Columbus Valley December 2015 Edition

Hitting the courts: Columbus Valley, Boys Basketball Columbus High athlete finds her lane: Victoria Abeyta, Columbus High School

10 Questions With

Heather Alday Chiropractic Care and Athletes

SPORTS BRINGS OUT DIFFERENT SIDE IN MIDDLE SCHOOL ATHLETE KeAndre’ Harper Arnold Middle School

ACADEMICS PROVIDES A FUTURE PLAN FOR TWOSPORT ATHLETE

SPORTS ZONE Julee Fryer

Shaw High School

Shane Vahjen

Glenwood High School

NEW COACH, NEW RESULT FOR THE TIGERS

Patavius Sorrell

Harris County High School

NORTHSIDE RIFLE ATHLETE

WITHIN RANGE OF GOALS Jade Gallahair

Northside High School Navigating the Land Mines of High School Sports Recruitment: Greg Hudgison, Columbus, GA.

After sixth place finish in state last year, Hardaway senior wants to win it all: Emilio Evans-Pagan, Hardaway High School December 2015

14 Emilio Evans-Pagan 7

10 Questions With Heather Alday Chiropractic Care and Athletes

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Northside rifle athlete within range of goals Jade Gallahair Northside High School

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After sixth place finish in state last year, Hardaway senior wants to win it all Emilio Evans-Pagan Hardaway High School

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Academics provides a future plan for two-sport athlete Shane Vahjen Glenwood High School

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Navigating the Land Mines of High School Sports Recruitment Greg Hudgison

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Hitting the court Boys Basketball Columbus Valley

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Sports brings out different side in middle school athlete KeAndre’ Harper Arnold Middle School

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Columbus High athlete finds her lane Victoria Abeyta Columbus High School

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Sports Zone Julee Fryer Shaw High School

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New coach, new result for the Tigers Patavius Sorrell Harris County High School

December 2015

From the Editor

TELL US YOUR THOUGHTS!

Read more about The Boys Basketball on page 19

Winter sports.

The sports that fall into that category may depend on where you live in this great country, but in the Columbus Valley, it’s time to head indoors for the courts, mats, pools, and ranges.

Because this area is home to so many high schools, it’s anybody’s guess which teams will advance to playoff rounds when it comes to basketball, boys or girls. While having dinner recently with a friend, I shared my view of attending high school basketball games.

There is nothing like it.

I don’t watch much of the sport on television, and I am not a fan of the professional aspect of the game. Inside a high school gym, however, with two teams intent on capturing the victor’s flag, is where you find some of the greatest sports action of our time. Teamwork, fast-paced decision-making, leadership skills, physical endurance, and talent all combine with passionate coaching to bring about a winning result.

Winter in athletic departments now automatically in-

cludes the sport of wrestling.

It has risen steadily in popularity, and so many schools in the Columbus Valley now field outstanding wrestling programs. Even middle schools are seeing the value of adding the sport to the athletic lineup (though mostly as a club sport).

Local wrestlers are looking forward to this season with an eye on the prize of producing state champs in all divisions.

Another winter sport, swimming, doesn’t draw as much attention as more traditional sports, but the talent pool (pardon the pun) runs deep in our area. Swimmers and swim teams are making a name for themselves and earning respect in high school athletic circles. State-of-the-art swim facilities have only added to the interest, and this year should be a banner season for winning medals and setting records.

Among those sports that don’t get a rightful share of the spotlight is riflery. For years, area high school teams, most with JROTC roots, have developed and maintained award-winning shooting programs. It’s a fascinating sport whose athletes are just as serious as their peers who participate in other athletic endeavors. Last year, Northside High School’s rifle team captured a state title. They, along with other teams, are aiming high this season.

Celebrating all of these winter sports, In The Game is highlighting some stellar athletes in this edition of the magazine.

In addition, this issue contains photos of two local teams who have already proven they are the best of the best. Calvary Christian School’s Lady Knights volleyball team (under the direction of Coach Cassia Roper) and Columbus High School’s Lady Blue Devils volleyball team (guided by Coach Donna Fleming) both made it all the way to the state championships and came home winners. Congratulations to these ladies!

What an honor for our area to be home to two state championship volleyball teams!

Please take time to read the stories, check out the photos, and learn about what is happening in high school athletics this winter season. Then, if you have a chance, take in a game, match, meet, shoot, or tournament. It’s warm inside, and it’s always good to be In The Game!

Beth Welch

email us at info@inthegamemagazine. com to let us know what you thought of the November edition of ITG.

Contributors Publisher Mark Dykes Editors Mark Dykes Sarah Turner Area Editor Beth Welch Graphics Ashlyn Peek Cover Photography Jerry Christenson Feature Photography Jerry Christenson George McDufle Feature Writers Beth Welch Robert Preston Copy Editor James Washington Advertising/Marketing Mark Dykes mark@inthegamemagazine.com Rachel Thrasher rachel@inthegamemagazine.com Website Manager Cole Parker FOR ADVERTISING INFORMATION CALL: 888-715-4263 Dykes Media Group, Inc. P.O. Box 812 Valdosta, Ga. 31603 In the Game Columbus Valley is published bi-monthly. The contents of this publication may not be reproduced in part or in full without consent from the publisher. Dykes Media Group, Inc. makes no representation or warranty of any kind for accuracy of content. All advertisments are assumed by the publisher to be correct. Copyright 2015 Dykes Publishing Group, Inc. All rights reserved. ISSN 1945-1458.

December 2015

10 Questions With

written by: Beth Welch

photos courtesy of Alday Chiropractic

Heather Alday, Chiropractor

Today’s athletes, whether professional or amateur, have the benefit of living in a time when medical care has developed beyond just a visit to a physician when a problem arises. Physical therapy, new advances in orthopedics, and specialized sports medicine are increasing the success of athletic recovery and rehabilitation. While chiropractic care is not new to the health care field, many athletes are turning to it to enhance their care or supplement programs already being utilized.

Locally, Alday Chiropractic offers athletes in high school and beyond the services of quality chiropractic care. In The Game asked owner Heather Alday 10 questions about her field of care as it relates to athletes In The Game: How long have you been in practice?

Heather Alday: I opened Alday Chiropractic 14 years ago after relocating to Columbus.

ITG: When did you become owner of Alday Chiropractic?

HA: (See answer above) ITG: What age are the patients that you see for care in your practice?

HA: I see patients of all ages. From newborns to seniors, and every age in between.

ITG: How do you keep up with the latest developments in chiropractic care?

HA: I stay up on the latest developments in chiropractic care through reading articles in chiropractic magazines and reading studies that are published in research journals. I also attend multiple continuing education classes and seminars every year.

ITG: Has chiropractic care changed since you first began practicing?

HA: Chiropractic care is always evolving.

ITG: Do you see athletes (amateur and professional) in your practice?

HA: I see athletes in the office in addition to other patients. Most of the athletes I see are teens and young adults.

They range in age from elementary

school up through college. Just to name a few of the sports played by these athletes I see, you have football, baseball, volleyball, basketball, golf, cheerleading, and more. There are a growing number of athletes using chiropractic care for overall wellness and preventive care.

ITG: What are some of the common reasons high school athletes seek out your chiropractic services?

HA: Athletes tend to seek chiropractic care because they want to function at their best. By keeping their spines in proper alignment, the athlete is able to perform at his or her optimum potential. Athletes find chiropractic care good for gaining a competitive edge.

IN THE GAME

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Also, chiropractic care helps with longevity on the playing field. The goal is to help the athlete avoid injury.

ITG: Do you work in conjunction with a patient’s physical therapy or medical plan for rehab and recovery?

HA: If a patient comes into the office already under care with a medical doctor and physical therapist, we do work in conjunction with the plan their medical doctor has put into action. However, if the athlete starts care with our office and needs care beyond or in combination with the care we provide, we refer the patient

to the proper health care provider.

ITG: Are your office visits covered by some insurance providers?

HA: Chiropractic care is covered by most insurance plans.

ITG: What is the best thing about your job?

HA: The best thing about my job is helping people achieve the goals they have set for themselves, both on and off the field. I love to keep people healthy, happy, and performing to the best of their ability.

Personal bio: Name: Heather Alday, D.C. Job title: Chiropractor Hometown: Bainbridge, Georgia Education: Life University, Doctor of Chiropractic Family: Husband, Romeo Byll. My parents, my brother, and my niece also live in Columbus.

The best thing about my job is helping people achieve the goals they have set for themselves, both on and off the field.

Professional accomplishments: Member of the Columbus Chamber of Commerce, International Chiropractic Association, and Christian Chiropractic Association. I participate in the community through the Valley Rescue Mission, Soldier Marathon, and I perform exams for Special Olympics.

Favorite past time/hobbies: I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. I also love to read and travel.

Person you most admire: I greatly admire my husband. He is an extremely kind, intelligent, caring, and dedicated person. He makes me want to strive to be better every day. ITG

Jade Gallahair

written by: Beth Welch

photography by: Jerry Christenson

NORTHSIDE RIFLE ATHLETE WITHIN RANGE OF GOALS Jade Gallahair wasn’t too keen on the idea of taking up the sport of air rifle shooting back when she was approaching her freshman year of high school. A track athlete in middle school, Gallahair had suffered an injury that limited her choices of sports for high school. It was then that her father suggested his daughter think about riflery.

“My dad loves shooting, and he saw Northside had a rifle team. He got excited about the idea and told me I should try it. I said, ‘Dad, don’t make me do that. That’s for boys.’ I don’t know why I said that but I did,” says Gallahair, laughing.

Not expecting to like riflery, but hoping to appease her dad, she gave it a shot, so to speak. Four years later, the sport that Gallahair claimed was for boys has become a passion for the only female on the Northside High School Rifle Team. She, along with her four teammates, brought home the winner’s trophy last April when the Patriots won the 2015 GHSA Riflery State Championship. Gallahair shot a 288 score at the state match. The high scorer on her team, Cason Borum had a score of 291.

It has been a work in progress for the 5-foot-6 athlete to get to this point. Gallahair readily admits she wasn’t a natural at this form of shooting in the beginning. She was familiar with guns and had experience with hunting rifles, but becoming a member of the rifle team opened up another world of shooting for her.

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Her freshman year on the team was not memorable in terms of attending matches or producing high scores. It did give Gallahair the opportunity to learn the sport from the inside out. One of the unexpected aspects of shooting was the degree of technical skill required.

“I thought at first that shooting was shooting,” she says.

“How hard could it be? I was wrong. The technical stuff is hard and the pressure involved in shooting with this sport is surprising.”

Not to be outdone by her naivety of the sport, Gallahair threw herself into research about it. She scoured Internet sites and read books on the subject. Gallahair asked questions and watched the older, more experienced shooters on her team. And, the wise young woman began a shooting journal to track every facet of her time with a rifle in her hand.

“I write everything down in it,” she says. “It helps to keep me calm during a match when I can go over my journal and see what has worked for me before.”

In the sport of high school riflery, there are three shooting positions for competitions. Of the three (standing, kneeling and prone), Gallahair states that standing is her best position. It is widely known throughout the sport that standing is also the most difficult.

Again, the senior’s maturity is evident in her preparation

for the standing position. Gallahair says it requires the most concentration and focus. If she could master the most difficult, the other two positions would work out.

Also, Gallahair points out that at the collegiate level of competition shooting, there is only the standing position. Since she is aiming for a spot as a collegiate shooter, it made sense in her mind to be ready to compete in the standing position.

After her start with the rifle program as a freshman, Gallahair continued to improve. She attended almost all of the matches as a shooter on the team when she was a sophomore. Her junior year was the breakout

out he is always close in scoring.

Gallahair might be the lone female on the NHS rifle team, but she is rather obvious in her efforts to dispel the myth that the sport is “for boys.” Her rifle case bears a pretty monogram of her initials and her fingernails are painted a very feminine pink. She also wears jewelry and a colorful headband when shooting.

When the season comes to an end and graduation becomes a reality, Gallahair doubts she will be the only one on the team to experience an emotional moment.

“It has been such a great time, and we have grown so close. I think all of us on the team will shed a few tears to see it come to an end,” she says with a bright smile. ITG

Gallahair’s training regimen involves yoga and eating healthy. She says she has tried to get the guys on her team to try yoga but laughs when she says, so far, she has had no takers. year for her, complete with a state championship.

Along the way, she joined a rifle club to enhance her abilities with the sport. Due to her shooting for Northside and with the local rifle club, Gallahair is a competition shooter in a year-round sport.

Two evenings a week, she practices with her high school team. Two evenings a week, she practices with her club team. Between practices and matches, Gallahair can be found at the school range working on technique or in her living room using a computer software program, SCATT shooter training system, which uses a laser to simulate live shooting.

It’s hard to imagine how the senior finds time to study but Gallahair makes academics a priority. She currently holds a 4.3 grade point average and is dual-enrolled at Columbus State University. Gallahair says studies have shown rifle team athletes rank among the highest GPA averages of all high school sports. She feels she has benefitted greatly in the classroom by being able to concentrate, focus, and make adjustments; all techniques shooting has taught her.

At this point, Gallahair hasn’t made any plans for college. Her favorite subject is chemistry, and she would like to be a chemical engineer one day. Placing high in area competition and securing another state championship are her foremost goals for now.

On a more personal level, the Patriots team has become like family to her. In the interest of full disclosure, Gallahair started off on the team with an actual family member. Her identical twin brother, Hunter, has been a member of the Northside rifle team since he was a freshman, as well. The twins are exceptionally close but have enjoyed a healthy spirit of competition due to the shooting. Jade claims to be a bit better than her brother but is quick to point

Emilio Evans Pagan

Emilio Evans-Pagan has focused his high school athletic career on wrestling. But he also tried football for a while. He enjoyed the sport, but he felt as though it negatively affected wrestling. He played football at 180 pounds, and he played several different positions before landing on the offensive line. Evans-Pagan decided not to continue playing football because he thought 180 pounds was too small for the line, and he also knew that once football ended, he needed to cut that extra 20 pounds to get back down to 160 for wrestling season. “I just thought it would be better to focus on wrestling,� he says.

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Evans-Pagan says the individual who motivates him to keep working, keep pushing, and keep winning is his older brother, Zachary.

“He comes to all my matches,” he says. “He doesn’t miss a one. He keeps me in the gym, and he keeps me on my schoolwork. He’s the reason I’m able to stay focused.”

After sixth place finish in state last year, Hardaway senior wants to win it all written by: Robert Preston Jr.

photography by: Jerry Christenson

“I didn’t start wrestling until I was a freshman. A friend talked me into it. It wasn’t something I really wanted to do. But once I started wrestling, I realized I had a passion for the sport,” says Emilio Evans-Pagan, a senior at Hardaway who now wrestles in the 160-pound class. While Evans-Pagan may not have known much about wrestling prior to joining the team, he had the drive, work ethic, and mentality to succeed. And, despite admittedly not being the best technical wrestler on the team, those qualities have propelled him to the top of the state’s wrestling heap.

“I don’t like to lose,” he says. “I always push myself to do the best I can. I want to be the guy who gets his hand raised. I’m not fond of losing. I really push myself. I just keep going, and I don’t give up. I wouldn’t say that I’m a great technical wrestler.

There’s a lot to wrestling, a lot to work on.

But the drive, the passion to be the best, to not lose – all that has helped me to become a pretty good wrestler.”

Evans-Pagan says he kept wrestling because, quite simply, he enjoys winning a contest of hand-to-hand combat.

“I’ve always been drawn to fighting sports, and wrestling is another form of fighting,” he says. “It takes a lot of hard work and effort to be a good wrestler. The best thing about wrestling is getting your hand raised after a match.”

Evans-Pagan also likes the individual nature of wrestling. There is an undeniable team component to the sport, but when a wrestler steps on the mat, he has to rely on himself alone to win.

“I’d rather depend on myself,” he says.

“If you lose, you can’t blame anyone but yourself. You should have worked harder, pushed yourself harder. It’s just you.”

And just how good is he? In his first year, he finished third in the region. A year ago, he

won region, finished second in the west section, and came in sixth at state. He posted a 38-6 record en route to his sixth place finish.

This season, Evans-Pagan, who serves as team captain, would like to go undefeated and win a sectional and a state title.

Those are the only accolades his resumé is lacking. He’s won city. He’s won region.

He also has a second place in the section.

However, he would like first-place medals at every level.

“I’d be Hardaway’s first state wrestling champion in a long time,” he says. “I’d like to do that for the school. Most of the state champions are from the Atlanta area. I’d like to win for Columbus, to put our city back on top.”

What does the future hold for Emilio Evans-Pagan? He’s a solid student who should have no problem getting into college. He says he would like to wrestle at the next level, but he hasn’t had any contacts with college programs just yet.

“I hope I get noticed,” he says. “It’s hard to know what college wrestling programs are looking for, but I hope I can wrestle for a college team.”

There’s one thing about it: Winning a state title will certainly get him noticed. And it should open up more than one opportunity at the collegiate level. ITG

IN THE GAME

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Academics

provides a future plan for

two-sport athlete

written by: Beth Welch

photography by: Jerry Christenson

Young men serious about their participation in sports often dream of playing at the collegiate level or beyond. Glenwood School two-sport athlete Shane Vahjen is pretty serious about basketball and baseball, but the senior doesn’t hesitate to state that when his playing days are over at Glenwood, he has no plans to move to the next level of play.

“I am retiring,” says Vahjen, laughing.

The 5-foot-10 shooting guard for the Gators boys’ basketball team enjoys his time on the court and has ever since he made the varsity team as a freshman. It was a big deal for the ninth-grader to be on the varsity team, because that honor is usually reserved for sophomores.

“It started out as just something to do, but it turned out to be fun,” he says.

“There was a lot of running, and that was not great, but I practiced hard and made varsity along with one other guy.”

His first year on the varsity team was a big one. The Gators won the state championship. The next two seasons weren’t too shabby. In 2014, Glenwood was the state runner-up and last season, the boys’ team lost in the final four.

Glenwood has a reputation for winning sports programs. Vahjen says he has really enjoyed the opportunity to be a part of such teams and is humble about his contributions to his team. The 17-year-old considers himself “more of a role player” than a standout and admits that first year was a bit intimidating.

“I was like a scared little child with all those 12th graders on the team,” he says 16

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with a smile. his parents with teaching him to be a son under the coaching direction of Vahjen has attended Glenwood good student and encouraging him to Dusty Perdue. Vahjen is hoping for School since the second grade. His set a high academic standard. It is be- some postseason play, and then he parents moved their family from Con- cause of his success in the classroom will trade in his basketball uniform for necticut about a year prior due to Glen that the senior is looking forward to a Glenwood Gators baseball uniform.

Vahjen selecting the area to practice attending college, confident that he Just like his years on the basketball medicine. The youngest of four sib- will be able to handle college classes. team, Vahjen has been a part of winlings, Vahjen says he doesn’t rememAlthough no decision has been ning baseball program at Glenwood. ber having to make too much of an made about his future after gradua- He was a 10th grader on the varsity adjustment in moving to the South. tion, Vahjen has narrowed down his team when the Gators won the state He does remember taking up the pursuit of a field of study to either pre- championship. Last year, the team lost sport of baseball in those early years, med or marketing. He has an interest in the third round of the playoffs. If his first in coach-pitch and later with the in both science and social studies but senior year experience includes trips more developed recreational leagues. admits he has to work for his success- to the state playoffs for one or both of In the seventh grade, Vahthe sports he plays, Vahjen jen began playing bas- Last May, Vahjen traveled to Columbia with won’t complain. ketball in the winter and In the end, Vahjen will other members of the Glenwood baseball team close baseball in the spring for the books on his middle school teams at for a 10-day mission trip. The team helped sports participation in a Glenwood. He has con- build baseball fields, held mini-camps, and do- few months with no retinued the two sports nated athletic equipment. Vahjen says it was a grets. He has enjoyed the throughout high school ride and is grateful for the and is the centerfielder good experience for him to have personal and experiences. And, true to for the Gators baseball direct contact with the youngsters in the area. his outlook on life, Vahjen team. has a plan.

With so much time invested in play- es. One skill Vahjen has developed is “Having played sports will make my ing sports, it is a little unusual that time management. resume look better,” he says, smiling.

ITG Vahjen has no interest in continuing “When you play sports, you have as an athlete at the college level. The to use whatever time you have,” he intelligent and confident student-ath- says. “My advice lete says he likes sports and feels he is whatever time has benefitted from being part of you have, do the Glenwood’s sports programs. How- work now. If your ever, Vahjen is a student first and an friends are going athlete second. to eat somewhere “Sports are the addition to my life,” but you know you he says. “A lot of people play sports have work to do, and think they will use that to make you have to work money. I think you have to have a before play.” plan. Got to have a plan. Academics The Glenwood provide that plan.” boys’ basketball If grades are part of his plan, then it team is lookmust be a good one. Vahjen holds a ing for another 3.98 grade point average. He credits successful sea-

Greg Hudgison

Navigating the Land Mines of High School Sports Recruitment written by: Beth Welch

Back in the day, athletes at the high school level were sought out by the colleges and universities that fielded notable athletic programs. Athletes who participated in traditional sports didn’t have to do much to gain attention from college scouts and sports recruiters. If you were good enough, colleges found you.

Today’s high school athlete interested in playing at the collegiate level faces more challenges when it comes to securing a spot on a college roster. The recruiting experience can be very stressful for high school athletes unfamiliar with all the rules and regulations attached to college sports participation. Factor in the need for them to practically “market” themselves in order to be considered; well, it’s a process not for the faint of heart or the uninformed.

Enter Greg Hudgison and his new business venture of navigating high school athletes through the land mines of high school sports recruitment. Hudgison, managing partner of H Media Group, began his association with the national company Athletes for College earlier this year. The concept behind his services is to act as a sports recruiter for local athletes serious about attending college on an athletic scholarship.

“I am not focused on those top one percent athletes, the superstars or the ones who are already getting noticed and will be attending the well-known Division I schools,” Hudgison says. “I have a more realistic approach. My goal is to help those solid student-athletes who may not know how to get the process started for an athletic scholarship. The ones who are getting overlooked but still have the potential to go to college on an athletic scholarship.”

The media and public relations field has given Hudgison an insight into the world of marketing personalities, but he has a more personal reason as to why he feels his agency is needed in this area.

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photos courtesy of Greg Hudgison

“I have three sons,” he says. “They played sports. They went to college. It’s a different world now. I have seen how complicated it can be. If you are an athlete wanting to attend college on a scholarship, you have to sell your ability. Most young people and their parents have no idea where to begin.”

Hudgison came upon the idea of becoming a recruiter for high school athletes almost by accident. He was looking for career opportunities to expand his media business when he stumbled across Athletes for College. The California-based company’s website describes itself as a “Scholarship Placement Service that identifies collegiate-level athletes in high school and assists them in obtaining athletic scholarships in NCAA Division I, II, III, NAIA, and junior colleges”.

Once he settled on the company, Hudgison had to pass the certification required

by Athletes for College. It was an in-depth testing which included the rules and regulations set forth by NCAA for recruitment of athletes.

After he cleared that hurdle, the Columbus resident set up appointments to meet with local high school principals to introduce himself and explain his services. He has met with several area coaches and athletic officials as well.

“I am going to be seen at a lot of athletic events,” Hudgison says. “I will be talking with athletes and taking video. I just wanted them to know about me and why I am there.”

Once an athlete comes on his radar and is a candidate for the services, Hudgison begins the process, which includes creating a profile for the athlete. There is a standard form for the athlete to complete. Eventually, Hudgison submits the athlete’s profile to the company. If accepted, the relationship begins between the athlete and Hudgison, backed by the national company’s exper-

tise in the area of scholarship securement.

“I want to be able to help that athlete understand the need for academic standards and the type of overall personality colleges are looking for when they are recruiting,” he says. “Helping parents and athletes reach the goal of getting the athlete to college is what this is all about.

Hudgison admits many colleges have scholarship slots that go unnoticed by athletes who may have unrealistic expectations about attending big, well-known schools.

Those colleges only serve a very small percentage of all high school athletes, while many smaller schools, less “branded” colleges, or athletic programs in other areas of the country can provide high school athletes with a great college experience and exceptional study programs.

One segment of the athletic population often overlooked in the recruiting process is the female athlete. Colleges and universities offer many options for today’s female athlete with more scholarships available than ever before. Hudgison would like to see more of this area’s female high school athletes attend college on athletic scholarships and also help both male and female athletes develop skills that will last beyond collegiate athletic play.

“I hope to grow this business to provide services to high school athletes not offered by schools and athletic programs in preparation for not just sports participation at the next level but to be successful following their college experience,” Hudgison says.

Anyone interested in finding out more about Hudgison’s sports recruitment services may contact him directly via phone at (706) 566-6079 or by visiting the Athletes for College website, www.athletesforcollege.com. ITG

HITTING

THE COURTS written by: Beth Welch

photography by: Jerry Christenson

Stadium lights are dark, and the days are a little cooler.

Those are usually signs that winter sports are in season. The intensity of indoor high school basketball games is legendary, and the Columbus Valley area is loaded with talent this school year. It’s not a matter of who will be heading to region and state playoff games, but more likely to be how many teams will advance to that level this season. In this edition of In The Game, we are featuring some of the most talented young men local high schools are putting on the hardwood. These guys are ready to help lead their teams to victory while enjoying a sport most of them have been playing for as long as they can remember. ITG

Tre’ Todd

Jacquez Green

William Reaves

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Age: 16 High School: Calvary Christian School Grade: 11th Height: 6’2” Weight: 165 lbs Position: Forward Coach: Doug Guthrie How long have you been playing basketball? Eight years Favorite food: Hot wings Favorite movie: Set it Off Favorite sports team (college or professional): College, Kentucky; Pro, Chicago Bulls Person you would most like to meet: Kevin Durant What do you like to do in your spare time? Play basketball One reason you enjoy the sport of basketball: I enjoy playing basketball because I’ve been playing since I was 8 years old.

Age: 17 High School: Brookstone School Grade: 11th Height: 6’5” Weight: 190 lbs Position: C, PF Coach: Bentley Sparks How long have you been playing basketball? 10 years Favorite food: Chicken fingers Favorite movie: Napoleon Dynamite Favorite sports team (college or professional): Auburn Person you would most like to meet: Michael Jordan What do you like to do in your spare time? Play basketball and golf One reason you enjoy the sport of basketball: High intensity

Age: 18 High School: Central High School Grade: 12th Height: 5’11” Weight: 170 lbs Position: Point Guard, Shooting Guard Coach: Bobby Wright How long have you been playing basketball? Since seventh grade Any awards or accomplishments: 7A Regional All-Tournament, Area-All Tournament, All Bi-City, 7A All-Area Offensive Guard, 2014-15; Defensive award, 2013-14 Favorite food: Fries Favorite movie: How High Favorite sports team (college or professional): Los Angeles Lakers, Golden State Warriors Person you would most like to meet: Allen Iverson What do you like to do in your spare time? Go to the gym One reason you enjoy the sport of basketball: The competition

Jac’Quan Crawford

Stephon Jackson

Trip Day

Age: 18 High School: Spencer High School Grade: 12th Height: 5’6” Weight: 126 lbs Position: Point Guard Coach: Doug Cromartie How long have you been playing basketball? 10 years Favorite food: Fish Favorite movie: Friday Favorite sports team (college or professional): College, Kentucky; NBA, Los Angeles Lakers Person you would most like to meet: Kobe Bryant What do you like to do in your spare time? Play basketball One reason you enjoy the sport of basketball: Fun/teamwork

Age: 18 High School: Smith Station High School Grade: 12th Height: 6’2” Weight: 170 lbs Position: Shooting Guard and Guard Coach: Steven Davis How long have you been playing basketball? Six years Any awards or accomplishments: Honorable Mention, 201415 MVP-Leading scorer, Nominated All-Bi-City Favorite food: Chicken Favorite movie: Haunted House (1 and 2) Favorite sports team (college or professional): Golden State Warriors Person you would most like to meet: Stephen Curry What do you like to do in your spare time? Play basketball One reason you enjoy the sport of basketball: I come from a very talented family. My uncles all played basketball at the college level. I have grown to love basketball and hope to play at a Division I level.

Kourtney Shakespeare

Age: 17 High School: Shaw High School Grade: 12th Height: 5’11” Weight: 180 lbs Position: Point Guard, Shooting Guard, Small Forward Coach: Terry White How long have you been playing basketball? 12 years Any awards or accomplishments: 2014-15 Team MVP, Team leading scorer, 2-point FG % leader Favorite food: Hamburgers Favorite movie: The Pursuit of Happyness Favorite sports team (college or professional): Los Angeles Lakers Person you would most like to meet: Kobe Bryant What do you like to do in your spare time? Play basketball One reason you enjoy the sport of basketball: I’ve been playing since I was a child, and I’ve always liked it ever since.

Age: 17 High School: Glenwood School Grade: 11th Height: 6’7” Weight: 235 lbs Position: Small Forward, Power Forward Coach: Dusty Perdue How long have you been playing basketball? Whole life Favorite food: Fish tacos Favorite movie: Back to the Future Favorite sports team (college or professional): Atlanta Hawks Person you would most like to meet: Larry Bird What do you like to do in your spare time? Hoop One reason you enjoy the sport of basketball: Competition

IN THE GAME

21

Davion Thomas

Lederrius Jones

Jaquan Daniels

22

inthegamemagazine.com

Age: 17 High School: Northside High School Grade: 12th Height: 6’9” Weight: 200 lbs Position: Power Forward Coach: Kenneth Lawrence How long have you been playing basketball? Since seventh grade Any awards or accomplishments: Played in the North-South All-Star Jr. Game Favorite food: Pizza Favorite movie: Friday Favorite sports team (college or professional): OKC Person you would most like to meet: Kevin Durant What do you like to do in your spare time? Play video games One reason you enjoy the sport of basketball: I enjoy it because I’m good at it.

Age: 17 High School: Jordan High School Grade 12th Height: 5’11” Weight: 157 lbs Position: Point Guard, Shooting Guard, Small Forward Coach: Ben Braaten How long have you been playing basketball? Since seventh grade Favorite food: Hot wings Favorite movie: Coach Carter Favorite sports team (college or professional): Oklahoma City Thunder Person you would most like to meet: Kevin Durant What do you like to do in your spare time? Find a gym and work on my game One reason you enjoy the sport of basketball: Because I have the heart and passion for it

Age: 17 High School: Hardaway High School Grade: 12th Height: 6’3” Weight: 164 lbs Position: Guard Coach: Kendall Mills How long have you been playing basketball? All my life Favorite food: Hot wings and fries Favorite movie: Set It Off Favorite sports (team or professional): Florida Gators Person you would most like to meet: Lil Boosie What do you like to do in your spare time? Work on my game One reason you enjoy the sport of basketball: Be able to get buckets

Donald “DJ” Johnson

Age: 17 High School: Harris County High School Grade: 12th Height: 6’0” Weight: 175 lbs Position: Point Guard Coach: Patavious Sorrell How long have you been playing basketball? Since I was 5 years old Any awards or accomplishments: All-State, All Bi-City, Harris County Player of the Year, All-Region Favorite food: Pizza Favorite movie: San Andreas Favorite sports team (college or professional): n/a Person you would most like to meet: Derrick Rose What do you like to do in your spare time? Watch TV One reason you enjoy the sport of basketball: It’s fun.

Triston Wells

Antwron Phillips

Henry Houpt

Age: 17 High School: Pacelli High School Grade: 12th Height: 6’0” Weight: 175 lbs Position: Shooting Guard Coach: Allan Griffin How long have you been playing basketball? Since I was 4 years old Any awards or accomplishments: All Bi-City Honorable Mention Favorite food: Pizza Favorite movie: Juice Favorite sports team (college or professional): Golden State Warriors Person you would most like to meet: Stephen Curry What do you like to do in your spare time? Hang out with friends One reason you enjoy the sport of basketball: Passion, team atmosphere

Age: 17 High School: Kendrick High School Grade: 12th Height: 6’4” Weight: 185 lbs Position: Center Coach: Collins Jones How long have you been playing basketball? Since the age of 7 Favorite food: Pizza Favorite movie: Note to Self Favorite sports team (college or professional): Kentucky Person you would most like to meet: LeBron James What do you like to do in your spare time? Play 2K and eat One reason you enjoy the sport of basketball: Only sport that keeps my mind away from other things.

Daniel Melvin

Age: 16 High School: Carver High School Grade: 11th Height: 6’4” Weight: 190 lbs Position: Shooting Guard Coach: Warren Beaulah How long have you been playing basketball? 13 years Any awards or accomplishments: All Bi-City, Second Team All-Region Favorite food: Chicken wings Favorite movie: Men of Honor Favorite sports team (college or professional): Duke University Person you would most like to meet: Kevin Durant What do you like to do in your spare time? Play basketball One reason you enjoy the sport of basketball: Competition

Age: 18 High School: Columbus High School Grade: 12th Height: 5’9” Weight: 160 lbs Position: Shooting Guard Coach: George Williams How long have you been playing basketball? Since I was 7 Any awards or accomplishments: Junior year-Defensive Player of the Year at CHS. Favorite food: Chicken Favorite movie: The Green Mile Favorite sports team (college or professional): Georgia Person you would most like to meet: Todd Gurley What do you like to do in your spare time? Fish One reason you enjoy the sport of basketball: It’s a team sport.

IN THE GAME

23

Sports

brings out different side in middle school

athlete written by: Beth Welch photography by: Jerry Christenson

Ask anyone who knows KeAndre’ Harper to describe the Arnold Middle School eighth-grader, and words like “easy going”, “respectful”, “articulate”, and “polite” top a long list of positive expressions. The 13-year-old is a church usher, a member of the National Junior Honor Society, has been named to the Principal’s List every year since sixth grade, and is a participant with Young Men of Distinction and a representative of his school in the Science Olympiad.

A four-sport athlete at Arnold, Harper started off the school year playing soccer for the first time. His favorite aspect of the game was making contact without using hands. Football was next on the schedule.

Again, Harper says the big contact plays on the Rams’ defense were a thrill for him. Basketball comes up right after football season. The fast pace and close contact with opponents is what he likes the most about playing in the paint.

There seems to be a pattern in Harper’s sports life that contrasts with his personal life. The aggressive competitive nature on the field and court is vastly different from the reserved and studious side seen at other times. Harper knows this and actually works to use these qualities to his advantage.

“I kind of have a different personality when I play sports. I am not the nice person people know because I really like the contact of sports. I start out being quiet and calm and because that’s what the opponent sees, I then get into the other me,” says Harper, laughing.

The 5’10” athlete with the warm and personable manner has played sports since the age of 5 when he started out with Upward Basketball and graduated to American Amateur Union (AAU) play.

24

inthegamemagazine.com

When he came to Arnold Middle School in the sixth grade, he played both basketball and football. He added track in the seventh grade.

Although Harper doesn’t get to make contact as a track and field participant, he gets a lot of satisfaction from being a discus and shot put thrower. Both of those events require strength, and a little aggression works to help him there, too.

Harper just finished his time on the gridiron and is looking to basketball season. He played his last games of the football season with the same enthusiasm he has had since he first experienced the sport at the age of six years old. Playing three years with the Columbus Youth Football League sent him to the Peanut Bowl three different times. An incident that occurred at one of those bowl appearances made a lasting impression on the young athlete.

“I got hurt on a play. Cam Newton was there. I don’t know why, but it was when he was at Auburn. When I came out after that play, he spoke to me. He told me he thought I was doing a good job. I was just speechless. I didn’t really say anything because I couldn’t believe Cam Newton was talking to me,” says Harper with a big smile.

That encounter kind of sealed the deal on his love of football. Harper has played everywhere on the line and seen time at tight end with the Arnold Rams. His intelligent, logical mind is always at work, even while playing sports. Harper is always thinking about what he is doing and how he can

cus: the long jump and 800-meter race.

He wants to master those before his last year in middle school ends.

Harper always seems to be thinking ahead, so he has given some thought to next year. He would like to play football and basketball. Where he actually does that hasn’t been decided. Carver High School is close to the top of the list since his mother is a math teacher at the school. Harper said his father was a high

school athlete, but neither of his parents has pushed him about playing sports or where he should attend high school.

Going a little deeper in his playbook, Harper is interested in attending one of four colleges: Georgia, Georgia Tech, Florida State, or Duke. Maybe even as a collegiate athlete.

It’s a good plan; one that will hopefully satisfy every part of his personality. ITG

Harper’s younger brother, Kalen, also played on Arnold’s soccer team and football team this year.

How did that work out?

“It was very exciting and funny,” Harper says.

“The competition between us is pretty strong.” do it better. That type of brain activity led him this football season to make a change in his position on the field.

“I kept watching other players and went to a four-point stance,” he says. “I acquired a four-point stance because it allows me to get off the ball quicker. It gives me leverage. I can get into the backfield quicker.”

Now, his focus is on basketball. Harper is usually the center and power forward for his basketball team, but he hopes to play small forward in high school. With that in mind, he has been working a lot on his outside game.

“A small forward has to do a lot of dribbling,” he says. “I know that in high school, that will be expected of me; I am preparing for it now.”

When he moves to track and field this spring, Harper would like to participate in two more events besides shot put and dis-

Congrats!

Calvary Christian Vollleyball

State Champs!

Columbus High athlete finds her lane written by: Beth Welch

photography by: Jerry Christenson

One good thing about being a high school freshman is that everyone is new at the same time. Making friends and finding a place to fit in is part of the freshman experience. Part of that process includes making connections through conversations. So, one of the most often used icebreakers of the newbies is asking where they went to middle school.

It is not the question Columbus High School freshman and competition swimmer Victoria Abeyta really enjoys being asked.

“Because I was homeschooled, I don’t like to answer that because then I get, ‘Oh, you are one of those people who don’t know how to socialize.’

But, I also know being homeschooled helps me to stand out, and I like that,” says Abeyta, smiling.

Standing out is not difficult for the 5-foot-9-inch swim athlete who currently swims for the CHS Blue Devils as well as for the Columbus Hurricanes Swim Club. Her height and lean 26

inthegamemagazine.com

build are attributes that play in her favor when she takes to the water. Her warm and friendly personality plays in her favor out of the pool.

Although she knows most of the stereotypical ideas about students who are homeschooled, Abeyta doesn’t try to hide from her academic experience prior to attending Columbus High. She was homeschooled by her mother from the second grade until she reached the high school level. Her older brother, Jacob, was also homeschooled, and currently attends Northside High School.

Their mother is quick to share homeschooling their children wasn’t something she and her husband planned on; it just sort of happened.

Because the Abeyta siblings did well with the home study program and it fit in with the family’s lifestyle, it was continued until Jacob and Victoria reached high school level. The Abeytas included the Veritas Classical School program in their children’s ed-

ucation and also encouraged them to participate in sports.

Victoria Abeyta, known as Tori to her friends, learned to swim when she was about 4 years old. She joined the Hurricanes swim program at age 7, mainly because her brother was a member of the swim club. Swimming was already a part of her life before she began homeschooling, and it was a form of socialization during those years. She also played soccer for a number of years and tried her hand at both volleyball and basketball, but swimming is the sport she truly loves.

Always tall for her age, Abeyta is proficient at the butterfly stroke as well as the breaststroke and freestyle.

Her long limbs and torso help her move efficiently through the water almost as if smoothing the way so that her strokes are graceful and clean.

“My Hurricanes coach has been working with me about using my body length,” she says. “He says I have been growing into it, and I am learning how

to use it to reach my goals.”

Her fastest time in the 200-meter butterfly event to date had been 2:20.

Part of her plan this season is become even faster. If she doesn’t, it certainly won’t be for lack of time in the water.

Swimming for two teams in two different programs means a lot of time at the pool. Some mornings, she is at a swim facility practicing for a couple of hours before the start of school. Then, she has back-to-back swim practices in the evenings, starting first with the Hurricanes and moving on to swim with her Columbus High teammates later.

She has been looking forward to swimming with the Blue Devils since the start of school. Abeyta has been friends with several swimmers in the Columbus High program through their association in the Hurricanes.

Although she did not elect to attend CHS because of the reputation of the school’s swim program under the direction of Coach Karen Waters, she certainly considers it one of the perks.

Abeyta hopes to gain experience in Coach Waters’ program for her first year as a Blue Devil swimmer. She is all about improving her swim performances, which she would like to ramp up to possibly become a collegiate swim athlete down the road or participate in an intramural program while she pursues a degree in journalism.

Her dedication to the sport of swimming is an investment Abeyta feels has already paid great dividends and might just continue to do so for most of her life.

“Swimming is unique in that it is a team sport, but also an individual sport, she says. “I am striving to help my team and also competing against myself. Swimming is also something I can do practically forever, and there aren’t many sports that you can say that about.” ITG

Shaw High School

December 2015

SPORTS ZONE written by: Beth Welch

photography by: George McDuffie

When the temperatures cool off outdoors, it’s a signal that some high school sports are heating up indoors on courts all across the Columbus Valley. Local girls basketball teams are loaded with talent this season and ready to hit the hardwood to showcase their abilities. The regular season opens in early November and ends in February, with region and state tournaments to follow. One team looking for big wins and hard-charging plays is Shaw High School’s Lady Raiders. In The Game High is taking an inside look at Coach Julee Fryer’s program, including her goals for an exciting season.

In The Game: When did you begin your coaching career?

Julee Fryer: I have only been a head coach for two years, but I have coached either in the school setting or recreational setting since I was 18, when I was told I would never play sports competitively again.

ITG: How long have you been coaching at Shaw High School?

JF: This is beginning my third year coaching at Shaw.

ITG: What sports do you currently coach for the Raiders, and what classes do you teach?

JF: I coach girls’ basketball and teach special education.

ITG: Where did you coach prior to Shaw?

JF: Before coming to Shaw, I was assistant girls’ basketball coach at Columbus High under Candace Turner; before that, I was in Dekalb County at Chamblee High School and Cedar Grove Middle School.

ITG: Who are the coaches that make 28

inthegamemagazine.com

up your coaching staff?

JF: Coach Bruce Figgins and Coach James Caesar…these two men are my rocks and constant supporters both on and off the court.

ITG: How many returning starters do you have on the varsity team?

JF: I have three returning starters.

ITG: Do you have some athletes to watch this season?

JF: Every girl in a Shaw uniform will be needed to do what we want to do this year. I expect juniors Kayla Bonilla and Dawniqua Snead to lead our team in the right direction.

ITG: What do you feel sets your program at Shaw apart from other high school programs?

JF: The girls. Shaw girls’ basketball has had its tough times in the past several years. The program has taken some knocks and needed something special to bring it back up. That’s where this current group of young ladies comes into play. When most people either left the program for other sports or other schools, this group

stayed strong. They ran to the fire instead of away from it. They took their knocks and losses but did it knowing that they had a goal for the future: to recreate the culture of Shaw girls’ basketball. Most adults I know don’t have the grit to take the hard road, yet these teenagers did. That is a special quality that you cannot teach, it’s just what is in them, they never quit, and I love that about them.

ITG: Did you set any goals prior to the beginning of basketball season for your team?

JF: We always set the goal of having a better year than the year before, but I don’t want to set too many goals for the girls because then I think that puts a limit on what they can do.

ITG: What is the best thing about coaching and teaching at Shaw High School?

JF: The family that I have gained.

I have two sons and I have people ask me, “Did you want a girl?” My response to them is always the same: “God blessed me with 20 girls.”

Personal Bio Name: Julee Fryer Family: Partner, Julie; sons, Colton, 3, and Parker, 4 months Hometown: Perry, Georgia Education: Westfield High School; Macon State, Georgia State, and Columbus State Past sports or athletic history: In high school, I was a three-sport athlete (softball, basketball and track). Leaving high school, I had an athletic scholarship to play softball at Macon State. However, two days after graduating high school, I was in a car wreck in which I was ejected out of the car and broke both my arms and legs. I was in a wheelchair for three months and never got the chance to play sports competitively again. This is when I developed my love for coaching.

Position you hold at Shaw High School: Special educa-

tion teacher; Girls’ basketball coach Favorite past time: When I do have free time, I really like to read.

Person you most admire: Jason Kenyon and Mary Elizabeth Paris are my heroes. Both Jason and Mary Elizabeth battled childhood cancer and fought like I have never seen people fight. Although their earthly fight is done, they both continue to fight against this horrible disease through their family and loved ones. Most people spend their life trying to touch one life the way these two beautiful children touched thousands. Our team this year will be wearing special socks to honor both Jason and Mary Elizabeth and to spread the message that only four percent of funds raised for cancer research go to childhood cancer; this is not enough! ITG IN THE GAME

29

New coach, new result for the Tigers written by: Robert Preston Jr.

photography by: Jerry Christenson

It’s funny how things come up in conversation. When I called Harris County’s men’s basketball coach Patavius Sorrell in late October, I expected a fairly standard interview – an average or above average high school or college player who wanted to stay close to the game he loved, so he went into coaching. I didn’t look for any twists or turns in the story, just a typical path from high school to college to coaching. I had my set order of questions, and when I asked if Coach Sorrell played basketball at Kendrick High School, his alma mater, I figured I already knew the answer. As such, I was getting ready to ask my next question. That’s when Coach Sorrell gave one of the most surprising answers to any question I’ve heard in eight years of writing for In the Game.

“No, I didn’t play basketball,” he says, rather calmly given the subject matter. “I suffered a spinal cord injury in 1996. It caused a blood clot on my spinal cord, and I was paralyzed for a year. I was supposed to be paralyzed forever, but I ended up pulling out of it.”

What? I asked him to repeat himself.

He obliged. I couldn’t believe what I was hearing. Coach Sorrell elaborated. The year before he was paralyzed, he fell hard during a basketball game. He injured his back when he fell, and that injury lingered until it ballooned into full-blown paralysis.

“I finished the game, but my back problems persisted,” he says. “I couldn’t walk very well, but I did start getting better.”

The fall effectively ended Sorrell’s basketball career. A year after the fall, he was at his grandmother’s house. He woke up in the morning and couldn’t feel his feet.

He tried to get out of bed and fell to the floor. His family rushed him to the hospital where doctors found the blood clot. They removed it, but Sorrell was left paralyzed from the waist down.

Despite the ominous prognosis, Sorrell refused to give up.

“What helped me with my recovery?

30

inthegamemagazine.com

Faith,” he says. “My pastor visited me over and over. He tried to help me with my homework, but he couldn’t. So he helped me with the faith part. My physical therapist challenged me every day.”

After a year of immobility, Sorrell finally moved a toe. From there, the process grew. Five years later, he was able to walk and run unassisted.

Sorrell’s recovery was nothing short of miraculous. But it left him with some serious questions to answer.

“Like any kid, I wanted to play in high school, then college, then the NBA,” he says. “I always wanted to get back on the court. But when I was in the ninth grade, I realized that playing basketball wouldn’t be in my future. I didn’t want to coach. I wanted to play. I considered doing a lot of different things, from being an aeronautical engineer to being a physical therapist.”

Eventually, however, he fell into coaching.

Sorrell attended Columbus State University and began doing a little coaching while he was there. He earned a degree in secondary education history. He did his student teaching at Shaw High School, where he also served as a community coach. Shaw hired him to teach, and he joined the basketball staff full-time. Sorrell was an assistant basketball coach, head ninth grade coach, and he also handled the scheduling for freshman basketball countywide.

After six years at Shaw, he had the opportunity to take over the embattled Harris County program. Harris County took a chance on a relatively untested young coach in Sorrell. It ended up being the best move the Tigers could have made.

Harris County wasn’t very good when Sorrell arrived on campus. The year before he arrived, the Tigers were 7-20. There wasn’t a lot of pressure to win. Expectations were low. However, Coach Sorrell wouldn’t settle for anything but the best.

Last season was his first at Harris. The Tigers got out to a slow start. A few weeks

into the season, though, the lights came on.

“One day, everything clicked,” he says.

“You could see it. They started trusting each other. We went on several good runs, and we were able to sneak up on a lot of teams. Once people started respecting us, we had to see what we were made of.”

The Tigers ended up with a 17-10 mark, and they played for a region championship. They finished second in the region to LaGrange but still hosted a home playoff game for the first time in quite a while.

Harris County lost by two points in the first round to a very good Jones County team.

The kids left the court with that sickening feeling that only comes from having a big game slip through your fingers. At the same time, they were more determined than ever to keep getting better.

This year, Sorrell’s second as Harris County head coach, the Tigers want to win the region and make a deep playoff run. They have eight kids back from last year’s team, and all of those players have tasted success.

“The guys just bought into our system, and it worked for them,” he says. “We felt like we could have won the region a few times. We made a lot of mistakes last year.

Our goal this year is to minimize our mistakes, win the region, and go farther than we did in 2015.”

It would be easy to sit back and enjoy a winning season and a trip to the playoffs.

But that’s not what Coach Sorrell and his players want. The little bit of success they found last year has only made them hungry for more. They had a blast a year ago, but they feel a little beaten down after the season ended so abruptly in the first round. They are ready to pick themselves up and achieve even more. And those players are in just the right place. For if there’s one thing Coach Sorrell knows how to do, it’s to get up and move forward, even when it looks impossible. ITG

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