Alex McConnell, Aarya John, Bo Shea, Caiden Howle, William Sasser, Gibson Bean, Harrison Heath, Tucker Smitha, Clay Barnes, Samuel Hansen, Pierce Hanna, Tanner McInnis, Lane Whisenhunt, Walker Gardner, Jamar Wilkins, Riggs Manown, Gabe Adams, John Michael Chandash, Hill Hughen, Max Neuroth, Wheeler Smith, Mark Rainey, Andrew Spray, Jack Dawsey, Hill Stokes, Glen Porter, Noah Fouts, Blake Smitha, Thomas Ogletree, Jack Graveline, Sam Deason, Garrett Hurst, Ben Mendheim, Nelson Greiner, Wesley Smith, Allan Peterson, Elliot Gilbert, Whitten McCulley, Kaleb Glass, Ethan Denaburg, Hoke Smith, Hudson Hager, Jack McMurray, Evan Williams, Jack Poole, Mitchell Taylor, Josh Brooks, Alex Baldone, Jackson Baynham, Michael Kolen III, Sawyer Arnold, Jackson Macknally, Harrison Faust, Max Stewart, Griffen Thompson, Whit Bohorfoush, Brady Brown, Jake Murphree, Bret Vincent, Douglas Perry, Jack Thompson, Eli Freeman, John Hinton Hogue, Warren Ainsworth, Parker Fulton, Will Pattillo, Matthew Thackerson, Chuck Hammack, Gentry Sharp, Avery Creel, Reid Laughlin, Andrew Sykes, Wyatt Witherington, George Wolf, William Webster, Blake Smith, Grant Greenlee, Sully Blake and Blake Jeffers.

New Coach Optimistic About Rebels’ Season By Rubin E. Grant

vestavia hills KEY PLAYERS TO WATCH

2021 SCHEDULE Aug. 20 Aug. 27 Sept. 3 Sept. 10 Sept. 17 Oct. 1 Oct. 8 Oct. 15 Oct. 22 Oct. 28

@Mtn. Brook 3 - 33 (L) @Homewood @Hoover* Oak Mountain* @Tuscaloosa County* Thompson* @Hewitt Trussville* Spain Park* Gadsden City* @Shades Valley

*Conference game

vestavia hills AT A GLANCE

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

s he enters his first season replacing the legendary Buddy Anderson as head coach, Sean Calhoun inherits a Vestavia Hills football program that has made the state playoffs only twice since the Alabama High School Athletic Association went to seven classifications in 2014. Those appearances came in 2015 and 2019. In three of their seven seasons at the Class 7A level, the Rebels have had losing seasons, including a 4-6 mark in 2020, but that included two forfeits because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Calhoun spent the past five seasons as head coach at Carrolton, Georgia, where his teams won three region titles and made five quarterfinal playoff appearances, compiling a 51-12 record during his time at the school. Calhoun hopes to turn around the Rebels’ fortunes in his first season, although Vestavia Hills still plays in challenging Class 7A, Region 3 that also has two-time defending state champion Thompson and perennial power Hoover, the Rebels’ longtime rival. “Our outlook is optimistic,”

Vestavia Hills coach Sean Calhoun with, from left, Ethan Denaburg, John Ross Ashley, Trey Saunders and Cole Turner.

Head Coach: Sean Calhoun 2020 Record: 4-6 Region: Class 7A Region 3: Hoover, Hewitt-Trussville, Gadsden City, Oak Mountain, Spain Park, Thompson, Tuscaloosa County, Stadium: Thompson Reynolds Stadium at Buddy Anderson Field (5,000)

Calhoun said. “We’ve got a lot of potential, but that word can be scary at times. “We’re working hard and we’ve got some goals. We’re going to do everything we can to meet those goals. We’ve got to compete as hard as we can, play sound football and be physical, especially with the people we play on our schedule.” Calhoun has installed a spread offense and brought in Bert Newton to be the defensive coordinator to implement an aggressive, attacking defense. Newton had spent the past four years as the coordinator at Hartselle. “We’ve got a bunch of kids who saw some time last year,” Calhoun said. “I think the Rebel Nation is going to like this team and will be excited to see them play.” Here’s a position-by-position breakdown of the 2021 Rebels: OFFENSE

Quarterback

Seniors Mitchell Towns and Fort Edmonds have been battling throughout the preseason for the starting job, and their battle will likely continue

See REBELS, page 26

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Thursday, August 26, 2021 • 25

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

VESTAVIA HILLS

REBELS

from a group that includes Andrew Sykes, Lane Whisenhunt, Blake Jeffers, Jamar Wilkins, Jackson Baynham, John Michael Chandash, Kaleb Glass, Gabe Adams and Walker Gardner. “We’ve got a really good mix,” Calhoun said. “I think they will do a good job.”

From page 24

into the season. “We like to have competition,” Calhoun said. Sophomores John Paul Head and Luke Turner will be backups. “We’ll see how this all goes,” Calhoun said. “They all bring different things to the table.”

Linebackers

Trey Saunders, who can play inside or outside, spearheads the linebacking corps. Davis Stewart, John Martin Richter, Caleb Harwell, Will Fitzpatrick, Houston Owen, William Douglass, Gaines Johnson, Kaden Daniels, Chase Rose and Sam Hansen are competing to be in the rotation.

Running Back

Receivers

Calhoun likes his receiving corps. “They’re talented but inexperienced,” he said. The leader of the group is senior Cole Turner, the younger brother of former Rebel and current Clemson defensive back Nolan Turner. Keown Richardson, Colton Rohling, Caiden Howle, Aiden Black, Audey Stein, Cooper Mollison, John Friloux, Max Stewart and Luke Swanzy are all competing for playing time. Rob Warnock, Walker Creel, Warren Ainsworth, Clay Barnes, Will Bond and Wyatt Witherington are battling it out at tight end.

Offensive Line

The Rebels have some experience up front with senior center Hill Stokes, a three-year start-

Secondary

Senior Jackson Ayers, who can line up at corner or safety, returns as the most experienced defensive back. John Ross Ashley figures to play a safety spot. The cornerbacks will come from a group that includes Grant Downey, Kohen Nelson, Will Cox, Morgan McInnis, Zach Lightfoot, Michael Dobbs and Jay Faulkner. “They’re all hybrid guys who can play a mixture of cornerback and safety,” Calhoun said.

Journal file photo by Jordan Wald

Running back is one the Rebels’ deeper positions. Senior Bryant Agee returns as the primary back. “He’s dynamic with the ball in his hands,” Calhoun said. “He had some explosive plays last year.” Tucker Smitha, Jack Lockhart and Jack Davis will get their share of carries. Senior Pierce Hanna, a standout baseball player, returns. He started as a sophomore but didn’t play last year.

Running back is one the Rebels’ deeper positions. Senior Bryant Agee, above, returns as the primary back. “He’s dynamic with the ball in his hands,” Calhoun said.

er, senior guard Jack Dawsey and senior tackle Hoke Smith. Two others who are likely to start are Nelson Greiner and Glen Porter. Providing depth are Hudson Hager, who’s coming from the golf team, Alex Baldone, Sam Deason, Mitch Taylor, Riggs Manown and Whitten McCulley.

DEFENSE

Defensive Line

Tackle Max Neuroth is the only returning starter on the defense. Calhoun describes him as a skilled defensive lineman. The other starters and backups will come

SPECIAL TEAMS

The Rebels have to replace Matthew McMeans, who graduated after a stellar career. “He was a good one,” Calhoun said. “It will be a daunting task to replace him, but we’ll give it our best shot.” Towns is expected handle the punting duties with the placekicker coming from a group that includes Ben Keene, Russell Luccasen, Jack Brewer, Andrew Spray and William Webster.

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