Fall Sports 2020

PONTOTOC CITY & COUNTY

fall 2020 Sports

FEATURING

•FOOTBALL •CHEERLEADING •BAND •CROSS COUNTRY •VOLLEYBALL •SWIMMING

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Fall Sports 2020

Fall Sports 2020

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FALL SPORTS 2020 4

letter from the

sports editor LOYAL READERS OF THE PONTOTOC PROGRESS,

E

verything was going along towel on playing. Things look differnicely earlier this year. Then ent, with masks required for entry and coronavirus struck. Since then pages of health and safety guidelines things have changed a little bit, for event workers, fans, officials, and haven’t they? players. Attendance has also been drasI was eating out with my wife the day tically reduced by restrictions from the the news broke the NCAA had canceled governor. I will let others argue about March Madness (aka the NCAA Basthe appropriateness of all that. The main ketball Tournament), joining pro sports thing is that the kids are getting to take leagues that had already suspended play. the field, court, course and pool and By the weekend the SEC had suspended compete. Again we will see how things spring competition, putting pretty much play out, but I think the governing body all sports above the prep level on a hiaas well as local school districts are doing tus. I knew it was just a matter of time everything possible to ensure they get to before high school sports joined suit, play, and they should be applauded for and that suspension happened a few doing so. I think playing is needed for days later. our youth during this time in which the Jonathan Wise One of our sports staff was covering a safety considerations for doing even rouSports Editor baseball game that night while we were tine things in our day-to-day lives have dining out, and that ended up being the changed, including going to the store, atlast athletic competition between two high school teams tending school, visiting with friends and family, and even that the Progress covered during the 2019-20 school year. going to church. People should also understand that school As everyone well knows, sports did not restart. Our next administrators are facing a novel situation, and there is no high school athletic event was covered the last week in pre-existing playbook for how to navigate a pandemic.

August. As I write this, even with seasons underway it is We in the newspaper business have not been immune still an open question if things will play out to a conclu- to the wide-ranging effects of the pandemic, but I promsion. ise we will work hard within our time and resource limKudos to the Mississippi High School Activities Asso- itations to keep the community informed during this fall ciation (MHSAA) for doing everything they can to give sports season. these kids an opportunity to play rather than being like Stay safe, some at the college football level and throwing in the Jonathan Wise, Pontotoc Progress Sports Editor

Fall Sports 2020

contents 4 Letter from the Sports Editor 6 Pontotoc Warrior football 8 South Pontotoc Cougar football 10 North Pontotoc Viking football 14 Pontotoc warrior cheerleaders 15 south Pontotoc cougar cheerleaders 16 north Pontotoc viking cheerleaders 19 pontotoc warrior marching band 20 south Pontotoc cougar marching band

21 North Pontotoc viking marching band 24 pontotoc warrior cross country 26 south Pontotoc c0ugar cross country 28 North Pontotoc viking cross country 32 pontotoc warrior volleyball 34 south Pontotoc cougar volleyball 36 north Pontotoc viking volleyball 38 pontotoc warrior swimming

Advertisers Affordable Employee Benefits...................3 Algoma Country Store.............................18 Blacksmith BBQ.......................................31 Crossroads Rehabilitation.......................18 First Choice Bank.....................................44 Friendship Fitness......................................2 Friendship Medical Clinic...........................3 Friendship Pharmacy.................................3 Friendship Travel.......................................2 Johnson’s Wrecker Service.......................41 Market Basket.........................................17

Melinda Nowicki.....................................17 MississippiCare......................................40 Montgomery Drugs.................................13 Mossy Oak Properties..............................42 Needleart Fabrics.....................................22 Patty Turk Properties, LLC........................12 Peach Blossom Boutique..........................22 Physical Therapy......................................31 Pickens Pest Control................................31 Pontotoc Animal Clinic............................42 Pontotoc Chamber/Main Street Assoc.......22

on the cover

FALL SPORTS 2020

table of

Pontotoc Progress...................................43 Pure Bliss.................................................22 Renasant Bank........................................13 Ricky Ferguson........................................30 Shannon & Graham Eye Clinic................18 Torrance School Photography..................18 Trent’s Portrait Design.............................13 True Value................................................40 Wood Eye Clinic......................................41 Young’s Tire Store....................................30

Featured on the cover is South Pontotoc senior quarterback Eli Allen.

Writers

Jonathan Wise, Sports Editor and Will Ruff, Sports Writer

A Special Thanks To

Trent’s Portrait Design and Torrance School Photography for the photos Advertising Consultant: Angie Quarles

Fall Sports 2020

Graphic Designer: Chelsea Williams 5

PONTOTOC CITY

2020 warrior

football

2020 Pontotoc Warrior football Team

Members of the 2020 Pontotoc Warriors football team are Davion Sampson, Justin Woods, Jordan Ball, Malachi Brown, Qualen Dixon, Conner Armstrong, Jamius Eubanks, Kentrel Peters, Kyleal McShan, Cade Armstrong, Marty Reel, Nick Townsend, Lamorian Jones, Tanner Ellis, Landon Morgan, Montinque Wilson, Walt Gardner, Jaden Montgomery, Jemarkus Whitfield, Jonah Mahan, Christopher Hullett, Amare Young, Chrishawn Crudup, Anndru Berry, Ja’kylen Judeon, Caleb Goodwin, Dakota Walker, James Holmes, Hayden Kyle, Karon Bradley, Walker Tackett, Colby Thompson, Cameron Chunn, Drew Cunningham, Bryce Chrestman, Zack Barradas, Isaac Ditto, Brody Washington, Montavious Bell, Joseph Holmes, Damien Murphy, Brady Thomas, Clayton Byrd, Juan Bautista, Jimmy Ray, Tyler McGregor, Carter Cleveland, Colton Hillhouse, Robert Vaughn, J.R. Carnes, and Dejuan Cage.

Photo by Trent’s Portrait Design

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Fall Sports 2020

Jonathan Wise Sports Editor

The Pontotoc Warriors enter 2020 feeling good about their returning core. PHS will have less depth than they have had in recent years, but the group has the potential for another successful year.

“Overall, I think we are in a pretty good position,” said sixth-year head coach Jeff Carter. “We are probably thinner than we have been since I’ve been here. We just don’t have the numbers that we’ve had, but we have some guys that are going to be in shape and ready go, and I think they will be able to do it.”

Sophomore Conner Armstrong (702 passing yards, 7 TDs) enters the year as the starting quarterback after splitting time in 2019, and Carter expects that experience plus the offseason will lead to significant improvement this season.

The Warriors return a lot of production in the backfield with seniors Jemarkus Whitfield (859 rushing yards, 5.8 yards per carry) and Jordan Ball (439 rushing yards, 5.9 yards per carry).

“They are both good running backs.

We feel good there,” coach Carter said.

Four-year starter Cade Armstrong (Sr.) will lead the receiving corps. He

has been a key contributor his entire career, but he is set to take on a bigger role with the graduation of the Warriors’ top two receivers from 2019.

Armstrong provides a big target, as does fellow veteran wideout L.J. Jones (Sr.), who also brings valuable experience and production.

“We are returning some experience on the offensive line,” Carter said.

“They’ve gotten bigger, so we ought to be able to compete up front.”

Seniors Colton Hillhouse, Clayton Byrd and Damien Murphy return on the offensive line.

“Those guys are good ball players,” Carter said. “They’ve been with us and been in the system.”

Carter Cleveland (Jr.) steps into a starting position on the offensive line this season. Jon Robert Carnes (So.) will be a “multiple guy.” He will see time at tight end and tackle, as well as play at defensive end.

“I think we will be able to move the ball a little better this year than we did last year,” coach Carter said.

End Justin Woods (Jr.) and nose guard Jimmy Ray (Jr.) return to anchor the defensive line. Jonah Mahan (Sr.), Caleb Goodwin (Sr.), Colby Thompson (Jr.), Walker Tackett (Jr.) and Cameron Chunn (Sr.), among others, are in the mix in the front seven.

The secondary will be inexperienced but athletic, with senior cornerback Marty Reel the lone returner.

“Marty is a really sharp player and good leader,” Carter said. “I look for him to be an All-Division player and get recruited. I am excited to see what he does this year.”

Nic Townsend is set to step into a starting slot at the other corner. Kyleal McShan will work at corner as well.

Both will also play on offense at receiver.

Tanner Ellis (Jr.) and Cade Armstrong will both see time at one safety slot, while Jordan Ball and Malachi Brown are working at the other safety position.

“Besides Marty (Reel) everybody else is new, so I would say secondary is our biggest question mark right now,” Carter said.

The Warriors must replace a productive placekicker and punter. Kicker Ashton Maffett joined the team in fall camp and was very effective early in the season, including making the game-winning field goal in PHS’s season opener against New Albany.

“I think we just need to have a good start; last year we started off so bad (the Warriors started 0-4 and finished 6-6),” Carter said. “We were facing some good teams, but a lot of it had to do with our mistakes. We just weren’t a Pontotoc Warrior football team those first four games. My challenge to them is to find our identity. Let’s start faster so we can get in the mix and compete.”

PONTOTOC CITY

WARRIORS HAVE POTENTIAL FOR STRONG SEASON

2020 Pontotoc Warrior football schedule SEPTEMBER 18 Houston

OCTOBER 8 @ South Pontotoc*

OCTOBER 23 Itawamba Ahs*

SEPTEMBER 25 @ Ripley

OCTOBER 16 @ Caledonia*

OCTOBER 30 @ Shannon*

OCTOBER 2 Mooreville (Homecoming)* Fall Sports 2020

* Division game

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SOUTH PONTOTOC

2020 Cougar

football

2020 south pontotoc cougar football Team

Members of the 2020 South Pontotoc football team include Kendalle Morphis, Clayton Heatherly, Tristan Keith, Braxton Morphis, Gabe Ruth, Trace Ash, Drew Tutor, Ashton Goggins, Eli Allen, Aiden Sprinkle, Bennett Mayo, Mickelle Dawson, Quay Scott, David Trevino, Noah Fleming, Chase Long, Cody Stutsy, Logan Ledbetter, Latravian Ware, Nick Cummins, Gavin Florez, Emery Tedder, Jacob Lewis, Ethan Patterson, Sam Newell, Camrin White, Will Angle, Landon Murphree, Ivan Martinez, Isaac Finley, J.C. Silver, Chandler Coker, Eric Kuykendall, Kyle Stafford, Zac Patterson, Treyvon Thompson, Tristan Bone, Larkin Gillespie, Lane Chunn, Chase Foster, Brandon Flake, Jimmy Harpole, Barrett Mask, P.J. Akers, Wes Lindsey, Nathan Hardin, Kade Keith, Kenneth Waters, Jeff Smith, Colton Henderson, Andres Chrestman, Austin Shempert, Jesse Prater, Jayden Duncan, Henley McNatt, Tristan Kelly, Collin Tallant, Gatlin Roye, Amad William, Joseph Marroquin and Joseph Keller.

Photo by Torrance Photography

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Fall Sports 2020

Jonathan Wise Sports Editor

South Pontotoc football took its lumps last year, jumping into Class 4A play with an extremely young roster. Coming into 2020 the Cougars have matured quite a bit, and that will be needed with the types of opponents they will face in division play.

South, like all programs, has faced challenges with the loss of spring practice, but second-year coach Rod Cook has been pleased with the work ethic his troops have displayed.

“The kids have been great at coming to workouts, showing up on time and doing what we have before them,” he said.

Cook added a new offensive coordinator, Bert Ashley, to his staff to add some tweaks to the offense. Veteran quarterback Eli Allen (Sr.) gives the Cougars a steady hand directing the attack, as he enters his third year as the starter.

“We put him in that spot when he was young; he took some blows, but he has improved and carried the team well,” coach Cook said. “He is a senior this season, and we are looking for great things out of him.”

His top targets will be receiver Clayton Heatherly (Jr.) and tight end Isaac Finley (Sr.).

However, South’s bread and butter is the running game. Cody Stutsy (Jr.), Quay Scott (Jr.) and Chase Long (Jr.) are all physical backs.

They bring back the entire offensive front to pave the way for their backs. Senior linemen will consist of tackles Colin Tallent and Chase Foster, guards Brandon Flake and Tristan Kelly, and center P.J. Akers, who was an All-Division performer last season. Also in the mix are Wes Lindsey and Nathan Hardin.

“All them (returning starters from last season) will be seniors, which will be great,” Cook said. “They all got valuable experience last year.

They are going to show up every day and do what they need to do.”

The defensive unit kept South in a number of games last year. Along the front, the Cougars will look for production out of Kenneth Waters (Jr.), Eric Kuykendall (Sr.) and Zac Patterson (Jr.). Quay Scott, Chase Long and Chandler Coker (Sr.) are slated for key roles at linebacker.

Finley, a first team All-Division 2-4A player in 2019, will lead the secondary.

The Cougars bring back experience in the kicking game. Noah Fleming was very effective as an eighth grader last year and has improved his craft. Allen will again handle the team’s punting.

“I don’t think they were as surprised as they thought they were going to be (last year),” Cook said. “It’s football, even though it is tougher in 4A with schools having more kids and bigger and faster players.”

“Overall they rose to the occasion and didn’t back down from it. I think they are looking forward to playing those same teams again this time and being more prepared for the task.”

SOUTH PONTOTOC

COUGARS HOPE GROWTH LEADS TO MORE SUCCESS

2020 South Pontotoc Cougar football schedule SEPTEMBER 18 Bruce (Homecoming) SEPTEMBER 25 Walnut

OCTOBER 8 Pontotoc*

OCTOBER 23 @ Caledonia*

OCTOBER 16 Shannon*

OCTOBER 30 Mooreville* * Division game

OCTOBER 2 @ Itawamba AHS* Fall Sports 2020

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NORTH PONTOTOC

2020 Viking

football

2020 North pontotoc viking football Team

Members of the 2020 North Pontotoc Vikings football team are Tyler Ford, Reece Kentner, Aidan Tatum, Kaden Wilson, Raquan Booth, Tyler Hill, Leyton Walker, Tyler Pickens, Winn Navarrete, Hunter Miles, Clay Pitts, Ayden Ellis, Jordan Pitts, Holden Little, Kalor Kirby, Bo Howell, Brian Heredia, Blake McGloflin, Wesley Simmons, Cayson Capwell, Gavin Dyer, Colton Gillespie, Romeo Cornejo, Stevie Hicks, Colton Moore, Rhodes Anthony, Stephen Hollis, Eli Patterson, Daniel Crotwell, Drake Steele, Chris Galabiz, Bradley McGuire, Landon Ward, Kobie Doss, Brayden Harrison, Dontez Cook, Nathaniel McKnight, Noah Carter, Landon Woodson, Tate Ellis, Austin George, Bo Rainer, Ethan Terry, T.J. Nash, Case Young, Bryce Rainer, Hunter Carwile, Caleb Davis, Dalton Tutor, Cooper Armstrong, Andrew Cheney, Andrew Laliberte, Kenyon Randle, Trent Hamblin, Clayton Redd, Richard Hernandez, Eli Carwyle and Frank Stark. The Coaching staff includes Andy Crotwell (head coach), Matt Lindsey, Bob Rainer, Andrew Aldridge, Ivan Collier, and Trae Smith. The team’s ball boys are Dre Villareal, Hutton Anthony, Easton Hill and J.D. Matthews. The team’s Gridrion Girls are Anna Grace Coomer, Tayler Bishop, Brooke McBrayer, Bella Hayes, Lizzie Tutor and Bindi Seale.

North Pontotoc opted not to take a football team picture due to COVID-19 concerns.

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Fall Sports 2020

Jonathan Wise Sports Editor

The North Pontotoc Vikings acquitted themselves well last season in their first campaign back in Class 4A. North has another roster with experience and talent in 2020, and the Vikings hope to build on last year.

Head coach Andy Crotwell made some changes to his offense in the offseason, primarily in the passing game. North was very effective running the ball in 2019, as the ground game accounted for 67% of their yardage. They should be again, and they hope to be able to consistently make plays through the passing game as well.

Sophomore quarterback Reece Kentner was thrown into the fire late last year as freshman and started the final four games. Despite the challenges caused by the pandemic, he has significantly improved his grasp of the offense.

“Reece has a great feel for the type of velocity a given throw needs,” coach Crotwell said. “He’s accurate, and that’s been the case since I’ve known him. But if you look it his early minutes from last year the

progression of knowing where to go with the ball versus at certain look has improved dramatically. He kind of got thrown to the wolves last year.

My expectation is that he will have some success this year, because he has grown a lot more comfortable with knowing where his eyes should be pre-snap and post-snap.”

The Vikings boast a pair of senior explosive tailbacks in Raquan Booth, who rushed for 1,001 yards and averaged 6.9 yards a carry, and Tyler Hill.

The coaching staff expects a veteran front to be a major key to a productive offense, as North returns every starter from the end of last season in Kenyon Randle (So.), Bo Rainer (Sr.), Trent Hamblin (Sr.), Dalton Tutor (Sr.) and Richard Hernandez (Sr.).

“We are excited about having the offensive line back,” Crotwell said.

“At any position there is no substitute for experience. Where we struggled a little last year was being able to throw people out of a loaded box, and our expectation is that will be resolved this season.”

Top receiver Tyler Ford (Sr.) also returns to lead the receiving corps.

Kaden Wilson (Sr.), a key two-way

player, also gives the Vikings more valuable experience at wideout.

Blake McGloflin (So.), Winn Navarrete (Jr.), Aidan Tatum (Jr.) and, Colton Moore (Jr.) are also competing for roles in passing game.

North brings back a ton of experience from a stout defensive unit that should again keep it in most games.

Five of the six from last year’s line defensive line rotation return- Tate Ellis, Drake Steele, Gabriel Pounds, Brian Heredia and Kalor Kirby.

Fourth-year starter Hunter Miles (Sr.), with 343 career tackles, anchors the linebacking corps. Leyton Walker (Jr.) and Gavin Dyer (Sr.) are also productive ‘backers.

Kaden Wilson, another four-year starter, is a consistent playmaker at defensive back with nine career interceptions. Hill and Jordan Pitts (Jr.) and will also be key pieces in the secondary.

Gavin Dyer gives the team a steady at hand placekicker after a very consistent season in 2019. Dyer made 22 of 24 PATs and 4 of 6 field goals. Kentner also returns as the team’s punter.

“We feel good about the nucleus of guys that we have coming back,” Crotwell said.

NORTH PONTOTOC

VIKINGS BRING BACK EXPERIENCE, TALENT

2020 North Pontotoc viking football schedule SEPTEMBER 18 Independence

OCTOBER 9 New Albany*

SEPTEMBER 25 @ Calhoun City

OCTOBER 16 @ Tishomingo County*

OCTOBER 2 Ripley*

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OCTOBER 23 Aberdeen (Homecoming) OCTOBER 30 @ Corinth* * Division game

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PONTOTOC CITY

2020 warrior

Cheerleaders

2020 Pontotoc Warrior Cheerleaders

This year’s Pontotoc High School cheerleaders are (bottom row) Anna Claire Warren, Maggie Martin, Evalena Russell, Jaelyn McDonald, Anna Grace Ritchie, (middle row) Kylee Whitt, Josie Warren, Chelsy Mull, Kelsey Haney, Alayna Ball, Izzy Park, (top row) Harlee Wilson, Paris Vaughn, Maggie Kimble, Katie Christian and Mariah Montgomery.

Photo by Trent’s Portrait Design

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Fall Sports 2020

Cheerleaders

SOUTH PONTOTOC

2020 cougar

2020 south pontotoc cougar Cheerleaders

This year’s South Pontotoc High School cheerleaders include (bottom row left to right) Logan Giompoletti, Liz Russell, Lydia Garrison, Koryn Mathews, (middle row) Marlee Hoing, Nikki Raines, Kealey Ward, Morgan Gunter, Kiara McCord, Sallie Blake Fleming, (top row) Lakyn Moody, Annabelle Matthews, Layla Kate Ward, Olivia Crane and Kathryn Higginbotham. Not pictured: Ella Gaspard (mascot).

Photo by Trent’s Portrait Design

Fall Sports 2020

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NORTH PONTOTOC

2020 viking

Cheerleaders

2020 north pontotoc viking Cheerleaders

This year’s North Pontotoc High School cheerleaders include (first row) Haisley Coker, Lexi Herring, (second row) McKenzie Griggs, Maly Mae Fitts, Jessie Leigh Corley, Jenna Herring, (third row) Macey Thomas, Abby Horton, Gracie Corley, Abi Grace Warren, Mallory Robinson, Allie Grace Hamilton, Emily Clowers, (fourth row) Meredith Gregory, Payton Bailey, Tiffany Bishop, Riley Mitchell, Chloe Graham and Kayleigh Jenkins. Not Pictured: Annasia Berry Photo by Trent’s Portrait Design

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marching band

PONTOTOC CITY

2020 Warrior

2020 Pontotoc warrior marching band

Members of the 2020 Pontotoc Warriors marching band are Daniel Alvarez, Rebekah Ball, Ryan Barefoot, Anakin Barefoot, Jeremiah Barrett, Juan Bautista, Anna Scott Boyette, Cheridy Brown, Chrishton Brown, De’Aisha Browner, Laura Beth Calvert, Danielle Carter, Arabella Castleman, Fabiola Chaperno, Celeste Clayton, Jasmier Coleman, Elizabeth Dowdy, Samantha Edwards, Coda Ethridge, Buddy Ferguson, Rob Ferguson, Samantha Fleming, Mikey Franklin, Michael Franklin, Joanna Garcia, Abby Gillespie, Noe Gonzalez, Adrianna Gonzalez, Evan Guin, Brody Hall, Luke Hammer, Kelsey Haney, Hayden Hays, Zacchaea Holesome, Marilyn Holguin, Noah Holland, Emma Kate Houser, Yazmin Iniguez, Olivia Inmon, Jacobe Johnson, Aaniyah Johnson, Gracelyn Johnson, Landon Johnson, Andy Jones, Bethany Jones, Danaysha Jones, Makyah Jones, Savannah King, Ximena Lira, Emilie Little, Shayne Lowe, Harley Lyons, Emily Mabus, Chloe Mabus, Kyla Mayes, Santaisha Mayes, Tanner McCord, Rylee McIntyre, Joryie McKnight, Jacob Mercer, David Metcalfe, Taylor Mims, Elizabeth Anne Mitchell, Kevin Montes, Mariah Montgomery, Ava Kathryn Moore, Maddie Moorman, Michaela Pearson, Marneiko Penrose, Jassmin Perez, Braylun Perkins, Maddie Pounders, Willy Quinonez, Carla Ramirez, Kassandra Ramirez, Juan Ramirez, Jeremy Ray, Kristin Ray, Jeridiane Ray, Alaina Riley, Lizet Ruedas, Cala Sanchez, Emily Sauerwein, Richie Smith, Chelsea Smith, Joshua Spates, Khaleb Tallaferro, Heather Tedford, Christian Tirado, Martin Torres, Ethan Troupe, David Tucker, Layla Tutor, Naomi Tzib, Bryan Valentin, Olivia Vance, Akylah Vance, Samantha Vickery, Jonathan Vielmas, Jatzary Vielmas, Josie Warren, Kye Webb, Anna Catherine Wilbanks, Tyler Williams, Allison Wray and Aliycia Young.

Photo by Jonathan Wise

Fall Sports 2020

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SOUTH PONTOTOC

2020 Cougar

marching band

2020 South Pontotoc Cougar marching band

Members of the South Pontotoc marching band are Pamela Bejarano, Faith Brown, Kinslee Ferguson, Maggie Franks, Stacy Guzman, Ebony Hallman, Kaelen Loaeza, Amber Montgomery, Aly Sanchez, Gracie Brown, Aaliyah Dillard, Maria Montgomery, Whitney Jones, Prisila Martinez, Analyse McMillen, Kiana Rainer, Ophelia Rocha, Madison Stone, Tasia Triplett, Ilce Velasquez, Leslie Vidana, Yully Rocha, Gavin Flores, Colton Fuqua, Kaelan Gillespie, Danna Gregory, Callie Hill, Landon Horton, Isabella Lopez, Hunter Luby, Bobby Onsby, Colin Tallent, Jack Tutor, Cadye Weeks, Max Wright, Joshua Fernandez, Jessica Gann, Anna Gregory, Alexis Harlow, Alayna Hyland, Kyle Nix, Donivon Owen, Aaron Pannell, Rebecca Rodgers, Skylar Sullivan, A.J. Tutor, Andrea Yother, Matthew Butts, Elena Gann, Kanya Lopez, Karen Lopez, Yhadira Martinez, Faith Pannell, Stephen Rammirez, Justin Carwile, Joseph Marroqin, Rene Martinez, Lexie McCoy, Morran McMillen, Becky Milner, Rainy Osterhout, Isaiah Pannell, Dulce Ramirez, Gabi Reynolds, Austin Taylor, Alejandro Tovar, Garrett Weeks, Kenny Wilgermein, Josh Coker, Shakiya Hallman, Preston Mathis, Braxton Ratliff, Jacob Fletcher, Colby Lewis, Devin Owens, Samantha Pulliam, Anthony Sanders, Connor Bland, Coledon Montgomery, Chloe Moorman, Quay Scott, Mack Cossey, Jeannie Gonzalez, Landon Lee, Gage Rhodes, Ryker Tryon, Caleb Tuggle, Conner Coker, Michael Coleman, J.J. Ferguson, Emma Franks, Audrey George, Deanna Henderson, Daelan Hollingsworth, Macy Holloway, Alex Long, Elizabeth Willis, Jadyn Brown, Katie Campanaro, Faith Cheney, Haylee Crawley, Carlos Deloera, Alona Finley, Laken Harlow, Kendall Herrington, Hannah Jinkins, Sara Grace Jones, Jaycie Kelly, Zoe Kyle, Katelin Lackey, Madi Lemaire, Sarah Milner, Morgan Spears, Emily Vail, Lyndsey Vernon, Asteric Whitt, Emily Lopez and Alexis Tryon.

Photo by Jonathan Wise

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marching band

NORTH PONTOTOC

2020 Viking

2020 North Pontotoc viking marching band

Members of the North Pontotoc High School marching band are: Drum Major: Addison Clements; Flutes: Anna Brown, Faith Carr, Shannon Wilson, Bailee Snider, Yecenia Lopez, Clarinets: Aizlynn Herbert, Lindsey Raby, Peighton Snider, Aubrey Holcomb, Emily Spellins, Mikayla Burnett, Mackenzie Sneed; Alto Saxophones: Chlo Pina, T.J. Baker, Jaylan Nix, Logan Powell, Erin Wise; Bass Clarinet: Allen Armstrong; Trumpet: Alyssa Pankow, Ari Pina, Halley Williams, Matthew Tidwell, Katelynn Oglesby, Jennifer Watson; Mellophones: Makenna Cooper, Kari Wise, Wes May, Marissa Dedeaux, Matthew Sorrels; Trombones: Colby Boyd, Jack Harlow; Baritones: Emmett Lott, Christian Najera, Nyla Smith, Ethan Robertson, Phillip Steele; Tubas: Lakelynn Lepard, Evan Robertson, Abraham Garcia; Battery: Alexis Portey, Yanna Foster, Nathan Najera, Lily Voyles, Shay Howell, Kathryn Coghlan, Seth Coghlan, Roshaud Harvey; Front Ensemble: Harley Pipkin, Leslie Torres, Hunter Blevins, Brett White, Sharleigha Lipsey, Amari McShan; Color Guard: Karastan Gamble, Jolee Nowlin, Allyson Speck, Caroline Speck, Ambrie Stark, Gracie Turner, Mary Lott, Madison Paul, Bailey Wommack, Caleigh Coleman, Haley Dedeaux, Kailyn Lott, Tori Stilwell, Karmen Trentham, Harley Hutchinson and Aubrey Osborne. The band’s directors are Cody Roberts, Taylor Riley and Treyce Bannerman. Staff includes Kaitlynn Yates, Kody Hunter, Jon Ray and Olivia Huey.

North Pontotoc opted not to take a group band picture due to COVID-19 concerns.

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PONTOTOC CITY

2020 warrior

cross country

2020 Pontotoc Warrior cross country Team

This year’s Pontotoc Warriors cross country team includes (front row) Caiden Ivy, Beau Hunter, Cooper Parmer, Noah Holland, Ellis Maffett (second row) Logan Moore, Caden Spears, Keelin Johnson, Cayton Corley, Jackson Mabus, (third row) Braxton Whiteside, Chance Blanchard, Scout Olsen, Josh Stegall, Tyler Wilburn, Maddox Jones, (fourth row) Kade Stegall, Andrew Chrestman, Freddy Porter, Jacob Vickery and Jace Clingan.

Photo by Jonathan Wise

2020 Pontotoc Warrior Cross Country schedule SEPTEMBER 12 Mooreville Invitational SEPTEMBER 26 Tupelo Invitational OCTOBER 3 TCPS Invitational

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OCTOBER 10 Pontotoc Invitational (Cherry Creek Orchards)

OCTOBER 20 Region Meet (Cherry Creek Orchards)

OCTOBER 13 Middle School Championship (Clinton)

NOVEMBER 2 4A State Meet (Clinton)

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PONTOTOC CITY 2020 Pontotoc Lady Warrior cross country Team

This year’s Pontotoc Lady Warriors cross country team includes (front row) Halie Bramlett, Samantha Bond, Lennon Whitehead, Sara Campos Gonzalez, Abby Gillespie, Mikayla Wendler, Ella Huey, Sailor Huey, (second row) Olivia Hamblin, Jaelyn Cox, Haley Barefoot, Catherine Courtney, Carla Ramirez, Victoria Knowles, Mary Margaret Deaton, Kaylin Simmons, (third row) Genesis Tzib, Ava Whiteside, Reese Laenen, Channing Lane, Samantha Vickery, Mallie Matfett, Lillen Harbin and Taylor Duggar.

Photo by Jonathan Wise

PHS LOOKS TO CONTINUE TRADITION IN 2020 Special to the Progress

The 2020 cross country season got started in June with 30 runners coming to summer practices.

“I was proud of these kids for coming, even when we were not sure there was even going to be a season,” coach Mike Bain said, who is starting his 42nd season at Pontotoc. “We currently have 50 now that school has started. These kids are working hard and we will be ready to compete.”

The Pontotoc boys have come in second in the state for the past two seasons to Corinth, and they have the potential to make a run that the state

Fall Sports 2020

crown again.

Based on summer workouts, the top 6 boys are Freddy Porter, Cooper Parmer, Caiden Ivy, Jace Clingan, Ellis Maffett and Kade Stegall.

“Several are competing for that 7th spot,” Bain said. “Braxton Whiteside is an 8th grader who has been in the top 7 all summer, and will move up after the junior high season.

The top seven for the girls are not as clear as it has been for the boys this summer.

“Haley Lowe has been our top runner, but she will be competing with the junior high through the middle school championship in October,”

Bain said.

“Kaylin Simmons, Caroline McCutchen, Ella Huey, Ava Robbins, Haley Barefoot and Carla Ramirez have had a good summer. Reese Laenen is an 8th grader who has improved a lot over the summer. Olivia Hamblin is a 7th grader in her first year who has looked pretty good.

“We will have at least 12 girls who have a shot at the top 7 by the end of the season. We have several who did not start until school started, and it will take a few weeks to see just what they can accomplish, but we are looking forward to seeing just how good they can be.”

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SOUTH PONTOTOC

2020 Cougar

cross country

2020 South Pontotoc Cougar cross country Team

This year’s South Pontotoc boys cross country team includes (kneeling) Caleb Tuggle, Gable Steward, Slade Bost, Noah Fleming, (second row) Brennan Ratliff, Hunter Lindsey, Trey Riley, Dakota Neal, (back row) Head Coach Helen Bowen, Dylan Fauver, Rene Martinez, Colton Fuqua, Zach Bennett, Braxton Ratliff, R.J. Pickering, and coach Judy Mills. Not Pictured: Ivan Martinez and Andres Martinez.

Photo by Jonathan Wise

2020 south pontotoc cougar Cross Country schedule SEPTEMBER 12 Mooreville Invitational SEPTEMBER 19 Saltillo Invitational OCTOBER 3 TCPS Invitational

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OCTOBER 10 Pontotoc Invitational (Cherry Creek Orchards)

OCTOBER 20 Region Meet (Cherry Creek Orchards)

OCTOBER 13 Middle School State Championships (Clinton)

NOVEMBER 2 4A State Meet (Clinton)

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This year’s South Pontotoc girls cross country team includes (kneeling) Karina Fernandez, Jaki Fernandez, Zada Bray, (standing) Head Coach Helen Bowen, Macy Bain, Leah Montgomery, Ella Easterling, Elizabeth Harlow, Harlee Gillespie, Chelle Corder, Savannah Ray, Kendall Adams, Maggie Ross, and coach Judy Mills. Not Pictured: Haley Hamm.

SOUTH PONTOTOC

2020 south pontotoc lady cougar cross country Team

Photo by Jonathan Wise

HARD WORKING COUGARS SEEK TO WORK TOWARD POTENTIAL Jonathan Wise Sports Editor

The South Pontotoc Cougars are looking forward to working toward the teams’ potential over the course of this cross country season.

Former coach Helen Bowen has taken back over the program, and she has been pleased with what she has seen in terms of the effort level. “(Coach) Judy Mills has worked alongside me, and I could not have done it without her,” coach Bowen said. “We have a great group of kids, and they have worked extremely hard.”

The boys bring back a talented core group of runners. Zach Bennett is a se-

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nior who has been a productive runner for multiple seasons.

Five out of the seven runners who competed at last season’s state meet return, including Noah Fleming, who finished 34th in the state as an 8th grader. The other veteran top runners are Bennett, sophomore Slade Bost, freshman Gable Steward and junior Colton Fuqua.

Additional returning runners are Ivan Martinez, Dylan Fauver, Trey Riley, Caleb Tuggle, R.J. Pickering and Brennan Ratliff.

Five of last year’s final top seven also return for the varsity girls in Ella Easterling, Leah Montgomery, Elizabeth Harlow, Chelle Corder and Savannah Ray.

Middle school runner Macy Bain was a strong performer as a 7th grader last year and returns as well.

While results are important, the most important thing is constantly improving to where the teams perform their best at the state championships in early November.

“The biggest thing is getting their times to drop each time we run,” Bowen said. “Early on we want to get a good idea of where we are so we can figure we need to go from there. It’s not so much about beating other runners, it’s about beating yourself and getting faster. If we can subtract half a minute (each meet)...even seconds count. We just want to get better meet by meet.”

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NORTH PONTOTOC

2020 viking

cross country

2020 North Pontotoc viking cross country Team

This year’s North Pontotoc Vikings cross country team includes (bottom row) Emmett Lott, Noah Waldrop, Hayden Waldron, Landon Hill, Tripp Little, Brayden Brown, Mason Bramlett, Colby Boyd, (middle row) Caleb Pitts, Adrian Vega, Christian Najera, Nash Guerin, John Mendoza, Jalil Jimenez, Hayden Stacks, Jace Russell, Brady Shettles, Aaron Akers, (back row) Westin Carwyle, Jarrod Coleman, Tyler Carter, Hunter Huffstatler, Frank Stark, Holden Little, Ethan Robertson, Cole Montgomery, Keaton Varnon and head coach Marley Russell. Not Pictured: Dylan Herring, Rhys Panes, Aiden Patterson, Eli Clayton, Kye Clowers and Will Townsend.

Photo by Jonathan Wise

2020 north pontotoc viking Cross Country schedule SEPTEMBER 19 Saltillo Invitational SEPTEMBER 26 Tupelo Invitational OCTOBER 3 TCPS Invitational

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OCTOBER 10 Pontotoc Invitational (Cherry Creek Orchards) OCTOBER 17 Myrtle Invitational (New Albany Sportsplex)

TBA Region 1-4A Meet NOVEMBER 2 4A State Championships

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This year’s North Pontotoc Lady Vikings cross country team includes (front row) Serenity Carr, Anna Scott Thomas, Maly Mae Fitts, Kailey Coker, (back row) Karmen Trentham (manager), Lindy Holley, Anna Beth Brown, Serenity Clayton, Caroline Speck and head coach Marley Russell. Not Pictured: Liz Tovar, Addy Ollonobich, Celeste Alban, Kylee Snider and Laney Clowers.

Photo by Jonathan Wise

NORTH XC LOOKS TO COMPETE WELL IN 2020 Will Ruff

Sports Writer

The North Pontotoc boys cross country team is ready to take the next step and compete statewide in 4A this season. Head coach Marley Russell has been pleased with the boys’ progress during practice and was excited to discuss her expectations for the 2020 season.

“We usually finished in the middle at most meets last season,” said coach Russell. “We didn’t lose anyone from last year. All their times have been improving, and if we can stay healthy and keep working hard I think we can compete at a high level.”

Anchoring the team is junior Dylan Herring.

“Dylan was our fastest runner last year, and he has made a lot of progress over the summer,” said coach Russell.

Juniors Keaton Varnon, Cody

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Boyd and Jayce Russell are also looking solid heading into competition.

“All of them have been running well and improved their times since last year,” said coach Russell. “They work hard and want to do well.”

North added a lot of runners to its roster. Most are young, and their times have looked good across the board so far in practice.

“I’m ready to see our young runners, because they haven’t run together much as a team,” said coach Russell. “I think I have a few 8th graders that will get moved up early in the season, not because of a numbers issue but because of their times.”

Russell said that the North girls team works hard, has a great attitude and never complains.

“I have been seeing some improvement from them because of their work ethic,” she said. “As long as we are improving and getting better I will be proud of them and they

NORTH PONTOTOC

2020 north pontotoc lady viking cross country Team

should be proud of themselves.”

Junior Liz Tovar, a previous twotime All-State performer, returns as the Lady Vikings’ most accomplished runner. She has been competing since middle school and is primed to have another good season individually.

“Liz got a shirt at every race last season except for state,” said coach Russell. “She finished 16th in the 4A state final.”

Juniors Lindy Holley, Anna Scott Thomas and Caroline Speck return as well.

“They encourage each other and push the other girls, and it really shows on race days,” Russell said.

“We are inexperienced, and it has been tough getting girls to come out competing with volleyball and cheer.

“I think we are good enough at the top to get a win this year. As long as we give 100% and improve we will finish higher as a team and possibly have one or two girls finish higher individually at state as well.”

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PONTOTOC CITY

2020 warrior

volleyball

2020 Pontotoc lady Warrior volleyball Team

This year’s Lady Warriors volleyball team includes (bottom row) Alayana Ball, Maggie Kimble, Caroline Howard, Katie Christian, Scout Waldrop, Izzy Park, Holly Stewart, Camryn Stephens, Averi Bridgman, (middle row) Head Coach Annie McGregor, Ava Robbins, Anna Jenkins, Anna Kathryn Wilbanks, Sara Kitchens, Ariyauna Douglas, assistant coach Kate Hester, (back row) Mackenzie McGuirt, Audrey Hamill, Kensley Nowicki, De’Aisha Browner, Olivia Gray, Elizabeth Anne Mitchell, Sadie Stegall, Mollie Rackley and Samya Brooks.

Photo by Trent’s Portrait Design

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Fall Sports 2020

Jonathan Wise Sports Editor

The Pontotoc Lady Warriors put together their best season in several years in 2019 with 20 wins and a playoff berth, and they are looking to take another step this season with a roster that is well-positioned to do so.

“We bring back a lot of experience this year,” said head coach Annie McGregor. “We set some really high expectations this year. That was something we all agreed on, because we think we are at that level with our program. We are hoping we get to play every game (due to the coronavirus threat); we think we have a big future ahead of us.”

McGregor thinks the Lady Warriors are talented in all aspects of the game.

“We are just becoming really dynamic with our offense, but we also are with our defense,” she said. “I think this is the best defense we’ve ever had, which allows us to do a lot more offensively.”

Pontotoc brings back three seniorsDe’Aisha Browner, Olivia Gray and Kensley Nowicki.

“They all bring a great amount of

consistency, reliability and energy to the court,” McGregor said. “We really rely on all of them.”

“De’Aisha has one speed and that’s go. She is always hustling and brings it all the time.”

“Olivia has transformed into a defensive monster for us. Last year her serving percentage was like 95 percent. We can really rely on her and count on her.”

“Kensley Nowicki has just grown every year. This year she is getting blocks; she is getting kills. She is aggressive and getting those cover balls on the front row. She is everywhere we need her to be and doing exactly what we need her to do.”

Audrey Hamill and Scout Waldrop will play big roles as setters. Hamill is a key returner who is drawing a lot of college interest, while Waldrop will be new to the varsity squad. However, McGregor said she has stepped into the role very well.

Caroline Howard will again be a key cog at the libero position. She led the team by a large margin with 438 digs a season ago.

“She (Howard) is just a stud,” coach McGregor said. “She is everywhere and never lets a ball hit the floor. A big

part of our defensive success this year will be her and Olivia Gray.”

Along with Browner, Samya Brooks gives the Lady Warriors a very strong presence at the net. Both recorded 130 kills in 2019. Brooks had 75 blocks and Browner 72.

“Those two own the net; if you get it past them without at least a touch on it, then good for you,” McGregor said.

“They are going to be in your face every time you hit the ball. They also offer great attacks. This year they have expanded their hitting options and are going to offer a variety of offensive threats.”

Other players who will be contributors are Mollie Rackley and Sadie Stegall.

“They are kind of our utility players,” McGregor said. “They are playing anywhere and everywhere we need them to.”

“I think we have girls who love volleyball in our gym right now,” McGregor said. “It’s all about the girls and the work they put in. They are putting in work on their own outside of practice.

They set high expectations for themselves, so it is easy for me to have high expectations for them. We are all rowing in the same direction.”

PONTOTOC CITY

EXPECTATIONS HIGH FOR LADY WARRIORS

2020 Pontotoc lady Warrior volleyball schedule SEPTEMBER 10 Caledonia*

SEPTEMBER 17 Water Valley/Corinth

SEPTEMBER 28 @ Water Valley

SEPTEMBER 12 @ Tupelo Volleyfest

SEPTEMBER 21 Ripley

SEPTEMBER 29 South Pontotoc*

SEPTEMBER 14 @ Shannon*

SEPTEMBER 22 Shannon*

OCTOBER 6 @ Caledonia*

SEPTEMBER 15 @ Itawamba AHS*

SEPTEMBER 24 Mooreville*

OCTOBER 8 Itawamba AHS*

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OCTOBER 10 @ Oxford Tournament OCTOBER 13 @ Ripley * Division game

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SOUTH PONTOTOC

2020 cougar

volleyball

2020 south pontotoc lady cougar volleyball Team

This year’s Lady Cougars volleyball team includes (front row) Keely Smith, Avery Hendon, Katelyn Shannon, Kara Fleming, Mary-Collins Wardlaw, (second row) assistant coach Amber Bagwell, Kealey Ward, Aubrey Huey, Maggie Caldwell, Ellie Ritchie, Gabie Ritchie, Anniston Wiggins, Jada Washington, Liz Pennington, (back row) Katlyn Clenney, Hailey Rackley, Nyelle Smith, Emma Irby, Bailey Whitlock, Ryleigh Kate McVay, Alana Corder, Leanna Reeves, Reese Ward, Morgan Gunter, and Head Coach Blake Lovell.

Photo by Jonathan Wise

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Will Ruff

Sports Writer

The 2020 season will be year two for the Lady Cougars volleyball program, and head coach Blake Lovell has high hopes for a group of girls who have improved a lot.

“I think this year our ceiling is higher,” said coach Lovell. “They are more comfortable playing as a team.

They hate to lose, have grown a lot on the court since last year, and can do whatever they set their minds to.”

Junior middle blocker Hailey Rackley returns to lead a group of Lady Cougars who are eager to win.

“She is a vocal leader who has high

expectations for herself and pushes her teammates to be better,” Lovell said.

Junior Morgan Gunter and freshman Leanna Reeves will anchor the outside.

“Morgan can play anywhere and

has gotten better since last year,” said coach Lovell. “Leanna is an outside hitter, and she is young but talented and can really do it all.”

Juniors Keely Ward and Kara Fleming will also contribute in a big way.

“They are very competitive and have gown a lot since last year,” said coach Lovell. “They will do anything you ask them to and are getting better.”

“I’m excited about this season, because I think we can compete with everyone on the schedule and take the next step as a program,” said coach Lovell. “Our inexperienced players who are new to the game now have someone to watch who knows what to do, and that has helped us grow a lot.”

2020 south pontotoc lady cougar volleyball schedule SEPTEMBER 10 Itawamba AHS*

SEPTEMBER 15 @ Shannon*

SEPTEMBER 26 Nettleton

OCTOBER 3 North Pontotoc

SEPTEMBER 12 @ North Pontotoc

SEPTEMBER 22 Mooreville*

SEPTEMBER 29 @ Pontotoc*

OCTOBER 6 @ Itawamba AHS*

SEPTEMBER 14 @ Mooreville*

SEPTEMBER 24 Caledonia*

OCTOBER 1 Ingomar

OCTOBER 8 Shannon*

SOUTH PONTOTOC

LADY COUGARS EXPECT IMPROVEMENT IN YEAR TWO

* Division game

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NORTH PONTOTOC

2020 viking

volleyball

2020 north pontotoc lady viking volleyball Team

This year’s North Pontotoc Lady Vikings volleyball team includes (front row) Gracie Corley, Madison Coltharp, Haisley Coker, Bella Gates, Kam Thomas, (back row) Jessie Leigh Corley, Bella Hayes, Cayden Bell, Anna Brooke Sullivan, Annasia Berry, Katelyn Horton, Allie Leath and Karson Mitchell. Not pictured: Neveah Hopkins.

Photo by Jonathan Wise

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Fall Sports 2020

Jonathan Wise Sports Editor

The North Pontotoc Lady Vikings volleyball team finished 7-8 last season in the program’s first year. The Vikings defeated South Pontotoc four times, Myrtle twice and Mooreville once. North Pontotoc looks to improve in year two, especially in division play, as they continue building a program that has taken strides in the right direction since last season.

Co-head coaches Amanda Little and Amanda Puckett have high expectations for their team and how they expect them to compete.

“I think we can compete at a higher level because of their experiences and ability, and we expect them to always be competitive,” said coach

Little.

“We want them to build on what they learned last year and want to keep the momentum going,” said coach Amanda Puckett. “They are a fantastic group of girls and easy to coach, and it has been a great experience learning and growing with them.”

Sophomore setter Kam Thomas

will be looked upon to lead a team that returns most of its starters.

“She is a leader on the floor, has improved so much and is very knowledgeable of the game,” said coach Little.

The Lady Vikings have a pair of seniors who will work the middle this season in Allie Leath and Katelyn Horton, both are returning contributors from a year ago.

“Allie gives a lot of effort, loves the game and is strong at the net,” said coach Puckett. “Katelyn is very consistent on the floor, and we don’t have to worry about her energy or attitude because she always shows up.”

“Our girls are really looking forward to the year because they have really grown to love volleyball,” said coach Little. “They are fired up about it.”

NORTH PONTOTOC

LADY VIKINGS LOOK TO TAKE NEXT STEP

2020 north pontotoc lady viking volleyball schedule SEPTEMBER 10 @ Ripley*

SEPTEMBER 15 New Albany*

SEPTEMBER 12 South Pontotoc

SEPTEMBER 17 @ West Union

SEPTEMBER 14 Saltillo

SEPTEMBER 22 Ripley*

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SEPTEMBER 29 @ Tishomingo County* OCTOBER 1 Mooreville

OCTOBER 6 Booneville OCTOBER 8 Myrtle * Division game

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PONTOTOC CITY

2020 warrior

swimming

2020 Pontotoc Warrior swimming Team

This year’s Pontotoc boys swim team includes Buddy Ferguson, Eli Stephens, Mattox Jones, Cooper Parmer, Cayton Corley and Ellis Maffett. Not pictured: Jacob Vickery and Caiden Ivy. Photo by Jonathan Wise

2020 Pontotoc Lady Warrior swimming Team

This year’s Pontotoc girls swim team includes Mak Masters, Brittney Morales, Hallie McDonald, Olivia Patterson, Kori Grace Ware, Jadariya Williams, Emily Stegall and Kylie Burchfield. Not pictured: Karlee Moore, Reannon Hicks, Rani Greer and Riley Stanford.

Photo by Jonathan Wise

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Fall Sports 2020

Jonathan Wise Sports Editor

Pontotoc High School’s swimming teams enter their third year of competition with their third different head coach, as Pontotoc native Zach Gory takes over the program. Gory, however, is no stranger. He has been a huge part of Pontotoc’s success in the pool, having served as an assistant the previous two years.

For the 2020 season, Gory has high expectations for his girls, while he sees a great deal of potential for the boys.

The Lady Warriors will be anchored by three productive veterans, which actually made up the only three female swimmers during Pontotoc’s first year as a program- four-time state champion Rani Greer (two 200 yard individual medley titles and two 100 yard breaststroke titles), Kori Grace Ware and Reannon Hicks.

“It’s been great to watch the development of Kori Grace and Reannon over the past two years,” coach Gory said. “I mean you can just see the growth in both of them.”

Hicks finished sixth overall in the state in the 100 yard breaststroke last

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season and also was a state qualifier in the 100 yard freestyle. Ware came in sixth in the state in 100 yard backstroke and also qualified for the state championships in the 50 yard freestyle.

“Rani (Greer) has set the tone for our program,” Gory said. “Despite all her success, she is not complacent and is always working to get better. Last year she wins two state championships and she is upset she didn’t set the record she wanted to. That strive for perfection will make her successful in whatever path she chooses.”

Also returning are Jadariya Williams, Mak Masters and Karlee Moore, who along with Greer, Ware and Hicks finished sixth in the state in 2019 in the 200 yard medley relay and sixth in the 200 yard freestyle relay.

One of the things Gory is most excited about is the increased depth the squad has. Riley Stanford is a newcomer to the team he expects to make a big impact, and there are several junior high swimmers he is excited about as well.

“There is strength in numbers, and that is going to be the statement for our girls this year,” Gory said. “We have great talent at the top. With Rani, Kori Grace and Reannon, they

go out and get their points and do a great job. But when you look at our (past) numbers at the end of a meet.

We might have three of the best swimmers there, but we are still finishing in the middle of the pack as a team.

“This year we have 12 girls on the team, and we now have the capability to run out two relay teams instead of just one. And we are talking about a team, our girls team, that was voted best girls Class I swim team in the North part of the state last year in our second year as a program. We have high expectations for our girls this year, and I think that speaks highly of how far we’ve come.”

Returning for the boys team are Cooper Parmer, Cayton Corley and Buddy Ferguson.

“We’ve got three kids coming into the program this year who I think are going to make our boys better- Caiden Ivy, Ellis Maffett and Jacob Vickery,” coach Gory said. “We’ve got a lot of raw talent that we’ve just got to refine, and we’ve seen our kids in our program before who had never swam competitively but were successful when they put the work in. I think that’s what I am most excited about; we’ve got kids who are going to put the work in.”

PONTOTOC CITY

PHS SWIMMING SEEKS TO CONTINUE UPWARD TRAJECTORY AS A PROGRAM

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