Pontotoc City & County Spring Sports 2019

pontotoc city & County

spring2019Sports

Featuring

•Baseball •Softball •tennis •Golf •Track & Field •powerlifting •archery

2 | Spring Sports 2019

3 | Spring Sports 2019

spring sports 2019

letter from the

sports editor W

LOYAL READERS OF THE PONTOTOC PROGRESS,

e hope everyone enjoys put out the reminder out that sports are this magazine previewing meant to fun. They are meant to be recrethe teams and student athation, and they are mean to be entertainletes that are competing ment. Remember that whether it is at one this time of year. All our staff wishes of these high school games listed in the them the best of luck in accomplishing various schedules or as a fan watching or the goals that they have set. attending a game at another level of comSports have always been a big part of petition. my life. I played sports in school before One of the other weeklies in our comI served as a sports editor in community pany, the Itawamba Times, has a creedo college. Later I served as a manager for that labels it “the only newspaper in the Delta State’s football program. Throughworld that cares anything about Itawamout that time and in the years since I have ba County.” That is, in my opinion, is spent a tremendous amount of time bevery good marketing. Insert “Pontotoc ing a devoted fan and enthusiast beyond County,” and that accurately describes what I was involved with personally. Of our paper as well. It is no secret that the course, sports is still a huge component newspaper industry is facing challenges Jonathan Wise of my life due to the fact that my job is on several fronts, and being a paper that Sports Editor covering and writing about athletics. is exclusively focused on local communiDespite that, I have definitely taken a step back over ty news provides readers with a unique product that continthe years and put athletics in its proper place. Despite how ues to be relevant today. I think there are many people who much I still enjoy athletics, my strong belief is that all too still recognize that. many people...let’s just say take them way, way too seriThe Pontotoc Progress wants to thank our customers who ously. I could fill up a bunch of space with thoughts on this allow us to continue to be able to provide the county with subject, but I digress. I will, however, take a moment to our unique coverage of community life, including athletics.

Good luck to all the teams this season!

4 | Spring Sports 2019

contents 4 Letter from the Sports Editor 6 Pontotoc Warriors Baseball

10 North Pontotoc Vikings Baseball

24 South Pontotoc Cougars Tennis 26 North Pontotoc Vikings Tennis 28 Pontotoc Warriors Golf 30 South Pontotoc Cougars Golf 32 North Pontotoc Vikings Golf 36 Pontotoc Warriors Powerlifting

12 Pontotoc Lady Warriors Softball

37 South Pontotoc Cougars Powerlifting

14 South Pontotoc Lady Cougars Softball

38 North Pontotoc Vikings Powerlifting 40 Pontotoc Warriors Archery 41 South Pontotoc Cougars Archery 42 North Pontotoc Vikings Archery 44 Spring Sports Schedules

8 South Pontotoc Cougars Baseball

16 North Pontotoc Lady Vikings Softball 20 Pontotoc Warriors Track & Field 22 Pontotoc Warriors Tennis

Advertisers Algoma Country Store.........................18 Boyles Tire & Auto Care.......................35 Circle of Friends....................................2 Crossroads Rehabilitation....................35 First Choice Bank.................................48 Jeremy Campbell, Allstate...................43 Johnson’s Wrecker Service....................3 Mapp Farm & Hydraulics......................2

Melinda Nowicki.................................34 MississippiCare..................................19 Montgomery Drugs................................3 Pickens Pest Control............................39 Pontotoc Animal Clinic........................34 Pontotoc Progress................................35 Renasant Bank......................................18 Ricky Ferguson....................................39

on the cover

Shannon & Graham Eye Clinic...........35 Torrance School Photography..............18 Trent’s Portrait Design.........................43 True Value............................................43 Wood Eye Clinic..................................39 Young’s Tire Store................................18

Featured on this year’s cover is South Pontotoc High School’s sophomore softball player Allyson Harrison.

Writers

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

A Special Thanks To

Trent’s Portrait Design & Torrance School Photography for the photos Designed by Chelsea Williams, Pontotoc Progress 5 | Spring Sports 2019

spring sports 2019

table of

Pontotoc City

2019 warriors

baseball

2019 Pontotoc Warriors Baseball Team

Members of the 2019 Warriors baseball team are (bottom row) Eli Harlow, Walker Tackett, Jonathan Whitt, Tucker Campbell, Jon Robert Carnes, Jay Jackson, Blake Duke, Ethan Carnes, Tanner Ellis, (top row) Peco Townsend, Justin Carter, Adam Berry, Hayden Harris, Miles Galloway, Reed Emison, Brice Deaton, Carsen Dallas, Eli Montgomery, Seth Ganger and Ross Mathews. Not pictured: Caleb Hobson, Whit Franklin, Matt Deloach, Ethan Ball, and Walt Gardner.

Photo by Jonathan Wise

6 | Spring Sports 2019

Jonathan Wise Sports Editor

After a successful 22-7 campaign in head coach Josh Dowdy’s debut season in 2018, the Pontotoc Warriors are looking for even bigger things this spring.

“We had a big year last year that I don’t many think many people expected,” Dowdy said. “When I got the job I set the expectation, which is every year to get to Trustmark Park (site of the MHSAA State Baseball Championships). We came up short last year, but we played majority sophomores who bought in to what we were doing.

It was basically a learning year; they learned how to win.”

“With most of our team coming back we feel like we have a chance. We lost some good players, but we think we have added some key players that will help us.”

Pontotoc’s pitching should be a strength. The Warriors return last

year’s division starters in Seth Ganger and Ross Mathews. Ganger posted a 6-3 record, 2.14 ERA, .197 opponents’ batting average, and 79 strikeouts.

Mathews went 9-2 with a 3.19 ERA. Freshman Brice Deaton, a transfer from Mooreville, will bolster the staff along with Justin Carter. Also seeing innings will be Miles Galloway and Jon Robert Carnes, among others.

“I think this is the most pitching depth I have had as a head coach,” Dowdy said. “We’ve got a lot of arms.

We don’t have maybe the dominant arms day in and day out, but we’ve got pitching that knows how to go out there and keep us in the game.

“If we can make the routine plays, with the way we swing the bats we like our chances in a lot of ballgames.”

The Warriors’ offense produced an average of 9 runs a game last season and returns the lion’s share of the production, led by Clarion Ledger Dandy Dozen catcher Hayden Harris. Harris, a Jones College signee, had a .527 batting average, .629 on-base percentage,

11 homers and 60 RBI as a junior.

Also returning are outfielders Reed Emison, Caleb Hobson and Carsen Dallas. Mathews will also play in the outfield when he is not on the mound.

Peco Townsend will be the team’s every day first baseman this season after playing at the hot corner in 2018.

Townsend was hammering the ball in the first week of the season (.556 average, 4 homers and 13 RBIs in four games) and providing protection for Harris in the lineup. Blake Duke returns at second base, and Eli Montgomery will hold down third base. Carter and Deaton will share time at shortstop.

Deaton is a utility player who can also play other positions.

“The key for us to get to where we want is they have to keep buying in to what we are telling them every day,” Dowdy said. “A lot of success is a team believing. We want to go out there, have fun, see how many wins we can put together and get in playoffs playing hot at the end of year. I tell them every day, “Why can’t this be our year?”

2019 Pontotoc Warriors Baseball schedule March 14 Ripley (@ Saltillo)

March 26 Mooreville*

April 6 @ TCPS

March 15 @ Saltillo

March 29 @ Mooreville*

April 9 @ Itawamba AHS*

March 16 @ Lafayette

March 30 @ Calhoun City

April 12 Itawamba AHS*

March 19 Caledonia*

April 2 @ Amory*

April 13 @ Booneville

March 22 @ Caledonia*

April 5 Amory*

* Division game

March 23 @ South Pontotoc 7 | Spring Sports 2019

Pontotoc City

WARRIORS LOOK TO TAKE ANOTHER STEP FORWARD IN 2019

south Pontotoc

2019 cougars

baseball

2019 South Pontotoc Cougars Baseball Team

Members of the 2019 South Pontotoc Cougars baseball team are (bottom row) Hunter Bagwell, Chase Long, Chris Fleming, Bryce Roye, McKinley Johnson, Kaleb Pennington, Eli Allen, Henley McNatt (second row) coach Brett Freeman, Channing Lackey, Cade Jones, Joshua Stuto, Paxton McCoy, Hayden Billingsley, Ashton Goggins, Jackson Cook, coach Lance Carter, (back row) head coach Jeff Harmon, John Alan Belcher, Dustin Tutor, Carson Newell, Kirby Ross, Will Allen, Eli Austin, Barrett Griggs, Will Fleming and coach Jeremy White.

Photo by Torrance Photography

8 | Spring Sports 2019

Will Ruff

Sports Writer

The South Pontotoc baseball team made it to the playoffs last season, and with many starters returning and more players gaining experience, the Cougars have the potential to have a very successful spring under firstyear head coach Jeff Harmon.

“I’m excited about this group,” said Harmon, who has worked at South Pontotoc for 7 years in various coaching roles and previously served as Houlka High School’s head baseball coach for three seasons.

“We have been working really hard. We are going to have to pitch well and play good defense to be competitive, and I know we can.”

South returns a seven-deep senior class. Their pitching staff will be anchored by Carson Newell and Kirby Ross, with Will Allen and Dustin Tutor getting some innings as well.

“Carson has great leadership qualities, and Kirby is a really steady pitcher,” said Harmon. “I look at both of them as aces, and we are fortunate to have two guys like that who can be really effective.”

Coach Harmon states that his team is really deep at every position and stressed that their success will lie on their pitching staff and defense, as they will be playing a lot of small ball offensively and utilizing their team speed.

“We have a little speed that will help us out a lot, and we are going to be aggressive on the bases and manufacture some runs,” he said. “Kirby (Ross) will give us a little power at the plate as well.”

Ross and Newell will alternate at first base when not on the mound.

Dustin Tutor will man the keystone this season; Hunter Bagwell will play shortstop, and Channing Lackey and Will Allen will alternate at third base. Will Fleming is set to

play catcher. The outfield should be strong for South with Jon Alan Belcher roaming center field, Barrett Griggs covering left or right, and four to five other guys that can contribute as well.

“Our outfield could be really good this year,” Harmon said. “I have a lot of guys I can plug in out there, and Jon Alan and Barrett can cover a lot of ground.”

Pitching wins championships.

South has a solid staff, so the Cougars can compete in Region 4-3A this season if they can create runs and play to their strengths offensively.

“I’m looking forward to seeing how good we are and how we have improved,” Harmon said. “We have really focused on instilling a team mentality, playing every pitch hard and taking care of the little things so when we play sound defense and pitch well, we will be in every game.”

2019 south Pontotoc cougars Baseball schedule March 14 Smithville (@ Ingomar Tourney) March 19 @ Nettleton* March 22 Nettleton* March 23 Pontotoc March 26 @ Houston*

March 29 Houston*

April 12 @ Hatley*

March 30 @ Bruce

April 13 @ Senatobia

April 2 Choctaw County*

April 16 Mooreville

April 5 @ Choctaw County*

*Division 4-3A game

April 9 Hatley*

9 | Spring Sports 2019

south pontotoC

COUGARS HAVE PIECES IN PLACE FOR SUCCESS

North pontotoc

2019 vikings

baseball

2019 North Pontotoc Vikings Baseball Team

Members of the 2019 North Pontotoc Vikings baseball team are (bottom row) Jackson Wise, Clay Pitts, Ty Roberson, Kaden Wilson, Gavin Dyer, Kalor Kirby, Bryce Reeder, (second row) West Sutton, Drake Steele, Wesley Simmons, Jaylen Wise, Hayes Malone, Camren Lassett, Michael Anderson, Colton Moore, (third row) head coach Chad Anthony, Wes Steele, Sam Dowdy, Hunter Miles, Walker Hale, Bo Howell, James Clay McGregor, coach John Harlow, coach Ivan Collier, (top row) Braxton Sudduth, Ethan Dyer, Jake Reeder, Corley Hooper, J.D. Burleson, Hence Hooper and Sheffield Anthony.

Photo by Torrance Photography

10 | Spring Sports 2019

Jonathan Wise Sports Editor

North Pontotoc produced one of the best baseball seasons in program history last season, finishing 24-7 en route to winning the Division 1-3A title and 3A North Half Championship. The Vikings ended up coming up just short of a state title against St. Andrews in the championship series.

The potential for another big year is there, with lots of talent and veteran leadership coming back, but coach Chad Anthony is quick to point out potential is all it is until the Vikings put all the pieces together and perform on the diamond.

“This team needs to be hungry,” Anthony said. “Of course team chemistry is a big part of it. We’ve got a lot of potential, but like we tell them every day potential means you haven’t done anything yet. This team has got to prove themselves just like last year’s team proved themselves. We are definitely excited about it (the season), and we hope to play for a long time.”

North brings back one of North Mississippi’s best one-two punches on the mound in Jake Reeder and Corley Hooper. The two consistently shut down the Vikings’ opponents in division play a season ago, and they will be counted on once again. Reeder, a Northeast Community College signee, finished 7-0 with a sparkling 1.41 ERA and 82 strikeouts in 64.1 innings; opponents hit only .186 against him. Hooper went 3-0 with a 2.40 ERA, .146 opponents’ batting average and 77 strikeouts.

“They are both really good, and we are expecting a lot from them,” Anthony said. “They are going to need to throw well for us to play a long time. They have both pitched a lot over the years, and they know the pressure that is coming.”

Also seeing innings on the mound will be Ethan Dyer, Bo Howell, Ty Roberson and James Clay McGregor, as well as others.

“We just want to get some these young guys some experience before we get into division play,” Anthony said.

Corley Hooper, who will play at first base when not pitching, is also one of

the Vikings’ biggest contributors at the plate. He hit .527 with 4 homers and 39 RBIs last year. Senior Ethan Dyer (.356 average, 21 RBIs in 2018), also a Northeast signee, is another talented offensive player.

Senior Sheffield Anthony is a longtime starter at catcher who provides top-notch defense and consistent hitting (.342 career average at press time). North also brings back returning senior starters in the middle in the infield in shortstop Braxton Sudduth and second baseman Hence Hooper.

“Those guys have a lot of experience and know how to play,” Anthony said.

The biggest departure on the infield was at third base, and sophomore Bo Howell looks to be the leading candidate for that spot. Ty Roberson, Kaden Wilson, Hayes Malone are in the mix in the outfield. Dyer will play there as well depending the pitching schedule.

“One good thing about this team is that we’ve got a lot of competition for different spots,” Anthony said. “We will rotate some guys early on and find out what is our best nine.”

2019 north Pontotoc vikings Baseball schedule March 13 Itawamba (@Saltillo)

March 29 Booneville*

april 9 Belmont*

March 13 New Albany (@Saltillo)

March 30 @West Union

april 12 @ Belmont*

March 14 Mooreville (@Saltillo)

March 30 New Albany

april 13 @ Ripley

March 19 @ Kossuth*

april 2 Alcorn Central*

april 15 Mantachie

March 22 Kossuth*

april 5 @ Alcorn Central*

*Division game

March 26 @ Booneville*

april 6 West Union 11 | Spring Sports 2019

North pontotoc

VIKINGS HAVE POTENTIAL FOR ANOTHER BANNER SEASON

Pontotoc City

2019 lady warriors

softball

2019 Pontotoc Lady Warriors Softball Team

Members of the 2019 Lady Warriors softball team are (bottom row) Sadie Stegall, Ella Hill, Joyrie McKnight, Carlee Dunlap, Katie Christian, Addison Owen, Kaylee Carpenter, (middle row) Kinsey Cayson, Alexia Rogers, Armanni Tayor, Allie Beckley, Sky Vaughn, Averi Bridgman, Ella Lilly, Jadyn Spears, Makenzie Putt, (top row) Randa Claire Payne, Gabby Golden, Abigail Anderson, Makarthy Lane, Charlee Knight, Tayler Russell, and Emily Walker.

Photo by Trent’s Portrait Design

12 | Spring Sports 2019

Jonathan Wise Sports Editor

A young nucleus has led Pontotoc softball to being a Class 4A contender over the past two seasons. The Lady Warriors have compiled a total record of 40-15-1.

PHS should again be a force to be reckoned with this spring with the majority of that core returning.

Their infield should be strong with returning starters at first base in Abigail Anderson and at second base in Randa Clair Payne. One of the team’s best defenders, shortstop Emily Walker, is out early in the season with an injury. In her absence Allie Beckley has stepped in. Beckley returns as the team’s lead off hitter, and her speed makes her a tough out for opponents.

“Allie is always getting on base, helping us to be able to generate runs,” said head coach Michael Wildmon.

Sky Vaughn provides dependable

defense behind the plate as well as a dangerous bat in the lineup. Vaughn, a sophomore, batted .415 with 7 doubles, 3 triples, 3 home runs and 30 RBIs in 2018.

Senior Makarthy Lane will lead the outfield in center. Tayler Russell is set to handle right field, and Jadyn Spears will be in left field.

“Makarthy gets after it out there; she goes and gets the ball,” Wildmon said. “Tayler has shown she is one of the best outfielders we have. Jadyn is extremely versatile. We feel we can put her anywhere. She has a strong arm and a very good softball IQ.” Pontotoc will have to replace a starter at third base, and coach Wildmon is confident in Gabby Golden to step in and be productive there.

The other of the Lady Warriors’ seniors departures was long-time pitching ace Mary Kate Butler, who ate up the vast majority of Pontotoc’s innings a season ago. The pitching staff will be more of an unknown than in years past,

but the Lady Warriors’ coaching staff likes the players in the mix.

“We’ve got some new ones coming up, and we are confident in their abilities,” Wildmon said. “We’ve got Makenzie Putt coming back. Carlee Dunlap joined us as a transfer, and I think she (Dunlap) is going to see a lot of innings for us this year. We also have Kinsey Cayson who will see some innings as well.”

Wildmon says simply continuing to improve in all phases of the game is the key to another successful year and potentially making a deep postseason run.

“Pitching is going to be key,” he said. “We’ve got to have somebody step up and fill that role. We played pretty good defense last year, but we want to improve on that and reduce the number mistakes made in the field. Obviously we want to improve and grow at the plate. We want every hitter one through nine to be the hardest out they can be when they step into the box.”

2019 Pontotoc lady Warriors softball schedule March 15 @ NEMCC Tournament

March 28 @ Itawamba AHS*

april 11 @ Mooreville*

March 19 @ Amory*

March 29 @ South Pontotoc

april 13 @ Smithville Tournament

March 21 Amory*

april 1 @ Mantachie

april 15 @ Lewisburg

March 22 Tupelo

april 2 Shannon*

april 16 @ Tupelo

March 25 @ North Pontotoc

april 4 @ Shannon*

april 18 Houston

March 26 Itawamba AHS*

april 9 Mooreville*

*Division 2-4A game

13 | Spring Sports 2019

Pontotoc City

LADY WARRIORS POISED TO BE A DANGEROUS TEAM ONCE AGAIN

south Pontotoc

2019 lady cougars

softball

2019 South Pontotoc Lady Cougars Softball Team

Members of the 2019 Lady Cougars softball tam are (bottom row left to right) Chelle Corder, Annabelle Matthews, Brianna Crowley, Mary Hays, Maggie Ross, Allyson Harrison, Ella Easterling, Leanna Reeves, Mikayla McGreger, (second row) Taylor Kidd, Brylee Vandiver, Arlee McClellan, Elise LeMaire, Kilynn Carlisle, Madi LeMaire, Chelase Hurst, Kaylee Moore, Jada Hollis, Maddie Holcomb, (third row) coach Barry Mathews, Alexis Hurst, Kealey Ward, Rebekah Pilcher, Sydney Brazil, Lydia Garrison, Koryn Mathews, Leah Pennington, Gabriel Mooneyham, Shylee Canerdy, Brianna Jamison, Secora Weeks, coach Adam Patterson, (top row) Lashanti Moore, Maisy Canerdy, Emma Carwile, Salyor Fallin, Sara Brown, Allie Gaspard, Lexie Ward, Layne Tedder, Mattie Pilcher and Hailey Rackley.

Photo by Torrance Photography

14 | Spring Sports 2019

Galen Holley and Jonathan Wise Sports Writer and Sports Editor

South Pontotoc is consistently a contender in Class 3A softball, and this season the Lady Cougars should be a dangerous club once again with a wealth of experience returning.

“I think this team can be really competitive,” said head coach Adam Patterson, who is in his 13th season.

“It’s a mature group. If they continue to work hard and put the time into it, they can have a good season.”

Lady Cougars had a solid 19-7 overall record last year on their way to advancing to the second round of the Class 3A playoffs. Veteran players are always a plus, and South brings back seven of nine position players from that team, including the entire infield.

Freshman Rebekah Pilcher will handle things behind the plate, along

with other veteran players like senior Allie Gaspard at the hot corner, senior Lexie Ward at short, senior Mattie Pilcher at second base, and senior Layne Tedder at first base.

Other seniors are Sara Brown, Emma Carwile, and Saylor Fallin.

There are number of other players that will play key roles as well, incuding Maisy Canerdy, Sydney Brazil, Koryn Mathews, Secora Weeks and Maddie Holcomb.

Sophomore Allyson Harrison will give South the ability to put one of the best pitchers in the area in the circle on a consistent basis.

“Allyson pitched well for us last year and pitched in some big games,” said Patterson. “She is an extremely hard worker and has improved even since last year. We are looking for her to be really good.”

Providing pitching depth will be Alexis Hurst, Brianna Jamison and Sydney Brazil.

The team also has a championship mettle about it. South captured the Class II state slow-pitch championship last fall (October 2018). Although the sports are in many ways completely different, the team will be composed of many of the same players who have already proven their abilities on the fastpitch diamond.

Consistent hitting and good, team defense are strengths that Patterson hopes his experienced Lady Cougars will continue in their 2019 campaign.

“There’s always room for improvement,” Patterson said. “I think we will pitch it well, so we need to play good defense again and string hits together.”

“We’ve got a lot of kids who have been in the program a long time.

They have stuck with it and deserve to have a good year. This is a fun team to coach.”

2019 south Pontotoc lady cougars softball schedule March 15 @ East Webster Tournament

March 29 Pontotoc

april 11 Nettleton*

March 16 South Pontotoc Tournament

april 2 @ Hatley*

april 12 @ Senatobia

March 19 Aberdeen*

april 4 Hatley*

april 15 Vardaman

March 22 @ Caledonia

april 5 Ingomar

april 16 @ Houston*

March 26 @ Nettleton*

april 9 Houston*

*Division game

15 | Spring Sports 2019

south pontotoC

VETERAN LADY COUGARS LOOK TO MAKE SOME NOISE

North pontotoc

2019 lady vikings

softball

2019 North Pontotoc Lady Vikings Softball Team

The 2019 North Pontotoc Lady Vikings’ softball team includes (front row) Bella Gates, Lexie Walker, Karley Robbins, Brooke McBrayer, Haisley Coker, Tiffany Bishop, Haley Herring, Karmen Pfhaler, Audrey Tucker, Kam Thomas, (back row) Carly Walker, Payton Bailey, Abby Waldron, Belle Ross, Cadie Beth Gates, Lindsey Coffey, Anna Grace Coomer, Ava Merritt, Tayler Bishop, Allie Leath, Macey Thomas and Emme Thompson.

Not pictured are Annabelle Berryhill and Ana Morgan Beckham.

Photo by Jonathan Wise

16 | Spring Sports 2019

Jonathan Wise Sports Editor

North Pontotoc is coming off a big year on the softball diamond that saw the Lady Vikings win a division title and come within a few outs of a trip to the 3A state championship series.

The Lady Vikings should be another solid club in 2019 with a lot of talent and veterans returning.

North has two seniors in third baseman Ava Meritt and shortstop Lindsey Coffey.

“I expect big things out of them because they are our senior leaders,” coach Cee Cee Cavenaugh said.

“Ava is a good hitter, and Lindsey leads us defensively and is our lead off (hitter).”

Merritt batted .329 with 11 doubles and 21 RBIs in 2018, while Coffey hit .528 with 21 extra base hits, including 6 home runs. She drove in 26 runs.

“We lost our centerfielder and catcher from last year,” Cavenaugh

said. “Those are some big roles to fill, the center of the field and our senior leader behind the plate, but I’ve got a eighth grade catcher in Lexi Walker who is working her tail off, working each and every day to get better.

Belle Ross has also played some back there for us.”

Ross, who was named All-Division at second base a season ago, is a utility player who will also play other positions depending on the day.

Haisley Coker, who was All-Division honorable mention last year, looks set to play center field. Karley Robbins, an second team All-Division player in 2018, and Tayler Bishop will man right and left field, respectively.

The Lady Vikings should be strong in the circle behind Cadie Beth Gates.

Gates was named the Division 2-3A Pitcher of the Year after posting a 14-8 record, 2.13 ERA and .216 opponents’ batting average a season ago. Gates also provides an key piece of North’s lineup, as she hit .367 with 18 RBIs in 2018.

“Cadie Beth has been our ace pitcher for a few years now, and I expect big things out of her as a junior,” Cavenaugh said.

Another important piece coming back is All-Division first baseman Allie Leath.

“We’ve got some young key players that are coming up,” coach Cavenaugh said. “They are going to run the bases well and do the little things.

They are going base hit people to death, and that is what I am excited about.”

North has the ability to make another deep run again this season, especially considering the intangibles the coaching staff sees.

“Our attitudes are great,” Cavenaugh said. “We’ve got a fun group of girls, and we enjoy coming out here and getting together every day.”

“We always have high expectations. Our first goal is to win our division. We made it to North Half last year and have been there a couple of times, and we are ready to get over that hump and get to state.”

2019 north Pontotoc lady vikings softball schedule March 19 @ Myrtle

March 29 Ingomar

april 11 Independence*

March 21 Pine Grove

april 1 @ Pine Grove

april 12 @ Ingomar

March 22 @ Falkner

april 2 Lafayette

april 16 @ Myrtle

March 25 Pontotoc

april 4 @ Water Valley*

*Division game

March 26 Water Valley*

april 9 @ Independence*

17 | Spring Sports 2019

North pontotoc

LADY VIKINGS EXPECT TO BE IN TITLE HUNT

18 | Spring Sports 2019

19 | Spring Sports 2019

Pontotoc City

2019 warriors

track & Field

2019 Pontotoc Warriors Track Team

The 2019 Pontotoc Warriors track row includes (first row) Arlareous Berry, James Holmes, Jonah Mahan, Shawn Christenson, Xavier Julkes, Monte Townsend, AJ Osborne, Tyjey Arnold, (middle row) Khaleb Souter, Montinique Wilson, Jacob Vickery, Will Porter, Freddy Porter, Cooper Parmer, Cameron Chunn, Colton Hillhouse, Ethan Hester, (back row) EJ Bodie, Janaz Tucker, Tyshawn Loftis, Tyler Payne, Immanuel Vance, Brayden Ball, Ladarrious King, Caleb Triplett, JD Chism, Tres Vaughn, Marco Gasca, Branden Harris, Tyrek Justice, Logan Moore, Michael Moore and Keelin Johnson.

Photo by Jonathan Wise

2019 Pontotoc Lady Warriors Track Team

The 2019 Pontotoc Lady Warriors track team includes (first row) Shelby Mull, Bre Porter, Mollie Moore, Jorden Owens, Raegan Staser, Katie Munlin, Kaylin Simmons, Robin White, (second row) Caroline McCutchen, Nautica Montgomery, LeLe McKinney, Jalerian Hooper, Jyasia Shumpert, Sloan Sansing, Tierra Simmons, Jessica Woods, Makayla Boyd, Riley Stanford, Maclaine Griffith and Monica Gasca.

Photo by Jonathan Wise

20 | Spring Sports 2019

Jonathan Wise Sports Editor

Pontotoc track and field has a long and storied history of success. As is always the case, there are many roles that are yet to be determined, but there are also a number of key pieces returning that give the Lady Warriors and Warriors the potential for very good seasons.

The girls return several key athletes and have added a few new faces to this year’s squad. They will be led by senior Jalerian Hooper, a 4-event state qualifier last season.

“Jalerian is a gifted athlete; she is a double threat as a jumper and sprinter,” head coach Brian Morgan said.

“She has the potential to rack up a lot of points for the team.”

Also returning for their senior campaigns are Jorden Owens and Jyasia Shumpert.

“Jorden is amazing over hurdles and has speed to go with it,” Morgan said. “Jyasia is a talented sprinter and has a lot of experience. Both will be a part of relays as well as individual

races this season.”

Juniors Shelby Mull and Tierra Simmons will lead the throwers. Both made the state finals last year, with Mull taking second place in the state in the shot pot and Simmons third in the discus.

“Caroline McCutchen was our lone distance race qualifier last season and returns for the 800 meter,” Morgan said. “Her 4x800 teammates Raegan Staser and Maclaine Griffith are also back from a group that finished fourth in the state.”

“Field events are the biggest question marks as of right now. Hopefully the weather will start cooperating and we can begin the process of piecing together the puzzle. We have some talent across the board, and now its a matter of getting each athlete in a spot where they can be most successful. We look forward to seeing them compete this season.”

The Warriors return some valuable experience as well, and they have added their own share of rookies.

Senior Caleb Triplett will lead the sprinters and has the potential to be one of the top performers in the state

in both the 100 meter and 200 meter dash. He qualified for the state meet in the 200 meters a season ago.

Seniors Immanuel Vance and Branden Harris bring much needed spring in the jump events, and Myles Chewe should provide a spark in the shot pot. Also returning is junior Shaun Christenson, the 4A state runner-up vaulter from last year.

“Shaun is jumping really well right now,” Morgan said. “His experience along with his drive to compete should translate to a great season.

His teammate Logan Moore is one of the most improved vaulters we’ve ever had. These are two to watch this year.

“Distance is where we look for someone to step up. Senior Marco Gasca is new to the program, but he shows really good potential in the 800 (meters). Sophomore Freddy Porter may surprise folks as well.

The good news is we have several guys competing for spots. They work hard day in and day out. Again, the weather has hindered us some, but I like where we are at this point.”

2019 Pontotoc Track & Field Schedule March 18 Pontotoc (Practice Meet)

april 4 New Albany Invitational

april 27 4A North Half (Pontotoc)

March 23 Daily Journal Relays @ Tupelo

april 6 @ Oxford (vaulters only)

may 4 State Championships (Pearl)

March 29 Pontotoc Invitational april 1 Junior High Inviational

april 11 Division meet (Pontotoc) april 18 Regional meet (Pontotoc)

21 | Spring Sports 2019

Pontotoc City

LADY WARRIORS, WARRIORS SHOULD BE STRONG ONCE AGAIN

Pontotoc City

2019 warriors

tennis

2019 Pontotoc Warriors Tennis Team

The 2019 Pontotoc Warriors tennis team includes (front row) Dynasty Ruth, Savannah Bryan, Alison Floyd, Holly Stewart, Caroline Howard, Brooke Chism, Caroline McAuley, Jaslyn Hopkins, Brianna Ball, Samantha McGregor, Nevaeh Hopkins, Izzy Park, Ethan Troupe, (second row) assistant coach Katherine Park, Kye Webb, Shontarious Thornton, Anna Reid Crane, Shanda McVay, Madison Clement, Samantha Fleming, Heather Tedford, Mollie Rackley, Morgan Hillhouse, Calli Haynes, Shelby Tigner, Chambers Lane, Lorenzo Ramos, head coach Kevin Morrow, (third row) John Metcalfe, Hollan Clowers, Reeves Caden, Janaz Tucker, Russell Moorman, Blayze Haynes, Joseph Henry, Shayne Lowe, Andy Jones, Josh Crane, Zie Tucker, Jason Housen, and David Metcalfe. Not pictured: Sawyer Ritchie and Noah Holland.

Photo by Jonathan Wise

22 | Spring Sports 2019

Jonathan Wise Sports Editor

Pontotoc High has been an extremely consistent tennis program for many years. PHS is currently riding a streak of seven consecutive division championships as the 2019 season gets into full swing.

Trying to repeat once again is head coach Kevin Morrow and the Warriors’ first goal. They again will be Division 2-4A along with Amory, Caledonia, Itawamba AHS, Mooreville and Shannon.

Pontotoc will put an experienced and talented team on the court, as all but one player returns from last year’s team that advanced to the 4A state semifinals.

The Warriors have four seniorsHollan Clowers and Zie Tucker, a newcomer who transferred from Houston, on the boys side and

Brooke Chism, Caroline McAuley for the girls.

Joseph Henry is talented player who has been competing at the boys singles spot early on. Russell Moorman, Blayze Haynes, John Metcalfe and Tucker have been at boys doubles.

“I think our boys are pretty solid one through six,” Morrow said. “Russell (Moorman) and Blayze (Haynes) are two top-notch doubles players, and I think Zie will make our boys a little stronger. Then you’ve got David and John Metcalfe. When I put them (the boys) out there this year I expect them to play well.”

Jaslyn Hopkins, a two-time state tournament qualifier, returns to lead the girls. She has teamed up with Clowers at mixed doubles in early action. Holly Stewart looks to step in at girls singles.

Chism and Brianna Ball will team up at one girls doubles spot, while

McAuley and Caroline Howard, a freshman that Morrow says is playing very well, are currently slated for the second girls doubles position.

“I like my girls doubles teams; I am pretty set on that I think,” coach Morrow said.

Katherine Park, a former state champion who played for Morrow, is the program’s assistant coach this season.

“She is really going to help out a lot,” he said.

The Warriors hope to improve throughout the season and be playing their best heading into the postseason, where New Albany, 4A state champion six of the last seven years, will be a force to be reckoned with usual.

“New Albany will be strong again this year, but we are looking forward to having a chance to compete with them and see what happens,” coach Morrow said.

2019 Pontotoc Warriors tennis schedule March 19 Starkville

March 25 @ Shannon

March 21 Amory

March 28 New Albany

March 22 Itawamba AHS

March 29 Saltillo (JV)

March 22 Houston

March 30 Pontotoc Invitational Tournament

March 23 Junior Varsity Tournament

april 1 Tupelo

23 | Spring Sports 2019

april 4 @ Caledonia (Magnolia Tennis Center, Columbus) april 5 @ Lafayette april 8 Oxford april 9 Division at Tupelo

Pontotoc City

WARRIORS EXPECT ANOTHER GOOD YEAR ON THE COURTS

south Pontotoc

2019 cougars

tennis

2019 South Pontotoc Cougars Tennis Team

The 2019 South Pontotoc tennis team includes (first row) Katie Campanaro, Grace Brown. Leah Long, Layla-Kate Ward, Coach Helen Bowen, Caitlyn Ard, Nikki Raines, Alona Finley, (middle row) Marisela Martinez, Maggie Franks, Hannah Long, Leanna Polk, Addi Smith, Maddy Angle, Jada Washington, (back row) Joshua Fernandez, Jack Tutor, Tanner Davis, Landon Long, Colton Fuqua, Isaac Finley, Sam Morgan, Stroud Mills, Matthew Butts, Richie Lilly, Will Angle, Dawson Johnson and Hunter Luby.

Photo by Jonathan Wise

24 | Spring Sports 2019

Jonathan Wise Sports Editor

South Pontotoc has established itself as one of the top tennis programs in the area over the past decade. The Cougars have captured six consecutive division championships and have reached at least the state semifinals of the team playoffs three straight years.

In 2018 South advanced to the 3A state championship match, where they fell to St. Andrews Despite losing some very good players, long time head coach Helen Bowen is confident the Cougars have the ability to make a run that elusive state title once again.

“I know that this team can carry it all the way to state,” Bowen said.

Matthew Butts will play at the boys singles spot after the departure of Reese Duncan, who is at ICC. “Matthew is doing phenomenal,”

Bowen said. “He has improved so much. He has got big shoes to fill, but I expect him continue to progress.”

Leanna Polk, a state tournament qualifier last season, returns to hold down the girls singles position.

Isaac Finley and Sam Morgan are slated to compete at number one boys doubles, while Richie Lilly and Colton Fuqua comprise the second boys doubles duo.

“Isaac and Sam are good friends and competitive players,” Bowen said. “They are still learning each others’ movements and things like that, but they communicate really well.”

Two talented doubles players who have seen a lot of success with others- Addi Smith and Maddy Anglewill team up for what should be a very formidable number one girls doubles team.

Number two girls doubles will be comprised of Marisela Martinez and Maggie Franks.

“They have done extremely well so far,” Bowen said. “They are talking and communicating well together.”

A newcomer, Stroud Mills, and Hannah Long will start for the Cougars at mixed doubles.

“They are going to be a strong mixed team when they get some experience playing together,” Bowen said. “We have had so much rain it has been difficult.”

In addition to high expectations for this season, the Cougars have a very young core, especially on the boys side, that should position them to continue to be contender on a consistent basis.

“I’ve got six 10th graders and one 9th grader, and they are a phenomenal group who are going to continue to grow together,” Bowen said.

“They are playing very well right now, but they have time to grow their games so much more over the next few years.”

2019 south Pontotoc cougars tennis schedule March 19 @ MSMS

March 26 East Webster

april 8 @ New Albany

March 21 @ Winona

March 29-31 @ Mobile, Alabama

april 9 Division Tournament (Home)

March 23 @ Newton County

april 2 West Point

april 29-30 State Tournament

March 25 @ Tupelo

april 5 Amory

25 | Spring Sports 2019

south pontotoC

COUGARS READY TO MAKE ANOTHER RUN AT STATE TITLE

North pontotoc

2019 vikings

tennis

2019 North Pontotoc Vikings Tennis Team

The 2019 North Pontotoc Vikings tennis team includes (front row left to right) Lillian Angle, Rachael Nanney, Kailyn Lott, Lizzy White, Lydia Hill, Allyson Speck, Caroline Speck, Ambrie Stark, Haley Dedeaux, Mackenzie Sneed, Emily Underwood, (back row) Weston Crouch, Jeremiah Eldridge, Collin Crawson, D’Shawn Prude, Jay Biffle, Ethan Robertson, Jake Hall, Bo Haygood, Roshaud Harvey, and head coach Jeremy Lytal. Not Pictured: Jalil Jimenez, Jennifer Watson, Hope Nanney, Marissa Dedeaux.

Photo by Jonathan Wise

26 | Spring Sports 2019

Will Ruff

Sports Writer

North Pontotoc tennis coach Jeremy Lytal was pleased with how the Vikings competed last season, and he is looking for them build on their individual and team successes in his second year.

“I think that the girls are strong and a solid group all the way around,” Lytal said. “I expect them to be able to get back to state in doubles and mixed doubles again and compete individually at a high level.”

Returning for the Lady Vikings are junior Lillian Angle and sophomores Lizzy White and Kailyn Lott. White and Angle made it to state in doubles and Lott competed in mixed doubles.

“Lizzy stays calm, composed and adjusts well to anything hit at her,” coach Lytal said. “Kailyn has a lot of power and understands the game well, and Lillian is a great leader on and off the court for us.”

“They have really improved over the summer,” he said. “I think we can win the division because they are an experienced group, and I think that will make a huge difference for us on the court.”

For the boys, senior Jeremiah Eldridge returns this season after only losing one regular season match a year ago. Coach Lytal talked highly of his skills and presence on a very young team.

“I expect a lot out of him again,”

said Lytal. “He is a great leader, and he helps out and works with other players as well as doing anything you ask of him.”

Eldridge made it to the state individual semifinals and should place well again in 3A. Colin Crawson and Bo Haygood will be relied upon as well. The duo made huge strides playing doubles

last year and should make a run at state again. Outside of those two and Eldridge, the rest of the team is young or new to the game of tennis.

“Colin and Bo have really improved; they made great strides and should help the team out a lot,” said Lytal. “I expect everyone else to get better, work hard and learn the game.”

2019 north Pontotoc vikings tennis schedule March 21 Kossuth (@ Corinth)

March 29 Mooreville (@ Tupelo)

March 26 Bruce

april 2 Thrasher 27 | Spring Sports 2019

april 5 Belmont

North pontotoc

VIKINGS LOOK TO BUILD ON SUCCESS

Pontotoc City

2019 warriors

golf

2019 Pontotoc Warriors Golf Team

Members of the 2019 Warriors golf team are (front row) Mac Cook, John Mark Mills, Crossland Malone, (back row) coach Curt Sparks, A.J. Martin, Mitchell Cook and Jolan Mills.

Photo by Jonathan Wise

2019 Pontotoc Lady Warriors Golf Team

The 2019 Lady Warriors golf team members are Addison Mask and Jordan McDaniel.

Photo by Jonathan Wise

28 | Spring Sports 2019

Will Ruff

Sports Writer

Pontotoc boys golf will enter the 2019 campaign with a new head coach, as Curt Sparks takes over the program.

This is Sparks’ first season as golf coach, but he has led the PHS bowling program for the past two seasons.

Sparks is looking forward to getting to work on the course and feels good about the Warriors’ chances to compete at a high level in 2019. At press time, the early results indicated that would be the case, as the Warriors won their first match of the season.

“What helps me out a lot are my experiences as a player, and I know I can step in and help grow the players’ games,” he said. “I think with the schedule we have set up, I expect us to be competitive and win a lot of matches.”

The Warriors qualified for the state tournament and finished 11th overall in Class 4A a year ago, and coach Sparks will look to senior A.J. Martin to lead the Warriors again this season.

Martin finished 17th at the 4A state championship in 2018 and was selected third team All-State by the Clarion Ledger.

“This season really hinges on him; he is our best player, and I know he expects a lot out of himself as well,” said Sparks. “He is a great leader and is one of the best golfers in the area.”

John Mark Mills, Jolan Mills, Mac Cook and senior Mitchell Cook will be relied upon as well. Rounding our the team is Crossland Malone.

“Mitchell will be a key to our success as a team this year,” said Sparks.

“But all of them will contribute and are expected to play well, right away for us.”

Jolan Mills placed 18th at the 4A state championship last year and will look to improve.

Jordan McDaniel and Addison Mask, both eighth graders, will compete for the Lady Warriors’ golf team this season. Coach Jonathan Beard likes what he has seen so far from the duo.

“They both show up and work hard every day; they take coaching and have improved heavily,” Beard said. “If we keep improving I think we can compete and they can get out of regionals.”

2019 Pontotoc Warriors golf schedule March 18 @ Fulton Country Club

april 4 Pontotoc Country Club

March 21 Pontotoc Country Club

april 9 @ Tupelo Country Club

March 26 @ Akia Golf Club (Amory)

april 11 @ Akia Golf Club (18-hole match)

april 2 @ Tupelo Country Club 29 | Spring Sports 2019

april 18 Pontotoc Country Club (18-holes, County Tournament) april 23 Pontotoc Country Club (18-holes- Regionals)

Pontotoc City

TALENTED WARRIOR GOLF TEAM EXPECTS SUCCESSFUL CAMPAIGN

south Pontotoc

2019 cougars

golf

2018 South Pontotoc Cougars Golf Team

Members of the 2019 Cougars golf team are (front row left to right) Curt Harmon, Dayland Tutor, Tanner Davis, Sam Tutor, (back row) Cooper Bishop, Landon Bishop, Michael Scott Foster and Dawson Tutor. Not pictured: Rylan Roberts Photo by Jonathan Wise

2019 South Pontotoc Lady Cougars Golf Team

The 2019 Lady Cougars golf team members are Madison Bagwell, Mattie Washington and Ella Gaspard.

Photo by Jonathan Wise

30 | Spring Sports 2019

Jonathan Wise Sports Editor

South Pontotoc golf is going into somewhat of a rebuilding season, as the Cougars lost a great deal of experience from solid teams a season ago.

“We lost three really good senior boys,” said coach Cage Mills. “Both girls we had graduated as well. This year we have no seniors on either team. From an expectation standpoint we would like for them to be high, but at the same time we are kind of building this year. Practice has been difficult because of the weather, but we have been trying to work on some part of the game every day.”

On the boys team, Dawson Tutor is the lone upperclassman. Michael Scott Foster, Cooper Bishop and Landon Bishop contributed significantly in matches last season, and they will need to take another step this spring.”

“We have a really young team, so I am counting on some of these guys who have played some in the past to really step up for us,” Mills said.

Rylan Roberts and Tanner Davis round out the varsity roster.

“We only have six, so they are all going to get thrown into the fire,” Mills said. “Outside of Dawson (Tutor) our entire team is made up of eighth and ninth graders, so if they are stick with it and keep improving I think we will we have a really strong team in the future.”

The Lady Cougars will feature an entirely new squad this season- Madison Bagwell, Ella Gaspard and Mattie

Washington.

“Not only are they new, but they are all first-year golfers,” Mills said.

“We are starting from scratch. However, what I have seen from all three of them is that they are going to work hard and they are really buying into it. I have been pleasantly surprised at how quick they are learning the game.”

2019 south Pontotoc cougars golf schedule March 19 TCPS, N. Pontotoc, Nettleton Pontotoc Country Club March 26 Pontotoc, Houston, Water Valley Pontotoc Country Club april 9 Tupelo Country Club

april 11 North, Nettleton, Houston Pontotoc Country Club april 15 Division-Girls Pontotoc Country Club april 16 Practice match (18-holes) Dogwoods 31 | Spring Sports 2019

april 18 Country Tournament Pontotoc Country Club april 23 Division-Boys Dogwoods

south pontotoC

FUTURE IS BRIGHT FOR YOUNG COUGAR GOLF TEAM

North pontotoc

2019 vikings

golf

2019 North Pontotoc Vikings Golf Team

Members of the 2019 North Pontotoc Vikings golf team are Brayden Nowlin, Matthew Wing, Will Simmons, Clay Matthews, and Jon Major Earnest.

Photo by Jonathan Wise

2019 North Pontotoc Lady Vikings Golf Team

Members of the 2019 Lady Vikings golf team are Breanna Nowlin, Meredith Gregory and Riley Mitchell.

Photo by Jonathan Wise

32 | Spring Sports 2019

Jonathan Wise Sports Editor

North Pontotoc’s golf teams have enjoyed a good deal of success the past couple of seasons. Both teams should be solid again, with the girls having a great chance to make a push for another championship.

The Lady Vikings won the Class II Region 2 title last season and return their entire team.

Riley Mitchell, Breanna Nowlin, Meredith Gregory will try to build on that success.

“The expectations are high for them,” head coach Chris Parman said.

“I think they will progress, and they had a really good year last year.”

Riley Mitchell won the region’s Player of the Year honor in 2018.

“Riley does everything well, so her scoring is always going to be low,” coach Parman said. “Breanna can drive the ball a long way off the tee, which really is the key to her success.

“Last season was Meredith’s first year to play golf, and she has really improved. The more they play, the better that they all are going to get.”

North’s boys roster has undergone

a revamping with losses due to graduation and athletes opting for other sports, but they still have some dependable players coming back.

Senior Clay Matthews and junior Jon Major Earnest provide a veteran presence, and they will be counted on to play consistently. Matthews will miss some time early in the year with a fractured toe, but when healthy he provides North with a player who has been among the program’s top scorers for several years.

“Jon Major (Earnest) is hitting the ball better than I have ever seen him hit it,” Parman said. “They have been playing since they were in the seventh grade, and they are juniors and seniors.

They have played a lot of golf.”

Also joining the team is Matthew Wing, a transfer from Horn Lake.

“I think he is going to be able to help us,” Parman said.

The rest of the Vikings are Brayden Nowlin and Will Simmons, both of whom played last year but will now be counted on as key pieces with only five players on the team.

“Both of them have improved tremendously,” Parman said. “Hopefully they can put up some low scores for us.

“We will just have to wait and see how some of them develop as far as what our goals will be toward the end of the season. They all just need to keep working to get better.”

2019 north Pontotoc vikings golf schedule March 19 South Pontotoc Pontotoc CC

april 2 TCPS Tupelo CC

april 15 Division-Girls Pontotoc CC

March 21 Pontotoc Pontotoc CC

april 4 Pontotoc Pontotoc CC

april 23 Division-Boys Hillendale

March 26 Alcorn Central Hillendale

april 11 South Pontotoc Pontotoc CC

33 | Spring Sports 2019

North pontotoc

NORTH WORKING TOWARD ANOTHER SOLID GOLF SEASON

34 | Spring Sports 2019

35 | Spring Sports 2019

Pontotoc City

2019 warriors

powerlifting

2019 Pontotoc warriors Powerlifting Team

The 2019 Pontotoc Warriors powerlifting team includes (seated left to right) Bryan Valentin, Kentrel Peters, Justin Woods, Willy Quinones, Chase Brobyn, Logan Myhand, Nick Berry, Caleb Souter, Christian Jenkins, Kade Stegall, (standing) coach Marty Warren, Colton Hillhouse, Jacob Mapp, Myles Chewe, Arlareous Berry, Gabe Harmon, Immanuel Vance, DJ Bean, Branden Harris, Dre Buggs, Cody Shuford, Darian Souter and coach Mickey Mapp.

Photo by Jonathan Wise

2019 Pontotoc Lady Warriors Powerlifting Team

Members of the 2019 Lady Warriors’ powerlifting team include (bottom row left to right) Joyrie McKnight, Katie Munlin, Kaylin Simmons, Zacchaea Holesome, Aysiah Clark, Alayna Pinson, (top row) coach Marty Warren, Hannah Fletcher, Janet Wilburn, Anna Wilbanks, Latesha Loftis, Shelby Mull, Kaziah Hill, Sherraonna Fitzpatrick, De’Aisha Browner, and coach Mickey Mapp.

Photo by Jonathan Wise

36 | Spring Sports 2019

powerlifting

2019 South Pontotoc Cougars Powerlifting Team

The 2019 South Pontotoc Cougars powerlifting team includes (front row) Chandler Coker, Baylor Griggs, Joseph Keller, Brandon Flake, (back row) Gary Griffin, Kenneth Waters, Isaac Finley, Colin Tallent, Austin Dillard and Jessie Prater.

Photo by Jonathan Wise

2019 South Pontotoc Lady Cougars Powerlifting Team

The 2019 Lady Cougars powerlifting team includes (bottom row) Marly Chapman, Layne Tedder, Chelle Corder, Hailee Moore, Zoee Moody, (middle row) Rebecca Houston, Anna Foster, Brilliana Mesh, Ashley Kuzma, Leslie Canerdy, Kendal Houpt, (top row) Alexis Hurst, Secora Weeks, Abbey Waldo, Jaylen McLeod, Rylee Chisholm and Ariel Mix. Not pictured: Alisha McKinney, Alanis Duke, Emma Carwile.

Photo by Jonathan Wise

37 | Spring Sports 2019

south pontotoC

2019 cougars

North pontotoc

2019 vikings

powerlifting

2019 North Pontotoc vikings Powerlifting Team

This year’s Viking powerlifters include (front row left to right) Pierce Griffin, West Sutton, Gage Chism, Clay Pitts, Hayes Malone, (back) Leyton Walker, Dylan Bell, Jacob Pitts, Antonio Harville and Luke Tutor. Not Pictured: Camren Lassett and Brendon Fields.

Photo by Jonathan Wise

2019 North Pontotoc Lady Vikings Powerlifting Team

This year’s Lady Viking powerlifters include (front row left to right) Kallie Harrison, Madison Baker, Emma Ethridge, Emily Clowers, Brianna Galabiz, Amari McShan, (back row) Megan Raines, Kansas Sisco, Karly Scott, Madison Inmon and Chloe Graham. Not Pictured: Kymeosha Shumpert.

Photo by Jonathan Wise

38 | Spring Sports 2019

39 | Spring Sports 2019

Pontotoc City

2019 warriors

archery

2019 Pontotoc Warriors Archery Team

The 2019 Pontotoc Warriors archery team includes (bottom row left to right) DJ Bean, Emily Campbell, Braeden Cooley, Tucker Cowsert, Tay Cox, Sol Diaz, Abby Galloway, Morgan Gunter, Isabelle Holcomb, Dakota Holley, (top row) Jonah Mahan, Destiny Payne, Jeridiane Ray, Wesley Rivera, BJ Sanders, Anna Sauerwein, Paige Smith, Dylan Westmorland, Anna Wilbanks, Janet Wilburn and Jackson Wilson. Not pictured: Dustin Brock, James Grant, Jay Whitfield, Kaleb Jumper, Jamie Westmorland and Katie Hogue.

Photo by David Helms

40 | Spring Sports 2019

south pontotoC

2019 cougars

archery

2019 South Pontotoc Cougars Archery Team

The 2019 South Pontotoc Cougars archery team includes (front row left to right) Evan Yielding, Jonah Higgason, Levi Litton, Jackson Phillips, Logan Huffman, Zack Bennett, (second row) Kaitlyn Bennett, Brittany Gibson, Nicole Brewer, Faith Huffman, Haley Welch, Chloe Weyhrauch, Kiana Rainer, (third row) Johnathan Hall, Chase Foster, Noah Wortham, Josh Stuto, Grant Hall, and Dravan Moore. Not pictured: Parker Flint, Brennan Taylor, Ashley Rea and Caleb Tuggle.

Photo by Jonathan Wise

41 | Spring Sports 2019

North pontotoc

2019 vikings

archery

2019 North Pontotoc Vikings Archery Team

The 2019 North Pontotoc Vikings archery team includes (front row) Kolton Turner, Daniel Beaman, Madison Inmon, Allyson Thomas, Chloe Graham, Lauren Bishop, Mackenzie Simmons, (middle row) Dalton Umfress, Lana McCord, Anna Grace Funderburk, Gracie Perkins, Anna Beth Brown, West Sutton, Landon Hogue, Cole Montgomery, (back row) Rhys Panes, Case Young, Cobb Thomas, Evan Funderburk, Issac Self, Jared Gillen, Gage Chism and Corley Hooper. Not Pictured: Hence Hooper. The head coach is Matt Lindsey.

Photo by Jonathan Wise

42 | Spring Sports 2019

43 | Spring Sports 2019

spring sports schedules

2019 Pontotoc Warriors Baseball schedule March 14 Ripley (@ Saltillo)

March 22 @ Caledonia*

March 30 @ Calhoun City

April 9 @ Itawamba AHS*

March 15 @ Saltillo

March 23 @ South Pontotoc

April 2 @ Amory*

April 12 Itawamba AHS*

March 16 @ Lafayette

March 26 Mooreville*

April 5 Amory*

April 13 @ Booneville

March 19 Caledonia*

March 29 @ Mooreville*

April 6 @ TCPS

* Division game

2019 south Pontotoc cougars Baseball schedule March 14 Smithville (@ Ingomar Tourney) March 19 @ Nettleton* March 22 Nettleton*

March 26 @ Houston*

April 2 Choctaw County*

April 12 @ Hatley*

March 29 Houston*

April 5 @ Choctaw County*

April 13 @ Senatobia

March 30 @ Bruce

April 9 Hatley*

April 16 Mooreville *Division 4-3A game

March 23 Pontotoc

2019 north Pontotoc vikings Baseball schedule March 13 Itawamba (@Saltillo)

March 26 @ Booneville*

april 2 Alcorn Central*

april 12 @ Belmont*

March 13 New Albany (@ Saltillo)

March 29 Booneville*

april 5 @ Alcorn Central*

april 13 @ Ripley

March 30 @West Union

april 6 West Union

april 15 Mantachie

March 30 New Albany

april 9 Belmont*

*Division game

March 14 Mooreville (@Saltillo) March 19 @ Kossuth* March 22 Kossuth*

44 | Spring Sports 2019

March 15 @ NEMCC Tournament March 19 @ Amory* March 21 Amory* March 22 Tupelo March 25 @ North Pontotoc

March 26 Itawamba AHS*

april 4 @ Shannon*

april 15 @ Lewisburg

March 28 @ Itawamba AHS*

april 9 Mooreville*

april 16 @ Tupelo

March 29 @ South Pontotoc

april 11 @ Mooreville*

april 18 Houston

april 1 @ Mantachie

april 13 @ Smithville Tournament

*Division 2-4A game

april 2 Shannon*

2019 south Pontotoc lady cougars softball schedule March 15 @ East Webster Tournament March 16 South Pontotoc Tournament March 19 Aberdeen*

March 22 @ Caledonia

april 4 Hatley*

april 12 @ Senatobia

March 26 @ Nettleton*

april 5 Ingomar

april 15 Vardaman

March 29 Pontotoc

april 9 Houston*

april 16 @ Houston*

april 2 @ Hatley*

april 11 Nettleton*

*Division game

2019 north Pontotoc lady vikings softball schedule March 19 @ Myrtle

March 26 Water Valley*

april 4 @ Water Valley*

april 12 @ Ingomar

March 21 Pine Grove

March 29 Ingomar

april 9 @ Independence*

april 16 @ Myrtle

March 22 @ Falkner

april 1 @ Pine Grove

april 11 Independence*

*Division game

March 25 Pontotoc

april 2 Lafayette

45 | Spring Sports 2019

spring sports schedules

2019 Pontotoc lady Warriors softball schedule

spring sports schedules

2019 Pontotoc Track & Field Schedule March 18 Pontotoc (Practice Meet)

april 1 Junior High Inviational

april 11 Division meet (Pontotoc)

april 27 4A North Half (Pontotoc)

March 23 Daily Journal Relays @ Tupelo

april 4 New Albany Invitational

april 18 Regional meet (Pontotoc)

may 4 State Championships (Pearl)

March 29 Pontotoc Invitational

april 6 @ Oxford (vaulters only)

2019 Pontotoc warriors tennis schedule March 19 Starkville

March 23 Junior Varsity Tourn.

March 21 Amory

March 25 @ Shannon

March 22 Itawamba AHS

March 28 New Albany

March 22 Houston

March 29 Saltillo (JV)

March 30 Pontotoc Invitational Tournament april 1 Tupelo april 4 @ Caledonia (Magnolia Tennis Center, Columbus)

april 5 @ Lafayette april 8 Oxford april 9 Division at Tupelo

2019 south Pontotoc cougars tennis schedule March 19 @ MSMS

March 25 @ Tupelo

april 2 West Point

March 21 @ Winona

March 26 East Webster

april 5 Amory

March 23 @ Newton County

March 29-31 @ Mobile, Alabama

april 8 @ New Albany

april 9 Division Tournament (Home) april 29-30 State Tournament

2019 north Pontotoc vikings tennis schedule March 21 Kossuth (@ Corinth)

March 26 Bruce

March 29 Mooreville (@ Tupelo)

april 2 Thrasher april 5 Belmont

46 | Spring Sports 2019

March 18 @ Fulton Country Club

april 2 @ Tupelo Country Club

april 11 @ Akia Golf Club (18-hole match)

March 21 Pontotoc Country Club

april 4 Pontotoc Country Club

March 26 @ Akia Golf Club (Amory)

april 9 @ Tupelo Country Club

april 18 Pontotoc Country Club (18-holes, County Tournament)

april 23 Pontotoc Country Club (18-holesRegionals)

2019 south Pontotoc cougars golf schedule March 19 TCPS, N. Pontotoc, Nettleton Pontotoc Country Club March 26 Pontotoc, Houston, Water Valley Pontotoc Country Club

april 9 Tupelo Country Club april 11 North, Nettleton, Houston Pontotoc Country Club

april 15 Division-Girls Pontotoc Country Club

april 18 Country Tournament Pontotoc Country Club

april 16 Practice match (18-holes) Dogwoods

april 23 Division-Boys Dogwoods

2019 north Pontotoc vikings golf schedule March 19 South Pontotoc Pontotoc CC

March 26 Alcorn Central Hillendale

april 4 Pontotoc Pontotoc CC

april 15 Division-Girls Pontotoc CC

March 21 Pontotoc Pontotoc CC

april 2 TCPS Tupelo CC

april 11 South Pontotoc Pontotoc CC

april 23 Division-Boys Hillendale

Good luck to all the teams this season!

47 | Spring Sports 2019

spring sports schedules

2019 Pontotoc Warriors golf schedule

48 | Spring Sports 2019