SAm Magazine Setember 2008

A San Antonio High School Sports Magazine

INSIDE GET PUMPED: football workout

HEART OF

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coach Rackley

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SAm Magazine • September 2008 P.O. Box 17404 San Antonio, Tx 78217-0404 phone 210.347.0756 web readsam.com Publisher Thirteen Acre Media, LLC Operations Manager Charlie Perrin II cperrin@readsam.com

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Contributing Editor Lee Vander Boegh Subscriptions $19.99 plus tax for one year $29.99 plus tax for two years Special thanks to Jeff and IQ ©2008-2009. All Rights Reserved. Material published in SAm Magazine may not be republished, resold, recorded or used in any manner, in whole or in part, without a publisher’s express written consent. Reprints of articles are available by e-mailing cperrin@readsam.com.

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earnest jones

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conte contributors 6 backpage programs 18 MULES 28 WARRIORS 30 KNIGHTS 32 UNICORNS 34

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SAm Magazine 5

Anel Monge,

photographer

Jess Lintz, writer Juan Coronado, photographer

Jon Black, writer Lee Vander Boegh,

contributing editor

J.D. LeCoq, writer

Kimberly Oakman,

editorial manager & writer

Anthony Morano, photographer

Robin Perrin,

writer

Mario Ochoa,

writer

David Hernandez,

sales

Carlos Reyes,

writer

from the

Charlie Perrin II Publisher / Operations

It is the start of a new school year, and nobody is as excited as those of us at SAm. We’ve been waiting for this moment since the very last whistle blew late last spring. As fans, we welcome the rich traditions and heated rivalries as each new season kicks off. As part of the community, we enjoy watching our local student athletes fine tune their skills and learn the true meaning of sportsmanship. And as athletes, we can’t wait for the spectacular, high-flying, I-can’t-believe-what-I-just-saw moments.

But ultimately, you, the athletes, are the real reasons we’re excited. You have worked hard all summer developing your game while building strength, speed and agility. Not to mention preparing yourself for the academic challenges you’ll face this year. Energy is high as you welcome back returning members of the team, and welcome the new faces that are competing their way onto your team roster.

As you rise up to meet these challenges, hit your goals, face your rivals (and create some new ones), we want to be there with you, on your team.

It is the start of a new era in high school sports media as we launch SAm Magazine, San Antonio’s only high school sports magazine and Readsam.com, the interactive website.

We are dedicated to providing you a media outlet, filled with unbiased, relevant content that is a positive platform for high school athletics. We aim to recognize you, the student athlete, the parents, the supporters.

You strive to instill a sense of school pride, sportsmanship, dedication and leadership as you are the role models for the student body and your community. We desire to capture all of your achievements, hard work and discipline in our publications.

You are the embodiment of SAm.

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magazineis is the student athlete who is committed to overcoming the relentless challenges in life with the hard work and determination it takes to achieve greatness in the high school sports arena.

is the embodiment of the spirit, passion, and determination of high school athletics, academics, and sportsmanship in San Antonio.

is the community, parents, coaches, and businesses that provide the means to generate the positive exposure that every student athlete has worked so hard to achieve.

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SAm Magazine 9

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by mario ochoa / photos by anthony morano

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t’s late on a sunny Thursday afternoon and I’m on the phone with coach Jim Rackley. It doesn’t take long before his renowned sense of passion and enthusiasm saturates the conversation. After all, it’s time to talk football.

As head coach of the storied Judson Rocket High School football team, he has spent the last seven years leading a program that expects a state championship every season.

Yet, to hear him tell it, success is goes far beyond exceptional perfor-

steps into his locker room, which include every athlete passing every class, winning district, making the playoffs and finally, winning a state championship. The goal, he says, is to teach kids how to win on the field so they can excel in life.

“Coaching is motivating,” he said. “We have to get these kids to play at a higher level. My coaching staff and I try to do that by having them set goals. The coaches bring a lot of energy to the field during practice and games. I try and teach the

I try and teach the players to never make excuses

I tell them to be relentless mance on the field, it’s about giving your all in every facet of life.

“Let me tell you something,” Rackley says with rabid enthusiasm.

“Every year before our kids hit the field I ask them one question. I ask them what they want to be doing 10 years from now, because for me it’s not just about having a goal. It’s about having the hunger to achieve it.”

Rackley is quick to point out that on-field success doesn’t end once the stadium lights go out. There are standards for every young man who 12 SAm Magazine

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players to never make an excuse.

You’re self-inflicting by making excuses. I tell them to be relentless, make it happen.”

‘Make it happen.’ Those words serve as Rackely’s mantra. It’s a phrase that drives him, yet keeps him focused and humble. Those qualities are what the Judson community - which is comprised of hardworking citizens who are very proud their young champions - finds so endearing. The relationship between coach and community is highlighted

by Rackley’s tenure, which has already spanned more than 25 years. The affiliation began in 1980 when he joined the school as an assistant coach. Though he left after accepting the head coach position with Southwest High School in 1988, he returned to Judson in 1993, again as an assistant coach. In 2000 he was promoted to head coach after thenhead coach D.W. Rutledge left to serve as executive director of the Texas High School Coaches Association.

“You know, this area is so wonderful,” he said. “It is a middle-class community that is made up of people that have a strong work ethic and a strong passion for football. Their ethic shows up in their kids, who attend class at Judson and play on our football team.”

The bond between coach and school served Rackley well last season, especially after he underwent

In Rackley’s eyes it was another challenge met head on with faith and patience quintuple bypass surgery. For the openly-spiritual Rackley, the community’s reaction was an experience he’ll never forget.

“It was an incredibly humbling experience for me,” he said. “I am in many ways the most blessed and fortunate guy on the face of the earth.

When this happened, there was such a great outpouring of prayers. I was very fortunate.”

As news outlets circulated stories of Rackley’s surgery, many won-

dered if the man known for his fiery passion for the game had lost his spark. But in Rackley’s eyes it was another challenge met head on with faith and patience.

It comes to little surprise, then, that Rackley will be back on sidelines this fall. For a man who extols the virtue of working hard, he truly lives it. It’s likely that players and fans won’t notice any differences in their beloved coach excitedly working the sidelines.

Rackley is surprisingly candid about his future, saying that his coaching days may be coming to an end sooner than we think. When asked the same question he notoriously asks his young players, Rackley answers with honesty.

“I doubt I will be coaching football within the next 10 years,” he predicted. “There comes a point when you realize that there are coaches who are younger and can do things better. That is when I know it’s time to step down.”

But don’t expect his work with kids to end once his coaching days are over. “I would like to start a working ranch for the young and disadvantaged youth,” he said. “I would like to teach them good qualities and commitment to themselves.”

For Rackley and the proud Judson community, there are still many stories left to unfold on the field.

And even more important ones to play out in life.

That’s what makes “Rocket Pride” such a special part of our city, and proves that even a heart marred by the slings of surgery is still made of gold.

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If you can tell us in 200 words or less how athletics is your foundation for success, and we think what you have to say rises above the rest, you could be outfitted with a brand new pair of limited edition NIKES. Log on to readsam.com and create a user account, then visit the contest tab for more info.

by kimberly oakman / photos by terrie adams

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ooking at this 6-foot-1, longlegged female with long flowing hair, it’s easy to assume she’s a supermodel. But sit down with her and you’ll realize the presence of a true athlete.

McKenzie Adams is uncomfortably sitting across from me, unsure of what to expect from this interview. She swings in her chair while desperately scanning the room for something to focus her attention on.

Though her body language says it all, she admits that she’s a little nervous – just like the first time she walked into varsity volleyball tryouts as a freshman three years ago at Steele High School. She didn’t expect to make the team, let alone start.

The tryouts, just like this interview, went amazingly well.

“When coach Glunt told me that I was on varsity as a freshman, I thought she was joking,” McKenzie says with a laugh. “My first thought was, ‘Great! I’m not going to get any playing time.’”

But playing time was the least of her problems. McKenzie had to overcome two major obstacles before stepping onto the court: winning the respect of her fellow players and becoming a more vocal teammate.

“I remember that deer-in-theheadlights look the day of varsity tryouts,” head coach Cathy Glunt said.

“She was going to be a superstar, but we just had to work to get her there.”

Even with the coach’s adoration, this young athlete still had to prove herself amongst her teammates. Being the youngest player on the Varsity team was a “huge adjustment.”

“I had to prove to the Varsity girls that I deserved to be there and I wanted to be there,” she says. “It was very overwhelming at first, but I did what I had to do to earn my spot on the varsity team.”

But the relationship blossomed, and her teammates even learned 16 SAm Magazine

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“She was going to be a superstar, but we just had to work to get her there.”

364 KILLS 89 BLOCKS from her. McKenzie remembers how her fellow athletes would get frustrated when coach Glunt would put them against her on the other side of the net during practice.

The other girls would actually rejoice if they blocked any of McKenzie’s shots during drills.

“Putting me against my teammates only made the team better,” McKenzie says. “That’s one of my goals as captain: to make this team the strongest it can be.”

McKenzie, nervously sitting across from me, doesn’t immediately strike me as a loud and intense personality. But watching her on the court is another story. She possesses athletic and leadership qualities that most coaches usually only dream of. She leaves everything on the court – whether during highstakes games or pick-up practices.

Yet she remains extremely humble.

Even so, McKenzie admits that becoming a vocal leader was a challenge. But it’s something she has approached with the same vigor as the game itself. Her tenacity will payoff, especially as she steps into the captain role this season. “I have never been a vocal player,” she says. “I had to learn how to step up and express my feelings and concerns as a player and as a leader.”

Her performance on the court has done plenty of talking on its own. Since 2006, McKenzie has collected 515 kills, 35 aces and 154 blocks - impressive numbers that will surely grow this upcoming season. In 2007 alone she set single season records for her school with 364 kills, 27 aces, and 89 blocks.

McKenzie credits her impressive game to playing volleyball year round. She has played club volleyball for the past six years and has attended some of the most prestigious volleyball training camps in the nation.

Like the USA Volleyball High Performance Camp in 2007, where she was one of only 36 girls selected for the USA Girl’s Select A2 program, which trained at the Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

27 ACES

“This kind of preparation makes me raise my game to a higher level,” she says.

“I don’t have a break from volleyball…ever.

When the school season is over I play club

ball, then go to camps. And then the school year starts again. There is no rest period for me, but that’s the only way I can improve my game. I just constantly work.”

That work has been paying off, though she didn’t realize the full impact until recently. It finally sunk in when several colleges and universities began expressing interest in this talented athlete. Sitting across from her, it’s easy to see why they are so interested. Her tremendous level of play is eclipsed only by her modesty.

Any program in the nation would be proud to one day say, “McKenzie Adams from Steele High School in San Antonio, Texas: Welcome to our program.” readsam.com

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back page Just because newspapers pass them over doesn’t mean you should by mario ochoa / photo by anthony morano

S

ummer in South Texas, to sports fans, represents nothing more than a countdown for the upcoming football season’s inaugural kick off. From the smallest high school level to the full-fledged professionals, nothing gets Texans fired up quite like the promise of the pigskin on the gridiron.

The lack of a local NFL or Division I football program means San Antonio football fans focus their fervor on the smaller - but no less exciting - high school football programs. Storied teams like Judson and Roosevelt become frequent conversation topics, just like new powerhouses such as Reagan and Steele. Despite the geographic boundaries that separate these institutions, they share one kindred attribute: the players. Each school is dedicated to graduating the finest student athletes in the area. Yet some schools do so without the same glitz and glamour of the larger programs.

Names like Universal City and Navarro might not immediately bring to mind the much-publicized traditions of their larger counterparts, yet they represent the very same ideals of their bigger brothers: inspiration, education and victory. These smaller schools simply do it more quietly and without the fanfare dedicated to the widelycovered 4A and 5A programs.

Does this mean the quality of talent doesn’t compare to the larger programs? Or that the students and parents are less enthusiastic?

Or that the talented student-ath18 SAm Magazine

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“We are working with the future leaders of this country”

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This season, players throughout the area are playing for much more than the right to be on the winning end of the scoreboard. They are preparing for a life of success and leadership letes are destined to miss out on college scholarships?

Of course not says Navarro High School assistant football coach Brent Mora.

“There is a great deal of talent at the lower classifications and private schools,” he says. “A couple of years ago Randolph High School had a running back by the name of Zach

Collins, and he could have started for any 4A or 5A team in the area. Antonian College Prep had a defensive end/tight end that was 6’9” and he could have started at any 5A school in the area. He was also a very good basketball player. One big difference when it comes to 4A and 5A schools is that they have more athletes in their program.”

Mora, a lifelong athlete and former Antonian football player – a TAPPS

league school – understands the dynamics of high school athletics, and that media coverage is often graded towards the exploits of the bigger, better-known establishments.

“Take the San Antonio ExpressNews for example,” he explains.

“The sports page will have several large articles on the NEISD and NISD schools with pictures. Then there will be one page that has three-sentence-long articles on all of the small schools in the area.”

The discrepancy is large, but Mora explained that the benefit of working with athletes outside of the public glare has its own advantages.

“The good thing about being a great athlete at a smaller school is that you are a standout rather than being mixed in the crowd”

Therein lays the appeal of playing on a smaller field, so to speak: a greater opportunity to stand out. That means athletes often enjoy more time playing the sports they love without sacrificing minutes to deeper depth charts. Fans also candidly get to know the players who take the field each week, creating an air of community that is second to none.

While the papers and news stations may be slow to catch on, it doesn’t faze coaches like Mora. He’s content outside of the spotlight, passionately teaching more than long snap counts and pass routes. Utilizing sports, his profession teaches kids to excel as tomorrow’s leaders.

“Working with young student athletes is an awesome thing,” he says. “We are working with the future leaders of this country. You get to watch these athletes grow up and become good young men and women. The fact that you are having a positive impact on these kids’ lives is truly a blessing. Some of these athletes need a release from their everyday lives and sports give them that.

There is no other feeling like it.”

Still, some players are looking to move up a level and compete at the collegiate and possibly pro level.

For them, Mora recommends several strategies, each designed to promote his or her talents within environments that are often overlooked.

“I tell my kids, ‘if you really want to play you need to consider the DII, DIII, and JUCO programs.’” He says. “’If you are a good athlete someone is going to want you to be a part of their program. Many high schools will make highlight films for players, and this is a great way to be recognized.

All it takes is a coach to pick up the phone, call a few schools, and they can either send them a film or the school will send a recruiter down to speak with the athlete.’”

“An example of an athlete getting recognized through a highlight film is Tom Wort from New Braunfels High School,” he adds. “This kid is the real deal. If you go to YouTube and type in his name you will see how good he is.

Some schools got hold of his film and started to recruit him. He has already verbally committed to OU during his junior year. One more piece of advice is go to as many football camps as you can. Colleges hold camps that specialize in your position, and they teach athletes how to improve their fundamentals, which is what many college recruiters look for.”

This season, players throughout the area are playing for much more than the right to be on the winning end of the scoreboard. They are preparing for a life of success and leadership. For coaches and educators, the goal of enriching and empowering young minds will never change, no matter what field you’re on. And these athletes at smaller schools share the same drive, passion and abilities of those at their larger brethren; which means the games are just as intense and exciting – just ask the fans. readsam.com

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survival earnest jones

of the fittest by kimberly oakman / photos by anel monge

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“Surviving the storm was the hardest thing I have had to experience so far in my life.”

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uarterbacks fear him. Running backs avoid him. Wideouts adjust routes because of him.

But when Ernest Jones steps off the field, he doesn’t come across any different than most of San Antonio’s premier student athletes. He’s confident, yet humble; he says “please” and “thank you” and is equally devoted to his textbooks as he is to the playbook. But that’s where most similarities end. The highly-recruited star linebacker at Boerne hasn’t just battled the depth charts for his 22 SAm Magazine

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starting spot, he’s battled the most life-threatening elements of man and nature themselves.

It wasn’t that long ago that Jones was hunkered down in the Superdome while Hurricane Katrina unleashed its Category 5 furry on Louisiana. Listening to the storm battering New Orleans from the unsure safety of the enclosed sports stadium, Jones and his fellow refugees could only speculate what – if anything – would be left of their beloved city. But Jones’ attention

Jones made his decision based on two things: FAMILY AND FOOTBALL wasn’t focused on possible landscape scenarios; he was worried about his two siblings, Erwin and Erica, who had taken shelter at the city’s Convention Center. Though all three survived the ordeal, they wouldn’t be reunited again for another three weeks. “‘I wore the same clothes for a week, and didn’t know what was going to happen to me,” Jones says. “Surviving the storm was the hardest thing I have had to experience so far in my life.”

Finding A New Home

As the shell-shocked Katrina survivors fled their dilapidated hometowns looking for new places to resume their lives, Jones found himself in Boerne; though it wasn’t his only option. His uncle had taken root in Beaumont, Texas, and the idea of moving there did have its merits.

But Jones – who made his decision based on two things: family and football – ultimately decided on Boerne.

“I felt that I would have a better chance of starting over in Boerne, and I wasn’t going anywhere without my brother and sister,” he explains.

When Jones arrived in Boerne in 2005, he wasn’t sure how he would fit in. The friendly, proud and compassionate community was the polar opposite of the rough and tough streets of Baton Rouge, his hometown in Louisiana, in a violence-ridden neighborhood where looking over your shoulder is necessary for survival. But Boerne welcomed him immediately. readsam.com

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“Here in Texas, football is a very structured

game, and I had to get used to that. I practice until I get it, and I play like it’s my last time on the field.”

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“I was welcomed with a lot of love and open arms and support,” he says.

“I remember getting here and thinking: this is definitely different than what I was used to. But I knew that I was going to have better opportunities here than in Beaumont, so I wanted to make the best of it.”

Aside from the obvious challenges associated with moving into such a different type of community, Jones discovered very quickly that Boerne plays “a different style of football” than his old school, West Feliciana High School in Baton Rouge.

“In Louisiana, the game was very laid back and it wasn’t a big deal if I fully understood what I was doing on the field,” he says. “Here in Texas, football is a very structured game, and I had to get used to that. I practice until I get it, and I play like it’s my last time on the field.”

It didn’t take long before Jones’s work ethic, athleticism and leadership caught the attention of head coach Daniel Threadgill. Admiring his agility and power, Threadgill immediately recognized Jones’s potential, especially as a leader.

“Ernest is such a selfless player, and he puts everyone before himself,” Threadgill says. “That’s the sign of a true leader. When I saw him at tryouts, it just clicked.”

Jones made his move from junior varsity to varsity and settled in right away. As a junior last season he earned all-district honors by grabbing 46 tackles, 35 assisted tackles and three fumble recoveries.

He has even higher expectations of himself this season, even though colleges and universities throughout the country are already competing

“I have the strength for everything through Him who empowers me” for his attention – which presents yet another challenge.

“I never imagined it would be this difficult choosing where to go to college,” he says. “These kind of opportunities would not exist if I were still in Louisiana. I am so grateful that I have the chance to go somewhere and make something of myself. I want to go to a good program and get some playing time to help me develop my game even more. I just want to play football.”

His newfound relationship with Texas and the Boerne community is so strong that Jones would prefer to attend an in-state college or university. That way he can meet his biggest goals: play football at the college level, live in the state that’s given him so much opportunity already and have the ability to see his siblings often.

Off the Field

Jones might make opposing offenses tremble, but his performance off the field is just as impressive.

Between serving as a leader on the Boerne team and spending quality time with his brother and sister, he manages to maintain a strong commitment to academics, as evident by a GPA that reaches past the 3.0 mark. He has also been working with an SAT tutor all summer to prepare for the tests in the fall.

Between spending two hours per day studying for the SATs, football practice, his regular coursework and spending time with his brother and sister, his schedule is very full.

But it’s all worth it, he says.

“Just like football, I know dedication to my academics is going to pay off,” he says. “I don’t know how I balance everything, because it can be draining. But I do it all because it

will get me somewhere in life.”

So where does that level of discipline and maturity come from?

“There is a quote my family always refers to when things get hard: “I have the strength for everything through Him who empowers me,” he says, quoting Philippians 4:13.

“I have always believed that He will help me stay focused and positive, and with his strength, I can achieve anything I work for.”

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SAm Magazine 25

Nature’s Fury

The experience of Hurricane Katrina, not to mention his rough hometown, has made this young athlete a stronger player and a stronger individual. The strength he gained through that horrendous ordeal is channeled into his performance on the Champion Charger football team.

And in many ways, his linebacker position mirrors his life experiences. Even though he often lines up shoulder-to-shoulder with his team mates, in many ways he’s all alone.

He is often the only player in position to shed his blockers and make the tackle; otherwise the ball carrier merely trots downfield into the end zone. And even though linebackers are traditionally run stoppers, in today’s game they’ve also got to have tremendous pass-coverage skills.

That means scheming offensive coordinators design plays that specifically target them.

“I think back over and over again what I experienced with Katrina, and

in football, it’s no different,” he says.

“I still have to achieve the mental strength and toughness to make it through a game. You never know what will come your way, and I have learned to stay strong throughout everything. I don’t have a choice.”

Ernest credits who he has become today to the game of football.

His personal struggles have taught him to keep going, no matter what life throws his way.

“Football has taught me that when you fall down, you have to get back up,” he says with a smile. “I have learned to take my time with all situations and think about what I am going to do before I do it. Going through Katrina made me a better football player and I understand now what it’s like to deal with unexpected things in life.”

With his strong believe in a higher power, the solidarity he gets from being a big brother and his dedication to football, this young athlete is a pure example of survival.

Ernest credits who he has become today to the game of football

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pre season foot ball pre view alamo heights

warren

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SAm Magazine 27

new braunfels

alamo heights by jess delz / photos by anthony morano

step up It’s a hot August afternoon on the Alamo Heights High School practice field, but there’s more than the Texas summer air contributing to the blistering conditions. A talented platoon of potential freshmen quarterbacks are intensely honing their abilities, each bidding for head coach Don Byrd’s nod as the future leader of a program steeped in tradition and excellence.

They’ve got some big shoes to fill. Just four short years ago, senior quarterback Drew Allen began his career here, and now he’s poised to lead the varsity team to the playoffs yet again. After amassing more than 2,500 yards last year, Allen is gearing up for another successful season, as are his go-to playmakers: senior tight end Victor Gibbons and running back Sergio Costra.

Though Allen and company bring big-play potential anytime they suit up, so do their defensive counterparts. Byrd is confident that linebackers Bo Wilson and Ryan Murphy will add pressure at the point of attack, while safeties Colin Debb and Terry Anderson will make receivers think twice about deep crossing routes.

Last season the team finished with the 27-4A district championship, and a 10-2 overall record, including a 5-0 district run.

And after reaching the playoffs 10 times throughout the past 13 seasons, the expectations readsam.com

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continuously rise. But Byrd says the team will be ready, thanks to a talented coaching staff and instilled senses of hard work, determination and compatibility.

But it won’t be easy, as the Mules compete in one of the most challenging districts in the area, and must maintain their focus and commitment amongst a competitive and competent field of competition.

Boerne and Kerrvile, whom Byrd describes as “very athletic and well coached,’ will both return some of their biggest playmakers from last season. The Mules’ schedule also includes New Braunfels Canyon and Steele High School, strong programs that made their presence known in 2007.

Tough competition and highstakes expectations: not exactly a walk through the park. But Byrd says the team is up for the challenge.

“We’re going to have to work hard and stay healthy,” he says. “We’re one of the smaller schools in the district so we lack some of the depth, but we’re looking to achieve our goals and have a successful season.”

With so many great athletes under Byrd’s tutelage and so many weapons at Allen’s on-field disposal, the Mules have what it takes to go the distance. But, as Byrd says, it comes down to each individual. “Were hoping our players can step it up and be great leaders and make plays to win football games.”

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Drew Allen (Verbal commitment to Oklahoma)

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SAm Magazine 29

by robin perrin / photos by anthony morano

Prepare for Battle

The Warren Warriors may have lost seven offensive starters and eight defensives starters from last year’s team that finished 10-2 and drove into the second round of the playoffs, but don’t count them out just yet. They’ve still got plenty of playoff-experienced talent returning on both ends of the ball, and should make a strong push within the district.

“I am excited about the coming year and to see what we are made of,” head coach Brian Dausin says.

Dausin himself is quick to point out that the Warriors will be tested early, as they face Judson and Reagan in their first two games of the season. But the team returns several key players who are ready for the rivalries – and who could potentially carry the team into a district title.

Anthony Johnson and Daniel Horftman will share time at quarterback, and when Johnson is not behind center, he’ll likely line up at wide receiver. Last year Johnson had 192 yards rushing, 154 yards receiving and averaged 21.1 yards on kickoff returns. Matt Owens, another multi-faceted offensive weapon, will split time between running back and receiver. Owens rushed the ball 20 times for 219 yards and had 12 catches for 154 yards last season. He’ll get help from running back Aaron Salinas, who rushed 15 times for 192 yards. Wideout Martell Moore rounds out the experienced 30 SAm Magazine

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offense after tallying 17 receptions for 245 yards with one touchdown last year.

The Warren defense is stacked this year, and should play a large role in the team’s success. Defensive tackle Calvin Howell, who committed to the University of Texas, is back and looking to do even better than he did during his last season when he racked up a phenominal 54 tackles including 12 for losses.

Defensive back Joseph Bonugli is also back after 109 tackles and 6 interceptions last year. He’ll be joined in the defensive backfield by safety Tyler Smith, who had 72 tackles and 1 interception last year. The two should get strong support from cornerback Tarin Lee and safety Mark Savere.

The Warren Warriors open their season against Judson at 7 p.m. on August 28.

Anthony Johnson Daniel Horftman Matt Owens Aaron Salinas Martell Moore Calvin Howell (Committed to the University of Texas)

Joseph Bonugli Tyler Smith Tarin Lee Mark Savere

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steele by robin perrin / photos by anthony morano

say good knight After charging into the third round of the playoffs last year following an 11-2 record, the Steele Knights are ready to go even farther.

Though a state championship may seem lofty for a school that’s only been around for three years, the Knights are up to the task.

But it won’t be easy. The Knights face one of the toughest schedules in the state, not to mention the fact that most of this 32 SAm Magazine

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year’s seniors didn’t even start their high school careers at Steele, but instead at Clemens (and then transferred when Steele opened).

But several returning players – not to mention playoff experience – make the Knights a force to be reckoned with this year.

Returning on offense is senior quarterback Jake Trevino. As a junior, the gun slinger threw for 505 yards and six touchdowns on 38

completions out of 58 attempts.

Trevino’s favorite target, receiver Anthony Foster, is also back for his senior season after averaging 17.8 yards per catch last year and scoring three touchdowns.

Sophomore running back Malcolm Brown will be back in the backfield after a sensational 475 yard, threetouchdown freshman outing.

Two of last season’s leading tacklers, seniors Hunter Flake and

Jake Trevino Kendrick Geyen are back to anchor a strong defensive unit. Last year Flake tallied 101 tackles while Geyen racked up 90 plus four interceptions.

Sure-footed senior kicker Matt Nelson also returns after an incredible 2007, when he hit 38 out of 38 extra point attempts and fired off, among others, a 48-yard field goal.

The Steele Knights open their season at home against East Central at 7:30 p.m. on August 29.

Anthony Foster Malcolm Brown Hunter Flake Kendrick Geyen Matt Nelson readsam.com

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back

welcome to 5A by jon black / photos by anthony morano

New Braunfels

Returns to

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S

ome say that meeting challenges on the playing field is what defines great athletes.

This year, developments off the field are leading to new on-field challenges for New Braunfels High School. Following the University Interscholastic League’s (UIL) biannual realignment, the NBHS Unicorns were reclassified as a 5A school. With a student body of

2,144, New Braunfels barely exceeds the 5A minimum enrollment of 2,085. Which means starting this year, the Unicorns will be going head to head with some much larger schools.

Conventional wisdom states that moving into a higher competitive class usually means initial tough times as teams immediately face larger competitors that they’re ac-

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o the show customed to. But NBHS football and volleyball coaches take issue with that philosophy. Acknowledging that the move to 5A brings challenges, they are confident their athletes are up to the task.

“We expect to be a playoff football team every single year,” head football coach and athletic director Chuck Caniford says. “It’s got to be earned but those are our expectations.”

Phyllis Fowler, head volleyball coach and women’s athletic coordinator is similarly adamant about the capabilities of her team. “We have high expectations. We’re blessed with a lot of talent. But we know we have to step up to the plate.”

Realignment is one of the fundamental forces of Texas high school athletics. It is generally understood that the UIL divides schools into

five competitive classes, 1A to 5A, based upon enrollment. The system preserves healthy competition by ensuring competing schools are of approximately equal sizes. Schools in each classification are arranged into districts. Districts, in turn, are assigned to one of four regions.

Every two years, the UIL “realigns” the enrollment levels for each competitive class. Realignment readsam.com

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eleven consecutive trips to the playoffs

adjusts enrollment benchmarks to reflect growing populations (otherwise, every school would eventually reach 5A). It responds to differing growth rates in communities by adjusting the classification of schools based on those enrollment numbers. Expanding communities may see their schools’ classification rise. Those with more stable populations may actually drop as they become smaller in comparison to their neighbors.

The results of the most recent realignment are a matter of numbers: New Braunfels High School is moving into 5A. What is less clear is what this 36 SAm Magazine

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means for the NBHS teams, coaches and athletes.

The Unicorns have an enviable football record, competing in the playoffs for 11 consecutive years including the state semifinals in 2007. But in District 26-5A, the team will compete against powerhouse programs like Madison (13-2 and 5A state quarterfinal winner), Reagan (11-3 and 5A regional playoff champion) and Smithson Valley (12-2 and 5A regional playoff champion). They’ll also go toeto-toe with Churchill, Johnson, Lee, MacArthur and Roosevelt.

“This district is stout from top to bottom,” Caniford accesses, “Any

team can beat you and it’s very possible no one in the district gets through undefeated this year.”

He also reminds people that 2008 is not the Unicorns’ first taste of 5A football. “This school has always been back and forth. We’ve been in the playoffs eleven consecutive years and that started when we were a 5A team,” he explains.

Unicorn Volleyball also had an impressive 2007 season, making it to the regional semifinals, but was sometimes overshadowed by fellow District 26 team New Braunfels Canyon, which made it to the regional finals. District 26-5A vol-

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leyball, identical in its membership to the 26-5A football teams, moves NBHS away from Canyon but offers some stiff new competition.

“It’s a tough district,” Fowler explains, “Reagan’s up there at the top, Churchill’s good, MacArthur is very competitive, and Smithson Valley’s really good.”

Unicorn volleyball players are also no strangers to 5A competition. The team always plays some 5A teams during their pre-season matchups. “We’ve been here before,” Fowler says. “We know what it takes to get out of district play and go into state playoffs. We’ve got to

step onto the court prepared every single match.”

In addition to meeting schools that are often much larger, realignment brings other challenges, such as moving from a pack of well-known competitors into a field of virtual unknown rivals. While preparing their athletes to meet brand new opponents, both coaches have the same philosophy: take it one game at a time.

“We have to take one match at a time and focus on what we have in front of us, not look at the whole district,” Fowler says. “We can’t be playing Madison and be thinking about Reagan or Smithson Valley.

Every time we step on the floor we have to be prepared for that team.”

“You’ve got to have that oneday-at-a-time mentally,” Caniford echoes. “You cannot get ahead of yourself. You can’t dwell too much on one win or one loss.”

Caniford also points out that this factor of the unknown works both ways. “Competitively, I don’t think it works to either side’s advantage.

They’re not as familiar with us either, so it’s a level playing field,” he says.

One of the biggest questions about the New Braunfels realignment is how the athletes themselves will respond. Both Caniford and Fowler readsam.com

SAm Magazine 37

“It’s not an issue we have any control over.

But we do have control over how hard we work and how we prepare.” agree that while their players are aware of the issue, the priority is to work hard and focus on the game; not the realignment.

“Obviously, they’re curious,” Caniford says. “They want to know who they’re going to line up against and play in the fall. It’s not an issue we have any control over. But we do have control over how hard we work and how we prepare.”

“The girls knew this was coming,” Fowler explains. “We said ‘okay, this is where we’re at, it’s not something we have control over, so we’re not going to worry about that.’ We all know when we step on the court as 5A we have to play hard and do the same things we did when we were 4A.”

The realignment also raises questions about the future of the tradi-

tional rivalry between New Braunfels High School and its cross-town, 4A competitor New Braunfels Canyon.

The Unicorn football team will still meet Canyon in a non-district game this year. Caniford expects the rivalry, fueled by factors stronger than a two-year UIL alignment, will endure. “Class or District isn’t as relevant as the fact that it’s a community event. A lot of these kids grew up together, they’re friends. It’s about bragging rights and I think this rivalry will remain intense,” he says.

Fowler speaks fondly of the New Braunfels-Canyon rivalry, “(Competing against Canyon) could sometimes be a little stressful, but it’s a really fun rivalry for the people in the town.” But she feels that the

realignment may lead both schools to move on, “I’m sure they’ll find another rivalry in their district and we will too. There’s always going to be somebody there for a rivalry.”

The impact of this story goes far beyond NBHS and its rivalry with Canyon or even District 265A. As one of the fastest growing regions of the state, many schools in the greater San Antonio area are growing faster than the Texas average. As a result, it is very possible that future UIL realignments could elevate other area schools into class 5A. Needless to say, plenty of eyes are on New Braunfels this season, as athletes, coaches, and fans from all over the San Antonio area realize they may be seeing their own future.

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38 SAm Magazine

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pre season volley ball pre view

reagan

churchill

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SAm Magazine 39

clark

by kimberly oakman / photo by anel monge

REAGAN rattlers Last Season District 26-5A Champions Overall record of 22-2 The Lady Rattler volleyball team might have crushed its competition on the way to a district victory last year, but don’t make the mistake of believing that the players will simply sit back and bask in last season’s glory.

No strangers to success, the Lady Rattlers are ready to aggressively preserve their dominating legacy.

Not to mention the team is anxiously awaiting a chance to avenge a heartbreaking loss to Austin Westlanke in last season’s regional quarterfinals.

This year, the team is eyeing the state

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championship, and the players are already looking forward to squaring off against their long-time rivals, the Churchill Chargers.

“Teams like Churchill, Clarke and O’Connor always come out strong, but we have always been neck and neck with them in every game,” senior Rattler Amber Tatsch said. “Their game makes our game even stronger.”

With the right mix of defense and communication, the district championship – and maybe even the state title – is theirs for the taking.

Allie Murray Amber Tatsch (Committed to the University of San Diego)

Presley Alexander Lindsay Hill readsam.com

by kimberly oakman / photo by juan coronado

churchill chargers Alycia Cox

Last Season

2nd place district 26-5A 3rd round of playoffs The Churchill Lady Chargers volleyball players have two things on their minds heading into this season: a district championship and they’d also like to beat their rivals at Reagan.

“Reagan has always been a long time rival,” senior Chrissy Glenn says. “We are always point to point when we play them, but we are ready to bring them everything we have this year.”

Those goals aren’t too lofty for a program that traditionally produces strong varsity teams season after season. In fact, many experts are already predicting a finish near the top of the 265A district. But they better not

lollygag, as this might be the best chance they’ll have for a few years.

The squad will lose 13 seniors after this season, which means the years to come might be dedicated to rebuilding.

Even with so many experienced players, this season won’t be easy, as the schedule is stacked full of some of the state’s toughest teams like Corpus Christi, Carroll, Austin Westlake, and O’Connor.

“We have a packed schedule, but these girls handle it very well,” head coach Jo Anne Hultgren says.” The communication amongst this team is one of its strongest qualities, and that will show on the court this season.”

Chrissy Glenn Tory Vaughan Polly Korbel

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by kimberly oakman / photo by amanda jackson

CLARK COUGARS Last Season 23-11 overall record Bi-District champs 2nd place district 28-5A Anna Drewry (Committed to Purdue University)

Ashley Healy Morgan Camp Claire Webster Strength. Determination. Talent.

Those are only three of the words often used to describe a Lady Cougar varsity volleyball team that has a reputation for high-caliber teams and winning seasons. And with a depth chart jam-packed with talented, experienced players (10 seniors, three juniors and a sophomore), the team is out to make a big statement.

With so much experience and depth, the Lady Cougars are facing some steep expectations – not to mention some serious competition.

Local powerhouses like Reagan and Churchill frequently put up a tough fight, and aren’t expected to back down this year.

But it’s a challenge the Lady Cougars are ready to meet.

“We have a very strong go-hardor-go-home mentality,” senior Anna Drewry says. “The great thing about our team is not only our talent, but the way we pick each other up during the games.”

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Calling all artists:

SAm Magazine is looking for fine art pieces from San Antonio high school students, inspired by San Antonio high school student athletes. So if you have a drawing, painting, or sculpture, and would like to have your piece featured in the next issue of SAm this is your chance. Just visit us at readsam.com and create a user account. Then click on the CONTESTS tab for more informarion and details on how to submit your peice.

art the

of athletics in motion

King QB

drew

allen

School: Alamo Heights Name: Drew Allen Position: Quarterback Class: Senior Height: 6’ 4” Weight: 210 lbs College Bound: Verbally committed to Oklahoma Texas high school football has a new king in the quarterback position, and his name is Drew Allen. Allen earned all-district honors last season, passing for 2,431 yards and 28 touchdowns with only 12 interceptions. He also racked up 27 carries for 337 yards and 3 touchdowns.

Allen is a very impressive player with a hot arm and a solid 6’4 frame. His height alone makes him a top contender at the college level. Some of Allen’s strong suits as a player include his accuracy with the ball and quick feet.

Allen started every single game last season for the Mules; and led his team to 24 wins over the past two seasons. Allen was named to the 2007 district 27-4A player of the year and received first team all-distict honors. Word is buzzing that this talented young athlete will pass the 3,000 yard mark to finish out his senior season. Allen is competent player and with a little more development at his position, he will be a strong, visible quaterback when he begins his college career.

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by kimberly oakman / photo by juan coronado 44 SAm Magazine

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Weapon X

tom

wort

School: New Braunfels Name: Tom Wort Position: Middle Linebacker Class: Senior Height: 6’ 1” Weight: 225 lbs College Bound: Verbally committed to Oklahoma Colleges all over the nation are salavating over this phenom linebacker, but it looks like the Sooner program have gotten a commitment out of this superstar athlete. Wort is well-built with great height and excellent speed. His list of accomplishments during his junior season include collecting over 200 tackles, 4 forced fumbles, 3 interceptions, and 2 blocked kicks.

Last season Wort was named to the 4A All-State second team, named San Antonio Express-News’ defensive player of the year, and earned first team honors from the Texas Sportswriters Association. Last season was only his fourth season playing organized football. Looks like he found his niche.

Wort grew up in England and moved to the states in 2004. He was more familiar with soccer than football, and his agressive personality was a poor fit. That agressive personality made him a strong powerhouse on the gridiron. Wort’s versatility to play both inside and outside at the college level will be a huge asset to his position. His agressiveness and pursuit of the football along with his tackling abilities make him one of the hottest prospects in the nation.

Let the bloodbath begin.

by kimberly oakman / photo by anthony morano

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SAm Magazine 45

heroes

I

magine yourself lining up behind the quarterback in a fourth-down, goal line, now-ornever football scenario. The brutes on the offensive line surge as the center snaps the ball. You accelerate as the quarterback coordinates your hand off. The Buick-sized guard in front of you has cleared a hole the size of the Texas panhandle, so you lower your shoulders and hit stride. You can smell the goal line - and the victory. Then BAM! Your body jolts as it absorbs 46 SAm Magazine

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the blind-side punishment administered by an unchecked safety.

Unfortunately, that’s the last thing you’ll ever feel. This dream just turned into a nightmare.

Though hard hits are an assumed – and applauded – part of the game, the human body can only take so much. For many athletes, fantasies of reaching the end zone are replaced by illusions of walking again.

Accepting the reality of injury is a difficult pill to swallow in any sport, and football is no exception. But one

by kimberly oakman

San Antonio organization, called the Gridiron Heroes, is out to draw attention to the increasing number of spinal cord and paralyzing injuries many athletes endure.

“The support level for athletes at the high school level that experience spinal cord injuries is not where it should be,” Gridiron Heroes director and founder Eddie Canales says. “It’s not just about providing care for the injured athletes, but it’s also about providing support for the families of these players.”

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When the Gridiron Heroes first originated in 2003, its message and goals were not widely accepted by the football community. Injuries, paralysis and deaths aren’t issues coaches and fans generally want to talk about. But this organization isn’t out to deter anyone from donning shoulder pads, instead it wants players and families to realize the impact a spinal cord injury can cause.

juries are very expensive. The average family will likely spend between $150,000 and $500,000 per year in medical expenses alone.

“All we are trying to do is make it easier for the families and provide as much support as we can,” Canales says.

During the Gridiron Heroes’ first year of activism, three high school football players went down with spinal cord injuries. Three more suffered similar injuries in 2004.

ball Coaches Association to bring awareness to spinal cord injuries and also to distribute educational resources to the football community. “Coaches and parents from around the nation are starting to call us asking for financial assistance for their players; or parents of athletes (call) who just need to talk.

Providing that assistance to those that need it most is what keeps this organization going.”

keeping hope alive

Here’s a common phrase the Gridiron Heroes organization commonly hears: “You are the reason I don’t want my child to play football.”

“When I hear something like that, it makes me realize that parents and coaches do not want to face the reality,” Canales says. “This injury can happen and it will happen if we do not educate the public on prevention, the risks involved and what this injury can do to a family.”

Gridiron Heroes has three main goals: education, long-term assistance and funding. Spinal cord in-

Coming to each of those players’s rescue has been a financial struggle. “We are definitely not going to turn a player down when they need help,” Canales says. “It’s difficult to do that when we have limited funds. That’s why we need to get the word out about the organization and get everyone in the football community involved.”

The Gridiron Heroes’ message and mission is finally starting to gain statewide and national attention. This year the organization is working with the American Foot-

With a new Texas high school football season right around the corner, it’s a prime opportunity for the Gridiron Heroes to raise spinal-cord-injury awareness amongst coaches and athletes. In a state where high school football is a way of life, Gridiron Heroes wants to provide support just as strong as the game itself.

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SAm Magazine 47

by j.d. lecoq / photos by anel monge & amanda jackson

T

here aren’t many ways that heighten a community’s emotions, tensions and anxieties quite like redrawing school boundary lines. Not only are student bodies affected, so too are athletic teams – groups of individuals who have forged iron bonds with one another in their pursuit of teamwork and victory. Likewise, once-aligned parents, alumni, fans and financial supporters often find themselves rooting against their neighbors.

In short, it divides communities - just ask the Ronald Reagan High faithful, who recently experienced such an ordeal.

Originally built to handle 2,500 students, Ronald Reagan simply outgrew itself, ultimately accommodating more than 3,500 pupils. This stressed the school’s staff and infrastructure, which eventually reached critical mass. The situation had to be remedied – and it was clear that another high school was needed.

Thus Ronald Reagan and several of its feeder middle schools began the delicate process of incorporating the new Lady Bird Johnson High School into its community.

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So it was decided that Reagan, located on the west side of U.S. Highway 281 just north of Loop 1604, would be joined by Johnson, on the east side of 281 a little farther north, up from 1604, to help ease the overcrowding. But that was the easy part.

Next came the arduous process of drawing new boundary lines. Some say the easy solution would have been to draw the line along Highway 281. But NEISD said it would have proven unsuccessful. “If you just looked at 281 as an east/west dividing line, populations are going to stay small in Johnson High School, and Reagan is going to stay big,” NEISD spokesperson Deb Caldwell said a parents meeting last year, as reported by WOAI’s Liela Walsh.

Drawing lines that would assure equal populations required that neighborhoods on the west side of 281 be included in the Johnson High territory.

The final version dictates that children graduating from Lopez Middle School head to Reagan, while Tejada middle schoolers move on to Johnson. Bush Middle School kids are split between the two high schools with the majority going to Reagan.

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Naturally, athletic teams at Reagan High School were affected. Though the impact of the new boundaries has yet to be seen, it will surely affect Reagan’s emerging and established teams.

“I think it’s a lot tougher when it happens once you’ve started then (if it would have happened) before you start,” former Reagan soccer player Michele Stewart says. But it’s not the end of the world, either. Stewart is confident that Reagan will successfully adapt. “Coach (Frankie) Whitlock will forge on, she’s been doing what she does long enough that she too has been through boundary changes and school changes, and she always perseveres. I’m not sure how the boundaries will affect her talent pool, but I know she’ll handle it just fine.”

Johnson High will not be starting from scratch, either. Transplants from Reagan’s strong athletic program will almost assuredly give the new school a leg up. And the new lines also mean Johnson will tap into emerging middle school talents in the years to come.

Though difficult, splitting the athletes from these areas may be a blessing for both schools. Johnson will field some athletic teams with

proven players. And younger athletes at Reagan will have the chance to prove themselves much earlier.

But that doesn’t downplay the seriousness of the community’s sentiments. Terri Saari is a local parent whose children would have had to move from Reagan to Johnson. When asked if her children were affected by the boundary decision, she answered: “If you count us having to buy a new home in the Reagan School Boundaries to stay at Reagan.”

Even so, Saari admits that the change was inevitable, and that the split was done correctly. “I felt since my daughters started at Reagan they should have been able to finish at Reagan and it was stupid how my one daughter would have had to go

to three high schools. So we made the decision to move to allow them to stay at Reagan and let the rest of my children to start and finish at the same school.”

Changing school boundaries is a tough issue. It tears communities apart. It causes massive changes within sports teams. It even caused at least one family to move to stay in the preferred school district. Is it for the best? It depends who you ask.

But as our city grows, these decisions become inevitable. Though it’s always tough at the individual level, don’t forget the bigger picture: once the dust settles, more schools mean more teams, which means more young athletes will have the opportunity to compete.

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SAm Magazine 49

steroids off the juice: A multi-million dollar program is randomly testing high school athletes for steroids, but does it justify its cost? by j.d. lecoq

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SAm Magazine 51

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$3 million + 10,117 athletes tested = 2 positive tests + 4 inconclusive + 22 technicalities = controversy

B

onds. McGwire. Conseco.

Sosa. Though these names may forever be linked to alleged steroid abuses, it’s not to say performance-enhancing drugs are limited to professional athletes. The urge for that extra leg up permeates all competition levels – including high school, where kids face increasingly tough pressures to win.

“Someone is always looking to get ahead. Drugs will always be part of the culture,” former NFL star Haywood Jeffries said. “It’s sad, but now it’s just a fact of the game.”

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Part of the game or not, the idea doesn’t sit well with Texas’ elected leaders. In an effort to discourage and deter such drugs throughout the state’s public schools, Gov. Rick Perry and the Texas Legislature passed a law requiring mandatory random steroid drug tests. They even approved $3 million to fund the tests, which ran from February through May of this year.

“This is something the people have been calling for, and we’ve never been opposed. We just needed the funding,” University Interscholastic League (UIL) athletic director Charles Breithaupt told the Austin American-Statesman.

But the program isn’t a slam dunk. Out of the 10,117 athletes tested, only two tested positive. Four more came back inconclusive, and 22 more were considered positive by means of a policy that addresses absences and those who refuse the test. The low results have fueled a

“Railing against steroids is a lot sexier than tackling the inequities in our public school system or finding funds for much needed programs that benefits students and teachers… Here’s a novel idea: Let’s take the $3 million we’re spending on steroid testing and invest in academics.” counter movement, including accusations of political jockeying and irresponsible public spending.

Popular local columnist David Flores wrote in the San Antonio Express-News, “This frenzy by Dewhurst and the Legislature to test high school athletes for steroids has been little more than shameless grandstanding from the getgo.” Catching two students after spending $3 million doesn’t justify the costs, he says. “Railing against steroids is a lot sexier than tackling the inequities in our public school system or finding funds for much needed programs that benefits students and teachers… Here’s a novel idea: Let’s take the $3 million we’re spending on steroid testing and invest in academics.”

Sen. Dan Patrick, R-Houston, calls the program a “feel-good” program, and a waste of taxpayer money.

But program champions like Dewhurst say the program shouldn’t be

evaluated based on positive results, but instead on the number of student athletes who never take steroids.

Because this is such a hot-button issue, nearly everyone we contacted for this story declined to go on the record. But one parent of a student who graduated this past May mused, “It’s not something anyone wants to talk about. My son never mentioned it, and (he) was not tested. Although the threat was always there, and (it was) real.”

Still some say the plan’s exclusivity to athletics mares other - and perhaps more rampant - drugs like marijuana and alcohol. Some say these substances are rarely tested for and are completely ignored by the new program.

Adding more fuel to the fire has been the recent criticisms of drug testing by Donald A. Berry, head of the Division of Quantitative Sciences at Texas’ MD Anderson Cancer Center. Although speaking of

the Olympics, he points out “shaky science” that causes everyone to take notice of drug testing. Berry said anti-doping agencies engage in science so “weak” it’s almost impossible to tell if the results are even accurate.

Still, more than 35,000 athletes are expected to be tested this fall.

And while some say the program doesn’t justify its costs, others argue that if so much as one life is saved, the efforts will have been worth it. Either way, this lightning rod of an issue isn’t going away quietly.

“Someone is always looking to get ahead.

Drugs will always be part of the culture”

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SAm Magazine 53

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SAm Magazine 59

BY CARLOS REYES / B.S. KINESIOLOGY

PHOTOS BY ANEL MONGE PLEASE REMEMBER TO ALWAYS THOROUGHLY WARM UP & STRETCH BEFORE A WORK OUT, THEN COOL DOWN AFTERWARDS.

60 SAm Magazine

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Day 1

Phase II: 3 Rounds

Injury Reduction:

Horizontal Pull Ups: While in a supine position, grab hold of a fixed 1ground, bar shoulder width apart situated approximately three feet above the pull yourself up until the chest hits the bar

STAR (Squat and Reach): can be done in a parallel, split or single leg stance; stay waist level high, squat while knees and toes point forward and reach to the front, keeping knees and toes pointing forward reach to the right, left, right back, and left back; continue to do three more stars faster

Speed Series: 1 High Knees to a Sprint: begin by doing High Knees in place and accelerate into a full out sprint Mountain Climbers to a sprint: start on your feet and hands, begin by alternating your feet forward and back while maintaining your hands on the floor; come out of that stance in a full out sprint Fall Forward to a Sprint: start by standing with your hands by your side and feet shoulder width apart, fall forward without bending your knees and keeping your posture and your first step should be explosive and accelerate into a full out sprint

Phase I: 3 Rounds

The whole phase should be completed by allowing 10-15 seconds rest between exercises and 30-45 seconds between each round

Medicine Ball Hip Toss: start with feet shoulder width apart, facing 2 a wall, and med ball on your right/left side, toss the ball underhand towards the wall and repeat the exercise while alternating sides Bilateral Anterior Shoulder Swings: standing in a squared stance, 3 squat down and reach back with both arms holding your dumbbells, explode up with the legs and let momentum flex both shoulders up, decelerate and repeat

1 Plyometric Push Up (Outside, Inside): begin in a push up position with 2 your hands outside shoulder width apart, do a push up and place your hands inside shoulder width, do a push up and repeat the series

Continuous Tuck Jumps: keep feet together, jump in place, tuck both knees to chest; land softly and repeat as quick as possible

Medicine Ball Sit Up and Throw: begin in the up position of a sit up 3 position, transition your body down while swinging the medicine ball behind your head, after making full contact with the ground, transi-

Dumbbell Single Leg Squats: grasp a dumbbell in each hand and hold 4 at your side. Balance on one leg, break at the hips and bend the knee.

Act as is you are sitting back in a chair, keep your chest up and your back strong. Squat until your thighs are parallel to the floor (stop when heels lift off the floor or back begins to round). Return to the starting position

tion into the up position while swinging the ball forward against a wall and catch the medicine ball; repeat the same motion Barbell High Pull: stand in the “power position” which means placing 4 your feet directly under the hips. Toes point forward. Hold barbell thumb’s length away from thigh, drop into the hang position, break at the hips, bend at the knees, keep your chest up and your back strong. Jump in the air and allow the shoulder to shrug and elbows to bend. Ankles, knees, and hips will straighten as you lift off the ground (triple extensionkey to increasing your vertical jump). Bar will “float” toward the ceiling.

Up 8 back 4: set four cones down in a line each 4 yds. Apart; begin 5 4 yds. Behind the first cone; sprint up to the second cone and back pedal to the first cone, then sprint up two cones and back pedal one cone until you reach the end

5Speed Lunges: lateral lunges with opposite or same side reach readsam.com

SAm Magazine 61

Day 2

Phase II: 3 Rounds

Injury Reduction:

Snatch: start in a squared stance holding a dumbbell in one 1yourDumbbell hand inside your knees, squat down and pull the weight up bringing arm up as fast as possible. Once you pull the weight up and it’s

Two way single leg squat: standing on a singe leg on a raised platform, reach forward with both arms while the non-weight bearing leg reaches back, squat down as low as you can without touching the floor and return to the starting position

traveling up, get underneath the weight by doing a quick squat

Speed Series: 2

Bounds to a Sprint Lateral/Forward Skip to a Sprint

Phase I: 3 Rounds Broad Jump: start with feet shoulder width apart, squat 1wardContinuous down to 90 degree knees, reach back with arms and swing arms forand jump as far as you can, land softly and land on heels, repeat as soon as contact has been made with ground Piledrivers: start with feet shoulder width apart, dumbbell in two 2 hands in front of your chest, begin by squatting down while the dumbbell lowers between the knees, explode straight up with the dumbbell above your head and feet come together, dumbbell then comes back down in the middle of your knees while feet are again shoulder width apart

Medicine Ball Lateral Toss: start in a square stance with your shoul2 der facing a wall, holding the medicine ball on your hip opposite of the wall, squat down and throw the MB underhand towards the wall, catch and repeat

Dumbbell Load and Explode: start in a squared stance, with knees 3 slightly flexed and both hands holding a dumbbell over the right shoulder, dip and drive the weight up and over to the left shoulder. ReMedicine Ball Reverse Sit Up: start in a sit up position about 2 feet 3 away from a wall with your back facing the wall, medicine ball in front of chest, begin by throwing the MB backwards against the wall

peat the load but this time on the left side pressing the weight up and then pulling it back down to the right.

while your back goes down to the floor, ball will bounce off wall, catch it and repeat this process

Barbell Hang Clean: stand in the “power position” which means placing your feet directly under the hips. Toes point forward. Hold barbell 4 thumb’s length away from thigh, drop into the hang position, break at the hips, bend at the knees, keep your chest up and your back strong. Jump in the air and allow the shoulder to shrug and elbows to bend. Ankles, knees, and hips will straighten as you lift off the ground (triple extensionkey to increasing your vertical jump). Bar will “float” toward the ceiling. As bar floats up, sit under the bar and catch it.

X-Drill: begin by sprinting to the middle cone(2) back to the outside Three Way Stop ‘N Go: sprint up 25 yds, back pedal to the start5 cone(3) at the bottom, shuffle over across to cone 4 back to the 4 ing position; shuffle out 25 yds, shuffle back; sprint up 25 yds middle and back outside to cone 5 and sprint back

62 SAm Magazine

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Day 3

Phase II: 3 Rounds

Injury Reduction:

Row: alternate shoulder pulls while staying in a push up posi1Prone tion and keeping the back straight

Balance and Medial Reach: this tests dynamic balance, strength, and the athletes’ ability to control the knee during an “at risk” position • the athlete is standing on one leg • the athlete reaches medially with the opposite leg as far as he/she can • the toe is pointed out to the side staying an inch above ground

Speed Series: 3 Straight leg stride to a sprint Power Skip to a sprint Back Pedal to a forward sprint Back Form Running to a sprint Rapid Skip to a sprint Distance Skip to a sprint

Phase I: 3 Rounds

Medicine Push: start in a square stance position holding the medi2 cine ball at the chest; squat down and explode towards a wall and throw the medicine ball just like a chest pass towards the wall; obtain

Jump plus a Vertical Jump: jump out as far as you can and full extension of the body 1Broad then continuously jump as high as you can; repeat this process Fireman’s Carry: with a dumbbell over the right shoulder, perform al3 ternating lateral lunges (point toes out to the side you’re lunging). Get 2Bench Press as low as you can tolerate, repeat with the weight over the left shoulder Medicine Ball Explosion: start in a square stance grasping the medi3 cine ball between the knees, begin by exploding from the ground up while throwing the medicine ball up towards the sky; finish with full extension of the body

Blast Off w/weight: with left foot on a box and the athlete positioned 4 in a static sprinter stance (i.e. left foot on box, right arm in and L position, hand next to the temple and left arm in an L position with the

4

Barbell Hang Clean and Press: stand in the “power position” which means placing your feet directly under the hips. Toes point forward.

Hold barbell thumb’s length away from thigh, drop into the hang position, break at the hips, bend at the knees, keep your chest up and your back strong. Jump in the air and allow the shoulder to shrug and elbows to bend. Ankles, knees, and hips will straighten as you lift off the ground (triple extension- key to increasing your vertical jump). Bar will “float” toward the ceiling. As bar floats up, sit under the bar and catch it. Once in the squat position, press the bar above your head without allowing the bar to get behind your eyes

T-Drill: start at the bottom cone and sprint to the middle cone, shuf5 fle out to one cone, sprint across to the far side cone, shuffle back to the middle cone and sprint down to the bottom cone

hand next to the hip), pull with the right arm bringing it towards the right hip and at the same time, drive the right leg up and extend the left knee, repeat exercise with moderate to high speed; dumbbell is raised as knee is raised

start at one of the bottom cones, sprint up, shuffle to the 5M-Drill: middle, sprint back up to the top, and shuffle down

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SAm Magazine 63

feed

the

*These amounts of food are for the average teenage boy. Inactive or shorter boys may need less; active or taller boys may need more.

Day 1

Day 2

Day 3

• one and a half cup of whole grain cereal • two slices of toast • two tablespoons of margarine • one cup of one percent milk • one banana

• three breakfast tacos made with: two scrambled eggs three quarters of a cup of potatoes three tortillas • three quarters of a cup of orange juice

• 3 bran muffins • one cup of non-fat yogurt • one tangerine

Lunch:

Lunch:

• two turkey sandwiches made with: four slices of bread four ounces of turkey two ounces of low-fat cheese lettuce & tomato • one apple

• beef and broccoli stir-fry: three ounces of beef one cup of broccoli • one cup of skim milk

• two slices of mushroom pizza: made with part-skim mozzarella cheese • one cup of peaches • one cup one percent milk

Snack:

• four fig newtons

Snack:

• on cup of fruit shake made with one percent milk

Supper:

Breakfast:

Breakfast:

• six graham crackers • twelve ounces of fruit juice

Supper:

Supper:

• one and a half cup tuna noodle casserole: made with non-fat mushroom soup • one cup of carrots & peas • two slices of bread • two slices of cantaloupe • one cup of one percent milk

• three ounces of baked chicken breast • one cup of mashed potatoes • one cup of green beans • two whole wheat rolls • two tablespoons of margarine • one cup of low-fat pudding

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Breakfast:

Lunch:

Snack:

• one and a half cup of beef stew • three pieces of cornbread • one cup of fruit cocktail • one slice of angel food cake • one cup of one percent milk

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