August/September 2017 Vol. 1 Issue 6 FREE
Fit 2 Function, Inc. Coach Al Lowe Boxing Club Cequence Henry
Mar’Chris Jackson
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Do You Have Spunq?
CONTENTS AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017
22
Lindley Boxing Club The Legacy Contines
29
Jaylin Bowden Basketball Greatness In The Making
10 Hayes Taylor YMCA’s New Sports Director Lauren Brickhouse
12
Dancing Machine Twirl Divas & Dance Performance, Inc.
Mar’Chris Jackson
A MASTER OF 3 SPORTS
PAGE SIX
Henry 18 Cequence Do You Know Self Defense Garrett 15 Joshua JMG Elite Fitness
Spunq Sports Magazine is published bimonthly and is distributed in the Triad areas of North Carolina. We are not responsible for the comments made by our advertisers or the individuals that are featured. Please send all feedback and comments to spunqsports@gmail.com. This publication can’t be reproduced or republished without the written consent of the publisher. 2017 All Rights Reserved - Mykel Media Company, LLC
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Activate Your Voice Through Sports
Do You Have SPUNQ? PUBLISHER
Editors Note - Terry L. Watson
Terry L. Watson
All we have to do is look around, and its there. On television, on social media, on the radio and in our homes and places of employment. Whatever is happening in world, whether it be good or bad, it is also impacts sports.
EDITOR IN CHIEF
Terry L. Watson
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Terry L. Watson
As athletes and fans alike, we have the opportunity and a duty to speak and be heard. If it doesn’t feel right to you, or if we feel we can do something to make the situation better, we must participate. This can be done with how we support a particular team or individual athlete with our resources and time. We have to decide if we will be part of the problem or a passenger in the vehicle of solutions. When we Activate our voices through sports, we are doing our part to help to make our world a better place for everyone.
WRITERS
Terry L. Watson Junios Smith Latasha D. Miles Dawn Cauthen Thornton PHOTOGRAPHY
Shaw Photography Group Perfect Lenz Photography Howard Gaither Photography Mykel Media Company, LLC Advertising Sales
adsales.spunqsports@gmail.com 336-340-7844 General Inquiries
spunqsports@gmail.com 336-340-7844
www.mykelmedia.com
P.O. BOX 20102 Greensboro, NC 27420 336-340-7844 - www.mykelmedia.com
Next Edition Coming in October Want To Advertise? Call 336-340-7844 August/September 2017
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FOOTBALL
Mar’Chris Jackson 6
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August/September 2017
By Latasha D. Miles Photos by Shaw Photography Group Born on October 2, 2000, it was an early sign that Mar’Chris Jackson would successfully balance the tasks of a student athlete. The Libra has his scales loaded as a triple threat excelling in baseball, basketball and football, all while being able to overcome a 2016 injury. Tearing his patella in late September, right around the time he was about to celebrate his “Sweet 16” birthday, the 5’ 10 ½” rising junior has fully recovered in less than a full calendar year, titling the scale back in his favor. He even had to learn how to walk again, a miraculous comeback in that turnaround time. Mar’Chris has spent time in public institutions, but takes his talents to a private school this season, Harrells Christian Academy, a move his mother LaToya Jackson said was very necessary. [Previously], if I didn’t get out and do it or make contact, he would be just another child left behind,” LaToya said with conviction. “I was getting ready to schedule SATs for him to take at a community college, but we transferred. So by us transferring, the school he attends now, they take care of all that.” Due to the injury, additional eligibility and to put a mandatory focus on his classes, Mar’Chris reclassified as an 11th grader this season and is taking senior courses then AP courses to further enhance his education. With aspirations in technology science and engineering, additional class work is necessary for the athletic scholar. “With him being classified as a junior now, this is definitely a positive move,” the proud mother said. “He was classified as a senior in the public school, but I think this move is going to make him more grounded, more focused and definitely more into his books.” Nicknamed Zino, he’s more joyful and playful away from sports, and always smiling, but he’s focused and a true leader when it comes to sports. In fact, his former teammates and coaches elected him as the 2016 MVP for his previous football squad at Kenan High School in Warsaw, NC. When the season commenced with Jackson on the field, the Tigers started their campaign with a flawless 4-0 record, before losing every game thereafter his torn patella injury, which sidelined him for the remainder of the season. It was a glaring statement of his significance on the gridiron, although the risk and injuries that come with sports have caused his protective matriarch to sometimes want to pull hair from her head. I’ve come a long way,” the star’s mother said. “I’ve calmed down a lot. I used to get scared, but I know he’s going somewhere. It’ll be worth it.” Insisting that there’s plenty of time for girlfriends, the 208-pound athlete even went to the prom with his sister last year, rather than a “date” as his sibling was completing her last year of high school. A decision his single mother heavily endorsed. Besides, Mar’Chris is a workout junkie and since the gym isn’t a “girl” he really doesn’t focus on much else other than school and sports.
Continued on the next page
Mar’Chris has spent time in public institutions, but takes his talents to a private school this season, Harrells Christian Academy, a move his mother LaToya Jackson said was very necessary. August/September 2017
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“We have an open relationship, but he has time for girls,” the mother said with caution. “There’s no rush. The time will come for his license, girls, all that.” As if the equilibrium of education and athletics wasn’t enough, the Libra takes his balancing act to another level as he’s also ambidextrous. He completes his studies with his right hand, but participates in sports with his left hand. This underrated skill puts Jackson in another league of his own, in addition to playing multiple positions in each of his three sports. Not to be outdone by excelling at the pitcher position, first baseman, shortstop, shooting guard, running back, fullback, middle linebacker and outside linebacker, the standout also made a natural improvement from a designated hitter last season, is training to become a dominant safety, and dabbles in golf and soccer. Mar’Chris got into baseball because it was a challenge for him; he enjoys the double play and takes great pride in getting someone out. It’s an accomplishment that never gets old to him and he gets hype every time it happens. Channeling two-time NBA champion and MVP Steph Curry when he plays offense in basketball and tenacious defense at the #2 position, and running backs, future Hall of Fame member, Adrian Peterson, Super Bowl champion, Marshawn Lynch and the gifted Marcelias Sutton from the Oklahoma Sooners, when on the court and field, the teenager received these sporty gifts through genetics. Just like the Jackson family from Gary, Indiana has musical genes, Mar’Chris had athletic genes passed down to him, from his uncles and grandfather, who excelled in sports and LaToya, was a standout in basketball and volleyball. In addition to his involvement in sports being genetic traits, Mar’Chris also played received some of his skills from a 2-year stint in the controversial AAU programs, a part of his athletic blossoming that LaToya was not a huge fan of. “The guy who he was with, I really didn’t care for,” his mother said. “All the places that they were supposed to go were canceled on [their] behalf. I don’t know if I was [in the wrong program] or with the wrong person, but I really didn’t care for it.” Currently, LaToya keeps Zino’s athletics school-related only. Additional exposure will come for the versatile athlete this season though, now that he’s attending school at a private institution. The Crusaders hit the gridiron and the road, taking on opponents in High Point, Raleigh and Fayetteville. More balancing is coming the Libra’s way as football season continues in October; baseball season is still swinging in action, basketball season bounces its way on the calendar and class is still in session in the fall as well. Oh yeah and the celebrating of his 17th birthday in October is on deck as well. S
“With him being classified as a junior now, this is definitely a positive move,” the proud mother said. “He was classified as a senior in the public school, but I think this move is going to make him more grounded, more focused and definitely more into his books.” 8
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baskettball
football
baseball Whatever the sport is,
I will be the BEST at it!
COMMUNITY
Lauren Brickhouse
Hayes Taylor YMCA’s New Sports Director Lauren Brickhouse is a southern girl at heart. She fondly claims Charleston, SC as home, but that’s only partially true. As a young girl, Lauren moved from city to city with her military family, so the entire country has been her playground. Since relocating from Virginia three months ago, she calls Greensboro, NC home as the new Sports Director at Hayes-Taylor YMCA. Her love of sports started in middle school when she tried out for her school’s basketball team. She thought her dreams were shattered when she wasn’t selected to play, but because she was determined, she didn’t give up. “After I was cut from the team in the 7th grade, I ended up playing for our local YMCA. Then I didn’t play again until tenth grade.” Eventually standing at 6 feet tall, Lauren worked so hard for the next three years that she was a stand-out on the team and was recruited by Virginia Commonwealth University, ultimately landing a full basketball scholarship. Though her talents would’ve most likely taken her to the WNBA and possibly international, Lauren had plans of furthering her education instead. Her quest for more knowledge led her to Old Dominion University’s Sports Management program where she obtained her Master’s degree in 2006. With a second degree under her belt, Lauren was ready for a career in recreation but found it difficult to break into. Her first position out of college was at another YMCA in Westpoint, VA but she wasn’t quite sure if that was where she was supposed to be. She spent a few years in a role that encompassed so many responsibilities that she unfortunately became overwhelmed. She decided to take a chance on other jobs but quickly realized they weren’t fulfilling. After lots of soul searching and many nights praying with her husband, who was also at a crossroads in his career, things started looking up. “My husband was trying to break into recreation but it just wasn’t happening. He eventually applied for a job and had a really good interview in Randolph County. Shortly after, he was offered the job. A week later, I heard from Hayes-Taylor and was offered this opportunity in Greensboro, 30 minutes away.” The couple had already felt it was time for them to explore areas outside of Hampton, VA so they jumped at the chance to relocate further south to a new city and have a new start.
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By Dawn Cauthen Thornton Photos by Lauren Brickhouse
As Sports Director, the 34-year-old military brat oversees every aspect of all sports from coordinating practice schedules to making sure basketball goals are the adequate height for each age group. “Even though I’m the Sports Director, some days I’m a referee, some days I’m ushering scared children down the court, but most of the time I’m making sure the teams have enough equipment for the games and that the other areas are running properly.” Lauren beams that she has an amazing supervisor that makes her job easier by understanding the duties of her role and at times, doesn’t mind jumping in to assist when needed. Because she’s so dedicated, there are days when Lauren finds herself easily working 12 hours. She’s also a self-proclaimed workaholic that values those moments when her husband forces her to turn off her mobile phone and relax with the family. “He always tells me that it’ll be there tomorrow. And it will,” she laughs. Listening to the man who she describes as ‘awesome’ seems to be beneficial. “I think he’s smarter than me. No, he IS smarter than me. He takes care of me and always wants to make sure that I’m ok.” Their four-year-old son, BJ, also keeps her grounded. He’s the typical busy, chatty four-yearold that doesn’t care about what happens during her day, before she walks through the door. “My son is great! He just wants to play with mommy. He’d be all over me if he were here.” Lauren Brickhouse is finally in a good place. She’s in a welcoming city, with a progressive job, with her loving family. In hindsight, she and her husband realize they should’ve relied on God to provide their needs, but like many, they felt like they controlled their own destinies. How wrong they were. Putting their concerns in the hands of the Most High proved to be the right move. Lauren explains that the long days are worth every minute because she’s able to get to know the children and their parents and watch the children grow and develop in their skill. “When a child is finally able to dribble a ball, or make a shot as opposed to not doing any of that [at the beginning of the season], you feel like you’re making an impact. That’s the best part of my job.” S
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DANCE
Performing Arts Studio, Inc.24 By Terry L. Watson Photos by Jarrell Harris Photography
The Twirl Divas & Dancers Performing Arts Studio, Inc. is committed to serving the community and offering meaningful, low-cost, fun dance classes. Founded in 2010 by Tanika D. Harris, the studio offers classes that are taught by experienced instructors with a focus to help prepare students for advance level performances. Along with her co-founder Keyonda Thompson, their program has grown in number and sophistication.
“We teach each student the foundations of dance while enhancing each individuals self confidence.” Harris is quick to point out that Twirl Divas is not just a typical dance program. They offer a vast variety of dance instructions such as Ballet, Lyrical, Liturgical, Modern, Hip Hop, Tumbling, Baton and Flag Twirling. They also offer a full after school programs for individuals form pre-K up to sixth grade which is available Monday through Friday and is all inclusive in their initial tuition. They have classes for two year olds up to adult. They also compete at the local and state levels. The Dazzling Divas is another program offered by the Twirl Divas to high school aged girls. During the performance season, the groups perform at community events, in parades, parties, ensembles and corporate engagements. In addition, the studio conducts two recitals annually which allows them to showcase the talents of every member and participant. Harris says starting Twirl Divas was quite easy to do. She is a former Golden Delight Dancer of North Carolina A&T State University, and continues to assist their program. She also had and still does conduct one on one [private] classes to teach young girls how to twirl a baton and flag, and prepare them to perform on the high school level. Her services became so in demand, that many of parents asked Harris to form a group that would allow her to teach more. Thompson has recently opened a sister program, Props Academy to Twirl Divas in Savannah, Georgia. There she is providing their signature brand to young girls and has plans to do even more. Enrollment typically occurs during the months of August and January. “We truly believe in the work that we are doing and with the youth involved, and we hope to positively impact more future dancers,” says Harris. S
Twirl Divas & Dancers Perfroming Arts Studio 3105 Yanceyville Street Greensboro, NC 27405 - 336-358-9177 12
@twirldivas
@twirldivas
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THERAPY The benefits of massage are a feeling of deep relaxation and calm. Massage prompts the release of endorphins – the brain chemicals (neurotransmitters) that produce feelings of wellbeing. Levels of stress hormones, such as adrenalin, cortisol and norepinephrine are also reduced. Other bebefuts improve circulation, increased joint mobility and flexibility, reduced anxiety and depression, improved recovery of soft tissue injuries and reduced muscle tension.
Jackie Williamson Professional & Licensed
Licensed Massage Therapist 336-541-2453
Jackie B. Williamson is a professional licensed massage and bodywork Therapist. As a Massage Therapist, she offers many benefits to her client’s health and wellness. From relieving stress, chronic pain, stimulating blood circulation and lymph flow, relaxing muscles, strengthening the immune system and helping with improving one’s posture, she is capable. “I used to be a dancer and because it was so physically demanding, I learned how to massage myself and even the other dancers,” she says. Jackie has fast tracked her way through the accelerated program at Kneaded Energy School of Massage in Greensboro, North Carolina. She has a Masters in Health Administration/ Education and is currently working with her mentor, Dr. Anthony Crawford. Mrs. Williamson continues to set and meet goals for herself, one of which is to become a Massage Instructor as well as building herself as a business. The benefits of massage are a feeling of deep relaxation and calm. Massage prompts the release of endorphins – the brain chemicals (neurotransmitters) that produce feelings of wellbeing. Levels of stress hormones, such as adrenalin, cortisol and norepinephrine are also reduced. Other benefits improve circulation, increase joint mobility and flexibility, reduce anxiety and depression, improve recovery of soft tissue injuries and reduce muscle tension. Some of the services offered by Jackie include Deep Tissue Massage which uses slower, more-forceful strokes and aims at the deeper tissue structures of the muscle and fascia. This type of massage contains many of the same movements as the Swedish massage, but with more intensity and is often used to release chronic muscle tension or “knots”. She can also deliver a Sports Massage, which is often used in the aid of athletic performances. It includes preventive (before), interevent (during), post event (after) and maintenance; and injury massage or training. Prenatal Massage is another of her skillsets which aims to relax muscles, increase/improve circulation and mobility, brings ease to sore areas, decreases depression, improves mood and stress levels, reduces swollen legs and lowers the risk of preterm birth and low birth weight in infants. Hydrotherapy, which is the use of exercises with heated hydrocollator pads to loosen and soften up the muscles, is also a type of massage session Jackie is equipped to provide. Reflexology, which is used to relieve tension and treat illnesses through reflex point on the feet, hands and head linked to all parts of the body, is another requested service sought through massage as is Range of Motion which uses exercises to improve muscle function, decrease pain, swelling and stiffness. Swedish Massage, which is a more commonly heard of massage, uses long strokes, kneading, deep circular movements, vibration and tapping, focusing on the full body muscle relaxation. S
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FITNESS
JMG Elite Fitness is a product and vision of Joshua M. Garrett. He is a passionate fitness expert whose focus on health and fitness has benefited him to successfully develop exercise programs, workout plans, community outreach and community restoration techniques that have enhanced the lives of many individuals within the city of Greensboro. JMG Elite Fitness and Joshua believe that one of the greatest miracles on earth is to take a dead thing, which could be a persons dreams, identity or passions and bring them back to life again.
ONE on One
with Terry L. Watson
Who is Joshua M. Garrett?
How has your career impacted your life?
Personal Training has matured me. It has freed and empowered me and led me closer to God. Owning my own personal training business has brought me a lot of joy but I have experienced a lot of pain as well. From learning how to obtain and retain clientele, and learning how to keep people motivated while going through life myself. I am a better man for it, and I’m a better trainer because of it. S
336-493-3122
I was born in Greensboro, North Carolina and raised by a single mother, Pamela Matthews along with my two brothers. I attended Sedgefield Elementary, Mendenhall Middle school and graduated from Page High School. I later attended Winston Salem State University and studied exercise science, and I am currently working towards obtaining my degree.
How did you get started a person trainer?
I became certified in personal training because I have always been around anything sports and health related. I trained individuals in college to lose weight, to strengthen their skills in sports and live healthy. I’m one of the most laid back trainers one will meet. I often incorporate laughter and jokes into my training sessions because I do have a method to my madness.
What is your story?
My brother was diagnosed with diabetes at age of 12. At that time we didn’t have much knowledge about the disease and we struggled with getting it under control. Hospital visit after hospital visit, I watched my brother fight this disease conquering it in some moments and getting tired in others. Often times I felt helpless because I didn’t have an answer. In this moment my passion for helping people was born. Years later at the age of 25, I was at work and began to feel a conviction about starting my own personal training business. I denied it while convincing myself that I had everything that I needed. Then on one sunny Tuesday afternoon, I was fired from my “comfortable job” and was forced to deal with the very thing that I was so afraid to do.
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NATHAN
IRVIN
FITNESS
By Terry L. Watson Photos by Perfect Lenz Photography
My years as a Physio Tech under the guidance of some of the greatest therapists in the country, coupled with my athletic ability and experiences gives me a great mental and physical understanding of how the human body should function.
His method is simple. One can’t function if they’re not physically fit. Nathan Irvin is the face and force of Fit 2 Function Inc., a health and fitness company dedicated to changing lives by assisting their clients with obtaining goals by utilizing educational tools on how to maintain a healthy lifestyle. His services are geared towards anyone who desires to make a positive change in their health, whether it be for weight loss, sports, or overall well-being. Fit 2 Function Inc. began two years ago when Irvin decided to enroll in graduate school. His passion for sports drove him to pursue a career in Sports Medicine, which led him to the field of Physical Therapy. He graduated from Greensboro College in 2012 with a degree in Kinesiology and worked for Breakthrough Physical Therapy for seven years. Still, there was something greater that Irvin felt he could be doing with his life, and so he decided to further his education. “At the time, it seemed a like a smart thing to do, especially for a college student. A few months before I planned to apply for school, I realized that there were some unanswered questions within the fitness industry,” he says. “Even with an abundance of knowledge available about how and why we should live healthier lives, health-related problems such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease are still on the rise. I felt I needed to use my knowledge to benefit my community so I put school aside and focused on how to help people stay committed to being physically fit and live a more healthier lifestyle.”
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Fit 2 Function Inc. offers several services to assist a wide range of groups and individuals. For those looking to lose weight, get fit or prepare for competition, Irvin offers fitness training. This includes a variety of exercises focused on strength building which will enable them to perform activities that burn calories and help to reduce weight. For those who have suffered an injury or live with a disability which prevents them from being able to function normally, he provides Functional Training. This service involves implementing specific exercises that address physical weakness and working to regain strength and endurance to make everyday functions easier. Performance training/coaching is offered for athletes who want to get stronger, faster, or improve their performance in their respective sport. Specific exercises and drills help improve reaction time, ability, and overall strength. Fit KICK Taekwondo and martial arts training is available as well. With the help of his wife Alicia, Fit 2 Function Inc. has grown exponentially. She is an entrepreneur and owns a childcare business, Little Dreamers…BIG Dreams. “Her experience helps her to understand the importance of networking and advertising, and how significant they are when trying to build a brand,” he says. “I may be the owner and the face of Fit 2 Function Inc., but Alicia puts in as much work (if not more) as I do. She is committed to making this a successful business. Most of all, she pushes me to be better and to dream bigger than I have before.” This coming fall, Irvin will be hosting his inauguralweight loss and fitness competition, R.E.V.I.V.A.L.of the Fittest. It is a team competition where “teams of five” will compete in a variety of different fitness challenges. Depending on how much weight someone loses in the eight weeks preceding the competition, each team can earn a distinctive advantage to help them win the $1000 cash prize. S
For more information on how you can be a part of the R.E.V.I.V.A.L or to learn more about Fit 2 Function, Inc. contact Nathan Irvin 336-580-0744 fse4life@gmail.com
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MARTIAL ARTS
Kuk Sool Hapkido of North Carolina 18
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By Junios Smith Photos by Howard Gaither Cequence Henry is looking to make his mark on the North Carolina martial arts scene. Since 2016, Henry has been teaching at the Greensboro Martial Arts Academy, continuing his dedication to the art of self-defense. A graduate of Northeast Guilford High School, Henry said he has been training since the age of 4 in the art of Kuk Sool Won before taking up several other practices. “Kuk Sool Won is a form of Korean martial arts, which I learned from my instructor, Jeremiah Wills,” Henry said. “With me being so young and him knowing me so long — I’ve pretty much known him my own life — he saw I had talent and took me under his wing. “When he passed in 2009, another instructor named Doug Orr picked up where he left off. Most of Mr. Wills’ students dispersed and nobody picked up the teaching, so I did. I continued to train while learning and studying disciplines such as Tae Kwon Do, Muay Thai, Capoeira, etc.” Henry teaches Kuk Sool Hapkido at the Academy, a different variation of what he learned as a child. Since I’m not longer a part of the organization, I had to change the ending,” Henry said. “That way, I’m able to teach what I know without any disrespect to the federation”. Over my years of studying through enlightenment and research, I’ve honed my abilities to instruct as well as gaining respect others who are both older and younger than I am.” The teachings and research have helped the 21-year-old Henry in several ways, as he trains more than 40 students at the Academy — mostly under. He has also been a decorated winner in tournaments, competing across the state and branching out to Washington D.C. and Detroit collecting awards. “I was always the outcast in the tournaments since I broke away from the organization I was with (in 2009),” Henry said. “I was more of a lone wolf when I competed in all three events — forms, weapons and sparring — and I’ve had about 200 first-place finishes in my career.” While Henry continued to impress in competition, he said others provided him with great opportunity until he was able to work at the Academy. “I found Doug Orr at the YMCA in my journey of looking for schools and he kept me fresh,” Henry said. “He made sure I would continue training and never give up. I was still competing, doing demonstrations and expos to get my name out. Later on, Aaron Gaddy introduced me to Sijo James Robinson of Running Fist Kung Fu (in Concord).” Henry said in his research he dispels the notion of one set of martial arts being stronger than another one. “There’s no such thing as a ‘best’ martial arts,” Henry said. “I feel like people try to put that idea upon others — it’s all about how someone progresses in a certain style. As far as which one to take, it all depends on what they’re looking for. If they’re looking at one for more exercise, more combat, defensive skills, there are numerous options. For thousands of years, martial arts was used for protection so in my opinion, if you’re going to study an art, do it to the best of your abilities. Currently, Henry is in the process of creating his very own style that will incorporate the understanding of multiple disciplines, and help to prepare oneself for any combat situation. S
Cequence Henry
Kuk Sool Hapkido Of North Carolina 719 West Gate City Blvd Greensboro, NC 27403 336-340-0736
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TRAINING
jason coleman 3D Athletic Training 919-758-7302 www.3dathletictraining.com Jason Coleman is a native of Raleigh, North Carolina by way of Chicago. Coach Jay graduated from Sanderson High School in 2002. While playing varsity basketball, he was voted to the CAP 8 All-Conference Team his junior and senior years while averaging 18 points per game, respectively. While playing for Shaw University he was named to the 2004-2005 CIAA All-Freshman Team. He strives to provide the fundamental skills of basketball, build strong ties within his community and encourage athletes to always give their best in every area of life. Coach Jay has two sons, Jamyr and Jakairi, who are his most prized possessions. He takes pride in being apart of their lives daily and does not miss anything that involves them. He coached both of their basketball teams and volunteers at their school for various activities throughout the year. He affectionately calls them his “BodyGuards”. Since 2011 Coach Jay has coached in various capacities. He has coached in youth basketball leagues for Raleigh Parks and Recreation, and helped coach Triangle Elite AAU junior team. Last season he was hired as head coach of the boys basketball team at Lowes Grove Middle School in Durham, North Carolina. He is currently a USA Basketball Gold Licensed coach and is head coach of the 4th grade and 8th grade AAU basketball teams for Carolina Elite basketball organization that is an affiliate of Under Armour basketball. Coach Jay is sought out in the basketball community to train athletes 1-on-1 and in small group settings. He has trained players ranging from five years, all the way up to the collegeiate and professional levels. As an advocate for athletes, Coach Jay takes his commitment serious in developing a well-rounded player. He does not stop once his participants leaves the court. He ensures academic success, encourages community involvement, and assists with the transition to middle/high school and to future endeavors in life. S Coach Jay lives by the motto of “With Discipline, Dedication, and Determination (3Ds) you can achieve anything in life on and off the court!”
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Progress Fitness Unlimited where progress and fitness go hand in hand. We are licensed, certified and insured which allows us to train in a variety of locations. Whether you prefer to train in your home, office or a gym located near you, our dynamic team can and will accommodate your preference. Our trainers are experienced and enthused about fitness. We have a desire to help you achieve your fitness goals and are willing to go the extra mile just for you.
Top Benefits of Exercise for Adults
1
Maintenance of a high level of physical and social activity increases the quality of life, enhancing social satisfaction.
2
Increased independence is enjoyed when fitness and health are maintained.
person has more energy and can perform 3 Adaily routines with greater ease. muscle tone and flexibility improve 4 Increased balance, decreasing falls.
5 the higher his metabolism, making it easier to The more muscle tissue a person maintains, control weight.
burned through exercise allow a 6 Calories person to rake in more nutrients.
7 Exercise delays loss of bone mass. Posture improves, decreasing backache and 8 enhancing appearance. 9
Paul Gilmer
Services offered by Progress Fitness Unlimited
Knicker Ball Hip Hop Boot Camp Senior Fitness In Home Training Kids Fit Club FSB Training Progress Fitness Unlimited progressfitnessgso@gmail www.progressfitnessgso.com (336) 965-3452
Cardio-respiratory function is enhanced, improving peripheral circulation and decreasing risk of atherosclerosis, high blood pressure and other circulatory problems.
10 Using it keeps you from losing it. 11 Decreased levels of anxiety. 12 Decreased levels of depression. 13 Improved self-esteem.
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FO BO O XT IBNAGL L
Coach Al Lowe Boxing Club 22
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By Junios Smith Photos by Shaw Photography Group The founder created a legacy that continues to carry on. In 1972, Al Lowe founded the Lindley Boxing Club in Greensboro to give the youth an opportunity to learn how to fight with technique. Over the years, thousands of boxers have trained at the Club with Lowe coaching for nearly 40 years. Lowe retired in 2011 after working 39 years with the Greensboro Parks and Recreation Department and died at the age of 89 on Oct. 28, 2015. Before retiring, Lowe left the Club in good hands with a former trainee — Robert Chapman — who came to the Boxing Club at a young age to learn the sport. “I’ve known Al nearly my whole life,” Chapman said. “When I was 9, my brothers, some friends and I went to the Boxing Club and I started learning from him.” Chapman currently runs the Boxing Club — renamed the Coach Al Lowe Boxing Club in 2011 — and has a strong boxing resume. While Chapman never went on the professional circuit, he amassed a 112-8 record as an amateur, along with picking up 10 victories in what he called “toughman competitions” in the late 1980s to early 1990s. “The tough man competitions were like a brawling type of thing,” Chapman said “Anyone could enter the fight from different weight classes. Some of the prizes were as high as $1,000 too.” Chapman said he didn’t go pro because of other obligations, but under Lowe’s tutelage he has amassed 30 years of coaching at the Club. “I got married and other responsibilities came up, so I felt like I didn’t have the time to be a professional,” Chapman said. “I wanted to take care of my family, so Al taught me how to train the fighters. There are so many different styles that we teach out here and these guys go out and compete. I enjoy what the fighters are doing and it feels good to guide them with what I’ve learned from Al.”
Coach Al Lowe, whom which the boxing club is named in honor of, left an impression on countless individuals.
Chapman trains boxers of all ages, going from the youth to as old as 60 years old. While only a handful fight professionally, Chapman said it’s recreational for most. “It’s a great way to stay in shape and there are a lot of guys who love the sport,” Chapman said. Among those who train at the Club include Joseph Jackson, who got into boxing in 2012 and has been fighting professionally for two years. “There aren’t a lot of boxing gyms in Greensboro and I heard the Club was one was the best in town,” Jackson said. “I went there and started learning with Coach Chapman and another guy, Sabir Rivers. They taught me the basics here and after a while they thought I should go pro, which I did around the end of 2015.” Jackson said his interaction with Lowe was minimal, but he still had the utmost respect for him. “He was on his way out when I was coming in, but when I was sparring he would give me tips,” Jackson said. “He was a very cool guy and dedicated to the sport.
Current Director, Robert Chapman exercises the same principles that he learned from his predecessor. Hard work will pay off.
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A 2008 graduate of James Dudley High School, Jackson played running back on the state-championship winning Panthers squad. Jackson said while there were some comparisons to the gridiron, there were also noticeable differences. “It was a big transition between football and boxing. It’s still a contact sport, but I had to learn different techniques, get better with my hand-eye coordination and footwork. Boxing is more mental than physical.” While there has been a process, Jackson has flourished in the Junior Middleweight Division, starting his professional career with seven straight wins and five knockouts. Although he has experienced great success with boxing, Jackson remains humble and said protecting his loved ones play a role in his dedication. “I really want to provide for my kids and my family,” Jackson said. “I’ve been working a job for 10 years and this started as a hobby, but as I got better, I started to compete. Of course, I want to be the World Champion, but my biggest goal is to be successful and make sure my family is straight at the end of the day.” Chapman said he likes Jackson’s work ethic, especially from a man who jumped into the professional ranks rather quickly. “He didn’t have a long amateur career,” Chapman said. “He had maybe five or six fights before turning pro, but he only lost one. He’s dedicated, comes in just about every day to train and is one of the hardest workers in the gym. It means the world to me to see somebody put in the hard work and come out successful.” While Jackson has become a success story, Chapman said boxing takes plenty of dedication. “Boxing is not for everyone,” Chapman said. “It’s a hard sport and guys find out early. I can have 20 guys come in and work out, but in about six months four may stay. A lot of guys like to fight, but they don’t want to work out to become a fighter. You can’t just jump in and be Floyd Mayweather overnight.” Chapman added Mayweather’s longevity in the game also comes from aesthetics beyond the ring.
“He didn’t have a long amateur career. He had maybe five or six fights before turning pro, but he only lost one. He’s dedicated, comes in just about every day to train and is one of the hardest workers in the gym. It means the world to me to see somebody put in the hard work and come out successful.” Robert Chapman on Jackson
“Floyd has good people around him, making the right decisions for him to keep fighting as long as he has,” Chapman said. “You have to get a team around you who knows what you can and can’t do. For example, Floyd won’t fight a younger guy coming up — boxing is a young man’s sport and you won’t last as long the older you get. Of course, he took the fight with Conor (Make certain this is how he spells his name) McGregor because of the money deal, plus he’s not as skilled as someone who has been doing it professionally for a while.” Chapman has dedicated his life to boxing and said he isn’t thinking about changing his course any time soon. “I’m going to keep coaching until I can’t do it no more,” Chapman said. “I love boxing and I’ll continue coaching guys what I’ve learned from Al. I don’t plan on retiring.”
Coach Al Lowe Boxing Club 2907 Springwood Drive Greensboro, NC 27403 336-373-2931
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FITNESS
By Terry L. Watson Photos by Mykel Media Company One would be sadly mistaken to say that Ronald Levette’s wheels are slowing down. At the tender age 62, he doesn’t allow his role as a father and grandfather keep him from enjoying the many pleasures that life has to offer since retiring. Even after having two full knee replacements, Levette was a victorious participant in the Greater Greensboro Senior Games that took place this summer.
Ronald Levette
“My experience participating in the Senior Games was challenging, exciting and rewarding. Challenging in that I had never participated in an organized sporting event, so it was a personal dare to prove that I could accomplish this physical fete. Exciting in that is was an adventure to do something that I had never done before. It was rewarding because not only did I meet some good folks from all walks of life, I received three silver medals and one bronze medal,” he says. He decided to participate after one of the instructors of A.H.O.Y. (Marya) and fellow participants encouraged him to sign up for the Senior Games. He participated in Table Tennis (silver medal), the 50 and 100 meter runs (silver medals), and the Shot Put (bronze medal). “I loved several things that the games offered such as the comrade and the experience of victory and accomplishment in sporting events” says Levette. The mission of the Greater Greensboro Senior Games is to promote healthy lifestyles -- both mentally and physically -- by encouraging seniors to practice and participate in their chosen event(s) throughout the year. There are a variety of events available, so there is something for everyone. The Greater Greensboro Senior Games is sanctioned by NC Senior Games Inc. (NCSG), a nonprofit organization, and sponsored statewide by the NC Division of Aging and Adult Services. Anyone 50 years or older and interested in participating in the Senior Games should contact Jennie Matkins, Senior Services Coordinator, Parks & Recreation with the City of Greensboro. S Greater Greensboro Senior Games 2401 Fairview Street Greensboro, NC 27405 336-373-7566 www.greensboro-nc.gov/Seniors
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NUTRITION
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FOOTBALL
WHEN FOOTBALL SEASON TURNS YOU INTO HIS SIDE CHICK By Latasha D. Miles Listening to the way LaTasha D. Miles talks about sports, you would think she doesn’t leave home without her football. Her love for the game is evident in her background, expressions, and personality. Born and raised in ACC country, the bubbly dose of brown sugar never had the goal to fit in, but to stand out, growing up, surrounded by male cousins and uncles in Burlington, NC and developing into a tomboy. Outnumbered by males, LaTasha had no choice but to join them as they gathered around that one television at “grandma’s house” for Sunday dinner after church and watch football. At first, LaTasha disliked the sport, but found herself eager to learn more about the game by constantly pestering others to explain to her the rules and regulations of football. She began researching, learning formations, coaching trees, schemes, and all things relating to the sport. The more she watched football, the more her love for the sport increased. Football had found a new fan in LaTasha D. Miles. Her continuous quest for knowledge about the sport afforded her many opportunities to write, edit, co-host, host, produce, broadcast as a radio personality and as a sideline reporter. As a sports journalist, LaTasha has landed several front page articles with interviews from Hall of Fame members such as Bobby Bowden, Terry Bradshaw, and Dick MacPherson. In addition to conducting interviews with defensive end William Hayes, of the Miami Dolphins, ESPN’s own Stephen A. Smith, the only living Negro League Baseball Umpire, author Robert “Bob” Motley and BMX phenomenon Brett “Mad Dog” Banasiewicz, she graduated from Magna Cum Laude from Winston-Salem State University in Winston-Salem, NC, with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Mass Communications, with a concentration in Sports Journalism.
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A standout in sports writing and sports editing, LaTasha earned accolades in both lines of work and covered baseball, basketball, golf, soccer, tennis, and of course football in North Carolina, Tennessee, and Indiana. Now emerged into the self-proclaimed dainty tomboy and with her heart of gold and big smile in tow, LaTasha is ready to hit the mainstream level in the sports reporting and broadcasting realms. She has also been featured on national and local television and radio stations more than 30 times. Affectionately known as “Joan Madden, The Gridiron Goddess” of SheSPN The Network, she also penned the acclaimed book “When Football Season Turns You Into His Side Chick: The Ultimate Survival Guide For Relationships & Households During Football Season” and is the creator of “WTF Too: Women Talk Football Too.” Who knew that little girl without any interest in football would become one of its biggest fans, so full of vigor and always prepared for a challenge? In addition to football, LaTasha is an addict for fashion, devoted to interior decorating, traveling, volunteering, and a fanatic of choreography and listening to music, especially Beyoncé. She enjoys bowling and swimming, and absolutely adores full-blooded Boxers and children. Her love for God, family and friends, and helping others are at the center of what keeps her grounded. S
BASKETBALL
If you haven’ t heard about
JAYLIN
POWELL
By Latasha D. Miles Photos from espn.com
You Better Ask Somebody
Article is provided courtesy of “Session Magazine ‘Women’s In Power’ April 2017 Issue While sporty looks and designer jeans might be all the rage for some young adults, basketball dominance and designer genes are more fitting for Jaylin Powell. Born on September 17, 1999 to parents Kim and Byron Powell, the 17-year old graduating senior from Rolesville High School in Wake County, certainly bounces to the beat of her own basketball, and her surroundings and genetics have enforced this trait. Jaylin committed to Elon University, and will join the school’s basketball program later this year as a shooting guard/small forward and occasional power forward. Yes, the same Elon where parts of the 1998 critically acclaimed Spike Lee movie “He Got Game” were filmed, before Powell was even born. Her matriarch was a standout basketball player at Queensborough College in New York and her patriarch was guilty of playing in several pickup games during his time at Tuskegee University in Alabama. With basketball in her DNA, Powell competed with her parents in games of “Horse” and “21” respectively, but takes it easy on them now. “When I was younger I had to try to beat them, just for fun, but they’re not really messing with basketball anymore. I chose basketball starting out because of [them],” Powell said, while adding that her parents are also responsible for her competitive nature. Although 14 universities reached out to Powell, Elon received the nod from the Rolesville Ram, who will pursue studies in sports marketing/ management. The deciding factors included the bond and relationship that Elon’s coaching staff built with her and her family during the recruiting process. “I felt like [Elon] was the best program for me,” the versatile 5’10” student-athlete said. “[It was great] to see this program progress and win the CAA [Colonial Athletic
Association] Tournament, the championship. [Elon] made it important for me to feel like it it’s not just about them having a better player for the team but how they can also help me for my future. That was really important and my parents both also had a good relationship with the coaching staff.” Powell spoke specifically about head coach Charlotte Smith, former UNC and WNBA basketball star and author, who was also influential in her decision. “She’s a great role model and a successful coach,” Powell said. “I don’t know about being an author [like Smith], but I have started to look into coaching and would look into the opportunity of the WNBA. I give her a lot of credit and want to follow in her footsteps. I appreciate all the schools and it was a tough decision but I really fell in love with Elon.” The prestigious university in the Southwest outskirts of Burlington, NC doesn’t recruit just anybody and academics are just as important, if not more, as athletics. Balancing grades with basketball is a tricky obligation but Powell wears the opportunity of being a student-athlete like it’s a badge of honor on her jersey. Tunes from Kanye West and her fellow Virgo, Beyonce’ blast from headphones on a daily basis while she prepares for games and practices. Late nights and early mornings, her surroundings and genes once again contribute to the recipe for her success with this balance. “It’s super important to keep [my] time managed and I always make sure to have time to study,” the future Phoenix star said. “If I don’t have time, I make time. It just takes discipline in order to keep my grades up. My parents help me out a lot to keep me on track. I’m thankful for all the help that I have from everyone who has helped me in order to do well in school.” For more information on Jaylin Powell, follow her on Twitter and Instagram @jaylin_simone13 and http://www. elonphoenix.com/ for Elon athletics. Basketball season tips off later in 2017 for the Phoenix and schedules will be released at that time.
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