South Charlotte Weekly (Aug. 18, 2017)

Vol. Vol. 17 No. 17 xx No. 33

xxxxxxxxx, 2017 August 18, 2017 WWW.THECHARLOTTEWEEKLY.COM

Inside Today

& THE PINEVILLE PILOT

On Up

SunTrust holds event to help people take some of the stress out of their financial concerns.

Page 3

One and Done Pineville Players doing a series of one-act plays.

Page 6

Without a Hitch The entire community held up pretty well for the PGA

Page 21

THE WEEKLY’S annual high school football preview begins on Page 7

News Briefs x | Opinion x | Education xx | Faith xx | Calendar xx | Sports xx | Classifieds xx

Opinion 5 | News Briefs 19 | Calendar 20 | Sports 21 | Classifieds 23

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Page 2 | August 18, 2017 | South Charlotte Weekly

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South Charlotte Weekly | August 18, 2017 | Page 3

Pop-up event fights lingering financial stress

by Grant Baldwin grant@cmgweekly.com

CHARLOTTE – SunTrust Bank’s onUp Tour visited the Blakeney branch on Rea Road on Aug. 9 to help spread financial confidence throughout the city.

The 45-city tour uses quizzes, games and interaction with SunTrust onUp representatives to teach participants to manage their money in a way that helps them create a $2,000 rainy day fund and save for their wedding, homeownership, children or retirement.

John Reid, reJohn Reid gional president for SunTrust Charlotte, was among those trying out quizzes and taking a virtual realty tour of SunTrust Park, home of the Atlanta Braves.

“Seventy-five percent of people are feeling stressed by their finances,” Reid said.

“This is an opportunity for them to take that stress away and feel better about themselves.”

Reid recommended people acknowledge they want relief from stress in their lives.

The next step is seeking help.

“One way you can do that is the pro-

People take a virtual reality tour of SunTrust Park, home of the Atlanta Braves, as part of the SunTrust’s 45-city onUp Tour on Aug. 9 at the Rea Road branch. The program continues beyond the tour thanks to a website. Grant Baldwin/SCW photo

gram, onUp,” Reid said. “This is really the impetus for people to start that journey.

The real journey will occur when you go online and start using some of the tools that are there.”

OnUp goes beyond the traveling event.

The core of the education occurs at www.onupmovement.suntrust.com. The

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website contains information designed to help people learn to strategize saving money, with calculators and tools to simplify record keeping, as well as stories about real people increasing their financial confidence through the teachings, The program has helped nearly 2 million people, according to SunTrust.

CMS ready to open Aug. 28 CHARLOTTE – What’s it like to prepare for the opening of 176 schools this fall?

“It’s spring cleaning on steroids,” according to Carol Stamper, chief operations officer for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools. She sums up much of the work with four Rs: repair, replace, relocate and refresh.

“We have a large team working hard to make our schools the best they can be,” Stamper said.

CMS’s numbers are staggering: 4,180 gallons of paint, 260,000 gallons of cleanser, 24,750 gallons of floor finish and 40,500 light bulbs. Then you’ve got to fill 75 teaching vacancies and schedule bus drivers, as well as assign 140,000 Chromebooks.

Superintendent Clayton Wilcox said the 2017-18 school year was particularly busy because of new schools and programs, the planning work for the new student-assignment plan and the $922 million bond request on the Nov. 7 ballot.

The district is asking voters to approve the bond request in order to address 29 projects, slightly less than half of the $2.2 billion in needs identified in the CMS long-term capital plan.

The district’s 1,078 buses will travel 120,000 miles each school day and the district has about 126,000 students who will use the bus to get to and from school.

Women’s club hosts biologist

Walk celebrates friendships

CHARLOTTE – Eric Stine, biologist and herpetologist, will be the featured speaker at The Lower Providence Community House women’s club.

The event, Coexisting with Wildlife, starts at 3 p.m. Aug. 27 at the Lower Providence Community House (log cabin), 9735 Community House Road. Children are welcome. Tickets cost $10 at the door.

Proceeds benefit the restoration and preservation of the venue.

CHARLOTTE – Thousands of people throughout the region will celebrate friendships, while supporting the Down Syndrome Association of Greater Charlotte’s programs and services at Buddy Walk 2017.

The fundraiser takes place 1 to 5 p.m. Oct. 14 at UNC Charlotte’s Jerry Richardson Stadium.

The event dates back to 1995. It has grown to more than 250 events across the country.

Visit www.dsa-gc.org for details.

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Page 4 | August 18, 2017 | South Charlotte Weekly

The Weekly

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The Mecklenburg County Health Department inspected the following restaurants Aug. 4 to 10 (Pineville scores are from July):

Lowest Scores • Four Points by Sheraton, 9705 Leitner Drive – 90 Violations include: Employee didn’t wash hands after returning to prep table; raw chicken was located above ready-toeat foods; plates and utensil in holster were soiled with food debris; cut melon improperly date-marked; menu didn’t have proper advisory regarding raw or undercooked food; employee didn’t wear hair restraint; wet clothes were on the prep table.

• Ooowee BBQ, 207 Johnston Drive – 91 Violations include: Certified person in charge wasn’t onsite; handwashing sink removed near three-compartment sink; foods were improperly date-marked; paint thinner stored next to equipment and over clean drain board of three compartment sink; two dry food ingredient containers weren’t labeled; and clean equipment stored next to soiled plates.

• China GoGo, 10405 Park Road – 90 Violations include: Improper hand washing procedures; scrubbing pads in hand washing sinks; raw beef and chicken stored together above food in walk-in; slicer stored with food residue; expired food still in storage; and some stored food had no open date marked.

All Scores 28209

• Sir Edmond Halley’s, 4151 Park Road – 98.5 • The Steak N` Hoagie Shop, 3401 South Blvd. – 97 28210 • Cherry House Restaurant II, 7631 Sharon Lakes Road – 93.5 • China GoGo, 10405 Park Road – 90 • Food Lion deli, 10120 Johnston Road – 95 • Food Lion seafood market, 10120 Johnston Road – 98.5 • Philips Place Cinema, 6911 Phillips Place Court – 96.5 • Upstream, 6902 Phillips Place Court – 95 28211

• Chick-fil-A, 4400 Sharon Road – 96.5 • Firebirds, 3920 Sharon Road – 97.5 • Fresh Chef, 2935 Providence Road – 97 • Mandarin Express, 400 Sharon Road – 92 • Sabor Latin Street Grill, 3920 Sharon Road – 95

This week’s highest score was recorded at the Food Lion on South Polk Street. It scored 99.5. Photo Courtesy Food Lion

• Yafo Kitchen, 720 Governor Morrison St. – 96.5 28226

• Farley’s Pizzeria, 2025 East Arbors Drive – 96.5 28270

• Chicken King, 9010 Monroe Road – 94.5 • Five Guys, 1605 Galleria Blvd. – 98 • Steak N’ Shake, 1926 North Sardis Road – 95.5 • Taco Bell, 1910 Sardis Road – 96.5 28277

• Akropolis Kafe, 14027 Conlan Circle – 95.5 • Cherry Blossom, 8206 Providence Road – 92 • Circle K, 15620 Don Lochman Lane– 95.5 • Einstein Bros. Bagels, 13736 Conlan Circle – 95.5 • Firehouse Subs, 7211 Waverly Walk Ave. – 99 • Fox And Hound, 15235 John J Delaney Drive – 93.5 • Get Fit Foods, 14825 Ballantyne Village Way – 98 • Harris Teeter deli, 9720 Rea Road – 98.5 • McAlisters Deli, 8046 Providence Road – 95.5 • McAlisters Deli, 15201 John J Delaney Drive – 93.5 • On The Green Deli, 13840 Ballantyne Corporate Place – 97 • TIAA-Betsill, 13520 Ballantyne Corporate Place – 98.5 • The Wok, 11508 Providence Road – 94 28134 (Pineville)

• Applebee’s Grill & Bar, 10921 Carolina Place Pkwy. – 95.5 • Food Lion deli, 317 S. Polk St. – 97 • Food Lion produce, 317 S. Polk St. – 99.5 • Four Points by Sheraton, 9705 Leitner Drive – 90 • IHOP, 9940 Pineville-Matthews Road – 96 • Ooowee BBQ, 207 Johnston Drive – 91 • Red Lobster Restaurant, 9415 PinevilleMatthews Road – 95 • Sbarro Italian Eatery, 11025 Carolina Place Pkwy. – 92.5 • Taco Bell, 10917 Carolina Place Pkwy.

– 98 • Wasabi Sushi, 11025 Carolina Place Pkwy. – 96 • Zygma European Groceries and Deli, 212 N. Polk St. – 98

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South Charlotte Weekly | August 18, 2017 | Page 5

Opinion

Ric Flair needs some prayers from his hometown fans

T

he first time I ever heard of Charlotte, North Carolina was probably in the 1980s, as Ric Flair strutted to a wrestling ring to defend his World Heavy Championship against Ricky “The Dragon” Steamboat.

He didn’t have quite the build of the WWF’s Hulk Hogan or Macho Man Randy Savage, but The Nature Boy had just as big a persona. He had incredible swagger Justin Vick – flashy robes, beautiful women and slick talk.

After all, he was “the stylin’, profilin’, limousine ridin’, jet flyin’, kiss-stealin’, wheelin’ n’ dealin’ son of a gun.” In those days, you either loved him or hated him.

As his athleticism waned in the mid1990s, he became more of a beloved icon.

Who can forget when the N.C. Education Lottery released a Ric Flair-themed scratch-off lottery ticket, known simply as WOOOOOOO! Or the Indianapolis Colts and later the Carolina Panthers incorporating the “2 claps and a Ric Flair” cheer in the locker room to get excited before games.

Last week, TNT had Flair introduce its coverage of the 2017 PGA Championship at Quail Hollow. How fitting, considering the tournament was played in the very city he made familiar to me so many years ago.

I was saddened to see news reports this week of Flair’s declining health. Get well, Nature Boy.

Confederate monuments

Gov. Roy Cooper posted some interesting thoughts on Medium.com following the toppling of a Confederate statue Aug. 14 in Durham. He noted “there was a better way to remove these monuments.”

“Our Civil War history is important, but it belongs in textbooks and museums – not a place of allegiance on our Capitol grounds,” Cooper wrote.

He wants to allow municipalities to have the authority to move them, too. He offered the idea of putting them in museums or historical sites.

I can’t think of a better solution to preserve such monuments. Underground lair?

Moats with alligators? What do you think?

Justin Vick is editor of South Charlotte Weekly.

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Page 6 | August 18, 2017 | South Charlotte Weekly

ABC Supply Co. promotes Duncan to partner

PO Box 1104 Matthews, NC 28106 Phone: 704-849-2261 • Fax: 704-849-2504 www.thecharlotteweekly.com

BELOIT, Wis. – Building products distributor ABC Supply Co. Inc. has promoted Danny Duncan, manager of its location at 8900 Crump Road in Pineville to managing partner status.

It is the highest level of achievement among branch managers.

As a managing partner, the Waxhaw resident joins ABC Supply’s National Branch Advisory Board, which advises senior management on various topics.

“Those who rise to the level of managing partner play an important part in shaping initiatives that help us improve our customers’ experiences and provide more opportunities for our associates, ” CEO Keith Rozolis said.

Duncan has managed the branch since 2011. He’ll continue to oversee the branch as managing partner.

“Hansel and Hansel” is among the one-act plays performed at the next Pineville Players production.

Photo courtesy of Pineville Players

Editorial MANAGING EDITOR Justin Vick SPORTS EDITOR Ben Doster CONTENT PRODUCER Grant Baldwin FAITH COLUMNIST Tony Marciano

Advertising

Maya Cann Charlotte Conway

Design ART DIRECTOR Maria Hernandez

Pineville Players present one-act plays

by Riley McCrossan Contributor

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South Charlotte Weekly is published by Charlotte Media Group. All rights reserved.

Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited.

PINEVILLE – Miami native Eva Montes realized her love of performing at a young age.

Like many actors, Eva began her career in dance as a child. After being accepted into an Alvin Ailey troupe, Eva came to a realization: “I can’t be a dancer at 80.”

The art of ballet and other forms of dance are very intense physically and emotionally. For Eva, this realization forced her to be realistic. From there, her dance career morphed into musical theater, then acting.

After her first play as a child, she received The Best Young Actor Award from the Critics and Commentators of Miami.

“I can act until I die.” Eva concluded.

Her decision to pursue acting, combined with her dance experience, placed her in Pineville, as artistic director of “Laugh, Carolina” by the Pineville Players.

Corporations form in town

A friend told her that Pineville wanted to expand the arts.

“It’s amazing,” she said. “Usually the first thing cut is the arts and here we are in Pineville wanting to expand them.”

“Laugh, Carolina” is a collection of one act-comedies written by talented Carolina writers. Eva’s goal is to provide a platform to showcase that talent.

The show consists of eight one acts that have already garnered success.

“I usually don’t like directing, but all of the one acts that I’ve selected are so good, everyone will be belly laughing,” she said.

The PG-rated show starts at 7:30 p.m.

Aug. 18, 19, 25 and 26 and 5:30 p.m. Aug. 20 and 27 at The Hut, 413 Johnston Drive.

Tickets range from $12 to $15.

“You don’t have to go to New York City for a fun night out. That’s a myth,” Eva Montes said. “We have talent here in the Carolinas, and it’s a sin that people don’t realize it.”

PINEVILLE – Registered agents filed these new corporations with the N.C. Secretary of State in July: • Bailes Building Condominium Association Inc. – Peter Leeke.

• C&S Delivering Perfection Quality & Furniture Inc. – Christina Reyes.

• Golden Dragon Y LLC – Yuming Yao. • The Hasty Housing Project – Shammara Hasty.

• Infinitee Enterprise LLC – Brandee Perry.

• Kinka Construction LLC – Elsey Bravo.

• MAMCO North Raleigh LLC – Damian Mills.

• Mariceis Dominican Hair Styling LLC – Venencia Felicinao.

• Modern Wall Systems Inc. – Analleli Mojarro.

• Shaken Or Stirred (NC) LLC – Brandee Perry.

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South Charlotte Weekly | August 18, 2017 | Page 7

Some of the top talent in the state is right here in south Charlotte, all in a showdown for a title Ardrey Kell • Myers Park • Providence High • South Mecklenburg Charlotte Catholic • Charlotte Christian • Charlotte Latin • Providence Day

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Page 8 | August 18, 2017 | South Charlotte Weekly

Ardrey Kell Pre Snap Read

Coach: Kyle Brey, first season Conference: So. Meck 8 2016 Record: 6-6, 4-3

Of Note

Kyle Brey comes from the college coaching ranks to take over the Knights, who are looking for a bounce-back year after going 6-6 last season. Brey, the son of Notre Dame basketball coach Mike Brey, has made stops at Notre Dame, Ohio State, Youngstown State, Nebraska and Kansas, but will be taking his first high school job. He inherits a talented roster that is ready to win now in a tough conference.

The Knights graduated five of their top six pass catchers from last year, but they are The Breakdown excited about their receiving corps.

Griffin Sheehy and Caleb Stephens Offense showed signs last year and are expecting Brey is excited about the prospect of larger roles this season. Allen Gaither and working with Luke Hefferly, the 6-foot-4 slot man John Skinner also are in the mix quarterback of the Knights. Brey said the and will look to have big years in the spread Knights will go as he goes, and he is cer- attack. Cedric Gray is another one to keep tainly the key to the offense. an eye on. A basketball player, Gray is a Anthony Carter appeared in just three precise route runner and will be a red zone games last year, but the 5-foot-9, 190-pound threat with his leaping ability. back will be the lead runner this season.

Hunter Grogan will fill in at tight end.

He’ll be pushed by Nicco Crew, who is the He’s another big target (6-1, 185 pounds) leading returning rusher and receiver last and will be a key in both the passing game year. Crew gained 744 yards, scored seven and as an edge blocker in the run game. rushing TDs and caught 15 balls for 164 Tristan Robinson and Grant Pease will S Charlotte Weekly_aug 2017_1_2 pg.pdf 1 8/9/2017 7:48:19 PM yards and another score. headline the offensive line as tackles.

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Ardrey Kell went a disappointing 6-6 last season, but (back row, from left) Liam Pickett, Shamari Wingard, Hunter Grogan, Tristan Robinson (kneeling, from left) Dario Nicks, John Skinner and Allen Gaither are hoping to get the Knights back on track.

Andrew Stark/ SCW photo

They will be joined by Adam Szabo, Michael Thompson, Robert Chetty, Keller Grossman and Cade McCoy. Defense David Owens and Lorenzo Figueroa will lead the defensive line, which also will feature Cade McCoy, Carson McCoy, Trevor Collins, William Buturff and Nick Actis.

John Fierick is the team’s leading returning tackler after making 46 stops. He’ll team up with Jared Choltus to lead the linebackers.

Shamari Wingard is the Knights’ defensive leader at corner. Wingard got a scholarship offer from Wofford already this summer. He is a big-time talent who can locate the ball and possesses ideal size and speed for

the position.

Logan Williams, Kyle Coleman and Gabe Jeudy will all see time with Wingard in the secondary.

Special Teams Sydney Frankel is the frontrunner to handle the kicking duties. She has range from 40-plus yards and did well punting on JV last year. Wingard, Carter and Crew will be among those handling kick return duties.

In the Spotlight: Luke Hefferly

Hefferly returns to lead the Knights again this season. The 6-foot-4 signal caller has a big frame and a big arm.

Last year, the senior threw for 2,158 yards and 24 touchdowns against just eight interceptions.

Hefferly is a threat at the goal line to run the ball.

He is getting interest from a number of Ivy League schools and should thrive in his second season in this offense.

– Andrew Stark

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South Charlotte Weekly | August 18, 2017 | Page 9

Myers Park Pre Snap Read

Coach: Scott Chadwick, fourth season Conference: Southwestern 4A 2016 Record: 11-2, 5-1

Of Note

The Mustangs tied the school record with 11 wins and narrowly missed the third round of the state playoffs. The logical next steps for the Mustangs are to contend for conference and state titles. Myers Park appears to be trending toward both. This fall should be an indicator if the Mustangs can build on success.

The Breakdown Offense Myers Park will continue to be spreadoriented. It must replace the leadership quarterback Jack Davidson provided. Senior Brayden Hawkins, a transfer from Dillon, South Carolina, should fill in nicely. He is athletic, has a strong arm and understands the position well. Wriley McKeown is the backup.

Myers Park might have its best offensive line of Chadwick’s tenure. Junior Juwan Trusdale returns at left tackle after only giving up two sacks last season. Senior Conner Collins, who started at center the last two seasons, has settled in at right tackle.

Junior Jack Moye, who started some at center last season, will continue to handle

those responsibilities. Senior Michael Langley is back at left guard, and junior Jaden Craig, who is the most athletic man on the line, is at right guard. Junior Jaylen Nichols and senior William Doyle add depth up front.

Senior tight end Garland Greenway is a veteran starter, but he sustained a knee injury during the preseason that puts his status in question.

Junior Jacquez Robinson returns as the starting running back. East Meck transfer Khamal Howard, Independence transfer Blake Hackworth and sophomore Harrison Ray are options for Robinson’s backup. Junior Jake Harkleroad will play fullback.

Junior Elijah Bowick, an explosive playmaker, is one of the top wide receivers in the state. Seniors Emanuel Alston and Joshua Curry return as starting wide receivers.

Muhsin “Moose” Muhammad III, a sophomore transfer from Providence Day, makes this receiving corps even more dynamic.

Jamir Rucks gives Myers Park a fifth option at wide receiver.

Defense Myers Park will operate out of a 4-3 as its base scheme.

The Mustangs lost four players in its defensive line rotation to graduation, but Nichols is back at defensive tackle. He is joined in the interior by junior Jordan King, who can jam the middle with his 6-foot-2 and 340-pound frame. Camden Partington,

Myers Park has the pieces to contend for a conference championship. Brayden Hawkins, Conner Collins, Juwan Trusdale, Jaylen Nichols and Shane Collins will lead the Mustangs.

Ben Doster/SCW photo

a transfer from Morehead, can play defensive tackle and defensive end. Senior defensive tackle Nick Wartham adds depth. Senior Crawford White brings athleticism to defensive end, while seniors David Jenkins and Deon Caldwell are expected to contribute there, too.

Senior Shane Collins will lead the linebacking corps. He can play inside and outside. Hackworth will man one of the outside linebacker spots. Carter Anderson and Harkleroad will see action at outside linebacker, too. Sophomore middle linebacker Roe Chitwood has a high ceiling.

This is a gifted group of defensive backs.

Junior Trey Bly is a talented cornerback with strong cover skills and elite speed. Junior Kenyatta Howie might be the best athlete on the team, and he’ll play the other cornerback position. Sophomore Cameron Roseman-Sinclair returns as the starting strong safety. Senior Todd Hartert, a transfer from Charlotte Latin, is the free safety. Junior Patrick Alvarez can play cornerback and safety.

Special Teams Senior Tyler Dameron is back as the starting kicker and punter. Bly will field punts, while Myers Park has several players it can plug in to return kickoffs

In the Spotlight: Cameron Roseman-Sinclair

Roseman-Sinclair is a game-changing talent, who is a vocal leader. He covers ground, provides a physical presence in the secondary and helps get his teammates lined up in the right spots.

Roseman-Sinclair, who might even find his way to the offensive side of the ball this fall, claims multiple scholarship offers from Power Five programs.

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Page 10 | August 18, 2017 | South Charlotte Weekly

South Mecklenburg Miles Smith, Adam George, David Brown and Jordan McKinney are just a few reasons why the Sabres are excited about 2017. Ben Doster/SCW photo

Pre Snap Read

Coach: Rocky White, sixth season Conference: So. Meck 7 2016 Record: 6-6, 4-3

Of Note

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The Sabres have been knocking on the door of the second round of the state playoffs the past two seasons, but have been bounced from the first round both times by a combined margin of 10 points. South Meck is a program that has made significant progress since White’s arrival and appears to be moving in the right direction.

The Breakdown Offense Quarterback Antonio Wallace and running back Travis Prince graduated, but South Meck’s spread offense should be more diverse in its run, pass options. For example, it can line up and operate out of an empty set to trips, doubles, two tights or two running backs. It wants to have the identity of a power running football team, and DeAngelo Blair-Young and the Sabres’ strong offensive line are ready to put their stamp on it.

The offense centers on Blair-Young, a senior running back, who can wear defenses down with his toughness and constant pounding over the course of a game. He’s complemented by junior Jabari Dalton, who adds game-breaking speed to the position, and sophomore De’Andre Gilliam.

Junior center Mac Neely, an all-conference player, returns to anchor the offensive line. Senior left guard Miles Smith, senior right guard Thomas Richardson, senior left tackle Adam George and junior right tackle Jason Ivey join him in the trenches. Evan Norton and Nathan Evans add depth to the line. This should be the best offensive line South Meck has fielded since White took the helm.

Junior Parker Green, who is known for his strong work ethic, has settled in at H-back.

Junior Cameron Yauger, who started on JV last season, steps in at quarterback. He brings athleticism to the position and has the ability to run. Freshman Austin Greer, who has the potential to develop into a good quarterback, will be his backup.

Senior Jordan McKinney will lead the receiving corp. Juniors Anthony Sharper and

Andre Francois and sophomore Tigo Moss are expected to be playmakers at wide receiver.

Defense This is a young, but talented unit. Schematically, the Sabres are switching from a 4-3 to a 4-2-5.

Sophomore nose guard David Brown worked hard during the offseason and improved his agility. Sophomore Conor Lawler, who is North Carolina defensive end Jake Lawler’s younger brother, and senior Michael Silden are going to start at defensive end. Junior A.J. Hurst, junior Damipi Lamboni and Ben Foesch will help at defensive end. Sophomores Ja’Quan Faison and Kashaun Morgan-Keys are expected to contribute significantly on the defensive line, while T’yre Williams adds depth there.

Junior Tucker Connette is going to start at middle linebacker. Junior Jalen Leonidas is the Sam linebacker, while Gilliam fits in at rover (combination between outside linebacker and safety). Bryce Jordan adds depth at linebacker. Lawler might see action at middle linebacker, too.

Senior Jazir Staton and junior Jevo’n Dixon give South Meck talented starters at cornerback. Sophomore David Bruss starts at safety. His brother, sophomore Connor Bruss, backs him up. Junior Isaiah Sharper is the other starting safety.

Special Teams Senior Paxton Williamson has big shoes to fill at kicker following the departure of Jonathan Doerer, who plays for Notre Dame. Williamson also will share punting duties with Yauger. Francois, Gilliam and McKinney will return kicks and punts.

In The Spotlight: Jazir Staton

Staton is the leader in the secondary. At 6-foot-1 and 185-pounds, he has the length to cut off passing lanes and blanket receivers. He has worked hard to become a consistent contributor. Staton has the talent to play at the collegiate level.

– Ben Doster

www.thecharlotteweekly.com

South Charlotte Weekly | August 18, 2017 | Page 11

Providence

another reliable target. Matt Smith returns as another option for Cherry. Bloomingburg will factor into the passing game.

Providence’s rushing attack will be a major part of its spread offense. Senior Julian Boddie will be at the center of its ground game. Nate Mattar, a physical bruiser, gives the Panthers’ another reliable ball carrier, while Nathan Kibambe and William Gean are other options at running back.

Pre Snap Read

Coach: Brad Bowles, third season Conference: So. Meck 7 2016 Record: 3-8, 2-5

Of Note

The Panthers had four losses by eight points or less, which arguably was a major factor in their failure to reach the playoffs.

Providence entered the offseason with plenty of motivation. Players responded with a strong winter, spring and summer in the weight room. The Panthers are a playoffcaliber team.

The Breakdown Offense Senior quarterback Jack Cherry is back to run Providence’s spread offense. He’s a leader, who understands the offense. He can spread the ball around and makes the necessary checks and reads.

Senior center David Morgan, who brings physicality to the position, returns to anchor the offensive line. He is joined in the interior by senior guards Quinn DeIuliis and Edric Dantas. DeIuliis is known for the aggression he plays with and for his versatility.

Miguel Lefaivre and Blake Long will man the offensive tackle spots.

Drake DeIuliis, who plays for Virginia Tech, left a major void with his departure,

Gavin Reeder, John Kendrew and William Gean are key pieces to Providence’s team.

Ben Doster/SCW photo

but Patrick Bloomingburg, a tight end/Hback, bring athleticism to those spots. He also can run the ball.

It’s going to be difficult to replace East Carolina freshman and former wide receiver Blake Proehl; however, Providence welcomes what should be a young and exciting group of receivers. Junior wide receiver Caleb Ogunmola is expected to be one of the primary options in the aerial attack.

He brings speed, strength and good hands to the position. Junior Will Kakavitsas is a good possession receiver. Harrison Poe is

Defense Providence employs a 4-2-5 as its base scheme, which frees it up to move in and out of different fronts and coverages.

Junior defensive end Nick King, junior defensive tackle Gavin Reeder and senior John Kendrew return with starting experience, making Providence’s defensive front a tall order for opponents to block. Gean and Bloomingburg are competing for the other starting spot at defensive end, while junior Ryan Spivak will help there, too.

Christian Saddler, who played for Carolina Pride last season, as well as Jack Wilkes and Gean, provide the Panthers with a dynamic trio of middle linebackers, while senior Parks Lewis, a returning starter, is back at outside linebacker, which also is known as the dog position. Junior Chris James can play dog or rover, which is a hybrid position that can line up as a safety or outside linebacker. Former Carolina Pride defender Obie Maduegbunam adds depth at outside

linebacker.

Providence senior free safety Grey Sigmon is a veteran leader. He brings experience to the secondary, especially the free safety position. Maduegbunam will man the rover position. Kibambe, Ogunmola, senior Dashan Hicks and junior Jacob Henderson are going to man the cornerback positions.

Special Teams Senior Bryson Porzenski is back to kick and punt, while Poe and others might handle punt returns. Ogunmola is one of the leading candidates to return kicks.

In the Spotlight: Julian Boddie

Boddie, an all-conference running back, rushed for 1,084 yards and 18 touchdowns last season. He is eager to build on those numbers in 2017. The senior workhorse gives Providence a proven offensive weapon.

Boddie has the vision, toughness and strength to thrive with the ball in his hands. He is on the heels of a strong offseason and is ready to lead with his positive attitude.

– Ben Doster

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Page 12 | August 18, 2017 | South Charlotte Weekly

Charlotte Catholic Pre Snap Read

Coach: Mike Brodowicz, fourth season Conference: Southern Carolinas Conference 2016 Record: 13-2, 7-0

Of Note

This is a younger Charlotte Catholic team compared to the last two seasons; however, most of the players have been in the system since middle school at Holy Trinity. Catholic hasn’t lost a conference game since 2009 and is two years removed since its undefeated state championship run. The Cougars moved from the 4A level to the 3A classification and joined the Southern Carolinas Conference.

The Breakdown Offense Catholic’s Wing-T offense centers on senior running back Milan Howard, who claims multiple scholarship offers. Howard is expected to build on last season’s output of 126 carries for 1,080 yards and 12 touchdowns and 20 receptions for 368 yards and three touchdowns.

Junior Michael Neel, another reliable ball carrier and pass catcher, will complement Howard.

The Cougars will be experienced in the trenches with four out of the five players that started in last season’s state semifinal

loss to Dudley back, which gives offensive line coach Frank Garcia a strong foundation to work with. Returning starter Malik McGowan, a sophomore, will man the right tackle spot, while sophomore Davis Hodgens slides from left guard to left tackle.

Senior Jacob Smith moves from right tackle to right guard. Billy Hambrook, who had a successful season on the JV in 2016, will start at left guard. Senior Jimmy Whalen is back at center. Alex Fotiadis, Cullen McQuary, Luke Gagnon and Matthew Hyatt will add depth up front.

Catholic’s greatest unknown is at quarterback. Senior Jackson Cure and last year’s JV quarterback Chris Walton are competing for the starting job.

Catholic will be without its top two targets from last year. However, Holden Schachte, Will Clouden, Garrett McCurden, Mason McBride and Pollock should contribute at a high level. Ryan Pollock, Sam Broom, Riley Berger, Adam Robbe and Brian Jacobs will see action at wide receiver when Catholic goes to its specialty package.

Defense The Cougars 4-3, cover two scheme should continue to stymie opposing offenses.

This unit’s strength is its front seven, which is led by junior defensive tackle Ari Rodriguez and senior middle linebacker Chase Foley. Rodriguez brings an explosive disrupter at the point of contact, while

The Cougars welcome back (from left) safety/ outside linebacker Brian Jacobs, offensive tackle Malik McGowan and defensive end Drew Della-Mea. Ben Doster/SCW photo

Foley, who gets his teammates in position, provides stability at the next level.

Jack Morgan and Reid Peterson join Rodriguez on the interior of Catholic’s defensive line. Sean Burns and Drew Pechulonis are expected to provide quality depth there, too. Junior Kevin Coss and sophomore Drew Della-Mea will start at defensive end.

James Gatton and Jack Dumser will help significantly at defensive end.

Seniors Tanner Dominick and Alexei Strouse will be Foley’s bookends at outside linebacker. Billy Brewer can play middle linebacker and outside linebacker. Chase’s younger brother Ty Foley, is in the mix for starting at outside linebacker. Jacobs brings versatility to the unit with his ability to play safety or outside linebacker. Sophomore linebacker Jacob Schachte will be a key part of the rotation, too.

Senior cornerback Sam Broom, who was the top backup last season, will start this fall.

Junior Adam Robbe is back at free safety. Junior Riley Berger can play cornerback and strong safety. Senior Quinton Huggins is

competing for a significant role at cornerback.

Special Teams Drew Morais returns to handle the kicking and punting duties. Howard and Neel will return kickoffs, while Jacobs and Howard will field punts.

In the Spotlight: Ari Rodriguez

Rodriguez enters his third year on the varsity. He might be Catholic’s best overall player and can play every position on the defensive line. Rodriguez, who started every game last season, forces double teams.

He is a high motor kid that gives the Cougars someone who isn’t afraid to mix it up.

– Ben Doster

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South Charlotte Weekly | August 18, 2017 | Page 13

Charlotte Christian Pre Snap Read

Coach: Jason Estep, 11th season Conference: CISAA 2016 Record: 10-2, 2-1

Of Note

The Knights got back to where they want to be last season – competing for state championships. Charlotte Christian fell short in the title game, which provided plenty of motivation for the offseason. The Knights were a young and talented team last season.

Most of the roster returns, making expectations high for 2017.

The Breakdown Offense Charlotte Christian welcomes back 10 of its 11 starters for its up-tempo spread offense.

Seniors Ben Duyck and Ryan Chaffin are competing for center, but both can play guard, too. Junior Sammy Henderson moved from right tackle to left tackle. Senior Jack Mitchell slides down from left tackle to left guard. Senior Luke Warner can play guard and tackle. Senior Riley Carlton should provide meaningful contribution on the line, too. This group competes with one another and has depth.

Junior tight ends Ricky Kofoed and J.T. Killen are back. They aren’t only vital blockers, but are key parts in the passing game.

Junior quarterback Garrett Shrader (3,200 yards of total offense and 34 touchdowns last season) is back to orchestrate what should be an explosive unit.

Shrader is surrounded by the same skill position players from a year ago, including running back Justus Woods (Stanford commit, who recorded 1,200 yards of total offense and 18 touchdowns in 2016).

Senior wide receivers Terrelle Brown and Alex Cherne give Shrader two experienced targets and playmakers, while junior running back/wide receiver Josh Eboboko and Jeberechiah “J.B.” Awolowo add versatility.

Junior Ben Williams is another quality running back.

Defense Charlotte Christian returns eight starters on defense along with several other players who saw meaningful action. The Knights predominantly operate out of an odd front, but can be just as multiple on defense as they are on offense.

Charlotte Christian is as skilled, athletic and fast as it has been on this side of the ball in a while. It has the potential to be a highpressure defense that forces turnovers.

Kofoed will man one of the defensive end spots. Bryan Rogers, senior Cole VonCannon, Duyck, Mitchell, Warner and junior Ethan Cherne also are expected to contribute significantly on the defensive line.

Killen and sophomore Landon Elliott are back to man the inside linebacker positions,

Charlotte Christian will be as deep and talented in the trenches as nearly any team in the area, with (from back left) Jack Mitchell, Cole VonCannon, Riley Carlton, Bryan Rogers, Sammy Henderson, Matthew Donnalley, (from front left) J.T. Killen, Luke Warner, Ben Duyck, Ryan Chaffin and Josh Roddy ready to contribute. Ben Doster/SCW photo

while Ethan Cherne adds depth at linebacker. Senior Jackson Horner returns after a strong 2016 campaign at outside linebacker.

Ethan Barnes should help at linebacker, too.

Junior Jeremiah Gray, a transfer from Ardrey Kell, fits in at safety, but also can play cornerback, nickel back and Sam linebacker.

Awolowo fits a mold similar to Gray with his ability to play the same positions, too.

Alex Nations is the other starting safety.

Junior Obi Egbuna, who started every game a year ago, returns at cornerback, and Williams, who was the nickel back last season, moves to cornerback.

Special Teams Keaton Gum is going to handle the punting responsibilities, but the kicking duties are up for competition. The coaching staff would prefer for Gum to focus on punting

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In the Spotlight: Ricky Kofoed

Kofoed is a hybrid player with his ability to play multiple positions on both sides of the ball. He is capable of being a mismatch at receiver and is physical enough to put his hand down as a tight end. He is known for his reliable hands that can reel in nearly every ball in his hemisphere.

– Ben Doster

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Page 14 | August 18, 2017 | South Charlotte Weekly

Charlotte Country Day

Trent Mulligan, David Lange, Jack Stajos, Triston Miller, Justin Ayotunde and Coulter Calhoun are going to help Country Day up front. Ben Doster/MMHW photo

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Pre Snap Read

Coach: Drew Witman, third season Conference: CISAA 2016 Record: 4-7, 1-2

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Of Note The last two seasons have been a transition since Witman took the helm, but things are starting to click with the players and coaching staff. A combined seven wins from 2015 and 2016 doesn’t show it, but a winning culture is coming back to the program. The Buccaneers should begin to make strides and close the gap with their opponents on the field this fall.

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Offense Country Day is spread-oriented, but knows it must run the ball well to be successful. Its offensive linemen have been the most consistent group thus far, despite losing five to graduation. However, they remain the biggest question mark with much room to grow.

Seniors Justin Ayotunde and Bobby Farnham have the versatility to fit in as a guard or tackle, while senior Keaton Prevette can play center and guard. Junior Triston Miller is an athletic offensive tackle. Juniors Coulter Calhoun, Holden Bobb and Trent Mulligan are expected to contribute up front, too.

Senior Connor Fewin played H-back last season, but is expected to spend most of his time on defense. Junior John Demas has the potential to help at H-back, while junior Stephen Lostetter and senior Wes Bingham also might see action there.

The starting quarterback job is up for grabs. Bingham and senior Tyler Shearer both saw significant varsity action there last season. Junior John Calhoun, who performed well for the JV in 2016, has moved up and is vying for the job, too. Country Day also is looking for a more athletic skill player to plug in as a wildcat quarterback.

Sophomore Tim Newman returns at running back as a vital component to Country Day’s offense. He runs with toughness, balance and vision. He is the feature back, but the Buccaneers are going to share the load.

Sophomore Quintin Cooper is another reliable ball carrier, while junior Rylan McLaurin and sophomore Twan Flip are key pieces to the offense as all-purpose backs with their ability to run and catch. Senior

running back Owen Hunter will get some touches, too.

Senior Broadus Roberson (6-foot-3 and 190 pounds) and junior DeAngelo Epps (6-foot-4 and 205 pounds) are big, athletic targets that can high point a football, stretch the field and use their size to physically overwhelm most defensive backs. Senior William Hamil should help at slot receiver.

Defense Country Day will operate out of a 4-3 as its base defense, but shift in and out of multiple schemes.

The Bucs must replace six defensive linemen, but the cupboard isn’t bare. Miller has the potential to be a force at defensive tackle. He’ll be joined in the trenches by David Lange, Mulligan, Ayotunde, junior Julian Swann, Farnham and Prevette. The coaches are just waiting to see who fits where.

Fewin is a savvy leader as the starting Mike linebacker. Senior John Hosmer is another proven contributor at linebacker.

Junior Graham Mitchell is back at outside linebacker after starting there last season.

Demas and sophomore Thomas Shields will help at linebacker, too.

Roberson, a safety, anchors the secondary. McLaurin and Hamil are experienced cornerbacks. Sophomore Stephen Payne is another quality defensive back.

Special Teams Sophomore Edward Dellinger steps in at kicker and punter, and is expected to thrive in those roles. Fewin also can punt. McLaurin and Roberson will return punts. Both will return kicks, too, along with Flip.

In the Spotlight: Connor Fewin

Fewin has a powerful personality and appears capable of taking on a large mantle of leadership responsibilities. He played at a high level last season, but must step up more in his final campaign with the Bucs. Fewin is a versatile playmaker with the ability to impact a game on both sides of the ball.

– Ben Doster

www.thecharlotteweekly.com

South Charlotte Weekly | August 18, 2017 | Page 15

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Page 16 | August 18, 2017 | South Charlotte Weekly

Charlotte Latin Pre Snap Read

Coach: Larry McNulty, 33rd season Conference: CISAA 2016 Record: 12-0, 3-0

Of Note

Most of the core nucleus from last season’s bunch that achieved perfection in its quest to capture the N.C. Independent Schools Athletic Association Division I state title have graduated. The Hawks are a much younger team with several question marks, but have the pieces to be dangerous once again.

The Breakdown Offense Quarterback Bates Jones, all-purpose back Melvin Rouse, the entire receiving corps and most of the starters on the offensive line have departed. The mass exodus leaves some gaping holes and arguably irreplaceable voids in Latin’s spread offense, but life goes.

Fortunately for Latin, it welcomes back senior running back DeMarkes Stradford, who adds a dynamic, game-changing component with his sprinter speed. Stradford, an all-state player, who is verbally committed to Harvard, accounted for 1,657 yards of total offense and scored 20 touchdowns last season. He’ll need to surpass those numbers and get some serious help from those

around him for Latin to contend for a state championship.

Senior quarterback Martin Sumichrast will succeed Jones, who was last season’s South Charlotte Weekly Offensive Player of the Year, Sumichrast isn’t the passer Jones was, but is a better athlete and runner, and will bring more speed to the position. He had a productive summer, and seems ready to take the reins as the starter. Freshman Elijah Horton will serve as his backup.

Juniors Ryan Brouse and Britt Fuller (Duke baseball commit) wear a bunch of hats as utility players that can run, catch and block as fullbacks, tight ends and H-backs.

Charlotte Latin doesn’t have a proven contributor in its receiving corps. Junior Alexander Donald is the most experienced player in that group. Senior Sam Turner, who is a member of Latin’s wrestling team, hasn’t played football since he was in the eighth grade, but performed well during the summer. Sophomore Andrew Sumichrast is expected to contribute at wide receiver, too.

Sophomores Grayson Clements and Randy Johnson, who are members of Latin’s basketball team, should help at wide receiver, too.

Junior Kemp Norris, who played tackle last season, is the only starter returning to the offensive line. He switched to right guard. Sophomore Bennett Smith might start at left tackle, while A.J. Tolber, a transfer from Ardrey Kell, is the left guard. Senior Robert Hutchins is the center, but senior

Britt Fuller, Kemp Norris, Kevens Grammont and Walker Finke must produce at a high level for Charlotte Latin this fall. Ben Doster/SCW photo

Brendan Reilly is working there, too, and is vying for that spot. Junior Kevens Grammont will man the right tackle spot.

Defense Latin will employ an even front.

Grammont, who started at defensive end last season, will likely move inside to defensive tackle. Hutchins will join him there.

Smith and sophomore Ryan Bonner are the starting defensive ends, and junior Joe Parrish will add depth to the defensive line.

Brouse returns at middle linebacker. He is flanked by outside linebackers Fuller and junior Walker Finke.

The secondary is a work in progress after Ryan Ensor, Conrad Song and Rouse graduated and Todd Hartert transferred to Myers Park. Turner, Andrew Sumichrast, senior Harrison Flouhouse and Johnson are the cornerbacks, while Horton is going to start at free safety and Donald will be the strong safety. Stradford and Clements might see action at safety, too.

Special Teams Senior Andrew Bowen is a talented kicker, who will play a significant role for the Hawks this fall. Bowen has a booming leg that can blast kickoffs to the end zone for touchbacks and long range for when it comes to field goals. Donald and Turner are competing for the punting duties. Stradford, Johnson and Horton are going to be the return specialists.

In the Spotlight: Ryan Brouse

Brouse was named to the all-state team after an impressive junior season. He’s a throwback player that brings an old school, blue-collar mentality on both sides of the ball.

Brouse plays rough and is eager to mix it up. He has a high football IQ, knows and understands what he’s been coached to do and works hard.

– Ben Doster

Ready. For. Football.

Ready to work hard, play hard and win hard. The Country Day Buccaneers: Champions on and off the field.

Open House Dates: October 12 (Junior Kindergarten – Kindergarten)

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November 16 (Grades 5 – 8)

charlottecountryday.org/Football (704) 943-4530