Southeast Georgia March 2016 Edition

Enjoying His First Season As Wildcat’s Skipper Chuck Seymour | Camden County High School

It's My Time To Shine

Hunter Goff

Sister Act

Morgan and Lauren Lee Jane Macon Middle School Pierce County High School

Camden Wrestlers Player Profiles

Never Give Up

Jonathan Sweat Glynn Academy

Signing Day

2016

Big Z Makes His Mark

March 2016

Zachary Strickland Ware County High School

IN THIS ISSUE 8 Big Z Makes His Mark Zachary Strickland Ware County High School

18 Sister Act

Morgan and Lauren Lee Pierce County High School

22 Enjoying His First Season As

Wildcat’s Skipper

Chuck Seymour Camden County High School

28 Never Give Up Jonathan Sweat Glynn Academy

32 Camden Wrestlers Player Profiles

PLUS:

Business Spotlight.............................12 Signing Day 2016..............................36

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IT'S MY TIME TO

SHINE Hunter Goff Jane Macon Middle School

FROM THE PUBLISHER Ben Butin Humble and Hungry

Academic Athlete Camden County High School

Selling Hoops in Blueberry Country JB Bergeron, Bacon County High School

Dekhel Mitchell Master Of The Mat

Most Improved Todd Carter

22

Spring is in the air and in more ways than one. Temperatures have been in the 70’s and 80’s for most of February and early March and the thick yellow pollen is covering SEGA like a light dusting of snow. It’s a busy time for Athletic Directors across the SEGA coverage area as we move into the busiest sports season of the year.

Student-athletes are all outdoors now playing baseball, golf, soccer, tennis or running track. Do yourself a favor and get out to an event today and support these great young men and women.

I knew the first time I saw this young man pitch as a 10th grader he’d be someone special. Ware County Senior right handed pitcher Zach Strickland has become one of the best in SEGA consistently throwing in the low 90’s. Zach has had an excellent senior campaign at the plate as well with several games producing multiple RBI’s . The Georgia Southern commit has proven why he’s a D-1 prospect and why major league scouts are showing up to see him pitch nearly every time he takes the mound.

No you’re are not seeing double but you are looking at Pierce County High School twins Morgan and Lauren Lee. These two multi-sport twins are currently terrorizing opponents on the soccer pitch 6

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for his senior season after 2 torn ACL’s, Glynn Academy Red Terror Johnathan Sweat.

Against all odds Johnathan is back and you can only root for him to be successful after putting so much effort into getting back on the pitch.

Good Luck Johnathan.

We hope you enjoy reading In the Game as much as we enjoy producing and publishing it. We would like to thank our friends at the Georgia High School Football Historians Association (ghsfha.org) for their assistance. We are always open to suggestions as well as story ideas or ways you think we can improve our magazine. Please visit our website at www.inthegamemagazine.com and Facebook at www.facebook.com/ inthegamemagazine. Follow us on Twitter @SEGAInTheGame and on Instagram at inthegamesega. You can now keep up with all the Friday Night scores across SEGA and the state with our new partner App Scorestream. Download the scorestream app at Google Play or the Appstore today. Join us every Thursday evening live from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. as we broadcast live from Firehouse Subs in Waycross. Listen to “In the Game on Radio” on WWUF 97.7 FM or stream the show live on www.waycrossradio.com.While you’re online, don’t forget to nominate a deserving student-athlete or coach for one of our feature articles. You’ll be glad you did.

Dynamic Duo Of The Backcourt Davion Mitchell, Richard LeCounte Liberty County High School

February 2016

but they both excel at other sports. Morgan is the two-time Captain of the 3-time State Champions Pierce County Competition Cheer Squad and Lauren runs cross country and has played both Basketball and softball.

Some eyebrows were raised when there was a coaching change made in the baseball program at Camden County. After all coach Jay Lasley had been successful for many years at Camden and had lead the Wildcats to a 1st place finish on the south side of Region 3 AAAAA in 2015.

Credit the Wildcats for making a great choice on their new hire, Chuck Seymour.

Chuck was on the staff of former coach Lasley and was a part of the Wildcat family and familiar with the inner workings that’s made Wildcat baseball so successful. I have no doubt he’ll carry on the Wildcat’s winning tradition.

Maybe it’s in his genes or maybe it’s because he’s had a bat in his hands since he was 2 years’ old, regardless Jane Macon Middle schooler Hunter Goff is one of the best young baseball talents in SEGA. Watching his uncle’s play college baseball as a young boy and now being coached by one of them has given Hunter a unique perspective on the game. He’s a great student of the game as well as a great student in the classroom who will make his mark at the high school level.

Injuries are always going to be a part of a student-athletes playing career. A bruise here, a pulled whatever and a nagging other thing but no one should have to endure 2 torn ACL’s. Meet the young man who’s battled his way back to compete on the pitch

TELL US YOUR THOUGHTS! Email us at info@itgsportsnetwork.com to let us know what you thought of the February edition of ITG

Contributors Publisher Shawn Smoak Editor Mark Dykes Graphics Ashlyn Peek Cover Photography Jennifer Carter Johnson Feature Photography Jennifer Carter Johnson Michael Brinson Feature Writers John DuPont Rob Asbell John Wood Copy Editor James Washington Advertising/Marketing Shawn Smoak shawn@inthegamemagazine.com Mark Dykes mark@inthegamemagazine.com Website Manager Cole Parker SEGA Prep Sports P.O. Box 2960 Waycross, Ga. | 31502 Corporate Office: Dykes Media Group, Inc. P.O. Box 812 Valdosta, Ga. | 31603 In the Game is published monthly (excluding July). 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.

presented by

8

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Big Z Makes

His Mark written by: Rob Asbell | photography by: Jennifer Carter Johnson

“

I actually played both football and baseball in middle school and during that time I realized that I wanted to be able to play baseball at the next level. So when I started high school, I concentrated on baseball only and made the changes I needed which would allow me the best opportunity to play at the college level and hopefully the professional level one day. I believe that sacrifice has been worth it.

"

They call him “Z” or even “Big Z”, but like the legend of Zorro, he has made his mark by carving up batters, striking out 65 in 53 innings of work last year. His real name is Zachary Strickland, and he is a senior right-hander for the Ware County Gators’ baseball team. How he does this season could decide his future: He has already signed a National Letter of Intent to play college baseball in Statesboro, but he is also attracting the attention of some major league teams who could choose Strickland in the June 9 draft.

“It depends on the situation,” Strickland told In the Game Radio.

For now, he is concentrating on his senior season for Coach Tony Yeomans’ Ware County Gators, and then the 6’2”, 216-pound right-handed pitcher will be playing collegiately next season for the Georgia Southern Eagles.

Strickland started playing baseball as soon as he could walk, at the age of 2, with his father in the backyard, and then later in recreation league baseball and travel ball with the Ware County Mudcats, the Tifton Mavericks, and now with the Chain Baseball Academy out of Warner Robins.

“I actually played football and baseball in middle school; during that time I realized that I wanted to be able to play baseball at the next level,” he said. “So when I started high school, I concentrated on baseball and made the changes I needed that would allow me the best opportunity to play at the college level, and hopefully the professional level, one day. I believe that sacrifice has been worth it.”

In his freshman season, Strickland found his way into the record books when he tossed a perfect game for the Gators. By his sophomore year, he was starting at

Check this Out Most Common Injuries Seen In ERs For Sports In 2013 Strain/sprain 451,480

Fracture 249,500

Contusion or abrasion 210,640

Concussion 163,670

Other/not stated 141,330

"After that several college coaches called my travel coach asking about me and I realized that my dream to play at the college level was a possibility and it motivated me to work harder."

Laceration 85,560

Dislocation 33,300

Head

Common Body Injuries

14%

Face

7%

Fingers

12%

Knees

9%

Ankles

15%

moc.yadotasu fo ysetruoc si noitamrofni sihT

third base as well, and was an Honorable Mention member of the All-Region 3-AAAAA team.

Meanwhile in travel ball, Strickland was playing for Coach Andy Buress’ Chain Academy against a team from North Carolina. He was playing at third with the bases loaded and two outs in the bottom of the seventh inning. Strickland made a diving catch to end the inning, and then during his next at bat, he connected on a walk-off, game-winning hit. While pitching for Chain baseball, Strickland also tossed an amazing game against a ranked team from Houston, Texas.

“I was able to pitch the complete game and shut them down with a great defense behind me,” he said. “After that, several college coaches called my travel coach asking about me. I realized that my dream to play at the college level was a possibility, and it motivated me to work harder.”

Last year as a junior for the Gators, he was the Sub-Region Pitcher of the Year and an All-Region pitcher. He had an ERA

of 1.84 and was named one of the top pitching prospects for the Perfect Game National Showcase. He is ranked the 70th right-handed pitcher in the country and finds himself in the overall top 225 players in the class of 2016 by Perfect Game and the seventh RHP in Georgia.

His favorite part of the game? “Pitching in a close game or against a good team,” he said. “Because it is more intense and makes me a better player.”

Although he can play third base, as well as first, he prefers to be on the mound where he controls the game with a fastball, curveball, slider, and change-up.

He carries a 3.6 grade point average in the classroom and is enrolled in Honors and Advanced Placement courses. His college plans include more than just baseball. He has already decided his major.

“Teaching and education, so I can coach baseball in the future,” he said.

Whether it is D-I college baseball or rookie ball next season, Strickland wants to improve on his mechanics. “Such as

You’ve Got To Be Kidding Me!

US Army during WWII developed a grenade that was about the same size and shape as a regular baseball making it easy to use for the American soldiers who had grown up playing baseball Jim Abbott, who was born with just one hand, had 11year career as a pitcher in MLB. The highlight of his career was when he pitched a ‘no hitter’ in 1993.

Many MLB players have refused to face softball pitcher, Jennie Finch, in her ‘This Week in Baseball’ TV segment, where she challenges the best hitters in MLB, because she strikes out so many of them.

Lefty slugger, Prince Fielder was born a natural right handed hitter, but his father forced him to bat lefty saying he’d thank him for it later

staying back and using my lower half to the maximum, and to be able to throw off speed in any count, wherever I want it,” he said. “I want to continue to gain muscle mass and increase my fastball velocity.”

His fastball has continued to creep up the Jugs Gun numbers going from 91 to 94 mph his junior year.

Strickland remains humble and credits a crew of coaches and mentors who have helped him reach this point: Andy Buress of Chain baseball, pitching coach Ryan White, Ware County coach Tony Yeomans, weightlifting coaches Franklin Stephens and Sonny Spurlock, and of course, his mother and father. “They have

In 1963, Gaylord Perry’s MLB manager is said to have joked, “They’ll land a man on the moon before he hits a homerun.” Interestingly, one hour after Apollo 11 landed, he did in fact hit a home run.

impacted my life and game more than any coach possible,” he said. “I couldn’t be where I am today without them.”

He has also helped with the Miracle League, an organization that allows children with mental and physical disabilities to experience baseball firsthand on a custom-designed, rubberized turf field that accommodates wheelchairs and other devices while helping to prevent injuries.

“The way they smile, laugh, enjoy it, and simply have fun just hits you hard,” he said.

“It makes you realize how blessed you are.

I thank God every day for blessing me with the talent and having the opportunity to go out every day and do what I love to do.”

The Yankees, Cubs, Angels and Dodgers are the only four MLB teams that lack a mascot. The Yankees used to have one, but he quit after being beaten up by fans, who didn’t want a mascot.

The Hanshin Tigers baseball team of Japan is believed to be cursed by KFC founder Colonel Sanders for throwing his storefront statue into the river

by Hanshin fans while celebrating their team’s victory in 1985.

Boston Red Sox slugger, Ted Williams (1918-2002) missed almost five full baseball seasons while serving as a fighter pilot in WWII and the Korean War and still managed to hit 521 home runs There is a version of baseball for the blind called “Beep Baseball.” It has its own World Series, Hall of Fame, and 27 teams.

This information is courtesy of kickassfacts.com

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Jennifer Carter Johnson Photography Capturing Memories

written by: Rob Asbell

As you thumb through the pages of In The Game Southeast Georgia edition, you no doubt notice the quality of the photographs that accompany the stories. Many of those, including this month’s cover photo, were taken by photographer extraordinaire Jennifer Carter Johnson of Blackshear. For the past six years, Jennifer Carter Johnson Photography has been taking pictures of high school seniors and student athletes.

“Through the years, I have learned what I love to photograph and that’s what I tend to concentrate on: For me that’s sports. I just have a passion for sports, the action shots. And seniors; I love their energy.”

Now, she follows her passion by doing photography for high school seniors and out on the playing fields. As a photographer, she has a keen eye for subjects that stand out.

She will put people in surrounding locations that emphasize their own interests. One of her photos captures a softball team coming out of a corn field as if they are in a “Field of Dreams” remake. The photo adorns the top of her Facebook page which features several other examples of her work.

Like many parents, Jennifer Carter Johnson got her start by photographing her own children and then posting the pictures on social media. “Other people would see it and it just sort of went from there,’ she says. “It’s something that with time the more I did it the more I liked it and the more interest I had from other people.”

Before long, she had a following who loved her photographs with their attention to detail and a certain flare

that made them more than just pictures. She began taking photos for others and was soon doing signature photos for high school seniors. “I am so blessed to be surrounded by coaches and kids that don’t mind having my camera in their face during games,” she says. “And by lots of amazing clients that trust me enough to capture their memories.”

Her favorite type of photo is one that challenges her, and her favorite place to be is on the sidelines of a Pierce County Bears football game on a Friday night. Shooting photos of action pulls her in and gives her the freedom to get good, exciting photos. “When it’s dark it is so much more of a challenge to catch those guys in the air catching the ball.”

Whether she is photographing a game or shooting a magazine cover, each of Jennifer Carter Johnson’s photos stands out from others. “I just get out there and try to have fun regardless of what it is I am photographing. I feel like, ‘If I am not having fun why do it?’ I don’t know if it is the energy behind it or the heart behind it. I just really enjoy what I do.”

To make an appointment, contact Jennifer Carter Johnson Photography at (912) 281-2599 or by email at jennifer@ jennifercarterjohnson.com. She is also available on social media on Facebook, Instagram, Pintrest and Twitter.

IN THE GAME | 13

APPLING COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL

WRESTLING FINISHES STRONG

written by: Rob Asbell | photography by: Appling County High School Appling County senior wrestler Caleb Johnson took third place at the state traditional wrestling tournament in February.

Johnson wrestled in the 170 pound category. Coach Mark Green calls Johnson a technical type of wrestler who works from the inside.

“He knows everything and he has matured a lot this year,” Coach Green said.

In softball, Michaelin “KK” Thomas signed a scholarship to South Georgia State College.

Meanwhile, the basketball team of Coach Bryan Weaver has finished up the season with a loss to Jenkins High School. Lady Pirates’ coach John Roddie saw his team get wins over Pierce County and Southeast Bulloch in January as they, too, prepared for tournament play. Islands High School dispatched the Lady Pirates quickly to end the season.

The Pirates’ baseball team of Coach Jeremy Smith got started in February with a scrimmage against Ware County in Waycross. The Pirates led most of the way until the Gators got a walk-off home run to win the game. That was followed by Appling’s home and region-opening win over the Southeast Bulloch Yellow Jackets on February 18, before taking part in the “Baseball at the Beach” tournament in Brunswick. Appling split games with Richmond Hill and Clarke Central during the tournament.

Here is the remainder of the Appling County Pirates 2016 Baseball schedule: Tuesday February 23 Savannah* Home Thursday February 25 Jeff Davis Home Friday February 26 Jenkins* Away Tuesday March 1 Islands* Away Thursday March 3 Jeff Davis Away

Friday March 4 Johnson* Home Tuesday March 8 Beach* Home Friday March 11 Brantley* Home Saturday March 12 Wayne Away Tuesday March 15 Toombs* Home Friday March 18 Tattnall* Away Tuesday March 22 Dodge* Away Friday March 25 Pierce* Away Tuesday March 29 Brantley* Away Friday April 1 Toombs* Away Tuesday April 5 Tattnall* Home Friday April 8 Dodge* Home Tuesday April 12 Pierce* Home Friday April 15 Region Tournament (DH) Saturday April 16 Region Tournament Monday April 18 Wayne Home Friday April 22 Region Tournament

WARE COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL

GATOR’S BASEBALL GETS UNDERWAY

written by: Rob Asbell | photography by: Shawn Smoak The Ware County High School basketball team of Coach Tre Hill extended its winning streak to 11 games as the Gators upset the Richmond Hill Tigers 58-56 in the quarterfinals of the Region 3-AAAAA Basketball Tournament. Ware wasn’t so lucky in the semifinals, as eventual region champion Camden County defeated the Gators. Ware then fell to Effingham to end the regular season as the number-four seed from Region 3-AAAAA and they moved into the 32-team state basketball tournament. Their first tournament game was against the always-tough Warner Robins Demons, who ended the Gators’ season.

After a big come-from-behind victory in the first round of the Region 3-AAAAA tournament, the Lady Gators of Coach Mandy Lingenfelter saw their season come to an end at the hands of the Brunswick Pirates. Playing in the second round of the tournament, the Brunswick team was too much for the Lady Gators to handle as they fell 62-48, missing the state playoffs.

A total of seven Ware County wrestlers competed in the state sectionals in February, with four qualifying for the State Traditional Championship tournament at the Infinite Energy Arena in Duluth, Georgia. Coach Joe Eichfeld had sophomore Brandon Foster wrestling at 113 pounds, going 1-2; junior Cole White went 2-2 at 152 pounds. Also splitting his matches (2-2) was junior Britton Jones at 195 pounds, while senior Dalton Soper (at 160 pounds) was 1-2.

For more information on Gator wrestling, click on www.warecountywrestling.com.

Coach Tony Yeomans’ baseball team got started in February with several road games before their home opener against Wayne County on March 1. Returning this year are four players named to the 3-AAAAA All-Region team last year:

Zachary Strickland, Jet Thomas and Cody Grant, and Kobe Manders.

Below is the Gators’ baseball schedule for 2016: MARCH Tue. 1 vs. Wayne County 5:55 Tue. 8 vs. Wayne County 6:00 Thu. 10 vs. Lowndes 5:30 Sat. 12 vs. Pierce County 2:00 Mon. 14 vs. Glynn Academy 6:00 Wed. 16 vs. Glynn Academy 5:55 Fri. 18 vs. Glynn Academy 6:00 Mon. 21 vs. Coffee County 6:00 Wed. 23 vs. Coffee County 5:55 Fri. 25 vs. Coffee County 6:00 Mon. 28 vs. Brunswick 6:00 Wed. 30 vs. Brunswick 5:55 APRIL Fri. 1 vs. Brunswick 6:00 Mon. 4 vs. Camden County 6:00 Wed. 6 vs. Camden County 5:55 Fri. 8 vs. Camden County 6:00 Mon. 11 vs. Lowndes 5:30 Thu. 14 vs. Region Tournament 4:00 DOUBLE HEADER Fri. 15 vs. Region Tournament 6:00

"IF" game of doubleheader Tue. 19 vs. Seeding Game 6:00 Fri. 22 vs. Seeding Game TBA Thu. 28 vs. First Round of State Tournament

A soccer field is called a “pitch” because every regulation field is pitched — or sloped — 5 degrees upwards from one end to the other. The teams switch sides after each half so each team has to play slightly uphill for half the match.

Known as “soccer” in the United States, the sport is known as “football” elsewhere. But the game’s original name was actually “basket-ball” because the first goals were overturned wicker baskets.

From 1994 to 1998, the English Premier League had red, yellow and teal cards. Teal cards were used for possible fouls that were to be reviewed by instant replay.

In 2002 the XEPL, a soccer league launched by the WWE’s Vince McMahon, played four games in the United Kingdom. The league folded due to lack of attendance and too many injuries from the trap doors placed throughout the field.

There are 32 panels on a traditional soccer ball, one for each country in Europe.

Brazilian soccer legend Pelé was born Edson Arantes do Nascimento.

He took the nickname Pelé, a Brazilian Portuguese word meaning “six feet,” due to being born with six toes on each foot.

The national sport of Canada is soccer.

In most countries, a soccer player’s uniform is called a “kit.” The cleats are called “hooves.

Soccer developed in London’s famed Newgate Prison in the early 1800s. Prisoners who had their hands cut off for crimes of theft came up with a sport that used only the feet. The game spread from there.

The first American professional soccer league, the USSA, played from 1919 to 1921 and paid its players 35-cents for every goal scored.

The original World Cup was made of papier-mâché, but it had to be replaced after the heavy rains of the 1950 World Cup. Soccer was illegal in Mississippi until 1991.

This information is courtesy of medium.com

18 | itgsportsnetwork.com

Sister Act

Did You Know?

presented by

Written by John DuPont | photography by: Jennifer Carter Johnson

Scientifically speaking, they are two of a kind. Pierce County High seniors Morgan and Lauren Lee, the daughters of Cameron and Lisa Lee, have each enjoyed prolific high school careers.

However, upon meeting them, it doesn’t take long to figure out that the identical twins are as different as night and day. “I always liked to go shopping with mama and still do,” said Morgan, who is six minutes older. “And I’m Daddy’s girl because he and I like to hunt, fish, and ride around,” Lauren added.

“Lauren and Morgan will go down as two

of the greatest to come through the Pierce County soccer program,” said Alvin Thrift, PCHS head soccer coach. “Lauren is a work horse and gets up and down the field both on offense and defense. She has been a two-year captain and is greatly respected by the other 22 girls on the team. Morgan brings something to the team that is hard to duplicate: she quietly works harder than the rest and makes everyone around her not only a better player, but a better person. No matter what we are doing, Morgan makes the rest of the team feel better and work harder.”

"Lauren and Morgan will go down as two of the greatest to come through the Pierce County soccer program.”

A three-year soccer veteran, Morgan is better known as the two-time captain of the PCHS competition cheerleaders. She will leave PCHS as the program’s most decorated cheerleader with three state titles, three region titles, and three middle school conference titles. Meanwhile, Lauren’s dossier includes four years of soccer, three years of cross country, two years of basketball, and a year of softball.

“Morgan is a silent leader,” said PCHS cheer coach Amy Nimmer. “Even though she is not always outspoken, the girls listen to what she has to say when it is time.

She does not complain or argue when I ask for something to be done. After all, she has three state rings to prove it.

Morgan has been an asset to this team in many ways, and I can only hope that I will continue to see more athletes like Morgan enter the cheerleading program at Pierce County High School.”

The soccer siblings are also standouts in the classroom, where both are positioned to graduate comfortably in the upper half of a senior class numbering nearly 230.

Each carries a GPA of 3.25 or greater and maintains an A/B average. Each is part of the Certified Nursing Assistant program at PCHS and holds membership with the Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA). They even have identical class schedules, as they have throughout school.

“I had to do that so I would know what was going on with Lauren, because she wouldn’t tell me,” their mother said. “All she ever cared about was sports. They both eat the same things, they watch the same things. They stay in the same bedroom even though they have separate rooms. They are both extremely big hearted. They are not competitive with each other and never have been, and that’s a good thing.”

Lauren is poised to play collegiate soccer and has drawn interest from South Georgia State College and ABAC, as well as Andrew College in Cuthbert. Meanwhile, Morgan plans to focus on academics at the next level, despite her championship-laden resume. Lauren said with a laugh, “At home, Mama will joke about stuff like taking out the trash saying, ‘Morgan doesn’t have to do that; she’s a threetime state champ.’”

Humor aside, everyone acknowledges

the blood, sweat, and tears that went into each of those state championships. Morgan says she’s equally proud of all three titles, but vividly recalls the moments leading up to the most recent crown won last fall in Columbus. “After our first big stunt, everyone knew we were pretty good. We then knew that we just had to stick the pyramid.

We got back to the area to get water, and Miss Amy was crying because we did so well. Then we prayed. It was different this year because last year she knew our routine wasn’t our best one and that we could have been beaten, but this year she knew after we did it that we couldn’t be beaten.”

Morgan recently shocked everyone by winning Player of the Week honors for the soccer Bears, an honor that came on the heels of her first-ever goal. On the pitch, though, it’s usually Lauren who finds the back of the net. Last season she garnered All-Region honors and was named the team’s Best Offensive Player, scoring a team-high 21 goals along with 22 assists.

She plays forward or right midfielder; Morgan usually plays forward and actually set up her sister for a score against one of the Savannah teams last year. “It was a cross pass near the 18-yard box,” Lauren said. “I was just really trying to get rid of the ball as fast as I could,” Morgan added.

Lauren also was the top cross country runner in Region 1-AAA this season while helping lead PCHS to the region title. “That’s been the best part of my senior year so far,” she said. Both girls were named to the senior superlatives: Lauren was named Wittiest while Morgan was voted Best Looking. Morgan was also the 2016 PCHS Homecoming Queen and was named Miss Freshman, Miss Sophomore, and Miss Junior in previous years.

Morgan, who lists social studies as her favorite subject, looks to get her college degree in business. “I am probably going to work with my dad. He sprays concrete in storm drains,” she said. Lauren, a math aficionado, casts an eye on a nursing career.

“You can make good money,” she added.

The girls actually have an older sister – Logan, 24 – who bears a striking resemblance to them. Still, since the earliest days, Lauren and Morgan have basically experienced the highs and lows of twinhood together. Adults for years have confused the two. “They always call us by the

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wrong name. They’ll go through all the names before they get it right,” Morgan said. “I always get in trouble,” Lauren added. “I can hit Morgan and she hits me back but I am the one that gets the blame.”

Teachers have done a surprisingly decent job of telling the twins apart. Most have had some sort of scouting report, thanks the girl’s grandmother, Susie Sapp. She has been the girls’ number one fan and makes it a point to attend every game. “Nana and Mama get lost going everywhere,” Lauren said. “One time they missed a whole game.” Morgan added, “They’ll have the address or a GPS and still get lost.”

Mrs. Sapp, an administrative assistant at PCHS, is retiring at the end of the school year. For the past four years, she has helped shuttle the girls to and from

school, warmed up their lunch in the faculty lounge, and performed an array of tasks for the girls. Soon they’ll all be moving on to exciting new challenges.

“I have been blessed to have been able to be at the high school with Morgan and Lauren for the past four years,” Mrs. Sapp said. “The countless nights coming home from soccer games, the many long weekends of cheer competitions, the honors and achievements they’ve received, have been priceless. As they near graduation, they know that if there are things they want to achieve, knowledge they want to gain, and friends they want to make, it is now entirely up to them.”

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How Many Calories Does An Endurance Athlete Burn In 30 Minutes of Exercise?

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377 Calories 377 Calories

7 MPH

444 Calories 365 Calories Increased muscular endurance has benefits ranging from improved athletic performance for activities like running and cycling, to assisting in day-today activities such as walking through the grocery store or carrying a baby in your arms.

You can improve your muscular endurance using the basic principles of fitness, which include exercise frequency, intensity, time and type. Be sure to slowly increase exercise frequency, intensity and duration to avoid overuse injuries.

Vary the types of activities you do to challenge your muscles and avoid training plateaus.

This information is courtesy of livestrong.com and healthstatus.com

22 | itgsportsnetwork.com

A

written by: John Wood | photography by: Michael Brinson

white baseball with fire red laces falls forward in a fast, buzzing motion that visually is nothing more than a blur; but when you connect with those laces and give that ball a ride it is an amazing feeling. t’s not the rush of hitting a ball perfectly; it’s the whole experience of the ballpark and all that goes with it. Players that have spent a lot of time playing at some point will play at the highest level they, but instead of leaving the game they love, they began to teach others to love and play the game the right way.

“I got into coaching as a way to stay in the game.

I always thought my coaches growing up were heroes and idols,” said first year Camden County High School baseball coach Chuck Seymour.

Though it’s Seymour’s first season as the Wildcats skipper, he has been at Camden County, sowing the seeds of a great program and learning under Wildcat baseball legend Jay Lasley.

“Working alongside Coach Lasley prepared me due to the work load and responsibilities he allowed me to undertake on a daily basis,” Seymour said. “Coach Lasley built a very strong program and left many pieces in place that we needed to

Chuck Seymour ENJOYING HIS FIRST SEASON AS

WILDCAT’S SKIPPER

continue to be successful. Learning the ins and outs that assistants are usually shielded from has been eye-opening and makes me appreciate not only everything Jay did for us, but also the hard work and dedication that my staff has. I have now seen both sides. Being in a new role, a new teaching position, overseeing all aspects of the program, scheduling, ordering uniforms, and gear, a field renovation, a phone that never stops ringing, and the general pressure that every head coach is

under have been a daily grind.”

Seymour’s transition from assistant to head coach has been a growth experience.

Being in the same building with the players, he has seen how hard they work in the weight room, which makes them better athletes and gives the opportunity to see him in a new light.

“First, I realize how valuable good assistants and a quality staff is,” Seymour said.

“Very rarely do I even feel like the smartest person in the room when my other coach-

es are around. Having guys that work as hard as they do and are as knowledgeable as they are has made this transition smooth.

Jay was very good at letting us as assistants take charge and give input. Just like he did with us for so many years, I try to make sure we are all working together instead of guys working for me. I also learned from Jay how to handle the things outside the gates that drive so many coaches crazy. My assistant coaches are not only very smart baseball guys but they are very driven as well. To watch them work and teach is an inspiration to me.”

He worked many hours as an assistant, but now being in charge of the baseball program, days can go longer, from seven in the morning to at least seven at night, and that schedule changes according to the game schedule.

Originally from Tennessee, he played baseball and football at McKenzie High School in McKenzie, Tennessee. After high school, Seymour played college baseball at Volunteer Junior College, where he competed in the 1995 Junior College World Series before finishing his degree at the University of Tennessee- Martin.

Seymour has also hit home runs in five different countries.

Because of a demanding schedule, Seymour is grateful to the have the love and support of wife and family that understand during baseball season.

“I, like many coaches, have definitely out kicked my coverage,” he said. “I have a beautiful and amazing wife, Kylee, who is also a teacher in our school system. My son, Will, is about to turn 9, and my daughter, Easton, is 15 months old. I enjoy the little down time I get. My family time is of the utmost importance to me. My parents live here and get to watch my kids grow up. Being able to close off the outside world at times that often gets my complete attention during the season; I try to give my family back the time they lose during the daily grind of the season.”

There are definite expectations that exist in Camden County which have made the school one of the best in the classroom and on the field. While Seymour enjoyed the Wildcats seasons that have led to the Elite Eight and Final Four, he has enjoyed just being able to impact hundreds of players’ lives since 2002.

“Our other programs’ success both drives us and proves that winning is both a reality here and an expectation,” Seymour said. “The better our other sports do the more of a challenge it is for our guys to fight for their place at the table. We have always had administrative support from day one. They are always behind us giving us what we need to be successful and allowing us to challenge ourselves as coaches as well as the players we are entrusted with. Our newly renovated field and clubhouse are evidence of the school system, PSA, and community working together to make Camden baseball special.”

Okefenokee Area FCA Spring OKEFENOKEE AREA FCA SPRING FUNDRAISING BANQUET OKEFENOKEE AREA FCA SPRING FUNDRAISING BANQUET Fundraising Banquet April 14, 2016 April6:30p.m.

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BASEBALL Factoids Pete Rose, who played for the Cincinnati Reds and then was banned from baseball for life for betting on games while managing the team, holds the all-time record for hits (4,256) and games played (3,562).

The first World Series was played between Pittsburgh and Boston in 1903 and was a nine-game series.

Boston won the series 5-3.

In 2001, San Francisco’s Barry Bonds broke the alltime single-season home run record when he hit 73.

He broke the mark of 70, set by St. Louis Cardinals first baseman Mark McGwire in 1998.

Fourteen players have hit four home runs in one game: Bobby Lowe, Ed Delahanty, Lou Gehrig, Chuck Klein, Pat Seerey, Gil Hodges, Joe Adcock, Rocky Colavito, Willie Mays, Mike Schmidt, Bob Horner, Mark Whiten, Mike Cameron and Shawn Green.

Pitcher Nolan Ryan played 27 seasons in major league baseball and struck out more batters in his career than any other pitcher.

Baseball stars from the National League and the American League played the first All-Star Game in 1933. The National League has won 41 of the 80 games. The game ended in a tie twice. In 1961 rain in Boston prevented extra innings and the game ended in a 1-1 tie. And in 2002, the game went 11 innings with the score knotted at seven before it was finally called off due to a lack of pitchers.

Former Yankees right fielder Mickey Mantle holds the record for most career home runs (18) and RBI (40) in World Series history.

This information is courtesy of factmonster.com

26 | itgsportsnetwork.com

IT'S MY TIME TO

SHINE written by: Rob Asbell photography by: Micheal Brinson

At Jane Macon Middle School, northwest of Brunswick, is a young man who has baseball running through his veins. For eighth-grader Hunter Goff, baseball has long been a family tradition. When he was only 2 years old, his grandparents would take him to watch his uncles play college baseball.

“I always had my bat and ball to play with,” Goff said. Now he plays while one of those uncles, Jared Goff, coaches him and the rest of the Jane Macon Eagles baseball team.

“Hunter has every opportunity to be successful in life,” said Coach Goff, who has watched Hunter develop a love for baseball for nearly 14 years. “He has been blessed with natural abilities in athletics and academics, a likable personality, and a supportive family.”

Hunter was bitten by the baseball bug early, and as quickly as he could, he grabbed a glove and went to play. By the time he was 7, he had begun to play travel ball. Now, he has grown to be a 5’7” and 165-pound hard-throwing pitcher with a mean fastball and a quick bat that is preparing for high school sports next year. He plays pitcher, catcher, and shortstop for the Eagles. Each time he strides to the plate, Hunter says a quick prayer, draws a cross on the ground with the end of his bat and tells himself, “It’s my time to shine.”

Within three years of playing his first game, Hunter hit his first home run. Two years later, he pitched a no-hitter at just 12 years old. He is a player that can let his natural ability take over, which is a skill that takes time to develop.

“Luckily, he has been around baseball since he could open his eyes,” Coach Goff said. “He was constantly watching and playing the game at an

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early age. I attribute a lot of his ability to the fact that he doesn’t just play the game, he is a student of the game. When he was younger, he would notice when a player was out of position and ask why.”

But it is not just on the baseball field where he stands out. In the classroom, Hunter is also making good use of his time with a 3.4 grade point average and membership on the Honor Roll. He is also a member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Student Council, and the Junior Beta Club.

The son of Brent and Kassie Goff, Hunter’s favorite subject is Social Studies. He would like to go to the University of Florida to play baseball and eventually get drafted into the Major Leagues. For now, he likes to play basketball and wiffle ball outside with his two younger brothers.

In addition to baseball, Goff is also a linebacker and running back on the Eagles’ football team of Coach Keith Reddings that has won the last two Glynn County championships. Most of the year, however, he is concentrating on baseball.

When he isn’t playing for Jane Macon Middle School, Goff plays travel ball for Gary Parmenter and Dean Buie. Goff was on the teams that won the Georgia Parks and Recreation Association’s State Championship in 2012 and 2014.

“He’s among a group of eighth graders at JMMS that have the potential to be very special,” Coach Goff said of the group that played on the 2012 state champion-

ship team. “I feel honored to be able to be a part of their baseball journey. Having a nephew in the group makes it even more enjoyable. I look forward to seeing how well these boys continue to play together and would love to see them make deep runs in the state playoffs in high school.”

Hunter is a versatile player who is able to take multiple positions on the field. Coach Goff prefers each player be able to play at least two positions to so that they have a better chance to compete for a spot on their high school team.

During middle school tryouts, Hunter was the fastest runner, had the fastest reaction time as a catcher, and ranked second in hitting. He continues to practice hard and focuses on what his coaches tell him to improve upon. He credits AAU Coach Dean Buie for helping him improve and preparing him for the next level.

“He is always there for me no matter what,” Goff said.

Buie was also there as a guide the day young Goff killed his first deer. Later that same day, Buie was there when Goff killed his second and third deer all in the one day.

Hunter works hard to improve every day so that he can contribute at the high school level next year. But more importantly, he looks forward to getting out on the diamond. To Goff, it is the best part of the game.

“Having the opportunity to play a sport that I love,” he said.

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Test Your Knowledge!

1. What is the minimum number of players that can play on one soccer team?

2. In what country did the name “soccer” instead of football originate?

3.

A _______ card cautions a player and marks a foul.

4. How many players are on a soccer team?

5.

A _______ card dismisses a player from the game.

6.

What is the circumference of an official soccer ball?

7. Which college wrote early fundamental and influental rules for soccer?

8.

What is the main protective gear worn by soccer players?

9.

Which is the only position where a player can use their hands?

10.

True or False. Kicker is a position on the soccer field.

11.

What is the major world soccer competition that takes place every four years?

12.

How long is a half of a soccer game?

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28 | itgsportsnetwork.com

Never Give Up written by: Rob Asbell | photography by: Micheal Brinson

Jonathan Sweat has spent the past year recovering from two major knee injuries but now says he is ready to go.

Overcoming injury is part of any contact sport, with even the toughest players suffering sprains and pulled muscles over the length of a schedule.

But for Glynn Academy senior soccer player Jonathan Sweat, it has been more than just nagging injuries. He has spent the past year recovering from two major knee injuries, but now says he is ready to go.

“In August of 2014, the summer going into my junior year, I was at University of South Carolina ID Soccer camp playing in an all-star game when I tore my left ACL,” Sweat said. “I rehabbed hard because I did not want to miss my chance to be recruited.”

In February, he started to play again for the first time since the surgery, just in time for his junior season. “Coach and the team expected a lot from me, especially with my team-leading 29 goals sophomore year in varsity,” he said.

Three games into the season against crosstown rival Brunswick High in March of 2015, he went down and tore his other ACL; this time in the right knee. “The whole stadium went silent,” he said. “So, essentially, I missed the most important year to get recruited as a male soccer player.”

Faced with overcoming the end of his soccer

career for a second time, Sweat worked hard to rehab his knees. He started playing again in October 2015. “I got back into it and started to continue my recruiting process,” he said. “My senior season is starting this month and I could not be happier to have improved my health.”

At 5’9” and 145 pounds, Sweat has played all over the soccer pitch, primarily at forward.

He holds a better than perfect grade point average of 4.33 and is a member of the National Honor Society, BETA Club, a Georgia Certificate of Merit recipient, a Presbyterian College Fellow, and took part in the Math and Sciences Expo Quiz Bowl. He is the founder and Vice President of the Spirit Club, Latin Club, GA Best Buddies, and Gathering Place 707 Group. He was voted Most Spirited, Most Involved, and YMCA Leader in Training Staff of the Week. His plan is to attend the University of Georgia to pursue a degree in dentistry.

Before being felled by injuries, Sweat was one of the primary weapons on the Terrors’ soccer team.

“The strongest part of his game is playmaking ability,” said Bobby Brockman, Glynn Academy head soccer coach. “He is a dominant scorer, but

"I got back into it and started to continue my recruiting process. My senior season is starting this month and I could not be more happy to have improved my health." is also unselfish and can garner assists.”

Sweat started as a freshman and was named to the All-Region 3-AAAAA Second Team. His first big play came against metro-Atlanta’s Berkmar when he dribbled nearly 40 yards in and out of defenders and passed the ball across to assist for the winning goal. “It was a freezing game but a pivotal goal for the team,” Sweat said. “I will never forget this moment.”

In his sophomore year, he led the team in goals and was named First Team All-Region. His most memorable game came against St. Plus X in a late night start at Glynn County Stadium.

The visitors were undefeated, which drew a large crowd. The game was tied when the Glynn Academy goal keeper launched the ball down to the opposite end of the field.

“Off the bounce in mid-air, I chipped the ball over the keeper to give us the lead,” he said.

“Hands down my favorite goal.”

He played just three games his junior year but has returned this year as a senior captain. “My favorite part of soccer easily is the amount of skill it takes to master it and how it takes more than being athletic to master the game,” he said. “The best player in the world is Messi, and he is only 5’7”.”

He credits his parents and Coach Brockman for motivating him to get back to playing soccer after two ACL surgeries in a year.

“I felt very good about him returning from having ACL surgeries on both knees because he is a very driven young man,” Coach Brockman said.

Sweat has had interest from several schools including Jacksonville University, Presbyterian College, UNC Greensboro, Mercer, Evansville, MIT, Erskine, and Oglethorpe.

“I have had the option to play college soccer from numerous schools, but have decided to enroll to the University of Georgia,” Sweat said.

Although he will not be playing intercollegiate soccer for the Dawgs, he will be taking classes in hopes of being accepted to Dental School.

“Even with two ACL surgeries, there were several Division I programs that wanted him,” Coach Brockman said. “But long story short, this guy is Georgia Bulldog through and through, and with his academics being so strong he will do great up there and then pursue his master’s degree as well.”

Sweat believes that his four years of playing soccer have taught him to never give up and that soccer will always be a huge part of his life. As for his hopes for the coming season: “In my final season as a Terror, I hope to play to my full ability, stay healthy, and keep the goals coming.”

WAYNE COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL

LADY YELLOW JACKETS MAKE HISTORY WITH AAAA FINAL FOUR TRIP written by: John Wood | photography by: Jeffrey Griffith When the Wayne County Lady Yellow Jackets finished last season, head coach Kala Hires would have been overjoyed to know that her girls would make history for the Wayne County high school girls’ basketball program with a trip to the Final Four. Hires would have been happy, but not necessarily surprised.

“This season has definitely been one to remember, for not only our team, but our community,” Coach Hires said. “From the very beginning, I was fortunate enough to have a group of girls I did not have to beg to get in the gym and work, and I very rarely had any miss practices, including in the summer.

It seems as though everything began to click for us over Christmas break, and when we came back to the second half of our season we hit the ground running and never looked back,” Hires said.

Wayne had to battle injuries this season but kept pushing through and at the end of the regular season the Lady Yellow Jackets grabbed the 4A-AAAA region title.

“I knew that our defense had become so sound that we would be able to compete with the top teams in the state. With this being said, I can’t really remember a point when I thought past the next game we had.

We played some really good teams along the way that could have gone either way so I was just grateful to get to each step as we won the next game,” Hires said.

Finishing 12-0 in region play during the season, the Lady Yellow Jackets defeated Burke for a second time, 57-47, claiming the region title and establishing home court advantage for GHSA AAAA State Playoffs.

Wayne had to play hard and adjust to different styles of basketball but once the tournament play opened the Lady Jackets rolled. A 38-35 win against West Laurens led to a second round game against North Whitfield. Again the Wayne County Yellow Jackets continued to use the defense that had helped them dominate this season, to win, 42-38. The Lady Yellow Jackets got past Bainbridge with a little more breathing room,

47-38, which gave them a berth into the Final Four. “The girls were hyped as we ended each game with a win. They knew that each game won they were making school history and there were definitely points when we had to look back and realize that we had actually made it as far as we had,” Hires said.

Wayne would face Veterans High School from Warner Robbins, Georgia. Veterans has gone from a one win season in its first year of existence in 2010 to a 30-2 season last year including a 43-42 loss to Carrolton in the Final Four.

If you could put the Wayne season into one game, the Final Four game against Veterans. No doubt the Lady Warhawks understood the heartbreak of a close loss to go the state championship game. Nothing went right for the Lady Yellow Jackets in the first half but coming out of the locker room, Wayne seized control and outscored Veterans 19-7 in the first 10 minutes of the second half. The Lady Yellow Jackets pulled to within two points, 26-24, under a minute left in the game but Veterans clung to its lead fueled by a pair of free throws in the final 40 seconds.

“I was very proud of the effort our team put in against veterans in the second half.

We went in to the locker room at half time only scoring 3 points. I think that was when I

realized the moment may have gotten a little too big for them and we needed to figure out a way to get the girls back in the game.

They came out on fire and ready to play. We lost by four points, but i was so proud of the grit they had when they didn’t just give up. they held a state championship team to 28 points, and while we came up short, that was nothing to be ashamed of,” Hires said.

This season is going to give the momentum to continue to work hard to get better every year.

“Making it to the final four this season was such a pivotal moment for our program and I already have girls ready to go back to work to try and get their again. The support from the school and the community made the girls want to work even harder to make them proud and I think that those returning players know they have big shoes to fill so that we can get back again. I cannot imagine any other team having the support we had from our administration, AD, and community. I still am having people I’ve never seen before come and tell me they were pulling for us. They are a big reason we had such a successful season and I am excited to see what our future holds,” Hires said.

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Camden Wrestlers

Player Profiles written by: John Wood | photography by: Micheal Brinson

Raydan Wilder Freshman 120 pounds

Favorite wrestling move: Probably a Roll-Through Tilt or Arm-Bar Impact of winning the traditional and dual state championships this season: It feels great that all the hard work we put in as a team and individually has paid off. It was an emotional moment that I know I won't ever forget. It’s been a great feeling and experience that I hope to go through next year as well.

What makes Camden wrestling so special?

The bond that all of us have with each other, the numerous hours we put in, and the teammates and coaches that push us to work together to be great and achieve our goals.

Antonio Stewart Junior 170 pounds

Season Highlights: Pinning my way through state duals, pinning my way to the finals at traditional state, and winning both state duals as a team and traditional state as an individual.

What makes Camden wrestling so special?

Our coaches. We have the best coaches in the state. They are wise and have a master plan, not just for present time but also for the future.

How has the program, coaches teammates influenced the person you are striving to be in life?

This program has taught me to be disciplined and have self-control in everything I do. Also, my coaches have instilled in me to see the future and understand that “what you do now will absolutely affect who and what you will be later on in life”.

My teammates are my brothers and we are constantlly building each other up and striving everyday to push and make each other better.

32 | itgsportsnetwork.com

How has the program, coaches teammates influenced the person you are striving to be in life?

Wrestling has definitely had a major impact on my life so far; it’s taught me to never give up and to constantly improve to be the best, but it also teaches humility, respect, and discipline, which I think are extremely important to being successful in wrestling and in life.

What do you hope your legacy to the Camden wrestling program?

I hope that Camden wrestling will continue to be the top team in the state, and personally I want to accomplish my goal of being the first four-timer.

Coach’s Quote: “Raydan is an intelligent wrestler who knows how to manage a match and is hard to score on. He is just a freshman, so we think he will get a lot better this offseason and come back more dominant next year.”

Shawn I can’t figure out what the question is to this answer!?

Winning state traditional as well as dual state has had a great impact on me. It gives me confidence in my abilities and in my team. At the same time, it keeps me humble knowing that I am human just like everyone else.

What do you hope your legacy to the Camden wrestling program?

That I went from not going to state as a sophmore to being a state champ as a junior. I want people to know that hard work, dedication, and time is what it takes to be a champion.

Coach’s Quote: “Antonio improved weekly this season. He went from sharing varsity time as a sophomore to being one of the more dominant wrestlers on our team and ultimately winning the state championship. I look forward to how good he could be by this time next year.”

Gabriel Smith Senior 285 pounds

Season Highlights: Runner-up Osceola Knockout , winning State Duals, winning Traditional State Impact of winning the traditional and dual state championships this season.

Winning traditional and state duals has opened a lot of opportunities and allowed me to meet many new people. It has encouraged me to be excited about what the future holds and all that I can accomplish in life.

How has the program, coaches teammates influenced the person you are striving to be in life?

Having the great coaches I have and be-

ing in the program I’m in has influenced me by preparing me to be mentally tough through anything.

What do you hope your legacy to the Camden wrestling program?

I hope when people look at my name on the wall, they know that it’s not what you do but how you do it. Anybody can be a champion with persistence and hard work.

Coach’s Quote: “Gabe is a very athletic heavyweight who was the anchor in our lineup. You don’t get the opportunity to coach many heavyweights that have work ethic, technique, talent, and toughness.

He will be sorely missed.”

Domonique Hargrave Senior 182 pounds

Season Highlights: My first tournament back to wrestling after football season, I won the whole tournament. Also, winning state, because I have been wanting to do that since I started wrestling.

What makes Camden wrestling so special?

Because we work harder than the rest, we are meaner than the rest, and we carry ourselves around as if we can't be beaten.

How has the program, coaches teammates influenced the person you are striving to be in life?

Camden wrestling has taught me the value of selfpride. If you want to do something in life, do what you have to do to do it. And also that excuses will get you nowhere in life.

What do you hope your legacy to the Camden wrestling program?

That I was always was the odd ball from the group, and that even though I'm short, I can still kick your butt.

Coach’s Quote: “Domonique is a great combination of talent and work ethic. He takes pride in being tough mentally and that wears on his opponents. We will miss him in the practice room as much as we will miss him competing for us.”

Bunmi Smith Junior 160 pounds

Season Highlights: Winning State Duals and Traditional State Titles in the same year Favorite wrestling move: Super duck What makes Camden wrestling so special?

Our coaching staff & the work we put in the offseason.

Coach’s Quote: “Probably the most talented of the State Champs who has been wrestling a long time. He started to relax and gain some genuine confidence this season, so we think he will be even more dominant next year.”

PIERCE COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL

GIRLS SOCCER

written by: Ivy Young

Soccer is a highly regarded sport at Pierce County High School, especially on the girls’ side. Under head coach Alvin Thrift, last year the girls ended the season 15-3-1. Pierce County’s Lady Bears are different from other high school soccer teams for many reasons, but especially in their dedication and enthusiasm for the game.

Practice for the 2016 season began on January 18 at 12 a.m. “We start at midnight because it is the first day we can have the ball at practice,” Coach Thrift said. “And it provides a lot of excitement for the players.”

photography by: Jennifer Carter Johnson

This season, there are 23 players, most of whom play year round on travel teams.

The seven seniors include Lauren Lee (team captain), Morgan Lee, Mariah Aspinwall, Allie Smith, Ashley Hunt, Gracie Bennett, and Sarah Beth King.

“I am exceptionally proud of the girls for putting in so much time in the weight room and doing ball control drills,” Coach Thrift said. Lauren Lee, Mariah Aspinwall, and Allie Smith are all four-year starters for the Lady Bears, and last season Lauren Lee scored 22 goals along with 21 assists while

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Cary Bennett

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3353 Hwy. 84 Blackshear, GA 31516 Ben Bennett

Mary Courtney Puryear added 24 goals and 11 assists.”

As always, the Lady Bears’ team goals are to win region and state.

“The final game of the season last year was a difficult one, as it always is, because we did come up short of a state championship, but at the same time it is a time that you have to watch some seniors that everyone has come to love go away and know they will never play for the Bears again.”

SIGNING DAY 2016 SIGNING DAY 2016 SIGNING DAY 2016 SIGNING D

APPLING

BACON

On National Signing Day, February 3, Appling County’s Allen Michael Williams received a football scholarship to Hutchinson Community College, a Kansas junior college that has been a feeder program for several SEC schools over the years.

However, at press time Williams had just received a late “Preferred Walk On” offer from the University of Georgia and is currently weighing his options.

Anascio Washington (yellow shirt and tie) & Jacob Carver (pink shirt) sign to Limestone in South Carolina

WARE

CAMDEN

Three Ware County football players celebrated National Signing Day in front of a huge crowd at the Performing Arts Center on the campus of Ware County High School.

Dedrick Mills signed with Georgia Tech and is already enrolled in classes.

Ervin Nard signed with Carson Newman.

Allen Jones signed with Reinhardt University.

Ameterius Williams (yellow shirt with hat) signs to Georgia Military in Middle Georgia Delaino Brinson (black shirt) signs to Virginia Lynchburg in Virginia

The Camden County Wildcats had eight players ink scholarships on National Signing Day. Pictured are, front row, left to right: Kevin Hutchinson (Lafayette College), Mack Nash (U.S. Naval Academy), and Zeke Moore (Eastern Arizona College). Back Row: Terry Compton (Albany State), Kevon Brewington (Eastern Arizona College), DeAndre Gardenhire (University of West Georgia), Harrison Poole (Mercer University), and Antonio Hamiltion (Eastern Arizona College).

LIBERTY

Photo Credit: Patty Leon, Coastal Courier

Panthers head coach Kirk Warner watches as, from left, Calvin Holmes, Jacari Roberts, Jacquez Williams, and Martial Washington sign their National Letters of Intent.

Liberty County football players Calvin Holmes, Jacari Roberts, Jacquez Williams and Martial Washington signed letters of intent to play football at college Wednesday morning during National Signing Day. Holmes and Roberts signed to play at Fort Valley State University. Williams, who had committed to Wake Forest earlier this year, made his Demon Deacon commitment official. Washington signed to play for Georgia Southern.

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DAY 2016 SIGNING DAY 2016 SIGNING DAY 2016 SIGNING DAY 2016

GLYNN

CHARLTON

Glynn Academy players on National Signing Day are Dexter Roberson (In the Game SEGA Defensive Player of the Year, Carson-Newman), Kyle Larson (Maryville College), Jonathan Handy (Albany State), and Rodney Infante (Olivet Nazarene University).

Former In the Game Rising Star and Featured Player Spotlight running back Andrew Lee of Charlton County signed a National Letter of Intent to play college football at Hutchinson Community College in Kansas.

BRUNSWICK

MCA

The Brunswick High Pirates had one player sign.

Skyler Baggs inked his National Letter of Intent to play for the Valdosta State Blazers.

Devon Williams signed with Lagrange College.

Pictured with his parents, Winnie and Keith Lockett, and head coach Robby Robinson

WAYNE Jeremiah Littles committed to a “Blue Shirt� scholarship offer with the University of South Alabama. This scholarship will kick in when Jeremiah arrives on campus in the fall. The school offered Jeremiah during the spring of his junior year. They were most impressed with his versatility and believe that Jeremiah could play multiple positions for them within their defensive package.

Wayne County will miss Jeremiah. He was one of the most respected kids on campus. He was very popular and very committed to being the best person, player, and student possible. We wish him well.

(Written by Jody Grooms)

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