Pontotoc City & County Fall Sports 2019

pontotoc city & County

fall 2019 Sports

Featuring

•football •cheerleading •band •x country •volleyball •swimming •slowpitch softball

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Fall Sports 2019

Fall Sports 2019

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fall sports 2019

letter from the

sports editor W

LOYAL READERS OF THE PONTOTOC PROGRESS,

hen you receive this magSouth Pontotoc and North Pontotoc azine, the 2019-20 high competing in their inaugural seasons school sports year will this fall. There is also a piece on South already be in full swing.

Pontotoc softball. The Lady Cougars, The doldrums of summer, at least in the defending state champions, are the lone sense of volume in the sports reporting school to still be playing slowpitch in business, are gone, and things will be the county. Finally, there is Pontotoc’s humming all the way from now to the swimming team, which looks to keep end of May. building in its second year of existence.

The last few years have seen a treThere are of course team photos for mendous amount of outstanding athleteach. Also pictured are the hardworkic news come out of our county. I have ing members of each school’s marching no doubt that will continue to be case as band and cheerleading squad. we proceed through this coming year, Please come out and support these both on an individual and team basis. student athletes as they compete in their There are big changes this year with various sports this fall. As I’ve said in all three schools being inside Class this space before, it is important to reJonathan Wise 4A, with Pontotoc and South Pontotoc member to keep things in their proper Sports Editor grouped inside the same division in perspective. It is supposed to be fun for most sports. those involved. Sure it is important, more to some than In the pages that follow you will find stories about this others, and to be taken seriously, but they are games at season’s football and cross country teams from all three the end of the day. county schools, as well as team pictures. There are also I hope all of you enjoy this publication, and we thank articles on the volleyball teams for all three schools, with you for reading and subscribing to our paper.

Good luck to all the teams this season!

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Fall Sports 2019

contents 4 Letter from the Sports Editor 6 Pontotoc Warriors football 8 South Pontotoc Cougars football 10 North Pontotoc Vikings football 14 Pontotoc warriors cheerleaders 15 south Pontotoc cougars cheerleaders 16 north Pontotoc vikings cheerleaders 19 pontotoc warriors marching band 20 south Pontotoc cougars marching band

21 North Pontotoc vikings marching band 28 pontotoc warriors cross country 30 south Pontotoc cou∆20gars cross country 32 North Pontotoc vikings cross country 36 pontotoc warriors volleyball 38 south Pontotoc cougars volleyball 40 north Pontotoc vikings volleyball 45 pontotoc warriors swimming 46 South Pontotoc Cougars softball

fall sports 2019

table of

Advertisers Algoma Country Store.........................18 America’s Best Value Inn.....................24 Ashley Furniture..................................23 Blacksmith BBQ.................................44 Crossroads Rehabilitation....................18 Delta Daisy...........................................26 Distinctive Design.................................3 First Choice Bank................................48 Friendship Fitness..................................2 Hwy 15 Grill........................................24 Image Screen Printing..........................18 Johnson’s Wrecker Service.................13 Market Basket........................................3

Melinda Nowicki.................................17 Merle Norman @ Legacy......................26 MississippiCare..................................34 Montgomery Drugs.............................22 Montgomery’s Restaurant...................12 Mossy Oak Properties.........................44 Needleart Fabrics.................................26 Patty Turk Properties, LLC..................42 Physical Therapy.................................44 Pickens Pest Control............................43 Pontotoc Animal Clinic.......................25 Pontotoc Progress................................27 Renasant Bank.....................................13

on the cover

Rick’s Auto Repair...............................18 Ricky Ferguson....................................35 Seafood Junction.................................43 Shannon & Graham Eye Clinic...........24 Snow Cream Corner.............................35 Tanglefoot Market at Ecru.....................2 Torrance School Photography..............13 Trent’s Portrait Design.........................24 True Value............................................25 Washington Holcomb Tractor Co........17 Wood Eye Clinic..................................43 Young’s Tire Store...............................22

Featured on this year’s cover are North Pontotoc Vikings volleyball players Gracie Corley and Allie Leath.

Writers

Jonathan Wise, Sports Editor, Will Ruff, Sports Writer, and Galen Holley, Sports Writer

A Special Thanks To

Trent’s Portrait Design, Torrance School Photography, and Regina Butler for the photos Designed by Chelsea Williams, Pontotoc Progress Fall Sports 2019

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Pontotoc City

2019 warriors

football

2019 Pontotoc Warriors football Team

The 2019 Pontotoc Warriors football team includes Peeko Townsend, Justin Woods, Jordan Ball, Brice Deaton, Jay Jackson, Conner Armstrong, Tyjey Arnold, Tres Vaughn, Jagr Austin, Kylan Farr, Cade Armstrong, Marty Reel, D.J. Bean, L.J. Jones, Tanner Ellis, Kentrell Peters, Monte Townsend, Jordan Kimble, Caleb Hobson, Jemarkus Whitfield, Jonah Mahan, Jolan Mills, Miles Galloway, Blayze Oswalt, Zayne Fleener, Montinique Wilson, Caleb Goodwin, Dakota Walker, Ethan Hester, Austin Tzib, Walker Tackett, Colby Thompson, Cameron Chunn, Arlareous Berry, J.D. Jones, McKevious McClendon, Damien Murphy, Caleb Souter, Clayton Byrd, Juan Batista, Jimmy Ray, Chris Hullett, Isaac Ditto, Tyler McGregor, Carter Cleveland, Colton Hillhouse, Jacob Mapp, Kyleal McShann and E.J. Bodie.

Photo by Torrance Photography

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Fall Sports 2019

Jonathan Wise Sports Editor

The Pontotoc Warriors have rapidly ascended to a program that is in everyone’s list of anual contenders in North Mississippi Class 4A football. Under head coach Jeff Carter PHS has racked up a 36-7 record over the past three seasons. Pontotoc will again field a talented squad with a good chance to keep those winning ways alive this upcoming season, but as always there are still some questions to be answered.

Carter likes the intangibles and the work ethic he has seen from his players over the summer in the offseason conditioning program.

“They have put in the time,” said coach Carter. “We had good participation this summer. They’ve done everything we have asked of them.”

Pontotoc has a big spot to be filled at quarterback after the graduation of Justin Carter. Currently freshman Conner Armstrong, sophomore Tanner Ellis and sophomore Brice Deaton are battling for the job. Receiver Cade Armstrong will get some work at the position as well.

“The biggest thing for us is quarterback and how quick these young quarterbacks are going to adapt,” Carter said. “When you have zero experience at quarterback, no matter what level, it is going to play a factor.”

However the signal caller battle shakes out, the Warriors have plenty of

weapons at their disposal at the skill positions.

At wide receiver, the Warriors bring back senior standout Caleb Hobson (39 catches for 723 yards and 9 TDs) and senior Tres Vaughn, a big 6’3 target who burst on the scene by averaging 27.4 yards per reception and 10 TDs a season ago. Cade Armstrong also has a lot of experience and produced 35 catches, 494 yards and 5 TDs last year.

D.J. Bean and L.J. Jones will also have roles.

“Hobson is our most experienced player on offense for sure,” Carter said.

“We know what he can do, and he is going to have to help us some on defense too. Our receiving corps should be good. Tres Vaughn is back after making some big plays for us last year.”

In the backfield, Jemarkus Whitfield has produced well when called upon over the past couple of seasons, and his role will increase a great deal. Physical senior Peeko Townsend, who has played receiver to this point, will also be counted on for carries.

“Jemarkus is going to be our starting running back. We were able to get him a lot of reps last year, so that helps,” Carter said. “Peeko is going to be big for us on both sides of the ball.

“We have the athletes around the quarterback, which is good. We just are going to ask them not to do too much, and we should be OK offensively.”

The offensive line is fairly young, with seniors Jacob Mapp and Arlareous

Berry leading the unit.

Pontotoc brings back senior punter Miles Galloway (38.3 yards per punt) and senior placekicker Jolan Mills (2/3 FG, 22/24 PAT).

“I feel good about the kicking game,” Carter said. “Mills and Galloway both have experience and are talented guys.

Our special teams should be good. We have enough athletes we can put out there to have good units.

“The defensive line is going to be by committee,” Carter said. “Arlareous Berry is really active on both sides of the ball and is probably our best lineman. On the outside we are going to be looking for some guys who haven’t played a lot to step up.”

Carter looks for seniors J.D. Jones and Tyjey Arnold to contribute after good springs.

At outside linebacker Peeko Townsend (69 tackles, 5.5 sacks, 4 forced fumbles) and Jagr Austin (70 tackles, 3 sacks) return as dependable playmakers.

Carter feels good about his secondary, which has lots of athleticism and experience. Hobson, Bean, Jordan Kimble, Marty Reel and Monte Townsend will all be key players.

“Overall, I still feel good about the team,” Carter said. “There isn’t really any guys out there that a lot of it falls on. We definitely have speed and athleticism on the team. It’s going to come back to play playmaking ability and the experience factor.”

Pontotoc City

WARRIORS SEEK TO CONTINUE WINNING WAYS

2019 Pontotoc Warriors football schedule August 23 @ Houston

September 27 Ripley (Homecoming)

October 18 Caledonia*

August 30 @ Senatobia

October 4 @ Mooreville*

October 25 @ Itawamba AHS*

September 6 @ New Albany

October 11 South Pontotoc*

November 1 Shannon*

September 13 DeSoto Central Fall Sports 2019

* Division game

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south Pontotoc

2019 cougars

Football

2019 South Pontotoc cougars football Team

This year’s South Pontotoc Cougars football team includes Kendalle Morphis, Clayton Heatherly, Jackson Phillips, Kaleb House, Cade Brown, Eli Allen, Trequan Hallman, Bennett Mayo, Mickelle Dawson, Quay Scott, Zach Gilbert, Baylor Griggs, Dawson Tutor, Cody Stutsy, Nick Cummins, Gavin Florez, Will Sauceda, Jacob Lewis, Eli Brown, Skylar McGregor, Gary Griffin, Camrin White, Rene Martinez, Drew Mask, Ivan Martinez, Isaac Finley, J.C. Silver, Chandler Coker, Jakobe Pearl, Kyle Stafford, Zac Patterson, Joe Brown, Chase Long, Wesley Scott, John Stewart, Larkin Gillespie, Levi Litten, Chase Foster, Brandon Flake, Jimmy Harpole, Barrett Mask, P.J. Akers, Wes Lindsey, Nathan Hardin, Kenneth Waters, Kaleb Montgomery, Eli Smith, Chris Lindsey, Jose Delora, Austin Shumpert, Brennan Taylor, Jesse Prater, Angel Garcia, Henley McNatt, Tristan Kelly, Colin Tallent, Gatlin Roye, Amad Williams and Joseph Keller.

Photo by Torrance Photography

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Fall Sports 2019

Jonathan Wise Sports Editor

The South Pontotoc football program has seen a resurgence over the past few years, but this season the Cougars face several challenges.

South has moved up to the highly competitive Class 4A and will be tasked with replacing a number of multi-year starters who played critical roles.

“The players made a commitment after the spring game to really work hard this summer, and we have had about 70 kids each time we have opened the doors,” said head coach Rod Cook. “And that’s proof that they are ready for the challenge of moving up to 4A. We have had a lot of participation and a lot of kids working hard.”

Cook takes over the program after the resignation of Michael Bradley.

He is very familiar with the players and the process by which the program seen success (22 wins over last three years), having served as defensive coordinator under Bradley since 2014.

The defensive system will obviously remain the same, as will the Cougars’ offense.

“We are going keep the same thing coach Bradley ran,” Cook said. “It’s

proven to work with our kids. We are going to tweak it a little to make it our own, but the kids know the system.”

Junior signal caller Eli Allen returns to lead the offense. Allen passed for 852 yards and 12 touchdowns against only 5 interceptions while compiling a quarterback rating of 92.0 in his first season as a starter.

“We’ve had some 7-on-7 practices where he has looked really good,” Cook said. “We expect big things out of him.”

His top targets graduated, but junior Trequan Hallman, junior Isaac Finley, senior Gary Griffin, and sophomore Clayton Heatherly are set to step in receiver.

“All those guys we are going to have to depend on,” Cook said.

The team returns perhaps the most ability at running back, with junior Kendalle Morphis, senior Eli Brown, sophomore Cody Stutsy and sophomore Mickelle Dawson all vying for carries.

The Cougars must replace essentially their entire offensive line. Brandon Flake and P.J. Akers are expected to lead the unit, with Chase Foster, Nathan Hardin, Colin Tallent also set to be major contributors.

South has been a very effective run-oriented team for the past few

years, and how fast their inexperienced offensive line matures will be key.

A stingy defensive unit last season is tasked with replacing a number of veteran playmakers. Cook looks for senior defensive tackle Wesley Scott to have a strong campaign. Kenneth Waters will also play a big role up front. Eli Brown will anchor the linebacking corps in the middle, with fellow two-way players Stutsy, Griffin and Finley also seeing time at linebacker. Hallman, Jacob Lewis, and Baylor Griggs will be counted on in the secondary.

“We are going to have good numbers to choose from (defensively), but they don’t have a lot of experience,” Cook said.

Allen will also be the team’s punter.

Placekicker and return duties are an ongoing competition.

“We are going to have to rebuild,” Cook said. “We’ve made it known to the young guys that if they want to be on the field they are going to have to step up and show us they deserve to be on the field. Some have done that.

We are going to be putting a lot of young kids on the field and getting them some experience for the future.

They have come together as a team and know what is ahead of them.”

south pontotoC

YOUNG COUGARS EMBRACE CHALLENGE

2019 South Pontotoc Cougars football schedule August 23 East Webster

September 20 @ Bruce

October 18 @ Shannon*

August 30 @ Belmont

September 27 @ Walnut

October 25 Caledonia*

September 6 Aberdeen

October 4 Itawamba AHS* (Homecoming)

November 1 @ Mooreville*

September 13 @ North Pontotoc

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* Division game

October 11 @ Pontotoc* 9

North pontotoc

2019 vikings

football

2019 North Pontotoc vikings football Team

This year’s North Pontotoc High School football team includes Tyler Ford, Hunter Bolin, T.J. Polk, Kaden Wilson, Raquan Booth, Tyler Hill, Leyton Walker, Jacoree Westmoreland, Aidan Tatum, Hunter Miles, Clay Pitts, Ayden Ellis, Jordan Pitts, West Sutton, Kalor Kirby, Jon Major Earnest, Brian Heredia, Blake McGlofin, Wesley Simmons, Pierce Griffin, Gavin Dyer, Reece Kentner, Wes Steele, Landon Hogue, Winn Navarette, Hayes Malone, Peyton Aldridge, Holden Little, Romeo Cornejo, Brian Brazil, Colton Gillespie, Wesley Millsap, Brody Crews, Noah Carter, Tyler Bennett, Tate Ellis, Bo Rainer, Ethan Terry, Gabriel Pounds, Hunter Carwyle, Caleb Davis, Drake Steele, Andrew Laliberte, Kenyon Randle, Trent Hamblin, Dalton Tutor, Dylan Bell, Richard Hernandez and Alex Grant. Coaches are Andy Crotwell, Matt Lindsey, Bob Rainer, Trae Smith, Andrew Aldridge and Ivan Collier. Water boys are Easton Hill, Case Young, Brice Rainer, Gabe Malone, Daniel Crotwell, Rhodes Anthony and Jonah Uithoven. Gridiron girls are Kaitlyn Caples, Whitney Wages, Anna Grace Coomer, Taylor Bishop, Bella Hayes and Lizzie Tutor.

Photo by Torrance Photography

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Fall Sports 2019

Jonathan Wise Sports Editor

North Pontotoc has been a consistent football program for years, including the last two under Andy Crotwell that have saw them go 21-5.

Heading into the 2019 campaign, North has several pieces to the puzzle yet to be determined with the loss of a number of major contributors. Each team has a different identity, and this version of the Vikings is still looking to precisely develop theirs.

“It’s all still a work in progress,” said coach Crotwell.

One of the areas where the team does not have many question marks is the offensive line, which returns four starters in junior Bo Rainer, junior Dalton Tutor, senior Dylan Bell, and junior Trent Hamblin. Another player the coaching staff is high on, junior Richard Hernandez, is set to step up into a starting role as well.

The maturation of the offensive front and an improved running game was one of the keys to last season’s 11-2 record, and with an ongoing battle for the quarterback position establishing a consistent running game will be a key.

“I was pleased with the way they (the offensive line) played (in the spring),”

Crotwell said. “They played physical and communicated well. We are going to have to lean on the offensive line early.”

At running back, Raquan Booth is the most productive returner and provides a good deal of speed. Booth ran for 333 yards on only 29 attempts, averaging 11.5 yards per carry, with 3 TDs. Also working in the backfield are junior Tyler Hill and senior fullback Pierce Griffin.

Competing for the signal caller job are sophomore T.J. Polk, who saw time at running back last year, and freshman Reece Kentner.

“We’ve got some guys with some ability there, and it will continue until we find our guy,” Crotwell said.

The Vikings must replace most of their catches from a season ago in the receiver corps.

“We’ve got some guys who we feel like did a pretty good job for us in 7-on7 in (junior) Tyler Ford and (senior) Jacoree Westomoreland at the ‘X’, and at the ‘Z’ we are looking at (senior) West Sutton to go along with (junior) Kaden Wilson and (senior) Hayes Malone,” Crotwell said.

Senior Landon Hogue, sophomore Jordan Pitts and senior Wes Steele are in the mix for playing time at tight end.

“Defensively we have a little bit of experience at every level, but we also

have some spots at every level we have to fill,” Cotwell said.

Senior defensive end Hunter Bolin (99 tackles, 22 TFL, 3 sacks last season) will anchor the defensive line. Other key players up front will include Landon Hogue, junior Gabriel Pounds, sophomore Tate Ellis and Bell, who has the ability to slide over from offense and contribute.

At linebacker, junior Hunter Miles has 261 tackles over the past two seasons and is a reliable playmaker. Sophomore Leyton Walker (45 tackles in 2018) got valuable playing time a season ago and looks to make a big impact. Other players vying for playing time include Griffin, newcomer Gavin Dyer (junior), Wes Steele and senior Jon Major Earnest.

Junior Kaden Wilson (75 tackles, 3 interceptions last season) and senior Hayes Malone (129 career tackles, 3 interceptions) return experience and playmaking ability at the safety slots.

Jacoree Westmoreland looks set to anchor one corner position, while Booth and Hill are in the mix at the other corner slot.

“I think having having some guys step forward at those (open positions) and show they can be productive players is going to be key if we are going to continue the success we’ve had,” Crotwell said.

North pontotoc

VIKINGS LOOKING TO BUILD NEW IDENTITY

2019 north Pontotoc vikings football schedule August 23 Saltillo

September 20 @ Independence

August 30 @ Water Valley

September 27 Calhoun City

September 6 Bruce

October 4 @ Ripley*

September 13 South Pontotoc

October 11 @ New Albany*

Fall Sports 2019

October 18 Tishomingo County (Homecoming) October 25 @ Aberdeen* November 1 Corinth* * Division game

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Pontotoc City

2019 warriors

Cheerleaders

2019 Pontotoc Warriors Cheerleaders

This year’s Pontotoc High cheerleaders are (bottom row) Katie Munlin, Mollie Moore, Maddi Harris, Anna Crane Watts, Emily Warren, Megan Linley, (middle row) Harlee Wilson, Ella Hill, Maggie Kimble, Paris Vaughn, Mariah Montgomery, (top row) Anna Grace Ritchie, Maggie Martin, Kelsey Haney, Evalena Russell, Kaylin Simmons, Anna Claire Warren and Jaelyn McDonald.

Photo by Trent’s Portrait Design

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Fall Sports 2019

Cheerleaders

south pontotoC

2019 cougars

2019 south pontotoc cougars Cheerleaders

This year’s South Pontotoc cheerleaders are (bottom row) Jala Ross, Allysen Lee, Mckenna Chisholm, Lindzie Hurd, Anna Catherine Roye, (middle row) Liz Russell, Logan Giompoletti, (top row) Marlee Hoing, Nikki Raines, Layla Kate Ward, Kiara McCord, and Sallie Blake Fleming.

Photo by Trent’s Portrait Design

Fall Sports 2019

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North pontotoc

2019 vikings

Cheerleaders

2019 north pontotoc vikings Cheerleaders

This year’s North Pontotoc High School cheerleaders are (bottom row) Meredith Gregory, Elizabeth Nichols (co-captain), McKenzie Garrett, Jaden Ezell (mascot), Tristen Hargrove (captain), Allyson Thomas, Kayleigh Jenkins, (middle row) Tiffany Bishop, Payton Bailey, Maly Mae Fitts, Annasia Berry, Jessie Leigh Corley, Emily Clowers, Chloe Graham, (back row) Mallory Robinson, Gracie Corley, Anna Brooke Sullivan, Macey Thomas, Riley Mitchell, Caleigh Coleman, Abi Grace Warren and Abby Horton.

Photo by Trent’s Portrait Design

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Fall Sports 2019

marching band

Pontotoc City

2019 Warriors

2019 Pontotoc warriors marching band

This year’s Pontotoc High School marching band includes Brayden Allen, Tyjey Arnold, Brianna Ball, Rebekah Ball, Anakin Barefoot, Ryan Barefoot, Jeremiah Barrett, Juan Batista, Gabby Bell, Josh Beasley, Anna Scott Boyette, Dylan Boydstun, Dustin Brock, Chrishton Brown, De’Aisha Browner, Jim Alan Calvert, Laura Beth Calvert, Emily Campbell, Danielle Carter, Celeste Clayton, Jasmier Coleman, Ciarra Conner, Alejandra Contreras, Maegan Dillard, Samantha Edwards, Sophia Euceda, Justin Farr, Rob Ferguson, Samantha Fleming, Chloe Foster, Michael Franklin, Mikey Franklin, Joanna Garcia, Edward Gillenwater, Diana Gillespie, Savannah Gillespie, Caleb Goodwin, Evan Guin, Brody Hall, Coda Hamblin, Tomaj Hamer, Kelsey Haney, Haylie Harbin, Hayden Hays, Zacchaea Holesome, Marilyn Holguin, Dakota Holley, Jeremiah Holmes, Emma Kate Houser, Olivia Inmon, Jacobe Johnson, Andy Jones, Bailey Jones, Bethany Jones, Danaysha Jones, Makyah Jones, Savannah King, Tara King, Brionna Langley, Ximena Lira, Emilie Little, Aaron Littlejohn, Thomas Locastro, Shayne Lowe, Harley Lyons, Chloe Mabus, Emily Mabus, Kyla Mayes, Santaisha Mayes, Stevie Mays, Tanner McCord, Rylee McIntyre, Joryie McKnight, ShaDaijia Means, Jacob Mercer, David Metcalfe, John Metcalfe, Taylor Mims, Elizabeth Anne Mitchell, Mariah Montgomery, Maddie Moorman, Nydia Nesbit, Ella-Kate Nichols, Arrionna Patrick, Michaela Pearson, Jassmin Perez, Alex Pittman, Aaliyah Potter, Maddie Pounders, Willy Quinonez, Juan Ramirez, Kassandra Ramirez, Jeremy Ray, Jeridiane Ray, Kristin Ray, Jayde Richardson, Alaina Riley, Elijah Rowe, Lizet Ruedas, Tybresha Sanders, Anna Sauerwein, Emily Sauerwein, Kentarius Shaw, Chelsea Smith, Kris Smith, Paige Smith, Richie Smith, Joshua Spates, Brittany Stephens, Heather Tedford, Phebe Triplett, David Tucker, Layla Tutor, Naomi Tzib, Bryan Valentin, Akylah Vance, Jatzary Vielmas, Jonathan Vielmas, Sam Walker, Emily Warren, Quinn Webster, Natalie Westmoreland, Racia White, Rashaan White, Anna Katherine Wilbanks, Janet Wilburn, Abbey Williams, Allison Wray, Aliycia Young, and Tierra Zinn.

Photo by Torrance Photography

Fall Sports 2019

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south Pontotoc

2019 cougars

marching band

2019 south pontotoc cougars marching band

Members of the 2019 South Pontotoc marching band are Pamela Bejarano, Maggie Franks, Ian Gatlin, Stacy Guzman, Ebony Hallman, Kaelen Loaeza, Amber Montgomery, Aly Sanchez, Gracie Brown, Perla Diaz, Maria Gonzalez, Jake Holloway, Whitney Jones, Prisila Martinez, Analyse Mcmillen, Lenzy Pannell, Kiana Rainer, Madison Stone, Tasia Triplett, Lydia Wilson, Cameron Black, Yully Rocha, Gavin Flores, Colton Fuqua, Danna Gregory, Callie Hill, Landon Horton, J.T. Moreland, Bobby Onsby, Colin Tallent, Jack Tutor, Cadye Weeks, Max Wright, Carlos Deloera, Nathaniel Hawkins, Salvador Diaz, Joshua Fernandez, Nick Fletcher, Anna Gregory, Gene Guadarrama, Alexis Harlow, Alayna Hyland, Kyle Nix, Shelby Osterhout, Donivon Owen, Aaron Pannell, Rebecca Rodgers, John Stewart, A.J. Tutor, Andrea Yother, Nolan Brice, Matthew Butts, Elena Gann, Kanya Lopez, Karen Lopez, Faith Pannell, Hailey Treece, Isaac Williams, Justin Carwile, Rene Martinez, Lexie Mccoy, Morran Mcmillen, Rainy Osterhout, Isaiah Pannell, Dulce Ramirez, Gabi Reynolds, Austin Taylor, Carson Webb, Kenny Wilgermein, Josh Coker, Shakiya Hallman, Carmen Lewis, Preston Mathis, Will Permenter, Braxton Ratliff, Matthew Blackwerlder, Colby Lewis, Devin Owens, Samantha Pulliam, Anthony Sanders, Connor Bland, Eliseo Fernandez, Paxton McCoy, Coledon Montgomery, Mack Cossey, Gage Rhodes, Brandon Sauceda, Caleb Tuggle, Connor Coker, Michael Coleman, Jordan Ealy, J.J. Ferguson, Emma Franks, Audrey George, Nathan Hardin, Deanna Henderson, Daelan Hollingsworth, Macy Holloway, Barrett Holton, Alex Long, Lathe Ward, Garrett Weeks, Elizabeth Willis, Taylor Britt, Jadyn Brown, Katie Campanaro, Ashlynn Davidson, Alona Finley, Laken Harlow, Kendall Herrington, Hannah Jinkins, Jaycie Kelly, Zoe Kyle, Katelin Lackey, Madi Lemaire, Haleigh McGloflin, Sarah Milner, Keely Rorie, Morgan Spears, Lyndsey Vernon, Makayla Willard, Asteric Witt, Emily Lopez and Alexis Tryon. The band’s competition show is entitled ‘Therein Lies Your Purpose’ and is a great mix of the visual and the musical. Drum Majors for the band are Emily Lopez and Alexis Tryon. Band directors are Vance Wigginton, Dale Wigginton, and Caleb Mooneyham.

Photo by Jonathan Wise

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Fall Sports 2019

marching band

North pontotoc

2019 vikings

2019 North Pontotoc Vikings marching band

This year’s North Pontotoc High School marching band includes: Flutes- Anna Brown, Faith Carr and Shannon Wilson; Clarinets- Tana Foreman, Karastan Gamble, Aizlynn Herbert, Hanna Logan, Mary Lott, Laila Mendez, Madison Paul, Makayla Sisco, Mackenzie Sneed and Emily Spellins; Bass Clarinet- Allen Armstrong; Alto Saxophones- T.J. Baker, Jaylan Nix, Chloe Pina and Logan Powell; Mellophones- Lillian Angle, Makenna Cooper, Collin Crawson, Marissa Dedeaux, Shanda Fooshee, Jonathan Lopez, Wes May and Kari Wise; Trumpets- Kayla Cox, Abraham Garcia, Summer Gray, Carson Hester, Victoria King, Katelynn Oglesby, Rhys Panes, Alyssa Pankow, Ari Pina, Ethan Robertson, Matthew Tidwell and Halley Williams; Trombones- Colby Boyd, Belen Deloera, Jack Harlow, Kiu Michielson, Christian Najera, Charles Robbins, Evan Robertson, Nyla Smith and Jayla Taylor; Baritone- Philip Steele; Tubas- Roshaud Harvey, Lakelynn Lepard and Grayson Russell; Snares- Alexis Portrey and Karlton Wallace; Tenors- Rose Serrano; Bass Drums- Seth Coghlan, Shay Howell, Errin McGillivray and Nathon Najera; Front Sideline- Hunter Blevins, Addison Clements, Jayln Gurner, Preston Hickman and Leslie Torres; Colorguard-Mikayla Benson, Jade Carwyle, Haley Dedeaux, Lexi Herring, Kailyn Lott, Allyson Speck, Caroline Speck, Brailey Tackett, Karmen Trentham, Gracie Turner and Baily Wommack. The band’s drum major is Tori Stilwell.

Photo by Galen Holley

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FALL FASHION

FINDINGS

DELTA DAISY

MERLE NORMAN @ LEGACY

5 South Main St. • Pontotoc 662.200.2242

EARTH GRACE BRACELETS

11 South Main St. • Pontotoc 662.489.3523

SUBLIMATION T-SHIRTS

NEEDLEART FABRICS

COSMETICS

CHARLES RIVER LADIES RAINCOAT APPAREL

ETTA B. POTTERY

37 Lafayette St. • Pontotoc 662.200.2006

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LADIES APPAREL Fall Sports 2019

Fall Sports 2019

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Pontotoc City

2019 warriors

cross country

2019 Pontotoc Warriors cross country Team

The Pontotoc Warriors cross country team includes (first row from left) Landon Morgan, Lake Trimble, Crossland Malone, Maddox Jones, Caiden Ivy, Beau Hunter, Tyler Wilburn, Chance Blanchard, (second row) Jace Clingon, Dayton Corley, Ellis Maffett, Jacob Vickery, Benjamin Jones, Benji Ross, Jordan Tuckey, Braxton Whiteside, (back row) Luke Blanchard, Freddy Porter, Cooper Parmer, Carter Mann, J.D.Chism, Michael Moore, Will Porter, Tucker Cowsert, Kade Stegall, Austin Brown, Noah Holland and Austin McCarty.

Photo by Regina Butler

2019 Pontotoc Warriors CROSS COUNTRY schedule August 24 @ Myrtle Invitational (New Albany) August 31 @ Mississippi College Invitational September 14 @ Tupelo Invitational 28

September 21 @ Saltillo Invitational September 28 @ North Mississippi Challenge (Blue Mountain) October 5 @ TCPS Invitational

October 12 Pontotoc Invitational (Cherry Creek Orchards) October 22 Region Championship (Cherry Creek Orchards) November 2 State Championships Fall Sports 2019

The Pontotoc Lady Warriors cross country team includes (first row from left) Morgan Brownlee, Carla Ramirez, Ella Haney, Jade Fowler, Melanie Griffin, Reannon Hicks, (second row) Mallie Maffett, Reese Laenen, Samantha Vickery, Michaela Lopez, Ana Robbins, Katherine Carpenter, Madison Boyd, Baby Malone, (back row) Karen Portunga, Gracie Quiche, Victoria Knowles, Evie Kate Crane, Blakeley Pound, Abby Gillespie, Trinity Ivy, Caroline McCutchen, Madison Merchant, Kaylin Simmons, Carsyn Stephens, Addison Merchant, Haley Lowe, Haley Barefoot, Faith Dabbs, Catherine Courtney, Camryn Stephens and Alayna Ball.

Pontotoc City

2019 Pontotoc lady Warriors cross country Team

Photo by Regina Butler

PHS CROSS COUNTRY SHOULD BE STRONG ONCE AGAIN Special to the Progress

The Pontotoc High School cross country teams have averaged about 40 runners through the summer preparing for the upcoming season. They continue to work toward their opener at the Myrtle Invitational in New Albany on August 24. The Warriors and the Lady Warriors are always among the most consistent programs in the state, and with significant experience returning from last year’s fifth place and state runner-up teams, long time head coach Mike Bain is looking forward to seeing what this particular group can accomplish in 2019.

Seniors who will be in their last season are Maclaine Griffith, Blakley Pound, Micahela Lopez, Will Porter, Michael Moore, Tucker Cowsert and Hook Crane.

“Most of these seniors have been a part of this program since junior high, and I know they are wanting to have a great senior year,” coach Bain said.

“They have such an influence on our younger runners, and they are so important to our success.

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“We lost one senior who was our number one runner last season to an automobile accident. Ethan Carnes had a great junior year and made All-State last season. Ethan is lucky to still be with us after his accident and to still be able to support his teammates.”

The girls are looking to improve on last year’s 5th place finish at the state championships. Four runners return from last years team that ran at the state meet. Eighth graders Katherine Carpenter and Camryn Stephens ran at state as 7th graders. Also returning are senior Maclaine Griffith and sophomore Kaylin Simmons.

“Caroline McCutchen and Haley Barefoot were consistently in our top 7 last season, and Micahela Lopez is back after being gone for a year,” Bain said.

“Reannon Hicks has shown a lot of improvement during summer workouts.

We have a good group of younger girls who we are looking forward to watching how well they develop as runners during the season.”

The boys finished last season as state runner-up, and 6 of their top 7 boys return. Cooper Parmer and Will Porter

made the All-State team last season.

Also returning are Freddy Porter, JD Chism, Caiden Ivy and Ellis Maffett.

“Losing Ethan means some of these kids are going to have to step up,” coach Bain said. “This is a good group of guys who ran at state last year. Caiden and Ellis ran as 8th graders. We have a good group of freshman guys who have had great junior high careers, and we are counting on them to step up and be competitive on the high school level.

Freshman Landon Morgan has really shown his potential during the summer workouts. We are also counting on senior Michael Moore to be a more consistent racer in his last season.

“As school starts back, we are looking for more 7th and 8th grade boys to come out. Our numbers are not where they need to be as we look to the future of the program. Braxton Whiteside and Luke Blanchard have looked really good as 7th graders in their first year.

I look for them to be very competitive and fun to watch. Noah Holland is in his 2nd season and should be more competitive as an 8th grader. Hopefully our depth will improve.”

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south Pontotoc

2019 cougars

cross country

2019 South Pontotoc Cougars cross country Team

This year’s South Pontotoc boys cross country team includes (bottom row left to right) Salvador Diaz, Gable Steward, Slade Bost, Trey Riley, Brennan Ratlif, (middle row) Colton Fuqua, Drew Tutor, Noah Fleming, Caleb Tuggle, Will McMurry, (top row) RJay Pickering, Jesse Rodriguez, Haydon Billingsley, Austin Simpson, Zach Bennett, and Dylan Fauver. Not Pictured: Rene Martinez, Ivan Martinez Photo by Galen Holley

2019 South Pontotoc Cougars CROSS COUNTRY schedule August 24 @ Myrtle Invitational (New Albany) August 31 @ Mississippi College Invitational September 7 @ Mooreville Invitational

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September 14 @ Tupelo Invitational September 21 @ Saltillo Invitational September 28 South Pontotoc Invitational October 5 @ TCPS Invitational

October 12 Pontotoc Invitational (Cherry Creek Orchards) October 22 Region Championship (Cherry Creek Orchards) November 2 State Championships

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south pontotoC

2019 south Pontotoc lady cougars cross country Team

This year’s South Pontotoc girls cross country team includes (bottom row left to right) Macy Bain, Kendall Long, Avery Mitchell, Chelle Corder, Olivia Crane, (middle row) Leah Montgomery, Savannah Ray, Elizabeth Harlow, Ella Easterling, (top row) Harlee Gillespie, Jolee Doss, and Perla Diaz.

Photo by Galen Holley

COUGARS EXPECT COMPETITIVE TEAMS IN 2019 Jonathan Wise Sports Editor

South Pontotoc has developed into a consistent cross country program in recent years. The Cougar boys squad has finished in the top 5 in Class 3A in back to back years, including a fourth place showing last year, while the girls have posted consecutive sixth place finishes.

This season South faces the challenge of moving up to Class 4A, but the teams return enough ability that coach John Wesley Roberts is confident they can be competitive.

“It is going to be a challenge, but I think we are ready for it,” Roberts said. “We’ve got a lot of the same group coming back and have some new runners as well.”

Senior Austin Simpson is a two-

Fall Sports 2019

time All-State performer and returns to lead the boys. Other key returners are Dylan Fauver and senior Zach Bennett.

“We want to get a top five in the state for Austin, that is our goal for him this year,” Roberts said.

“Dylan Fauver I think will have a shot to run at state this year. He drastically improved last year, and if he does that again he will be right there. Zach (Bennett) will be strong again. We are working to try to get them to take the next step.”

Haydon Billingsley is a first-year senior runner who Roberts thinks can help the team. Slade Bost is a ninth grade newcomer who Roberts expects to be in the mix as well.

Roberts is also high on his eighth grade class of Noah Fleming, Trey Riley, Drew Tutor and Gable Steward.

“I am hoping that my eighth graders

can take that step to bolster our varsity by the end of the year,” Roberts said.

“I think they will, and I really think they will make some noise early in the year in those junior high events.

“The girls did very well last year being a very young team, and we don’t have everybody coming back, but we do have a lot of talented kids returning.”

Jolee Doss has been in the program since the seventh grade. Freshman Leah Montgomery was an All-Region runner in 2018, and fellow freshman Elizabeth Harlow was a consistent performer last season after being moved up to the varsity squad as a middle schooler toward the end of the season. The Lady Cougars also bring back a pair of eighth graders who finished inside their top seven at last season’s state meet in Ella Easterling and Olivia Crane.

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North pontotoc

2019 vikings

cross country

2019 north Pontotoc vikings cross country Team

This year’s North Pontotoc Vikings cross country team includes (front row) Caleb Pitts, Eli Carwyle, Brayden Brown, Tripp Little, Westin Carwyle, Mason Beaman, (middle row) Daniel Crotwell, Adrian Vega, Jalil Jimenez, Rhys Panes, Ethan Robertson, Colby Boyd, Jace Russell, Aaron Akers, (back row) Mason Bramlett, Karlton Wallace, Frank Stark, Keaton Varnon, Jed Fitts, Parker Williams, Austin Davis, Hunter Huffstatler and Dylan Herring. Not Pictured: Brody Crews, Conner Edington, Jake Hall, Chris Henry and Christian Najera.

Photo by Jonathan Wise

2019 north Pontotoc vikings CROSS COUNTRY schedule August 24 @ Myrtle Invitational (New Albany) September 5 @ Dawg Trails Invitational (New Albany) September 7 @ Mooreville Invitational September 14 @ Tupelo Invitational 32

September 21 @ Saltillo Invitational

October 19 @ Itawamba Invitational

September 28 @ South Pontotoc Invitational

October 22 Region Championship (Cherry Creek Orchards)

October 5 @ TCPS Invitational

November 2 State Championships

October 12 Pontotoc Invitational (Cherry Creek Orchards)

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North pontotoc

2019 north Pontotoc lady vikings cross country Team

This year’s North Pontotoc Lady Vikings cross country team includes (front row left to right) Anna Thomas, Lindy Holley, Hope Culpepper, Katlynn McCollum, Maly Mae Fitts, (back row) Mallory Robinson, Lily Tacker, Allyson Speck, Caroline Speck and Kailey Coker. Not pictured: Ambrie Stark and Lisbeth Tovar Photo by Jonathan Wise

VIKINGS BANK ON EXPERIENCE, ENTHUSIASM IN 2019 CROSS COUNTRY CAMPAIGN Galen Holley Sports Writer

North Pontotoc faithful hope that experienced runners and an energetic first-year coach will be a formula for success as the Vikings begin their 2019 cross country season.

After a developing into a consistent program in MHSAA Class 3A over the past few years, the Vikings move up to 4A this season.

“The kids have been working hard and running five days a week in the heat as we try to get in as much running as possible and stay healthy,” said coach Marley Russell.

Russell, a former athlete at North Pontotoc, takes the helm of a program in which both the boys and girls finished in the state’s top five in Class 3A back-to-back years, with the boys earning a spot in the top five three years running.

Fall Sports 2019

Both the ladies and gents finished third in the 3A state meet last year, but moving up to 4A will be challenging.

“We have to be even better than last year,” said Russell. “I believe my team can do that. Our kids have the heart and competitive nature that every athlete needs. We’ll have our work cut out for us, but we’re confident and determined. Only time will tell.”

On the ladies’ side Lindy Holley is sidelined with a foot injury, but hopes to be back in action within a month.

“Lisbeth Tovar and Anna Scott Thomas are looking good,” said Russell. “We have some young girls we’ll be adding to the varsity this year. It’s still early, but I expect nothing but improvement.”

Tovar, a sophomore, is a two-time All-State runner and past individual division champion. Thomas, also a sophomore, was All-State performer a year ago as well. Also returning are All-Region runners Mallory Robinson

and Hope Culpepper, as well as Ambrie Stark.

As for the boys, Russell said they’re looking solid.

“The boys are young this year, with four juniors, eight sophomores, and the rest freshmen,” said Russell, adding that the roster is rounded out with seventh-graders. “I believe some of our freshmen boys are going to show out.”

Key returning runners from a season ago are juniors Jake Hall and Dylan Herring, both All-State last year, junior Austin Davis (All-Region), junior Jace Russell, sophomores Parker Williams and Rhys Panes, and freshman Frank Stark.

“I played sports all throughout high school, and I have a competitive side,” said an enthusiastic Russell. “Running is a numbers game, and I teach math. I love running their stats, and I’m enjoying getting to know each of these kids, and running with them everyday.”

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Pontotoc City

2019 warriors

volleyball

2019 Pontotoc lady Warriors volleyball Team

This year’s Lady Warriors volleyball team includes (bottom row) Ariyauna Douglas, Katie Christian, Scout Waldrop, Caroline Howard, Gabby Golden, Randa Clair Payne, Elizabeth Anne Mitchell, De’Aisha Browner, Maggie Kimble, Mollie Rackley, (top row) Jasmier Coleman, Olivia Gray, Riley Stanford, Sadie Stegall, Lauren Trimble, Abigail Anderson, Samya Brooks, Audrey Hamill, Kenlsey Nowicki and Anna Jenkins.

Photo by Trent’s Portrait Design

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Fall Sports 2019

Jonathan Wise and Will Ruff Sports Editor and Sports Writer

The potential is sky high for the Pontotoc Lady Warriors volleyball team this season, who return a veteran and hungry team.

The heart of the squad are their four seniors- outside hitter Gabby Golden, setter Randa Clair Payne, defensive specialist Lauren Trimble and Abigail Anderson.

“This senior class is really something special,” said Lady Warriors’ head coach Annie McGregor. “They have played for six years, and this season they have really evolved into leaders.”

“Gabby is now an outside hitter, and it just shows all of her strengths.

That is a great role for her to be in.

“Randa has played setter since she was in the seventh grade, and now she is just in her zone. I’m really proud

of how she has become a more vocal leader on the court.

“Lauren is our ace server. I can count on her to go back there and get it in. We count on her to be consistent and solid, and she does a great job.”

Despite being sidelined with an injury, Anderson continues to be a key leader and encourager.

“Abigail torn her ACL playing softball this year, so she hasn’t been able to play, but she has been to every practice and has given the team everything she has from where she is.”

Pontotoc returns a number of players who have seen a lot of action on the court, and the team as a whole has made improvements.

“We we bring back a lot of experience and you can see their growth,” McGregor said.

Also playing critical roles will be sophomore Audrey Hamill, junior De’Aisha Browner and sophomore Samya Brooks. Browner and Brooks

are each dangerous playmaking threats at the net. A handful of other younger players are also expected to make an impact as well.

“Our junior varsity is just so aggressive,” McGregor said. “I expect all of them to get varsity time this year.”

After being on the cusp on returning to postseason play, the veteran Lady Warriors have found themselves among the presumed frontrunners in Region 2-4A with three of their division opponents competing in their first year of volleyball. The mental side of the game will be key to maximizing how far the team goes, according to McGregor.

“We sometimes get on a bit of a rollercoaster with our energy, and we need to keep it high,” McGregor. “If we can do that we can keep momentum on our side. Our non-division schedule is pretty strong. We want to get back to the playoffs, and we are hungry for it.”

Pontotoc City

LADY WARRIORS POISED FOR BREAKOUT YEAR

2019 Pontotoc lady Warriors volleyball schedule August 22 @ Lafayette

september 12 @ New Albany

september 28 @ Oxford Tournament

August 27 Water Valley

september 14 @ Tupelo Volleyfest

October 1 @ Mooreville*

August 29 @ Caledonia*

september 17 @ Itawamba AHS*

October 3 Shannon*

september 3 Lafayette

september 19 @ South Pontotoc*

October 8 Itawamba AHS*

september 5 Mooreville*

september 23 @ Water Valley

October 10 @ Ripley

september 10 @ Shannon*

september 24 Caledonia*

October 15 South Pontotoc* * Division game

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south Pontotoc

2019 cougars

volleyball

2019 South Pontotoc lady Cougars volleyball Team

This year’s South Pontotoc volleyball team includes (sitting in middle) Emme McKnight, Mikea New, (second row left to right) Liz Pennington, Alana Corder, Gabbie Ritchie, Avery Hendon, Ryleigh Kate McVay, Maggie Caldwell, Keelee Easley, Leanna Reeves, Jaylen McLoud, (third row) coach Stacy McNatt, Kara Fleming, Kealey Ward, Madison Bagwell, Ashley Kuzma, Kendal Houpt, Jada Washington, Hailey Rackley and coach Blake Lovell.

Photo by Trent’s Portrait Design

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Fall Sports 2019

Will Ruff

Sports Writer

This season will be year one for the volleyball program at South Pontotoc. Blake Lovell and Stacy McNatt will share head coaching duties, and both are confident and excited to start the school’s program and build it with a solid group of young volleyball players.

“We had some kids who are younger, some in high school, and we really didn’t have to recruit much,” said coach Lovell. “The kids are excited and ready to get the season going.”

Senior Madison Bagwell is a versatile player who can play anywhere and does everything that is asked of her.

“She is a great leader on and off the court and will help us out a lot this year,” coach McNatt said.

Sophomore Kealey Ward and

freshman Maggie Caldwell should be consistent players for South this season.

“Both are good players and consistent,” said Lovell. “They bring 100% effort.”

Sophomore Hailey Rackley is another player to watch for on the court this season.

“She plays loose and keeps her spirits high,” said coach McNatt. “She is a vocal leader and a good motivator.”

As many first-year programs do, the Lady Cougars will also rely on a few middle schoolers this season, and both coaches talked about their enthusiasm about coaching their young crop of players.

“Alana Corder (7th), Liz Pennington (7th) and Leanna Reeves (8th) all hustle, play hard and are very coachable,” Lovell said.

“They are very coachable and have a lot of enthusiasm about playing volleyball,” said McNatt. “They are the

type of players we can build a program around.”

Coaches Lovell and McNatt both have enjoyed starting a volleyball program, and that was echoed when asked about being co-head coaches.

“I like it because I have someone to bounce ideas off of and share responsibility with,” said McNatt.

“It is different because we are equal in everything and I like that,” said Lovell. “It has been really beneficial for us, and it’s nice to have someone to run idea off of.”

The Cougars will compete in Region 2-4A this season with Pontotoc, Shannon, Mooreville, Caledonia, and Itawamba Agricultural High School.

“We know there will be some games that are tougher than others, but we expect our girls to compete,” said coach McNatt. “We had a rigorous summer schedule to prepare everyone to compete with every team in our division.”

south pontotoC

LADY COUGARS LOOK TO BUILD UP NEWLY FORMED PROGRAM

2019 South Pontotoc lady Cougars volleyball schedule August 29 Shannon*

september 17 Mooreville*

October 3 @ Itawamba AHS*

september 5 Caledonia*

september 19 Pontotoc*

October 8 @ Mooreville*

september 10 Itawamba AHS*

september 24 @ Shannon*

October 15 @ Pontotoc*

september 12 @ North Pontotoc

October 1 @ Caledonia*

* Division game

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North pontotoc

2019 vikings

volleyball

2019 north Pontotoc lady vikings volleyball Team

This year’s North Pontotoc Lady Vikings volleyball team includes (sitting) Madison Coltharp, Anna Brooke Sullivan, Kam Thomas, Haisley Coker, (kneeling) Riley Mitchell, Gracie Corley, Cayden Bell, Annasia Berry, Bella Gates, Katelyn Horton, (standing) Serena Shettles, Emma Jennings, coach Amanda Puckett, Bella Hayes, Karson Mitchell, Ajalauh Caldwell, Belle Ross, Cadie Beth Gates, Karley Robbins, Allie Leath, Jessie Leigh Corley, coach Amanda Little, Anna Beth Brown and Shyann Mcgloflin.

Photo by Trent’s Portrait Design

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Fall Sports 2019

Will Ruff

Sports Writer

This season will be the inaugural one for the volleyball program at North Pontotoc, and Amanda Little and Amanda Puckett will share head coaching duties. They will be tasked with building a program from the ground up, and that is something they both are looking forward to.

“We don’t want to be mediocre,” said coach Little. “We want to do it right and win and compete in a way that leaves an impression on people.”

“We are going to build the program on a strong foundation by teaching them the right way to do things,” coach Puckett said. “We will be right in there with them learning, reading and watching.”

There was a lot of interest in trying out for the volleyball team. North had 75 players show up for a new opportu-

nity, and both coaches think they have sold the sport to the school.

“We have been selling it because it’s a scholarship sport, and it is neat to see it provide those who would not have had an opportunity somewhere else get one as a volleyball player,” Puckett said.

They believe they have constructed a roster they can compete with.

“We have three upperclassmen who have come in and learned quickly who we will lean upon for leadership on the court,” Little said. “We also have a talented group of ninth graders who are gritty and competitive who have learned a lot as well.”

Both coaches talked highly of their freshman class and think there will be big things to come for that group of players.

Senior Belle Ross and juniors Katelyn Horton and Allie Leath have all picked up on the game quickly and play hard. They all three received praise and

confidence from their coaches.

“Belle has adjusted to the game quickly and gives 100%,” Puckett said.

“Katelyn and Allie both have a passion for volleyball,” Little said. “They both sell out and play with maximum effort and are already solid mechanically.”

The Lady Vikings will play in Region 1-4A along with Corinth, New Albany, Tishomingo County and Ripley.

Little and Puckett are excited about the journey of starting a new sport and competing in a tough classification with veteran programs, as well as doing this together as friends.

“The best thing about having co-coaches is it gave us an advantage in organizing things and getting things started,” Little said.

“We share a love for the kids at the school and for the county and the sport,” Puckett said. “It has worked out well for us.”

North pontotoc

INAUGURAL LADY VIKINGS VOLLEYBALL TEAM DETERMINED TO COMPETE

2019 north Pontotoc lady vikings volleyball schedule August 22 @ New Albany*

september 24 @ Ripley*

October 3 @ Tishomingo County*

August 29 Ripley*

september 26 Corinth*

October 8 @ Corinth*

september 12 South Pontotoc

October 1 New Albany*

October 15 @ Saltillo

september 17 Tishomingo County*

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* Division game

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Pontotoc City

2019 warriors

swimming

2019 Pontotoc warriors swim Team

This year’s Pontotoc High School boys swim team includes Buddy Ferguson, Cooper Parmer, Will Porter, J.D. Chism and Freddy Porter.

Photos by Regina Butler

2019 Pontotoc lady warriors swim Team

This year’s Pontotoc High School girls swim team includes (front row from left) Mak Masters, Olivia Patterson, Brittney Morales and JaDariya Williams, (back row) Reannon Hicks, Kori Grace Ware, Rani Greer, Karlee Moore and Ava Robbins.

PONTOTOC SWIMMING LOOKS TO KEEP MOVING FORWARD Jonathan Wise Sports Editor

Pontotoc High School made history last season by fielding, or maybe better put immersing, it’s first swimming teams in MHSAA competition.

For a first-year program PHS was competitive team-wise.

The boys were the highest finishing Class I squad in two meets and the second place Class I team in another.

They recorded as high as a fourth place overall finish during the regular season. At the Class I North Half meet the Warriors finished in third place behind a pair of private schools. The girls were the second highest placing Class I team in one meet. Overall, Pontotoc qualified nine events for the 2018 state meet be-

Fall Sports 2019

tween its boys and girls squads.

Both squads will look to build on that success.

Several productive competitors will not be competing with the Warrior boys for various reasons, but ace swimmer J.D. Chism returns. Chism qualified for the state championships in both the 50 yard freestyle (in which he was third overall at North Half) and the 100 yard butterfly (sixth at North Half). He went on to make the finals and place seventh in the state in the 50 freestyle.

Joining the boys this season are Buddy Ferguson, Cooper Parmer, Will Porter and Freddy Porter.

On the girls side, Rani Greer was dominant a year ago. She was undefeated in the 200 yard individual medley and 100 yard breaststroke on her way to North Half titles and individual state

championships in both events. Greer set new state record times in both events.

She also had regular season victories in the 500 freestyle and 200 freestyle.

Greer was honored as the area’s Top Girls Class I swimmer as well as the Top Overall Girls Swimmer (out of all classifications) at the 2018 Daily Journal Fall Sports Awards, and she returns to lead the Lady Warriors once again.

Reannon Hicks and Kori Grace Ware highly improved as young swimmers a year ago and also are back. The remainder of the girls team is composed of newcomers.

The program is also undergoing a change at the top. 2018 head coach Hannah Mims left to be closer to family, and Alyssa Lee will lead the program in its second year, assisted by Zach Gory.

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south Pontotoc

2019 cougars

softball

2019 South Pontotoc lady Cougars Slowpitch Softball Team

This year’s Lady Cougars slowpitch softball team includes (bottom row left to right) Chelsea Hurst, Abbygale Patterson, Brooke McCord, Preslee Austin, Jacee McClellan, Chloe Chunn, Brooklyn Bunch, Maggie Moore, Taryn Jamison and Khloe Catledge, (middle row) Maddie Holcomb, Brianna Crowley, Annabelle Matthews, Kilynn Carlisle, Carlee Dunlap, Mary Hays, Elise LeMaire, Mikayla McGreger, Brylee Vandiver and Kaylee Moore, (top row) Maggie Ross, Allyson Harrison, Alexis Hurst, Koryn Mathews, Maggie Tackett, Lydia Garrison, Secora Weeks, Gabriel Mooneyham and Arlee McClellan. The #34 jersey is in remembrance of Maggie Tackett, a 7th grader who passed away in a boating accident earlier this summer.

Photo by Jonathan Wise

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Will Ruff

Sports Writer

The South Pontotoc Lady Cougars capped many seasons of consistent success in 2018 by capturing the MHSAA Class II Slowpitch Softball state championship. South lost seven players from last season’s state title squad. All started or contributed to the team’s success in one way or another, and at a glance this season could easily be considered a rebuilding year. However, 14th year head coach Adam Patterson wants to hear none of that.

“We want to win now,” he said.

“We are not thinking about rebuilding. We will take it one game at a time, just work hard and play hard, and the wins will come.”

Junior Koryn Mathews will be heavily relied upon in the circle for the Lady Cougars this season.

“We will lean on her a lot to pitch this year,” said Patterson. “Allyson Harrison (Jr) will play shortstop and be looked upon as a leader, because after that everyone else is pretty much new.”

Maggie Ross will play in the infield as well. Junior Secora Weeks is a veteran, a good hitter and defender, and will play in the outfield. Kilynn Carlisle and Maddie Holcomb will also be counted on.

“Alexis Hurst, Lydia Garrison and a lot of other young kids will need to step up and play,” said Patterson.

“Early on we will be looking to get people in the right spots, the right roles and then get some games under us.”

With the decline of slowpitch participation statewide, this season the Lady Cougars will play in a new classification that will composed of formerly 4A-6A programs. They will compete along with Tupelo, Corinth, Tishomingo County, Mooreville and Shannon in Class II, Region 1.

With the program coming off its most successful season, higher expectations are fair and deserved. Despite being inexperienced, the Lady Cougars’ track record under Patterson suggest the team will be a force to be reckoned by season’s end.

“These girls really work hard in practice; they are fun to coach and a hard working bunch,” said coach Patterson. “We have a lot of good young players, and it will be fun coaching them in a new division. I’m really looking forward to it.”

south pontotoC

SOUTH SOFTBALL WANTS TO KEEP SUCCESS GOING

2019 South Pontotoc lady Cougars slowpitch softball schedule August 29 East Webster

September 5 Shannon*

September 17 Corinth*

August 26 Houston

September 7 @ Columbus

September 24 @ Mooreville*

August 27 @ East Webster

September 10 Houlka

September 26 @ Tishomingo County*

August 29 @ Shannon*

September 12 Tishomingo County*

September 30 @ Tupelo*

August 31 @ Eupora Tournament

September 16 Tupelo*

October 1 Mooreville*

September 3 @ Corinth*

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* Division game

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