August 2014 Columbus Valley

In This Issue:

COLUMBUS VALLEY

6

August/September 2014

6

Academic Athlete

Hardaway High School

11

Sports Connection

CONTENTS

11

13

13

Also Inside Glenwood School

9

Marion County High School

36

Kendrick High School

On the Cover

Special Teams Bring Momentum Factor

20

Player Spotlight

Brookstone High School

25

Player Spotlight

Carver High School

32

Freshman Focus

25

Patricia Yates-Sanders

20

Troy Monroe

36

Alexandra McCluskey

Khane Pass & Mehki Brown

Chad McNeal

Calvary Christian School

Coach’s Corner

Jim Brown

12

Jordan Vocational High School

Northside High School

18

Columbus High School

19

40

Rising Star

Harris County Middle

Carver High School

23

Brookstone High School

29

10 Questions with Dale Hall

31

Shaw High School

34

Hardaway High School

35

Harris High School

39

Jordan High School

42

Calvary Christian School

45

2

Cal’Von Harris

32 40

www.inthegamemagazine.com

COLUMBUS VALLEY

August/September 2014

From thePublisher Publisher From The It’s hard to really get into the spirit of football season when the temperatures are soaring into the 90’s and stadium lights aren’t so bright until about the third quarter of the game but still; it’s that time of year. Football season is upon and this issue is jam-packed with everything you need to know about the high school teams in our area.

Publisher Mark Dykes

Editor

Mark Dykes Sarah Turner

Area Editor

Beth Welch beth.w@inthegamemagazine.com

Graphics

Jennifer Alexander

Photography

Jerry Christenson

Feature Writers Robert Preston Jr. Beth Welch

Copy Editors

James Washington Ashley Dailey

Advertising/Marketing

Mark Dykes mark@inthegamemagazine.com

Website Manager Sarah Turner

Contributors

Each area high school football program was given a chance to submit a preseason overview of their 2014-15 teams. Inside this edition of In The Game is bit of a preview for fans of what the local teams look like and what their schedules are for the fall. It looks like we are going to have some great match-ups with the potential for several teams to make it to the playoffs.

Also in this issue are our regular features highlighting stellar athletes in our area. Two Carver standouts, Khane Pass and Mehki Brown, are our male Player Spotlight athletes. Both of these exceptional football players have worked hard to gain a reputation of being among the best this area has to offer on the gridiron.

Remember their names because these talented guys are going places!

Our female Player Spotlight is shining on Alexandra McCluskey because football games would not be complete without cheerleaders! This Brookstone senior has a love for the spirit side of cheering that developed early while watching her older brothers play football. Now she is a member of Brookstone’s competition cheer team and has hopes of taking her talents to the collegiate level.

Mark Dykes, Publisher

Beth Welch,

Editorial & Features

Hardaway’s Troy Monroe is our Academic Athlete and what a story this young man has to tell! Troy knows the value of an education and has been sincerely putting academics before everything else for quite a while. After you read about Troy, take a look at our Freshman Focus feature which showcases Calvary Christian School freshman Chad McNeal. A latecomer to playing the sport of football, Chad is now hooked and looking forward to his high school career.

It may be another year before Harris County Carver Middle School’s Cal’Von Harris gets to the high school playing field but chances are people will already have heard of him by then. Harris is a natural-born athlete and although his season doesn’t start for a few more weeks, he is pumped about playing middle school football.

Jennifer Alexander, Graphic Designer

We also have football covered in our Coach’s Corner segment. Jordan’s head football coach Jim Brown is highlighted in this feature. Brown has a great love of the game and is working hard to instill all the right stuff into his Red Jackets team. We take a look at another coach, Patricia Sanders-Yates, in our Sports Zone. Coach Sanders-Yates has taken over the reins of the Kendrick cheerleading program and has great aspirations for the young women in her program.

Just in case you ever noticed a stadium’s playing field and wanted to know what it takes to manage it, we asked Dale Hall of the Muscogee County School District 10 Questions about the care and upkeep of Kinnett Stadium.

Last but not least, we put out the call for Special Teams athletes to be featured on our cover. Fourteen area young men appear in the group photo on the front and also have a brief personal bio inside.

For distribution or subscription information contact: info@inthegamemagazine.com For advertising information call: 888-715-4263 M & S Media Group, Inc. 13245 Atlantic Blvd., Suite 4191 Jacksonville, FL 32225

4

Maybe all this information and talk about football will inspire readers to make plans to take in a few high school games this season. It’s always a good idea to support our area talent and you can’t go wrong with being In The Game!

Beth Welch In the Game High School Sports Magazine is published monthly excluding July. The contents of this publication may not be reproduced in part or in full without written consent from the publisher.

Dykes Publishing Group, Inc. makes no representation or warranty of any kind for accuracy of content. All advertisements are assumed by the publisher to be correct. Copyright 2014 Dykes Publishing Group, Inc. All rights reserved. ISSN 1945-1458.

www.inthegamemagazine.com

Academic Athlete

Hardaway Football Athlete has a Love of Learning

by Beth Welch photography by Jerry Christenson

S

Troy Monroe Hardaway High School

6

truggles come in various forms and for students with a learning disability, academic success is often a struggle.

Hardaway High School senior Troy Monroe is an example of accomplishing goals when difficulties are present.

Monroe was diagnosed at an early age as having Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). The National Institute of Mental Health lists some characteristics of the disorder as having difficulty “staying focused and paying attention, difficulty controlling behavior and hyperactivity.”

“I had just started kindergarten and my teacher saw something about me. She was like, ‘he can do the work with no problem, but this kid is all over the place,’ and I found out I was ADHD,” says Monroe.

Prior to him starting elementary school, Monroe said his mother made the decision to enroll him in Britt David Magnet Academy.

Today Monroe gives credit to that program for not only identifying his learning disability early but also for igniting in him a desire to learn.

With medication and other resources, Monroe was able to excel in the classroom all the way through middle school. He attended Veterans Memorial Middle School, and when it came time to choose a high school, Monroe weighed all of his options before selecting Hardaway.

“My mom works in the district, and she knew about every high school. I heard about the IB programme at Hardaway. I wanted to go to Hardaway for two reasons, and the IB programme was the main one,” says Monroe smiling.

Monroe is referring to Hardaway’s International Baccalaureate Programme, one of many magnet programs offered in Muscogee County School District high schools. For Monroe, academics have long been a priority despite his learning disability, and he felt the IB programme would challenge him.

At this point, Monroe experienced a setback. Even though he tested into the magnet program and met academic requirements, apparently the IB programme wasn’t just looking for students who could make the grade.

“I didn’t always have the best conduct in middle school. I had really great grades, but I made mistakes, and the IB programme focuses on behavior as well as academics. I was told if I didn’t have any problems my freshman year, I could become part of it as a sophomore,” he says.

Although Monroe was disappointed, he didn’t give up. He decided instead to prove himself a good candidate for his sophomore year.

In the meantime, he turned to the second reason he chose to attend HHS. “Football. They had a really good year the year before I came. I love football, and I wanted to be a part of the football program here,” says Monroe.

Monroe says he probably touched a football for the first time when he was three years old. He began playing organized football at the age of six in a parks and recreation league. The 6’3” tall, 177-pound athlete has always been tall for his age, and he often played defensive end or as a receiver.

In middle school, Monroe was the starting receiver both his seventh- and eighth-grade years. His natural athletic talent was obvious not only on the gridiron but in soccer, basketball and track at Veterans. His last year at the school, he received the All-Sports Award for his athletic endeavors.

He discovered early on he also had a natural aptitude for mathematics. His ADHD didn’t affect his love of learning or making

Getting to Know Troy: Family: Parents, Kenya Gilmore and Troy Monroe, Sr.; three younger brothers Favorite food: Pizza Favorite place to eat: Cheddar’s Favorite Music: All Kinds Person he would most like to meet: The President top grades, and he gained a reputation for being “the smart kid.”

“At first it bothered me when I got teased about getting good grades. Eventually, I learned to turn it around on them by teasing them back about not making good grades. Sometimes now someone will make a comment about a score or my grades, but usually they are kind of envious,” Monroe says smiling.

Because he wanted badly to be accepted into the IB programme his sophomore year, the energetic and outgoing teen became more disciplined. He achieved his goal and became part of the magnet program in the 10th grade.

Monroe learned to manage playing two sports, basketball and football, with the expanded

The nastiest position. My goal is to try to get in the other guy’s head so bad that he just hates me and is focused on that, and then I can go to work on him,” says Monroe.

According to Hardaway’s head football coach Jeff Battles, the senior will be a part of the Hawks football program that will have seven returning starters for the 2014 season. Monroe’s talents on the field and his maturity will be welcome assets. “(He) has a good work ethic that leads to him being successful at many things in football and in the classroom. Troy is a bright young man. He has an ability to set a goal and continue to work toward that goal until he accomplishes it. That trait will help him in high school and for many years after,” says Battle.

Pre-Game Ritual: Prayer Athlete he admires: DeMarcus Ware Favorite team: Georgia Bulldogs favorite class: Math Person he admires most: Mother One sport he doesn’t play but wishes he could: Lacrosse.

Church: New Destiny

I

love defensive end. It is a nasty position. The nastiest position. My goal is to try to get in the other guy’s head so bad that he just hates me and is focused on that, and then I can go to work on him. course work; quite a balancing act for someone with ADHD. As he entered his junior year in 2013, Monroe decided to focus solely on football because his rigorous academic schedule made playing more than one sport complicated. With a plan in place, Monroe was all set for a great year.

Then he suffered an ankle injury that basically took him out of play for the fall football season.

Instead of becoming resentful, Monroe said he focused on his studies and set his sights on spring training.

Strong, healthy, and determined, Monroe is back on the roster for the 2014 football season.

He had a great spring and has earned a spot on both sides of the ball for the Hawks this fall. He will be playing his favorite position, defensive end, and also see time as a receiver.

“I love defensive end. It is a nasty position.

What do you do in your spare time?: Don’t have any (has a part-time job in addition to sports and school), but if I did, I would sleep.

Best thing about attending hardaway: The IB programme. The teachers really work hard to help you be successful.

That “after” has Monroe almost as excited as playing football. He practically bounces when discussing taking the field in a few weeks, and he lights up again when he talks about colleges.

The Naval Academy ranks high on his list. His 3.72 Grade Point Average and athletic ability make him a good candidate for the next level, and he has plans to become a nuclear engineer in the future.

He’s come a long way to be the studentathlete he is today, and the 17-year-old is clearly comfortable with it. When he was walking across campus in his football uniform to have his photo taken for ITG, someone inquired about the reason for the attention.

“You must be smart, then?” the student says when he learned Monroe was being interviewed for the academic feature.

“I am,” says Monroe with a smile. ITG 7

Gators GLENWOOD GHSA 1-AAAAA 2013 Record:

Region: 2-4 / Overall: 4-7 Points Earned: 392 Points Against: 476

Schedule Aug 29 Sept 05

12 19

26 Oct 03

10

17

24

31

*region game

Home Away

Sherwood Christian Edgewood Academy Kingwood Christian Lakeside Lee Scott Academy Restoration Academy Tuscaloosa Academy Bessemer Academy Escambia Academy Springwood School

Key Players Jackson Oates OL 6’ Noah Kirkland OL 6’ Connor Boatner OL 5’8” Dalton Humphries OL 5’9” Austin Kent OL 6’ Michael Hassan TE/DE/WR 6’2” Lawson Humphries Q Mikey Starke CB/Rec/K 5’10” Isaiah Hall DE/FB 6’

250 320 190 175 250 175

Gators return an experienced, talented 2014 team The Glenwood Gators didn’t have a great 2013. They finished 4-6 and didn’t make the postseason. This year, however, things ought to be very different for the Phenix City team. Nine players are back on both sides of the ball, including the entire offensive line, the quarterback, and the team’s top defensive player from a year ago. Outside of the starting line-up, though, the Gators are young and inexperienced. To be successful this year, it’s going to be imperative that they stay healthy and keep the starters on the field.

The strength of any team often lies in the offensive line. If that holds true for the Gators, then they have a distinct advantage heading into the 2014 season.

This also holds true for the defensive line; each offensive lineman - Jackson Oates (6,’ 250), Noah Kirkland (6,’ 320), Connor Boatner (5’8,” 190), Dalton Humphries (5’9,” 175), and Austin Kent (6,’ 250) - will turn around on possession changes and play on the defensive line, as well. Michael Hassan (6’2,” 175) will also play tight end, defensive end, and wide receiver.

These guys will spend the year protecting quarterback Lawson Humphries, who threw for 845 yards last year. Like just about everyone else, Humphries, a linebacker, will play on both sides of the ball. Mikey Starke (5’10,” 175), a cor-

ner who also plays receiver and kicks, is back; he tallied 50 tackles and three interceptions in 2013. The 6,’ 210-pound defensive end and fullback Isaiah Hall will also have to make some big plays for the Gators.

The players know how to get it done in Head Coach Tripp Henderson’s system. They’ve had a year in the system and in the weight room. They are stronger and better than they were a year ago.

However, on a team with just 30 total players, they need to stay on the field.

The must stay healthy and be in top physical condition in week one. There won’t be much of a margin for error this year.

If the Gators can keep their starters on the field, they ought to be much better than 4-6.

Sammy Howard Field Capacity: 2,500

175 210

Head Coach: Tripp Henderson

The Swamp • Sammy Howard Field • Capacity: 2,500 • Phenix City, AL • www.glenwoodgators.org 9

SPORTS CONNECTION

by Beth Welch

photography by Beth Welch

T

here’s more to football season than football teams. High school football games would not be the same without the one group whose job it is to fire up the fans and bring spirit to the experience. Cheerleaders spend countless hours preparing for game night. It’s not just about learning a few chants and cheers anymore. Today’s cheer squad conditions and weight trains for stunts and routines and also participates in activities outside of athletic events. In the Game High School Sports Magazine asked Kendrick High School cheer coach Patricia Yates-Sanders 10 questions about her cheer program. The Cherokees cheer squad worked hard during summer break preparing for football season, and their coach is excited about her second year with the sport.

In The Game: When did you begin your coaching career, and what sports have you coached?

Patricia Yates-Sanders: I began coaching the KHS Cheerleaders last school year.

ITG: Do you coach any other sports?

PY-S: No ITG: Did you cheer in high school or college?

PY-S: No ITG: Why did you want to coach this sport?

PY-S: I knew I could bring discipline and dignity to the cheer program through motivation and hard work. I have changed the image of the program by embracing the “total athlete” concept. The cheerleaders must run, lift weights, and participate in cardiovascular activities as would any other athlete.

ITG: What cheerleading opportunities are available at Kendrick for students?

PY-S: We currently have a spirit team, but in the future we plan to become a competition team. We also have a Pep Club, which allows students who are not cheerleaders to participate in the squad’s activities.

ITG: How many students are involved in your cheer program?

PY-S: Currently, we have 10 athletes.

ITG: What skills do you look for when selecting cheer athletes?

PY-S: First I look for a strong academic foundation, good character, and a positive attitude along with a respectful demeanor.

ITG: Besides cheering at games, do your cheerleaders participate in other activities?

PY-S: Yes. Last year the girls performed at two events outside of Muscogee County School activities. At one of the events, the team received a plaque from The First Generation Scholars for their participation in their Second Semester Round Up of local high schools.

During this presentation, the squad took pictures with one of the major sponsors of the event, Calvin Smyre.

The squad also participated in the KHS Girls Basketball State Championship Parade. In addition, the squad also assisted Georgetown Elementary School in their Accelerated Reader Parade.

ITG: What is one goal you have as the cheer coach?

PY-S: I would like to be the first cheer coach at Kendrick High School to send a cheerleader to college on an athletic scholarship.

ITG: What is the best thing about being the cheer coach at Kendrick High School?

PY-S: I get to positively influence the lives of my cheerleaders through action.

tic Sanders ards or personal athutsletanding s e t a Y O aw atricia : er ments):

P

che lish ilities accomp nt as a first year sponsib Kene r d n a e Job title math teacher at achievem eer de h arolyn ra C g S th H 1 1 coach dmire: C who ol; K a o h t c s S o h m I drick Hig Person my math mentor, h, en h c a o C Randolp der her wing wh ary, IN G : n n w u te he has Hometo : Undergradua took me acher. S ethic te ; n w ia o e n ti in Educa I was a y work y of Virg shape m has trickUniversit rsity of to d e lp e degree, h ive hich from Un ucator w ching duties. d e n a s Masters a oa 3) into my c xercising Phoenix o sons, Tevin (2 led over :E e m ti Tw e pas it r o v a Family: F ) ing ence (21 and Terr hments (coach s li p m Acco 11

Marion Co.

Eagles

GHSA 1-AAAAA 2013 Record: Region: 13-1 Overall: 7-1

Head Coach: Mike Swaney

Schedule Aug Sept Sept Sept Sept Oct Oct Oct Oct Nov

*region game

28 Kendrick 06 Spencer 12 Westover 19 Upson-Lee 25 Shaw* 02 Harris County* 16 Hardaway* 24 Columbus* 31 Carver, Columbus* 06 LaGrange*

Home Away

Key Players Johnny Royal Dustin Eckert Lorenzo Smothers Brandon Green

Marion County Looks for More Success on the Field

With nine offensive starters returning from last year’s successful season, Marion County High School is hoping to once again compete for the 4A Championship.

While the Eagle’s offense is anticipated to be strong, Head Coach Mike Swaney will need replace two defensive ends and two exceptional linebackers. With four consecutive region championships logged for the Eagles, their hopes for the 2014 season are no less.

12

Special Teams Bring the Momentum Factor

by Beth Welch

photography by Beth Welch

I

n a few weeks, all thoughts of high school sports will focus on local football teams. Each year, In the Game highlights a different position in the sport for the cover of the August Preseason Issue.

For 2014, we are featuring special teams athletes. In some cases, these guys don’t get a lot of playing time, but they are vital members of any football team. Four special units usually make up the special teams unit and often can make the difference in the outcome of a game. The Columbus Valley area is home to many good high school football programs. We sent out the call for the best of the special teams athletes. Fourteen schools responded and are represented both on the front cover and in this feature.

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Jensen Price Age: 17 Parents: Joe Price and Jenny Bright High School: Brookstone School Graduating class: 2015 Height: 6’ Weight: 200 lbs.

Position: Long Snapper/Tight End Coach: Brad Dehem How long have you been playing football? Five years Favorite food: Steak

Best movie: Remember the Titans What do you like to do in your spare time? Read, long board, and rock climb Favorite sports team (college or professional): USC Trojans Person you would most like to meet: Stephen Hawking Why do you enjoy the sport of football? I enjoy the brotherhood and the friendships that last forever.

Thomas Chappel Age: 16 Parents: James and Patty Chappel High School: Calvary Christian School Graduating class: 2017 Height: 5’8” Weight: 140 lbs.

Position: Kicker/Defensive Back Coach: Brian Osbourne How long have you been playing football?

Three years

Favorite food: Steak Best movie: Forrest Gump What do you like to do in your spare time?

Watch Netflix Favorite sports team (college or professional): Auburn Tigers Person you would most like to meet: Lionel Messi Why do you enjoy the sport of football? I get to make extra points.

Traveon Samuel Age: 17 Parents: Tyesa Wilson High School: Central High School Graduating class: 2015 Height: 5’8” Weight: 175 lbs.

Position: Slot Receiver Coach: Jamey DuBose How long have you been playing football? 14 years Favorite food: Chicken Best movie: Friday Night Lights What do you like to do in your spare time? Train to get better Favorite sports team (college or professional): Alabama Person you would most like to meet: Chris Johnson Why do you enjoy the sport of football?

I just love the game.

Mackery White Age: 16 Parents: Marylyn White and Mackery White Jr. High School: Chattahoochee County High School Graduating class: 2016 Height: 5’8” Weight: 147 lbs.

Position: Wide Receiver/Defensive Back Coach: Josh Kemp How long have you been playing football?

Seven years Favorite food: Chicken Best movie: Like Mike What do you like to do in your spare time?

Play Madden on my PS3 Favorite sports team (college or professional): Heat for basketball and UGA for college football Person you would most like to meet: LeBron James Why do you enjoy the sport of football? I like the aggressiveness.

Ryan Anderson Age: 16 Parents: John and Sharon Anderson High School: Columbus High School Graduating class: 2016 Height: 5’9” Weight: 175 lbs.

Position: Kicker/Wide Receiver/Cornerback Coach: Phil Marino How long have you been playing football? Four years

Favorite food: Boneless wings Best movie: Friday Night Lights What do you like to do in your spare time?

Football and baseball Favorite sports team (college or professional): Dallas Cowboys Person you would most like to meet: Kate Upton Why do you enjoy the sport of football? I like the physical nature of the game.

Mikey Starke Age: 17 Parents: Tom and Mary Starke High School: Glenwood School Graduating class: 2015 Height: 5’10” Weight: 175 lbs.

Position: Defensive back/Kicker Coach: Tripp Henderson How long have you been playing football? Six years

Hector Zamudio Age: 17 Parents: Reyna Facio and Isaias Zamudio High School: Hardaway High School Graduating class: 2015 Height: 5’3” Weight: 185 lbs.

Position: Kicker Coach: Jeff Battles and Rick Iden How long have you been playing football? Two years Favorite food: Pizza Best movie: The Fast and the Furious What do you like to do in your spare time? Listen to music and play soccer Person you would most like to meet: Lionel Messi Why do you enjoy the sport of football?

I have fun, and like trying something new.

Favorite food: Ramen Noodles Best movie: The SpongeBob SquarePants Movie What do you like to do in your spare time?

Fishing Favorite sports team (college or professional): Auburn Person you would most like to meet: Bo Jackson Why do you enjoy the sport of football? I like the free pregame meal.

Samuel Mitchell Age: 17 Parents: Tony and Sandra Mitchell High School: Harris County High School Graduating class: 2015 Height: 6’ Weight: 185 lbs.

Position: Strong Safety Coach: Dwight Jones How long have you been playing football?

Nine years Favorite food: Macaroni and cheese Best movie: The Sandlot What do you like to do in your spare time? Play basketball or hang with friends Favorite sports team (college or professional): Oregon University Person you would most like to meet: Ray Lewis Why do you enjoy the sport of football?

I love the energy that comes along with the game. I love the feeling of the crowd’s “oooohhs” when you make a big hit.

JAvante west Age: 17 Parents: Kristen Cooley and Bryan Thompson High School: Jordan Vocational High School Graduating class: 2015 Height: 5’11” Weight: 165 lbs.

Position: Kicker/Punter/Returner/Wide Receiver Coach: Jim Brown How long have you been playing football? 10 years

Favorite food: Hot wings Best Movie: Remember the Titans What do you like to do in your spare time? Spend time with my family and friends and football drills Favorite sports team (college or professional): University of Alabama Person you would most like to meet: Julio Jones Why do you enjoy the sport of football? I enjoy football because I can work with others, and I love to score.

Lorenzo Smothers Age: 16 Parents: Pebbles Douglas and Lorenzo Smothers High School: Marion County Middle/High School Graduating class: 2016 Height: 5’8” Weight: 155 lbs.

Position: Slot Receiver Coach: Mike Swaney How long have you been playing football? All my life

Favorite food: Hot wings Best movie: Stomp the Yard What do you like to do in your spare time? Play basketball Favorite sports team (college or professional): Alabama Crimson Tide Person you would most like to meet: Tavon Austin Why do you enjoy the sport of football? I like playing other teams and being around my teammates.

Nathan Robertson Age: 15 Parents: Jason and Debbie Robertson High School: Northside High School Graduating class: 2017 Height: 5’10” Weight: 150 lbs.

Position: Kicker/Punter Coach: Morgan Ingram How long have you been playing football? Four years Favorite food: Steak Best movie: Fast and Furious movies What do you like to do in your spare time? Play outdoors Favorite sports team (college or professional): University of Georgia Person you would most like to meet: Blair Walsh Why do you enjoy the sport of football?

I like the adrenaline when I’m about to kick and the feeling of the ball going through the field goal.

Kevin Jacobs Age: 17 Parents: Tom and Wendy Jacobs High School: St. Anne-Pacelli School Graduating class: 2015 Height: 5’6” Weight: 140 lbs.

Position: Kicker Coach: Randy Grace How long have you been playing football? Seven years Favorite food: Steak Best movie: Ride Along What do you like to do in your spare time? Hang out with friends and be outdoors

Favorite sports team (college or professional): UGA Person you would most like to meet: Kevin Hart Why do you enjoy the sport of football? I like the intensity.

Hunter Eaton Age: 17 Parents: Kim and Albert Eaton High School: Shaw High School Graduating class: 2015 Height: 5’5” Weight: 125 lbs.

Position: Kicker Coach: Kyle Adkins How long have you been playing football? Three years Favorite food: Pizza What do you like to do in your spare time? Work on cars and surf Person you would most like to meet: Probably my grandfather; I never got (to see him).

Why do you enjoy the sport of football? It challenges me and pushes me to my mental limits.

Cristhian Amable Age: 17 Parents: Feliciano Amable and Yolando Amable High School: Spencer High School Graduating class: 2014 Height: 5’6.5” Weight: 164 lbs.

Position: Kicker Coach: Calvin Arnold How long have you been playing football? One year Favorite food: Hot wings Best movie: 2012 What do you like to do in your spare time? Go out and run and play soccer Favorite sports team (college or professional): Denver Broncos and FC Barcelona Person you would most like to meet: Lionel Messi Why do you enjoy the sport of football? I love to work out and to try something new.

his goal: to win state. our goal: to keep him in bounds.

Huddle up. Call the play. Break. While he makes the plays, we make a difference in his life. Join FCA as we strive to put “the heart and soul in sports” by impacting the world for Jesus Christ. As a man of integrity, he is certain to keep in bounds. To learn more, contact us at 800-289-0909 or fca.org.

© 2008 FCA 17

Patriots

NORTHSIDE

Northside looks to talented junior class to make big improvements in 2014 campaign

GHSA 1-AAAAA 2013 Record: Region: 1-4 Overall: 2-8

Points Earned: 141 / Points Against: 318

Schedule Aug Sept Sept Sept Sept Oct Oct Oct Oct Nov

*region game

28 Kendrick 06 Spencer 12 Westover 19 Upson-Lee 25 Shaw* 02 Harris County* 16 Hardaway* 24 Columbus* 31 Carver, Columbus* 06 LaGrange*

Home Away

The 2013 season was a tough one for the Northside Patriots. They won just two games, and those wins came over Hardaway and Jordan, two teams that shared the Patriots’ 2-8 record. To top it all off, just six starters - three each on offense and defense - will be back this year. It won’t be easy replacing so many players, but it’s also an opportunity to get some new faces in there - kids who would like to turn things around for the Patriots.

Northside had some pretty good production out of several players last year. Quarterback Jonathan Karastury threw for nearly 1,000 yards. Larry Gilyard rushed for over 600 yards, and Victor Ballesteros notched 103 total tackles. But these guys are gone, and it’s going to be up to a younger group of players to change the culture at Northside.

The Patriots’ juniors are going to set the tone for Northside this season. Their play, coupled with the leadership from seniors

Te’Qwan Walrond, a 6’2,” 265-pound tight end/defensive end, and Gabe Gordon, a 6,’ 270-pound defensive lineman, will be essential. Kalan Watts, a 5’9,” 180-pound running back who led the Patriots with 320 yards receiving last year, will play multiple positions on offense, defense, and special teams.

The Patriots return just one offensive lineman, the 5’9,” 230-pound Justin Vaughn, along with defensive back Steven Crayton (5’9,” 165) and receiver Chris Gray (5’9,” 165). That’s not a lot of experience on either side of the ball. Northside is also going to need to shore up the offensive line and find a replacement for Karastury under center.

Things probably won’t get any easier for the Patriots this year. There is, however, one thing that a young and inexperienced team always has going for it. Sometimes those kinds of teams are just too stubborn to lose.

Here’s to hoping the 2014 Northside Patriots adopt that mindset and simply refuse to lose.

Kinnett Stadium • Capacity: 6,000 • Columbus, GA

Key Players Te’Qwan Walrond

TE/DE 6’2” 265

Gabe Gordon

DL

6’

Kalan Watts

RB

5’9” 180

Justin Vaughn

OL

5’9” 230

Steven Crayton

DB

5’9” 165

Chris Gray

R

5’9” 165

Head Coach: Morgan Ingram

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270

Blue devils COLUMBUS

GHSA 1-AAAAA 2013 Record:

Region: 0-5 / Overall: 1-9 Points Earned: 123 / Points Against: 385

Columbus High’s Coach Marino: ‘We expect to be a playoff team’ The headline for this preview - it should be common knowledge, right? Every team expects to be a playoff team at the beginning of the season, doesn’t it? In the case of

Columbus High football, it’s a pretty bold statement. The Blue Devils haven’t been to the playoffs in two decades and have only won seven games in five seasons. Last year, Columbus won just a single game - a 35-13 victory over Northside.

So what’s going to be different this year?

Columbus High has the same head coach and many of the same players; 16 starters are back from the 2013 squad. Head Coach Phil Marino saw some significant improvement in his team last year. They competed each and every week, refused to give up, and put up some surprisingly big numbers in key statistical areas. For example, the Blue Devils’ 6’2,” 200-pound quarterback Derrick James (who returns this year) threw for 1,265 yards on 169 attempts. Leading rusher Dale Williams (5’10,” 180) is also back with James. A couple of other players, including Essang Bassey, who had five interceptions, and Jailyn Trice, who tallied 126 total tackles, showed that Columbus High has some kids who know how to play the game.

Columbus High’s biggest strength this year will be on defense. Ten players return, including four linebackers, three linemen, and three from the secondary. Those guys will have to step up and keep the Blue Devils in games while the offense finds its legs.

The biggest challenge for Columbus High won’t come between the lines; instead, it will come between the ears. For as long as these players have been alive, the Columbus High Blue Devils haven’t

Schedule

*region game

Home Away

Aug 22 Jordan Sept 05 Brookstone 12 Manchester 19 Marion County

25 Carver, Columbus* Oct 03 LaGrange* 11 Shaw* 17 Harris County*

24 Northside, Columbus 30 Hardaway*

Head Coach: Phil Marino done much on the gridiron. To be successful, they will have to expect to win and make up their collective mind that this is the year that Columbus High’s football fortunes turn around. Adversity will come from all angles almost instantly. They’ve shown they can play; now they have to show they can win.

19

Player Spotlight sponsored by:

Alexandra McCluskey Brookstone School

Brookstone athlete passionate about competition cheerleading

by Beth Welch

When she gives it some serious thought, Brookstone senior Alexandra McCluskey says she knew when she began cheering at the age of five that she had found something special. What began as a cute and fun activity while her older brothers were playing football has developed into a passion she hopes to carry to the collegiate level next year.

The younger sister of two big brothers, McCluskey attended their football games as a youngster and wanted to be a part of the family’s experience.

“It was at Pioneer with the Pioneer Colts. My brothers played football, and I saw other girls cheering. It was just something I wanted to try,” says McCluskey.

Tumbling classes came a little later, and in the seventh grade, McCluskey became a middle school cheerleader. Although Brookstone does not have a competition cheer squad at that level, McCluskey was content to be a spirit cheerleader for middle school football and basketball games.

Her freshman year, McCluskey continued as a spirit cheerleader and also became a part of the Cougar’s competition team. She did a little flying but has mainly been used in the position of a base for her competition cheerleading career. Since her exposure to the sport of competition cheerleading, McCluskey has had one main focus.

“I want to cheer in college. I have known since the seventh grade that I wanted to do that, but competition cheerleading really made me have a desire for it,” she says.

For those who may not be familiar with the sport, competition cheerleading usually involves a routine lasting three and a half minutes that is complete with stunts, tumbling, chants, and a few dance sequences thrown in for good measure. It’s fast. It’s intense. And, in this day and age, it involves a lot of hard work and athleticism to be among the best.

Competition cheer season for Brookstone runs from September to November.

Cheer athletes begin conditioning in the summer with practices beginning in 20

photography by Jerry Christenson June. McCluskey has taken private lessons for several years to enhance her skills.

The 17-year-old has a quiet demeanor and personality. She laughed, however, when she spoke about what happens when she steps on the competition mat.

“I have had people tell me that they are surprised when they see me out there.

You have to yell really loud. With the adrenaline rushing and all that is going on in the routine, I am just different,” says McCluskey.

For her freshman and sophomore years, McCluskey’s cheering experience during football season held special meaning. Her older brother Madison was a member of the football team those two seasons. It was sort of like old times when they were kids at Pioneer, him playing on the field and McCluskey cheering him on from the sidelines.

Last year the 5’5” athlete attended fall cheer camp at the University of Georgia.

Up until that time, McCluskey had a dream of cheering in college. Following her camp experience, she came home determined to make those dreams a reality.

The fire had been ignited long ago, but being on a college campus and working with collegiate athletes added the fuel.

“Being a part of a squad has given me a true passion for cheerleading. After the camp, I was so ready to be more. It made me just want to go straight to the gym and begin working. I know it’s difficult, though, to make it to that level, and there are a lot of really good cheerleaders wanting the same thing,” she says.

Football season officially begins August 23 for the Brookstone Cougars.

McCluskey will again be cheering during football season and also be a member of the competition team. The squad has done well in the past, placing first in the region one year of her participation and going to sectionals at the state competition another time.

“We have a good group this year. Some have been there like me, and we have a few new members who are very skilled and should really help us. I have

had the same base partner for two years. That helps, too,” McCluskey says.

One major accomplishment for McCluskey since last year’s competition season occurred in January when she was able to nail down a “full.” In the sport of competition cheerleading, the degree of difficulty for stunts and tumbling is always moving forward. It

is essential for top tier competition cheer athletes to have certain skills. The ability to perform a full is one of those skills.

“I am extremely proud of Dra for working so hard to get her full! It is an advanced tumbling skill and often takes years of practice to master. Of course, the more advanced tumbling skills the girls throw in competition, the greater the opportunity for earning a higher overall score,” says Brookstone cheer coach Allison McGregor.

Because McGregor has coached McCluskey for five years - beginning when the cheer athlete was in the seventh grade - McGregor has had an opportunity to watch McCluskey develop her athletic skills and knows the value of having her as part of the cheer program.

“Alexandra’s greatest strength is that she is selfmotivated. She sets personal goals for herself as well as goals for the team and gives 200 percent to achieve them. She never shies away from hard work,” says McGregor.

McCluskey sees her tumbling and stunting skills as a plus for her but says her greatest strength is her sharpness, in other words, her ability to perform the routine. She is hoping that detail will not only help her this season when the Cougars begin competing in late September but also in her quest to be a competition cheerleader for a college team.

“I absolutely feel Dra has the potential to cheer at the collegiate level. She is talented, driven, and selfless. She strives for perfection and expects nothing less of herself,” says McGregor.

McCluskey has been a member of the tennis and track programs at Brookstone. While she enjoys those sports, cheerleading is first and foremost her favorite athletic endeavor.

“It’s a passion. I love everything about cheerleading.

I love going to practice. I love the hard work. It makes me feel like me,” she says with a smile. ITG

Getting to know Alexandra FAMILY: Parents, Lynn and Brian McCluskey; two older brothers

PETS: A dog named Biscuit MUSIC SHE PREFERS: Country FAVORITE FOOD: Steak BEST MOVIE: Lone Survivor FAVORITE SPORTS TEAM: The Packers and Auburn

George McCluskey. He is the most selfless and hardworking man I know.

BEST THING ABOUT GOING TO BROOKSTONE: The

education. The classes are small with good ratios of students to teachers.

PERSON SHE WOULD MOST LIKE TO MEET: Carrie Underwood

HOW SHE SPENDS SPARE TIME: Being with family and friends FAVORITE CLASS: Tie between

math and science GPA: 4.39

FUTURE PLANS: Getting a

degree in criminal justice and maybe pursuing a career with the FBI

ONE PERSON SHE MOST ADMIRES: My grandfather,

21

Tigers Carver

Tigers Continue Success Under New Head Coach

GHSA 1-AAAAA 2013 Record:

Region: 0-5 / Overall: 1-9 Points Earned: 123 Points Against: 385

Schedule Aug Aug Sept Sept Sept Oct Oct Oct Oct Nov

23 29 05 19 25 10 17 24 31 06

*region game

Carver Spencer Creekside Troup Co. Columbus LaGrange Shaw Harris Co. Northside Hardaway

Head Coach: Joe Kegler

Home Away

Heading into the 2013 season, the Carver High Tigers faced an uncertain future after head coach Dell McGee left the school to become an offensive analyst at Auburn University. Joe Kegler stepped in and faced the daunting task of replacing a man who had almost become legendary to the Carver faithful. Coach Kegler and his Tigers answered the naysayers with an impressive 11-2 season that ended – for the third straight year – at the hands of the Buford Wolves.

The 2013 Tigers had some explosive players who wreaked havoc on their opponents. Look for more of the same this year.

The Tigers return a total of 10 starters.

Among the five returning offensive starters are quarterback Jawon Pass and wide receiver Nate Barley. Pass, a 6’4”, 180-pound junior, is already considered one of the top prospects in the Class of 2016.

He lit up the opposition for 2,237 yards and 23 touchdowns during the 2013 season.

He also rushed for 13 more scores. Barley was on the receiving end of 898 yards and 11 touchdowns last year. At 6’0” and 195 lbs., he will also have a chance to play on Saturdays, though his time will come a year earlier than that of Pass.

Defensively, outside linebacker Mekhi Brown (6’5,” 240 lbs.), defensive back Khane Pass (6’0,” 200 lbs.), and the defensive line trio of Josh Curry (6’2,” 260 lbs.), Robert Jernigan (6’1,” 240 lbs.), and T.J. Branscomb (6’0,” 300 lbs) will lead the way. Linebacker

Tim London accounted for 112 tackles and defensive back Kiante Walton picked off four passes last season.

The Tigers remain in Region 2-3A this year but will face a few new region opponents.

Despite their relative youth, the Tigers have some big-time weapons returning. For years they have been one of the most formidable teams in their classification, and that shouldn’t change in 2014.

The Swamp • Sammy Howard Field • Capacity: 2,500 • Phenix City, AL • www.glenwoodgators.org 23

Player Spotlight

Khane Pass

Mehki Brown

Carver High School

Carver High School

25

Pair of Future Division I Players Lead Carver’s Quest for a State Title

by Robert Preston

W

hen I talk to players for In the Game, I have one standard question I have for everyone, male or female, regardless of sport: What would you like to accomplish this season? 90 percent say, “Win it all.” Nearly every one of them says they want to win a state championship.

It’s a nice sentiment, and it’s certainly a worthy goal.

However, the harsh reality is that there are really just a handful of teams capable of winning a state title in any sport each season. In all my years writing for In the Game, I’ve only done three state title stories: Tift County (basketball), Clinch County (football), and Valwood School (football). So when most athletes say they want a state championship, I know that it’s probably not going to happen.

But when Carver High School’s Mekhi Brown and Khane Pass say they want a state title, I take notice. Carver is one of those teams that can win a championship. They’ve enjoyed a run over the last several years like few teams in Georgia.

As Brown and Pass prepare to start their senior year of high school, the duo has never played fewer than 13 football games in a season. Their Tigers have made the semifinals once and the quarterfinals twice. All three times, they were eliminated by the Buford Wolves.

This year, however, things will be different. Carver has

28

photography by Jerry Christenson

moved up to the 5A classification, which means the Tigers won’t be playing the Wolves at all. They’re going to have a new set of opponents but the same expectations. And neither Brown nor Pass is worried about making the jump from 3A to 5A. “I’m looking forward to it,” Pass said. “I don’t know much about the teams in 5A but we should be okay. I want to go all the way.”

The Tigers have as good an opportunity as anybody.

They’ve got two of the best players in the state in Brown and Pass. Brown is a 6’5,” 218-pound defensive end and outside linebacker. Pass is a 6’1,” 200-pound athlete who lists his primary position as safety; however, he can play any skill position on the field, including receiver, running back, cornerback, and kick/punt returner. Together, the two make for a lethal combination on defense.

Brown actually started out as an offensive lineman. He was always bigger than everyone else growing up so he got stuck where the big kids go – on the line. By the time he got to high school, he was still playing on the line but he had also been introduced to defensive end. As he grew, his size, strength, and speed made him a fixture on the defensive side of the ball. Colleges came calling almost instantly; he had his first contact with schools as a freshman. Now a five-star recruit and Alabama commit, Brown finished the 2013 season with 60 tackles, seven sacks, three forced fumbles, and five batted

to where he will play. At the time of this interview (mid-July), passes.

Pass said a decision was had not been reached. “I’ll make a In addition to being an excellent football player, Mekhi Brown decision in the next two weeks,” he said. is also a superb student. He carries a 3.7 grade point average Both players have been in the spotlight for nearly their whole and is as diligent with his studies as he is with football. “My careers, and both have a tight-knit group of family and friends parents encourage me to make good grades,” he said. “If I don’t make the grades, I can’t keeping them humble and focused. “I listen to Coach [Joe] play. It helps me be a high The Tigers have as good an opportunity as Kegler and my parents. They achiever.” keep me focused and working Pass can change a game anybody. They’ve got two of the best players in from either side of the ball on hard,” Pass said. Brown has a the state in Brown and Pass. Brown is a 6’5,” similar way of staying humble. his own. When asked what his 218-pound defensive end and outside linebacker.

“I keep a small circle around favorite position is, he matterme and I listen to my parents,” of-factly stated, “It doesn’t Pass is a 6’1,” 200-pound athlete who lists his Brown said. “I don’t want matter. I can play them all.” primary position as safety; however, he can play anybody manipulating me.”

His numbers back up his With the recruiting process statement. He recorded 55 any skill position on the field, including receiver, all but over for Brown and tackles and two interceptions running back, cornerback, and kick/punt returner. last year and also rushed for winding down for Pass, these Together, the two make for a lethal combination two players will have few around 500 yards with five distractions in their way when touchdowns. on defense. the season opens in a few Like Brown, Pass knew weeks. Both are committed to several years ago that he doing everything they possibly can to help their team succeed. was good enough to play big-time college football. His list The Tigers have not won a state championship in 2007. Pass of scholarship offers is further proof of his talent: Mississippi and Brown hope to end that streak this season, and they have State, Clemson, North Carolina, North Carolina State, Indiana, a legitimate shot at doing so. ITG Perdue, Nebraska, and Louisville have all shown interest.

Unlike Brown, however, Pass has not made a decision yet as

Favorites:

Mekhi Brown: • Team besides Alabama: Georgia

Tech or Notre Dame • Sport you wish you could play: Baseball • Artist: Jay-Z or Drake • Last movie: Think Like a Man 2 • Superpower: Super strength • Place to travel: Germany • If you received $1 million, you

would: “Invest it. I’m not going to

blow it. I want to give back.”

Favorites:

Khane Pass: • Sport you wish you could

play: Soccer • Place to travel: Alaska • Last movie: 22 Jump Street • Subject: Math • Least favorite subject: Reading • Athlete you look up to:

LeBron James • If you received $1 million,

you would: “Buy my mom a new house.”

29

Brookstone

Brookstone returns an experienced, motivated team for 2014 Last season, the Brookstone Cougars fielded a young and inexperienced team.

It’s one of those years where everyone just kind of gets out there and sees what happens.

So what did h a p p e n ?

The Cougars went 6-4 in the regular season, 4-3 in the region, and made the state playoffs as a top 16 team. Unfortunately for Brookstone, the Cougars’ inexperience showed up against a strong Prince Avenue Christian team in the first round of the playoffs. Still, it was one of those seasons that everyone enjoyed and it showed that Brookstone wasn’t far from being one of the top teams in its classification.

Now it’s 2014 and 17 starters from last year’s team are back, including several statistical leaders from 2013. Quarterback Jay Roberts, 5’10,” 165, who threw for 1,052 yards last year, will be back under center. In the backfield with him again are running backs Prather Hudson (5’10”, 175) and Sam Ndem (5’10”, 210). Hudson and Ndem shared the ball-carrying duties

last year and combined for 645 yards on the ground. Hudson also led the team in touchdowns with six. Roberts’ favorite target, receiver Leye Olubowale, who caught 32 passes for 478 yards, is gone.

However, a pair of receivers – Grant Davidson (5’11”, 170) and Kordell Braxton (5’8”, 155) – should be able to step in and ably fill his shoes. Protecting the skill guys are four returning starters on the offensive line: Parker James (5’10”, 215), Tripp Valentini (5’10”, 205), Phillip Hamric (5’11”, 240), and Andrew Hamric (6’, 260).

On defense, eight players return.

Among them are Hudson, James, and Phillip Hamric, who will also play strong safety and defensive line, respectively.

Joining them are free safety Ben Jones (5’10”, 170), linebacker D’Andrez Dashiell (5’8”, 165), linebacker/defensive lineman Markus Wright (6’2”, 215), linebacker Walker Cottrell (5’8”, 145), and defensive lineman Josh Long (6’1”, 230).

Unfortunately, football teams don’t win games by what’s on paper. Having an experienced team back doesn’t guarantee success at any level. And the Cougars have one of the most difficult schedules in the area. It’s going to be a difficult test for them from the very first game. However, this team is hungry to get past the first round and the lessons they learned last year should pay off this season. So while success isn’t guaranteed, it is certainly well within their grasp.

Rex Knight Stadium • Capacity: 2,000 Columbus, GA • www.brookstoneschool.org

Head Coach: Brad Dehem

Cougars

GHSA 4-A 2013 Record:

Region: 4-3 / Overall: 6-5 Points Earned: 238 / Points Against: 228

Schedule Aug Sept

Oct

Nov

23 05 19 26 03 10 17 24 31 07

*region game

Home Away

Mount Pisgah Christian Columbus Hawkinsville* Greenville* Taylor County* Marion County* Central, Talbotton* St Anne-Pacelli* Dooly County* Schley County*

Key Players Jay Roberts

Q

5’10”

165

Prather Hudson

RB

5’10”

175

Sam Ndem

RB

5’10”

210

Grant Davidson

WR

5’11”

170

Kordell Braxton

WR

5’8”

155

Parker James

OL

5’10”

215

Tripp Valentini

OL

5’10”

205

Phillip Hamric

OL

5’11”

240

Andrew Hamric

OL

6’

260

Ben Jones

FS

5’10”

170

D’Andrez Dashiell

LB

5’8”

165

LB/DL 6’2”

215

Markus Wright Walker Cottrell

LB

5’8”

145

Josh Long

DL

6’1”

230

29

We Proudly Suppport All Local High School Athletics

Save money. Live better.

Save people money so they can live better. It’s that simple. At least it was to Sam Walton. It’s what he wanted from the very beginning, and it’s the guiding principle for everything we do at Walmart.

2801 Airport Thruway Columbus, GA 31909 (706) 653-4227 5448 Whittlesey Blvd 6475 Gateway Rd Columbus, GA 31909 Columbus, GA 31909 (706) 322-8801 (706) 563-5979

10 Questions with Dale Hall

by Beth Welch

I

phography by Jerry Christenson

t is pretty obvious when it’s time for Friday Night Lights (and Thursday Night Lights and sometimes Saturday Night Lights) during football season in Columbus. When the bright lights at Kinnett Stadium in North Columbus are turned on, they can be seen for miles and are a dead giveaway it’s that time of year again.

Backed-up traffic along J.R. Allen Parkway and the intersection of Schomburg Road is another sign of the season when the lengthy parade of vehicles filled with excited fans makes its way to the game to support local teams.

But long before the lights are turned on and the concessions start selling, Dale Hall and other employees of the Muscogee County School District’s Plant Services Department begin the process of making sure everything is just right for game day. Updates such as a new video screen for instant replays have been added at the stadium but some things remain the same, like mowing the grass three times a week when the field is needed for events. In The Game High School Sports Magazine asked Hall a few questions about being the caretaker for the field and what it takes to make it look so good.

In the Game: How long have you been employed with the Muscogee County School District?

Dale Hall: 27 years ITG: What are the main responsibilities of your job?

DH: Making sure that the stadium is looking great. It consists of making sure everything is clean, the field is green, all electronic equipment is working and the stadium is open to the public when needed.

ITG: The field at Kinnett Stadium always looks great. Is it a year-round job taking care of the field?

DH: No, from the end of December to the beginning of March we don’t do anything with the field.

ITG: When do you start preparing the field for football season?

DH: We start preparing for football season around April.

ITG: Is there a special type of turf grass planted on the field?

DH: No, it’s just Bermuda grass that has been there since the stadium was built.

ITG: How many people does it take to keep the field in such good shape?

DH: We have a crew of six employees that help keep the stadium and field in shape.

ITG: What are some of the problems you encounter in taking care of a playing field?

DH: We encounter plumbing problems, equipment problems, and insect problems.

ITG: Sometimes during football season, the stadium is used for several games over the course of a few days. Does your crew come in after each game and re-work the field for the next game?

DH: Yes, the crew has to vacuum the dead grass and sometimes repaint the lines.

ITG: Other than mowing, water and fertilizer, are there any special secrets to keeping the field looking so good?

DH: Yes. We have to aerate the field, top dress with sand and there is slicing the grass.

ITG: What is one of the best things about working in the Muscogee County School District?

DH: Meeting different people and watching the students grow from middle school to high school in athletic abilities and knowing that we are giving their students a chance of following their dreams.

Personal Profile Name: Dale Hall Age: 47 Job title and/or responsibilities: Erosion Control Leaderman; responsibilities are at all schools and buildings which include athletic fields, storm drainage, asphalt, tree service, new sidewalks, putting up and removing all steps from the portables and all heavy equipment operation.

Hometown: Ellerslie, Georgia Education: Harris County High School Family: One son Person I most admire: My father, who is a retired MCSD employee Favorite past time: In my free time, I like to build and also have my own yard looking good but my favorite pasttime is around October when our group starts organizing for the “Plant Services Needy Children at Christmas.” I founded and have organized a group of district employees for over 10 years that help young students in our district at Christmas time. We get donors to help us sponsor needy children for Christmas with clothes, toys and shoes.

31

Freshman Focus

Chad McNeal Calvary Christian School

32

Football fuels new fire in Calvary Christian Athlete

by Beth Welch

Ten years of karate brought Chad McNeal to the realization of a personal goal. He had wanted to achieve first-degree black belt status, and after he succeeded, the Calvary Christian School student began to think about moving on to another sport challenge.

Toward the end of his seventh-grade year at Calvary, friends began encouraging McNeal to try out for the middle school football program. It was just coming off the inaugural year of development and McNeal was looking for something to help him stay in shape in preparation for the possibility of playing high school sports.

While many young guys who participate in middle school football have played the sport in recreational leagues, McNeal had never been “into” football. He was so skeptical of the plan to join the Calvary Knights middle school football program that he didn’t even discuss his plans with his mom at first.

“I didn’t tell her I was going to play football.

I signed up for it, and when she got the email about it about a week later, she wasn’t too happy about it,” says McNeal, 15, with a smile.

As time went on, McNeal’s mother got more accustomed to the idea and supported her only child in the pursuit of becoming a football athlete. For the eighth-grader, it was difficult starting from scratch in learning the game, but he was a quick study.

“He would and will not quit… [H]e is very attentive, especially when learning something new. He was not one we had to continuously re-explain things to. He generally picked up on them quickly,” says Ray Honea, football coach for Calvary Middle School.

Honea wanted to play the 5’10,” 155-pound McNeal at fullback since he was one of the fastest athletes on the team. Sometimes the plans don’t match up with the players, and the middle school team didn’t have anyone who could step in and block. The decision was made to ask McNeal to play on the line, and it turned out to be a good move for everyone.

“I saw time at right tackle, outside linebacker, and kickoff returner. I started out at fullback but got moved. I guess my favorite position of all is linebacker. It’s fun to, you know, tackle the quarterback,” he says.

photography by Jerry Christenson

McNeal’s first season of football was memorable in many ways. In the past, he had participated in a few sports that were more individually orientated. With football, McNeal was playing a team sport, and he felt the pressure to be a team player. To that end, he admits he was “scared out of my mind” at the beginning of his first game. And, at first, it looked like he might have made a mistake.

A scrimmage game was held prior to the season. The first time McNeal got his hands on the ball, he fumbled it. Instead of becoming rattled and giving up, though, McNeal says he became determined to get back in the game and make up for the mistake.

Throughout the season, McNeal’s skills steadily improved. He returned a kickoff for a 75-yard touchdown and had other great moments on the field. The middle school team at Calvary went 4-3 on the season, and McNeal was firmly hooked on the sport of football.

“I had no idea I would love football so much.

There is just nothing else like it. I was sorry when the season was over. It was the best few months I think I have ever had,” says McNeal.

Because the middle school football program ignited a fire in McNeal for the sport of football, there was no question he would continue to play at the high school level. This summer McNeal has been working on improving his overall athleticism on the football field. He has the gift of speed but knows he has work to do when it comes to catching the ball if he should have to fill in at the strong safety position. He also notes he is aware he needs to learn more of the true mechanics of the game. Having never played football until last year, McNeal is not as comfortable as he would like to be with certain plays and game plans.

While Calvary Head Football Coach Brian Osbourne knows McNeal is a “newbie” at football, he is excited about what the freshman athlete will be bringing to the table this fall.

“I am expecting to see Chad on the field as a back-up linebacker and special teams player.

The best word to describe Chad is coachable.

He is still learning the game, but he listens and attempts to perform the techniques we are teaching. He works on properly executing his technique,”says Osbourne, who has headed the Knights’ football program since it began in 2011.

Calvary will be returning 23 players to the program this fall after posting a 6-5 season last year. From coaches to players, everyone is looking for big things to happen, and no one is more excited than McNeal.

“I can’t wait. I know there are some guys ahead of me and you have to earn your spot, but I’m going to work hard to make that happen,” says McNeal.

McNeal has become so enthused about playing football he has set another personal goal for the future. He has long had a desire to attend Auburn University to study veterinarian medicine. Now, the freshman athlete has added playing football at the college level to his plan.

“I went to vet camp there for two years and would like to get a scholarship for football. But I will go anywhere that will let me play. Football is not like anything else I have ever done,” he says. ITG

Getting to know Chad: Family: Mother, Sandy McNeal Pets: A cat, Chipper Favorite food: Ribs Favorite team (college or professional): University of Georgia/Seattle Seahawks Music he listens to: Christian or Country Favorite place to eat: Shogun Favorite television show: Duck Dynasty

Best movie: Captain America: The Winter Soldier Person he most admires: Grandfather, Ed Johnson Favorite athlete: Peyton Manning Best thing about attending Calvary Christian School: How we grow in the knowledge of the Bible; and the people.

33

Raiders SHAW

Raiders look to throw their way into the playoffs

GHSA 5A-AAAA 2013 Record: Region: 2-2 Overall: 4-6

Points Earned: 161 Points Against: 306

Schedule

*region game

Aug 22 Luella

29 Northgate Sept 04 Americus-Sumter

19 Northeast, Macon 25 Northside, Columbus* Oct 03 Hardaway* 11 Columbus*

17 Carver, Columbus* 24 LaGrange* Nov 07 Harris County*

Key Players Holten Shea

OL

5’10” 200

Austin Hester

OL

6’5” 300

Sydarrian Cobb

RB

5’9” 180

Arenta Boyd

RB

5’11” 205

Quentin Jackson

What will the 2014 season bring for the Shaw Raiders? A lot of time in the air, according to Head Coach Kyle Adkins. The Raiders are missing several key players from last year’s team, including quarterback Tyrone Huff and running back Desmond Gomillia, who together combined for over 2,000 yards of total offense. Their absences don’t have Coach Adkins all that worried. He is returning 13 starters and a host of other young players who saw significant playing time in 2013. And, at least offensively, the Raiders are going to live and die in the air. “I expect us to do what we do best, which is play fast and throw the football,” he says.

WR/DB 6’2” 175

David Whitehead

DB

6’1” 175

Quinard Thomas

DB

5’11” 180

Tyrone Davis

DB

6’

William Maben

LB

5’9” 190

Head Coach: Kyle Adkins

34

Home Away

Which players will be tasked with carrying out that game plan? On offense, the line will set the tone, and two good linemen are back: center Holten Shea (5’10,” 200) and tackle Austin Hester (6’5,” 300).

A pair of running backs will share the backfield: Sydarrian Cobb (5’9,” 180) and Arenta Boyd (5’11,” 205). Quentin Jackson, who at 6’2,” 175 pounds is a rangy wide receiver/defensive back, will be a primary target for the passing game.

Among those whose job it will be to keep opponents off the scoreboard are defensive backs David Whitehead (6’1,” 175), Quinard Thomas (5’11,” 180), and Tyrone Davis (6,’ 170), and linebacker William Maben (5’9,” 190).

These players will need to step up in a hurry and show that the Raiders are ready to play and improve upon 2013’s 4-6 record. The greatest challenges the Raiders will have are shoring up the offensive and defensive lines, both of which are lacking in depth as the season approaches. Coach Adkins and his staff have spent the summer working on finding solutions to these issues. While it won’t be easy for the Raiders this year, they have the nucleus of a very good football team and could cause some problems for opponents as region play approaches.

170

Stadium Name: Kinnett Stadium Capacity: 6,000

Hawks

Hardaway

Kinnett Stadium • Capacity: 6,000 • Columbus, GA

GHSA 1-AAAAA 2013 Record: Region: 0-5 Overall: 2-8

Points Earned: 142 Points Against: 297

Golden Hawks look to return to playoffs for first time since 2010 It hasn’t been easy playing football at Hardaway High School over the last few years. Since the Golden Hawks’ last appearance in the state playoffs in 2010, they have won just six games and endured a difficult 1-9 season. Last year, the Hawks were 2-8; they won their first two games and then lost eight straight.

How do things look for 2014? According to Head Coach Jeff Battles, the Hardaway program is in a rebuilding year, which doesn’t bode well for the Golden Hawks’ postseason aspirations. Coach Battles says that last year, his team learned a

Kinnett Stadium Capacity: 6,000

great deal about what to do. However, the 2014 team features just six returning starters, only of which is on defense. Of 22 starters, 17 will be sophomores or juniors.

The learning curve will be steep and fast for those who will be lining up for the Golden Hawks. It doesn’t help that Hardaway plays in Region 1-AAAAA, which features some pretty tough competition.

Everyone will need to step up and play their best and do so right from the start.

Among those who must set the tone and provide some much-needed leadership for Hardaway are defensive back Christian Matthew (6’3,” 170), defensive lineman Kyle Oliver (6,’ 225), tight end Troy Monroe (6’3,” 205), and running back Chris Claiborne (5’10,” 175).

The road for the Golden Hawks won’t be an easy one. Coach Battles, however, believes his team can contend for a postseason spot if they mature and come together early in the season. They will have an opportunity to pick up a couple of wins early on; the first three teams on their schedule (Tri-Cities, Chattahoochee County, and Jordan) had equally tough 2013 campaigns, as well. If Hardaway can grab a few wins early in the year, then just maybe they can build some momentum as the region schedule nears. Of course those other three teams will be looking to do the same thing, which ought to give the first few weeks of the season a sense of urgency usually reserved for the last month of the season.

Schedule Aug Aug Sept Sept Sept Oct Oct Oct Oct Nov

23 29 06 12 26 03 10 16 30 06

*region game

Home Away

Tri-Cities Chattahoochee County Jordan Central, Carroll LaGrange* Shaw* Harris County* Northside, Columbus* Columbus* Carver, Columbus*

Key Players Christian Matthew

DB

6’3” 170

Kyle Oliver

DL

6’

Troy Monroe

TE

6’3” 205

Chris Claiborne

RB

5’10” 175

225

Head Coach: Jeff Battles

35

Coach’s Corner

Jim Brown Jordan High School

Jim Brown spent a total of 32 years in the military between active duty and the reserves. He retired in 2012 as a Lieutenant Colonel. Obviously, it would be impossible to keep the military influence from creeping into his coaching. However, Coach Brown says that he does not want to turn his football program into a military camp. “I want to pass on those core values that I learned in the military – leadership, selflessness, teamwork – the kinds of things that make you successful in life.

A lot of kids don’t understand that they’re part of a team, that they truly have to work together to be successful,” he says.

36

Head Coach Passes on Military Values: Leadership, Selflessness, and Teamwork

by Robert Preston Jr.

“I had always wanted to be a head coach.

That had been a goal of mine since I got into coaching. When the opportunity at Jordan came up, I knew it wasn’t a premier high school job but the opportunity was there. I’m doing the best I can to turn things around,” says Jordan High Red Jackets head football coach Jim Brown.

Coach Brown, who is starting his third year at Jordan and 21st year in coaching, has been encouraged by the progress his team has made in a relatively short period of time. Historically, the Red Jackets have won about 35 percent of their football games. To find a playoff appearance, you have to go way, way back. Coach Brown brought with him a tremendous amount of experience at successful programs. He has coached at perennial playoff teams, including coaching at a Lassiter team that went to the semifinals just before he took the Jordan job.

Jim Brown has taken a rather interesting path to coaching. He comes from a military

photography by Jerry Christenson

family and lived in several different places growing up. He ended up graduating from 71st Senior High School in Fayetteville, North Carolina, where he played football, baseball, and wrestled. Brown went to Arkansas State as a walk-on but quickly realized that football at that level probably wouldn’t work out well for him. He joined the Army, became a Ranger, went back to school, and became a football coach after his active duty career came to an end. Brown would serve 13 more years in the reserves, including a combat tour in Afghanistan that caused him to miss the entire 2010 football season at Lassiter.

During his coaching career, Brown has worked at a couple of small colleges and high schools in Kentucky before moving back to Georgia to take an assistant’s job at Chattahoochee County (Brown had graduated from Columbus State in 1984, after which he was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant stationed at Fort Benning). From

Chattahoochee County he went to Lassiter then landed the head coaching job at Jordan.

When Brown took over the Red Jackets, they were coming off an 0-10 season. He arrived on campus in June and didn’t have much time to implement any changes. “I used that first year as an evaluation year.

Football was more like a secondary sport when I arrived here. There were talented players here and in high school, a lot of times you can win on talent alone. But the program wasn’t run on the same level as most successful programs,” says Brown.

Translation: Football wasn’t a year-round sport at Jordan like it is at other schools.

There was no emphasis on watching film, offseason weight training and conditioning, and building strong relationships with the players. When it was fall, kids played football. When the season ended, they moved on to something else. To turn things around, Coach Brown had to teach the kids to love the game and want to devote the time needed to really become successful. It wasn’t easy – change never is – and the kids didn’t quite know how to react. For example, during that first summer of voluntary workouts, only seven or eight kids showed up. During the summer of 2013, there were consistently over 30 kids participating. The difference was immediate and significant.

In 2012, Brown’s first year on the job, the Red Jackets had another winless season.

Then, after being in charge of the program for a full year, things began to change.

Jordan won two games last year, snapping its winless streak in week three against Temple. The Red Jackets won 14-13 and Coach Brown says you would have thought they won the Super Bowl. “Winning those two games was tremendous,” he recalls.

As Coach Brown begins his third year on the job, he is encouraged by what he’s seeing. Last year was a turning point for the Jordan program. The players saw that they can compete, that they can win games, that they have to talent to be a good football team.

To some programs, winning two games would be an insult; to the Red Jackets, it was a sign of bigger things to come. And Coach Brown is committed to seeing the transformation through to the end. “I’m not a young guy. I’m 57 years old and it’s hard for guys my age to get hired. I want to do the best I can, turn this program around, and try not to get fired,” he laughs.

Jim Brown spent a total of 32 years in the military between active duty and the reserves.

He retired in 2012 as a Lieutenant Colonel.

Obviously, it would be impossible to keep the military influence from creeping into his coaching. However, Coach Brown says that he does not want to turn his football program into a military camp. “I want to pass on those core values that I learned in the military – leadership, selflessness, teamwork – the kinds of things that make you successful in life. A lot of kids don’t understand that they’re part of a team, that they truly have to work together to be successful,” he says. ITG

MEA FEDERAL CREDIT UNION COMING SOON!

37

Tigers

Harris Co.

Tigers have experience, depth on both sides of the ball

GHSA 1-AAAAA 2013 Record: Region: 4-1 Overall: 9-3

Points Earned: 348 Points Against: 311

Schedule Aug

Sept

Oct

Nov

15 29 04 12 19 02 10 17 24 31 07

*region game

Manchester Central Westside Macon Troup County Callaway Home Northside* Hardaway* Columbus* Carver* LaGrange* Shaw*

Key Players TaQuon Marshall Tae Crowder

QB

6’1” 170

WR/RB 6’4” 215

Tyler Boutwell

OL

6’3” 300

Tyler Williams

OL

6’

Nakia Grier

OL

6’3” 295

Tyler McGarr

OL

6’4” 265

Blake Jones

DL

Jaquize Williams

DL

Geordan McGhee

DL

Monterio Wyatt

LB

5’11” 190

D.J. Washington

DB

6’2” 185

J.J. Hutchinson

DB

5’10” 160

285

Home Away

The Harris County Tigers have been riding high over the last two years. The 2012 and 2013 seasons were among the best in the history of the program. Last year, the Tigers won nine games and advanced to the second round of the state playoffs before falling to eventual state champion Creekside. This year, Harris County returns a host of players on both sides of the ball, including some kids who put up monster numbers last season.

When you look at the 2014 Tigers, a couple of names jump out at you. Quarterback TaQuon Marshall (6’1,” 170) and receiver/running back Tae Crowder (6’4,” 215) are the first ones you’ll notice. Marshall accounted for a team-high 15 touchdowns and threw for over 1,200 yards last season. Crowder was one of Marshall’s favorite targets in 2014, catching 29 passes for 431 yards. Those two are big-time playmakers who will set the tone for the Tigers’ offense.

But they’re not going to be able to do it alone. Clearing the way for them are four returning offensive linemen, the smallest of which is 265 pounds. The line isn’t the most glamorous position, and it never receives the attention it should. However, the line often dictates the direction a team will go. If that’s the case with Harris County, then the Tigers will be in good shape. The quartet of Tyler Boutwell (6’3,” 300), Tyler Williams (6,’ 285), Nakia Grier (6’3,” 295), and Tyler McGarr (6’4,” 265) will be tasked with giving Marshall, Crowder, and the rest of the skill guys time to make plays.

Six players return on defense, includ-

ing three linemen, two defensive backs, and one linebacker.

The linemen aren’t as big as their offensive counterparts, but they are well-suited for what the Tigers would like to accomplish. Blake Jones, Jaquize Williams, and Geordan McGhee are all six feet or better and, with the exception of the 190-pound Williams, in the mid200s. These guys will handle things up front while linebacker Monterio Wyatt (5’11,” 190) and defensive backs D.J. Washington (6’2,” 185) and J.J. Hutchinson (5’10,” 160) will take care of things behind the line.

The Tigers have about all of the experience and talent a program could hope for. They have one question mark, though, and it’s an enormous one. Tommy Parks, the Tigers’ long-time head coach, left Harris County earlier this year and has been replaced by Dwight Jones, an experienced head coach with a proven record of success over a long career.

Just when the Harris County program seemingly hit its stride, it now has to adjust to a new coach, a new system, and a new way of doing business. How will the Tigers handle this new challenge?

The answer to that question will likely determine just what kind of season Harris County has.

Tiger Stadium Capacity: 4,000

Head Coach: Dwight Jones

The Swamp • Sammy Howard Field • Capacity: 2,500 • Phenix City, AL • www.glenwoodgators.org 39

Cal’Von Harris

l’Vin and Family: Parents, Ca e brother and Tameka Harris; on two sisters ese food Favorite food: Chin at: Red Favorite place to e Lobster : Rap Music he listens to Cam Newton : s e ir m d a e h te le Ath ge/ Favorite team (colle urn/The professional): Aub Falcons y the 13th a d ri F : ie v o m te ri Favo th Favorite class: Ma attending Best thing about learn and to HCCMS: Getting to play spor ts 40

Harris County athlete looking for another championship

by Beth Welch

L

ast year the Harris County Carver Middle School football team won the Muscogee County Middle School Athletic League Football Championship and was undefeated on the season. The football program at HCCMS has gained somewhat of a reputation having won the championship three out of the past five years. Cal’Von Harris was a member of last year’s championship team and is hoping for another winner’s trophy in the 2014 season.

Harris, 14, played running back and free safety for the Tigers as a seventh grader. The 5’11,” 158-pound athlete has been playing football since the age of eight when he first played in recreational league football programs. All along the way Harris has held the RB position mainly due to one factor. He has been gifted with incredible speed.

“He is just amazing to watch. Not many people his age have that kind of speed and when he wants to turn it on, it is really something,” says Tigers Athletic Director and head football coach Don Jackson.

With over a decade of coaching experience, Jackson has seen some talented middle school athletes. In his opinion, Harris is probably one of the fastest football athletes he has ever seen on a playing field in a middle school football program.

“He has unbelievable speed. Lots of players are fast but you don’t see that burst of speed that he has,” says Jackson.

Harris’ ability to move on a football field enabled him to score four touchdowns in two respective middle school games last year. Middle schools don’t keep stats for the most part but Jackson estimates his star running back scored about 15 touchdowns in 2013 and was instrumental in helping the team reach the playoffs and secure the win in the championship game

photography by Jerry Christenson

last December against Arnold Middle School.

Watching Harris off the football field, one would never guess the talented athlete possesses such quickness. The eighth grader doesn’t spend much energy talking and is known to move pretty slowly in his everyday life.

“He’s quiet. Always respectful and just a great guy. He takes his time, though, everywhere else but when he wants to, on the football field, he can turn on the afterburners,” says Jackson.

The Tigers coach says he will definitely keep Harris in the RB position but might try him at linebacker for a few plays just because Harris has grown taller recently. In addition to the possibility of placing him in a new spot on the field, Jackson said he wanted to work with Harris on becoming more verbal.

“He will be a team leader for us. We are expecting some big things from him but we are going to work on him becoming a little more vocal in his role as a leader. He is such a good athlete that if he works on the little things like that, well, he will be even better,” Jackson notes.

A three-sport athlete at HCCMS, Harris is a shooting guard on the basketball team and with his kind of speed he is a strong part of the track team. Of the three, though, Harris says football is his favorite.

“I like football the best. I like playing basketball but football is what I like to do. I like getting yards and running for touchdowns,” says Harris.

Harris cites his most memorable game in 2013 as the championship game and hopes to have a repeat season by making it into the winner’s circle one again.

If the Tigers do make it to the championship game this fall, it won’t be as part of the

Muscogee County league. Recently, HCCMS signed on to play in the Chattahoochee Valley Football League which includes some middle schools in LaGrange as well as a few in Alabama.

According to Jackson, the move was made mainly because the Chattahoochee League allows for both a seventh-grade team and an eighth-grade team.

“This gives us an opportunity to have more athletes in the system and keep them playing.

Before we only had one team and if some seventh-grade athletes didn’t make the team, then they didn’t have an opportunity until the next year,” says Jackson.

Harris says he is looking forward to the new league and playing against some new teams.

He has been preparing this summer by working on drills and staying in shape. The season for the new league starts earlier and Harris wants to be ready.

“It will be fun. I think we will be good and be able to show them we are good. We want to be undefeated again and we want to be champions. That will make us all happy,” says Harris.

After his middle school career is over, Harris plans on attending high school right up the road at Harris County High School. He already knows many athletes in the football program.

His future plans include going to college, possibly Georgia, but he is more focused right now on the school year that has just begun and playing his first game of the season on August 28.

Harris may not be very talkative but when it comes to football, his performance on the football field speaks for him. If his upcoming season is anything like last year’s, the teams in the Chattahoochee Valley league that will play against HCCMS will probably hear him loud and clear. ITG

41

Jordan

RED JACKETS

GHSA 2-AAA 2013 Record: Region: 2-6 Overall: 2-8

Points Earned: 174 Points Against: 400

Schedule

*region game

Aug 22 Columbus Sept 06 Hardaway

12 Central, Macon*

18 Southwest, Macon*

26 Jackson* Oct 03 Rutland* 10 Westside, Macon* 17 Kendrick*

23 Peach County* Nov 07 Spencer*

Key Players Kastadell Ford

C

5’7” 286

Jaden Jordan

CB

5’9” 165

Jaquan Harvey

CB

5’9” 160

D’Arius Williams

S

5’9” 170

Ladarius Humphries

LB

6’1” 195

Javante West

5’11” 165

Tim Griggs

5’9” 170

Jamal Lewis

5’8” 215

Enrique Barcenas

5’9” 220

Malik Owens

6’3” 210

Head Coach: Jim Brown

42

Home Away

Jordan regroups with experience in secondary, return of 1,000yard wide receiver On the surface, the Jordan Red Jackets’ 2-8 record from 2013 might not seem like much. However, the first of those two wins - a 14-13 victory over Temple - snapped a 26-game losing streak that spanned three seasons and gave the Red Jackets something around which they could rally. Jordan went on to lose three more games before outlasting Chattahoochee County 47-33. Two wins might not be that significant to a lot of programs, but for a team that had back to back winless seasons, it’s a pretty good starting point.

The Red Jackets have 12 starters returning for 2014 - six each on either side of the ball. Gone is quarterback William Harris, who threw for over 1,600 yards

Kinnett Stadium Capacity: 6,000

last year. Harris’s favorite target, Javante West (5’11,” 165), who caught 64 passes for 1,001 yards, is back. So is Jordan’s leading rusher from a year ago, the 5’9,” 170-pound Tim Griggs. Having those two weapons back on offense is a big boost for the Red Jackets. The problem, however, will be on the offensive line. Head Coach Jim Brown cites one of Jordan’s obstacles this year as inexperience on the line. Three linemen return, including the 5’7,” 286-pound center, Kastadell Ford. Joining him are Jamal Lewis (5’8,” 215) and Enrique Barcenas (5’9,” 220). If the Red Jackets are going to mount any kind of offense, they must shore up the rest of the positions on the line.

The defensive line isn’t in much better shape. Two starters are back, one of which is Jamal Lewis. The other is Malik Owens (6’3,” 210). If there is any good news for the defense, it’s that the secondary is fast, deep, and talented. Two cornerbacks and a strong safety (Jaden Jordan, 5’9”, 165; Jaquan Harvey, 5’9”, 160; and D’Arius Williams, 5’9”, 170) return as does linebacker Ladarius Humphries (6’1,” 195), who led the Red Jackets with 74 total tackles in 2014.

Jordan is one of several area schools looking to turn around its misfortunes as of late. The Red Jackets have some talented kids who can make big plays. They also have some big question marks; they have to fill out an inexperienced line on both sides and find a replacement at the quarterback position. It won’t be easy, but it can definitely be done.

The Swamp • Sammy Howard Field • Capacity: 2,500 • Phenix City, AL • www.glenwoodgators.org

CALVARY CHRISTIAN

knights GHSA 3A-A 2013 Record: Region: 6-0 Overall: 11-3

Knights have championship aspirations for 2014 Head Coach Brian Osborne and the Calvary Christian Knights are pretty blunt with their expectations for 2014: they want to play for a state championship. It’s not an unreasonable goal; each of the last two years the Knights have made it to the semifinals of the GICAA 1-AA playoffs. Last year, they lost by three points to the eventual state champions.

This season, they return 18 kids with starting experience, including 5’8,” 195-pound fullback Anthony Santiago, who rushed for over 1,000 yards and scored 16 touchdowns. The Knights also return three offensive linemen: tackle Mason Kent (6’2,” 270), who also doubles as a defensive lineman; guard Stephen Galloway (5’11,” 155); and center Blake Honea (5’8,” 240). In addition to Santiago, running back/defensive backs Jacquez Green (5’11,” 160) and Jeffrey Scott (6’1,” 165) are back. Scott, along with fellow defensive back Jackson Sellers (5’6,” 140) who is also back, led the Knights with three interceptions last year.

Calvary Christian also has two linebackers - Taylor Faulk (5’7,” 150) and Ethan Cook (5’8,” 160) - back, as well as a Steven Fowler (5’9,” 170) and Jacob Bland (6’2,” 250), two experienced defensive linemen. Cody Russell (5’6,” 140) is another defensive back with starting experience who will return, as well.

The news isn’t all good for the Knights.

They have to replace a couple of threeyear starters at tight end and quarterback Adam Gray. Still, you can’t argue with experience. The Knights have

played well into the postseason the last few years. Most of the players on those teams are back. They have the football fitness to play a long season, the biggame experience to handle a deep playoff run, and the desire to get over the proverbial hump that has kept them from a state title over the last couple of years.

It looks like the Knights are going to be one of the teams to beat in their classification once again.

Points Earned: 517 Points Against: 227

Schedule

*region game

Home Away

Aug 22 John Hancock Academy

29 Fullington Academy Sept 05 Skipstone Academy 12 Dawson Street Christian 19 Covenant Christian 26 Sherwood Oct 10 Central Fellowship 24 Covenant Academy

31 Community Christian Nov 07 Creekside Christian

Bobby Ray Field Capacity: 350

Key Players Anthony Santiago Mason Kent

FB

5’8” 195

OL/DL 6’2” 270

Stephen Galloway

OL

5’11” 155

Blake Honea

OL

5’8” 240

Jacquez Green

RB/DB 5’11” 160

Jeffrey Scott

RB/DB 6’1” 165

Taylor Faulk

LB

5’7” 150

Ethan Cook

LB

5’8” 160

Steven Fowler

DL

5’9” 170

Jacob Bland

DL

6’2” 250

Cody Russell

DB

5’6” 140

Head Coach: Brian Osbourne

45