Pontotoc City and County Spring Sports 2022

PONTOTOC CITY & COUNTY

Spring2022Sports

FEATURING

•BASEBALL •SOFTBALL •TENNIS •GOLF •TRACK & FIELD •POWERLIFTING •ARCHERY

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Spring Sports 2022

Spring Sports 2022

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Spring Sports 2022

contents

6 Pontotoc Warriors Baseball 8 South Pontotoc Cougars Baseball 10 North Pontotoc Vikings Baseball 12 Pontotoc Lady Warriors Softball 14 South Pontotoc Lady Cougars Softball 16 North Pontotoc Lady Vikings Softball 20 Pontotoc Warriors Track & Field 22 Pontotoc Warriors Tennis 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 37 South Pontotoc Cougars Powerlifting 38 North Pontotoc Vikings Powerlifting 42 Pontotoc Warriors Archery 43 South Pontotoc Cougars Archery 44 North Pontotoc Vikings Archery

Advertisers Algoma Country Store.........................40 Ashley Furniture..................................34 Circle of Friends....................................2 Crossroads Rehabilitation....................41 Friendship Fitness................................46 First Choice Bank.................................48 Johnson’s Wrecker Service..................35 Mapp Farm & Hydraulics......................2 Melinda Nowicki.................................35 Montgomery Drugs..............................47

Mossy Oak Properties..........................40 Patty Turk Properties...........................19 Physical Therapy..................................39 Pickens Pest Control............................41 Pontotoc Animal Clinic........................45 Pontotoc Shell Express..........................4 Price Cutter..........................................47 Renasant Bank.....................................18 Ricky Ferguson....................................41 Seafood Junction.................................39

on the cover

Shannon & Graham Eye Clinic...........39 Snow Cream Corner...............................3 Southern Garage..................................40 Torrance School Photography..............18 Trent’s Portrait Design.........................39 True Value............................................46 Wood Eye Clinic..................................45 Young’s Tire Store................................18

SPRING SPORTS 2022

table of

Featured on this year’s cover is Pontotoc senior Walt Gardner who will help lead the Warriors this season.

Writers

Galen Holley, Jonathan Wise, Whitney Robbins and Eddie Rogers

A Special Thanks To

Torrance School Photography and Trent’s Portrait Design for the photos and Coach Brian Morgan, Coach Kyle Walker, and Coach Christy Cowsert for the articles.

Advertising Consultant: Angie Quarles

Spring Sports 2022

Graphic Designer: Chelsea Williams

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PONTOTOC

2022 warriors

baseball

2022 Pontotoc Warriors Baseball Team

This year’s Pontotoc High School baseball team includes (front row, left to right) Jackson Williams, Hayden Kyle, Jack Sansing, Ky Simmons, Riley Caygle, Malachi Faye, Luke Blanchard, Caden Spears, Fernando Salinas, Landon Morgan, Braxton Whiteside, Ty Boston, (back) Corbyn Clayton, Jabari Farr, Ty Clayton, Walt Gardner, Brice Deaton, Jon Robert Carnes, Garrett Pound, Ethan Ball, Tyler Shepherd, Brody Smith, Parker Morris, Hadley Corley, Tanner McCord.

Photo by David Helms

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Spring Sports 2022

Galen Holley Sports Editor

Senior Brice Deaton and junior Jon Robert Carnes will provide big bats and big arms in the lineup as the Pontotoc Warriors look to make a playoff run this season.

Other seniors will include Ty Clatyon, Walt Gardner, and Ethan Ball. Coach Josh Dowdy hopes they can help carry the Warriors deeper into the postseason. Last year Pontotoc advanced to the second round of the 4A playoffs before losing on a stormy day at Ripley.

“Brice is our Tuesday guy and Jon Robert is our Friday guy,” said Dowdy, referring to the two players’ spots in the pitching rotation. “They both have a lot of experience and we’re looking for a solid season from them.”

In the 2019 North Half Championship Deaton started game one as a freshman and Carnes started game two as an eight-grader.

“Pitching should be one of our strengths, and we’ve got six or seven pitchers that we can put out there on any given day. Defensively we’re pretty solid.”

The Warriors were 7-0 as of the time of this article.

Gardner is rangy in the outfield and Riley Cagle will return as a solid glove at short-stop after missing last season with an injury.

The Warriors have a good core of players that have come up together.

They only lost two seniors to graduation last season, so Dowdy said he

PONTOTOC

WARRIORS EXPECT STRONG PITCHING IN 2022

was expecting things to click.

Younger players to watch will include Jackson Williams and Corbyn Clayton.

2022 Pontotoc Warriors Baseball schedule MARCH 22

@ Houston Scrimmage

MARCH 25 Houston*

MARCH 29 Ripley*

APRIL 1

APRIL 2

Alcorn Central

APRIL 5

APRIL 9

Mooreville

APRIL 14

New Albany*

South Pontotoc*

APRIL 8

APRIL 19

@ New Albany*

Bruce

* Division game

@ Ripley* Spring Sports 2022

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SOUTH PONTOTOC

2022 cougars

baseball

2022 South Pontotoc Cougars Baseball Team

This year’s South Pontotoc baseball team includes (front row, left to right) Cruze Lackey, Sam Tutor, Drew Tutor, Emmison Johnson, Hayes Gregory, Corder Buckner, Dalton Tutor, Ethan Self, Kaleb Pennington, (middle row) Bennett Mayo, Levi Howell, Isaiah Stuto, Tristan Bone, Eli Holloway, Trace Ash, Shay Johnson, Eli Faulkner, Landon Pennington, Jackson Rodgers, (back row) Coach Jonathon Weeks, Coach Brett Freeman, Tommy Dunaway, Hunter Bagwell, Ashton Matthews, Ashton Goggins, Chase Long, Hadden Ward, Jackson Harmon, Bryce Howell, Head Coach Jeff Harmon, Coach Lance Carter, Coach Ethan Donaldson.

Photo by Torrance Photography

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Spring Sports 2022

Eddie Rogers Sports Writer

The 2022 Cougar baseball team is coming off an 18-7 season which found them missing the playoffs by the slimmest of margins. Coach Harmon said that his message during the offseason and throughout this season will be “finish.” “We missed the playoffs last season by run differential, my message to the team has been to simply finish well.” Loosing key players last year has the Cougars looking for younger players to step up and step in.

Seniors Ashton Goggins, Chase Long, Kaleb Pennington, and Bryce Howell, will provide seasoned leadership for the Cougars this season. “Ashton and Kaleb have started since their sophomore year so we look to those guys to bring experience and leadership to help guide us along.” “Kaleb and Bryce will play a big role as well in what we do on the diamond.” Behind those seniors, Harmon said his underclassmen have provided much needed spark and will look to build off last season’s success. Juniors Hunter Bagwell, Hayes Gregory, and Jackson Rogers are very experienced at their respective positions. Trace Ash and Bennet Mayo will be looked at to fill gaps in the outfield created by graduation.

Coach Harmon said he feels good about the pitching staff this season and will look to some young arms to step up and throw for the Cougars. Ashton

Matthews and Jackson Harmon look to provide depth to the Cougars pitching rotation.

The Cougars will compete in division 2-4a, what some have called the Highway 15 division. Division opponents will include county rivals North Pontotoc, and Pontotoc, as well as Houston, Ripley, and New Albany.

Coach Harmon said the message to his team is simple, “play them one at a

SOUTH PONTOTOC

HIGH EXPECTATIONS FOR COUGAR BASEBALL

time, play consistent baseball, and finish well.” “All these teams are playoff caliber teams so we have to be consistent and finish each time we step on the diamond.”

The South Pontotoc Cougars coaching staff has some new faces with the addition of Jonathon Weeks as pitching coach along with last year’s staff of Ethan Donaldson, Lance Carter, and Brett Freeman.

2022 South Pontotoc Cougars Baseball schedule MARCH 16 Southaven

MARCH 22

@ New Albany*

MARCH 25

New Albany*

MARCH 26 @ Eupora

MARCH 29

@ North Pontotoc*

APRIL 1

North Pontotoc*

APRIL 5

@ Ripley*

APRIL 9

@ Independence

APRIL 14

@ Pontotoc* * Division game

Spring Sports 2022

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NORTH PONTOTOC

2022 vikings

baseball

2022 North Pontotoc Vikings Baseball Team

This year’s North Pontotoc Vikings baseball team includes (front row, left to right ) Madison Paul, Caroline Speck, Elizabeth Hale, Annasia Berry, Anna Beth Brown, Maly Fitts, Bella Hayes, (row 2) Braden Gray, Landon Hill, Jameson Kent, Rhodes Anthony, Ty Collums, Jack Cummings, Cameron Abbott, (row 3) Clay Pitts, Cayson Capwell, Eli Patterson, Hunter Huffstatler, Michael Anderson, Reece Kentner, Kaylor Kirby, Jaylon Wise, (row 4) Coach Ivan Collier, Colton Moore, Bryce Reeder, Wesley Simmons, Frank Stark, Bryce Rainer, Coach Chad Anthony, (row 5) Coach Caleb Todd, Clayton Redd, Tyler Pickens, Kaden Pfahler, Seth Boland, Nick Burchfield.

Photo by Torrance Photography

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Spring Sports 2022

Jonathan Wise Sports Writer

North Pontotoc has been a consistent baseball program for years, and the Vikings look to keep that success going as they head into the 2022 campaign.

“We’ve got a pretty good mix between older, experienced guys and some young guys who are going to have to play some significant roles this year,” said longtime North Pontotoc coach Chad Anthony. “We’ve been trying to get our young guys into the vocabulary and system of how we do things in high school.

“It’s a good group. Overall our roster is going to be a lot younger than it has been the last three or four years; but that’s always fun too, just seeing those guys grow and step up and seeing how they react in some of those pressure moments that they are going to have.”

The Vikings will lean on junior Reece Kentner for a good bit of production, both offensively and on the mound. He batted .373 last season and posted a 2.36 ERA with 72 strikeouts in 44 innings pitched.

“Reece did a great job for us on the mound last year,” Anthony said.

“We are looking for him to be a solid number one starter for us. He has a lot of talent and baseball skills. We are

looking for him to not only do those things on the mound and at the plate, but also to be one of the leaders in our clubhouse.”

Another key contributor will be senior Michael Anderson.

“Michael is a really good outfielder, pitcher and left-handed bat in our lineup,” Anthony said. “I’m looking for big things out of him as a senior.

He is a really hard worker, really loves to win and loves to compete.”

Others returnees who saw a lot of action last year include Cayson Capwell, Bryce Reeder, Jaylen Wise, Kalor Kirby and Tyler Pickens.

“We are going to need all of those guys to really step up for us to be successful,” coach Anthony said.

At this writing and likely extending into the early season, things are a work in progress, as younger players are pushing to make an impact.

“We are just trying to see where the pieces are all going to fit,” Anthony said. “Some of them might not play in the same spots they did last year.

We are trying to gell it all together between our older guys and younger guys to see what is our best lineup.

“We’ve got a talented group of freshmen that I think are going to help us this year.”

Anthony expects the Vikings to be solid on the mound, which always goes a long way and gives a team a chance to win a bunch of games. Beyond that, it’s about executing in all phases at big moments.

“We should be able to compete on the mound,” he said. “With (Reece) Kentner, (Cayson) Capwell and Bryce Reeder, those are three lefties who (collectively) have the ability to lead our staff. We’ve got young arms who are looking forward to getting some innings as well. Definitely our guys on the mound are going to have to lead our team.”

NORTH PONTOTOC

VIKINGS LOOK TO CONTINUE WINNING WAYS

2022 North Pontotoc vikings Baseball schedule MARCH 22 @ Ripley

MARCH 25 Ripley

MARCH 26

MARCH 29

South Pontotoc*

APRIL 1

APRIL 12

@ New Albany*

APRIL 12

@ South Pontotoc*

New Albany*

@ Bruce

@ Houston

APRIL 5

APRIL 19

MARCH 26

APRIL 8

* Division game

West Union

Spring Sports 2022

Houston

Ingomar

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PONTOTOC

2022 lady warriors

softball

2022 Pontotoc Lady Warriors Softball Team

This year’s Pontotoc Lady Warriors softball team includes (front row, left to right) Claire Gravat, Madi Collums, Morgan Pennington, Brooklyn Kilpatric, Alyssa Souter, Jaz Cuellar, Kaleigh Ott, Tara Wilburn, (middle row) Averi Bridgeman, Leah Zinn, Greta Huffstatler, Ejayah Scott, Channing Lane, Kelsy Spears, Ella Lily, Reannon Hicks, (back row) Jaycie Walker, Addison Owen, Joryie McKnight, Kinsey Cayson, Allie Beckley, Lexi Rogers, Sadie Stegall, Ella Hill.

Photo by Trent’s Portrait Design

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Spring Sports 2022

Whitney Robbins Sports Writer

Experience will be a huge factor for the Lady Warrior softball team this season with all but one of last year’s starting lineup back on the field. Seniors Allie Beckley, Kinsey Cayson, and Lexie Rogers will be leading the charge in conjunction with juniors Sadie Stegall, Ella Hill, Joryie Mcknight, and Addison Owen. The return of seasoned veterans isn’t the only thing that has coach Michael Wildmon excited, with freshman players Kelsy Spears and Channing Lane stepping up in big ways for the Lady Warriors as well.

Coach Wildmon has been pleased with his team’s performance last season and continuing throughout the offseason. Stegall, Beckley, and McKnight were all first team all-division selections last season, with Cayson and Rogers delivering second team all-division selections. McKnight was also voted as the Division 2-4A Offensive Player of the year last spring. A lot of fuel from last season has carried through the offseason, and Coach Wildmon believes that will help them this year stating that, “they have good momentum heading into the spring, with high expectations across the board.” The Lady Warriors have already had four different players pick up collegiate offers since the fall: Owen, Stegall, McKnight, and Beckley. Wildmon is also happy with

how they are looking in the circle this season, stating that “not only do we have Cayson, but with our solid pitching core, we have four girls on rotation as needed.” Fifth year starter Beckley will be back in the infield for her senior season and is sure to be a leader both on and off the field for her fellow Lady Warriors.

PONTOTOC

EXPERINCE A KEY FACTOR FOR LADY WARRIORS

The goal for the Lady Warriors is simple: play hard and win a championship. A task that seems within reach this year for the Lady Warriors, and with Coach Wildmon being their biggest supporter saying, “I think that if our girls keep hustling and keep having that dream that we will go far this season.”

2022 Pontotoc lady warriors softball schedule MARCH 24

South Pontotoc*

MARCH 25

@ Mantachie

MARCH 31

New Albany* Spring Sports 2022

APRIL 1 Tupelo

APRIL 5

APRIL 11 Hatley

APRIL 12

North Pontotoc*

@ South Pontotoc*

APRIL 8

* Division game

@ Lafayette 13

SOUTH PONTOTOC

2022 lady cougars

softball

2022 South Pontotoc Lady Cougars Softball Team

This year’s South Pontotoc Lady Cougars softball teams includes (first Row, left to right) Abby Williams, Makala Cheney, Caylee Phillips, Anniston Wiggins, Alaina Lepard, Ellie Mayo, Addy Vanlandingham, Emily Mooneyham, Hannah Cox, (second row) Jaycee Collins, Mckenzie Cheney, Jacee McClellan, Brooke McCord, Autumn McGreger, Ava Dunlap, Abbygale Patterson, (third row) Haylee Phillips, Macy Bain, Preslee Austin, Brianna Crowley, Mary Hays, Annabelle Matthews, Khloe Catledge, Paige Moreland, Brylee Vandiver, Taryn Jamison, (fourth row) Elise Lemaire, Kilynn Carlisle, Carlee Dunlap, Maggie Ross, Hailey Rackley, Sydney Brazil, Rebekah Pilcher, Shylee Canerdy, Arlee McClellan, Maddie Holcomb, Mikayla McGreger.

Coaches - Coach Kidd, Coach Lane, Coach Patteson.

Photo by Torrance Photography

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Spring Sports 2022

Galen Holley Sports Editor

The South Pontotoc Lady Cougars will look to strong play from seasoned veterans and quality outings from two, junior pitchers to have success this season.

“We’ve got Rebekah (Pilcher) coming back, and she was our leading hitter last year,” said Coach Adam Patterson. Pilcher hit .550 last season. She’ll play catcher.

“We’ll need Sydney’s (Brazil) bat as well.” Brazil is also a senior, along with Maggie Ross, who anchors thirdbase for the Lady Cougars, as well as Hailey Rackely, and Shylee Canderdy.

“Sydney will probably play infield and outfield, and we’ll be looking to her to pitch as well,” said Patterson.

“Hailey has been playing centerfield and playing well.” Canerdy will also platoon in the outfield.

The Lady Cougars finished 23-4 last season, and after a bye through the first

round of the playoffs, they lost to Kosciusko, the team that went on to win the 4A state championship.

They will try to replace their ace, Allison Harrison, a state all-star who graduated and now plays at ICC, as well as Secora Weeks, who provided a

big bat in the lineup.

On the pitching staff, juniors Carlee Dunlap and Mikayla McGreger will do the lion’s share of the work.

“They’re going to be big keys to our season,” said Patterson. “They’ve been working hard in practice, and hopefully they’ll keep improving. Mikayla had a really good summer, and Carlee has experience and she’s a hard worker.”

As with any team, underclassmen are always key to undergirding the team’s success.

Freshmen Jacycee McClellan and Preslee Austin have shown promise early in the season, according to Patterson.

“They’ve both been hitting the ball really well, and we’re hoping for big things out of them,” said Patterson.

Patterson expects his girls to have a solid season and perhaps make a playoff run.

“Hard work is always the key,” said Patterson. “If we play the way we’re capable of playing, we can be highly competitive.”

SOUTH PONTOTOC

YOUNG PITCHING AND FIVE SENIORS WILL ANCHOR THE LADY COUGARS

2022 South Pontotoc lady Cougars softball schedule MARCH 17

MARCH 29

Ripley*

@ New Albany*

MARCH 18

MARCH 31

@ East Webster

MARCH 22

North Pontotoc*

MARCH 24 @ Pontotoc*

MARCH 25 Tupelo

MARCH 26 Lafayette

Spring Sports 2022

APRIL 12 Pontotoc*

APRIL 14

@ Houston*

New Albany*

APRIL 5

APRIL 15

APRIL 7

APRIL 15

APRIL 8

APRIL 19

@ Ripley* @ North Pontotoc* @ Vardaman

Ethel Ethel

Houston*

* Division game

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NORTH PONTOTOC

2022 lady vikings

softball

2022 North Pontotoc Lady Vikings Softball Team

This year’s North Pontotoc softball team includes (front row, left to right) Manager Alika Montufar, Kendall Villarreal, Kam Thomas, Greenlee Anthony, Evie Coker, Jada Davis, Anabelle Berryhill, Madison Treadaway, Hailey Pitts, Brooke McBrayer, Emma Burk, (back row) Asst. Coach Kyle Robbins, Lacie Simmons,Tasia Scott, Madelien Woodson, Lexi Walker, Taytum Holt, Annslee Rhea, Abby Waldron, Kat Smith, Madi Coltharp, Karmen Pfahler, Mady Lindsey, Head Coach Dana Rhea, manager Sadie Rhea.

Photo by Galen Holley

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Spring Sports 2022

Jonathan Wise Sports Writer

North Pontotoc has a long tradition of softball success, and that stands a good chance of continuing.

Dana Rhea, hired as the Lady Vikings’ head coach last summer, has built championship programs at Nettleton and Tupelo, and he will look to do so in Ecru as well. Rhea was most recently at Kossuth, where the Lady Aggies reached the Class 3A state semifinals in his lone season.

“First of all we preach team; let’s be great teammates. I’m real big on that old saying ‘we before me,’” coach Rhea said of his approach. “When it comes to the game we just teach consistency. Let’s find a way to do this that works for you and let’s be consistent.”

Rhea likes what he has seen from his charges thus far.

“This group has great attitudes, great work ethic, and there’s some talent out there,” he said. “I’m extremely excited to have the opportunity to be here and to work with these girls. I’m hoping they can do great things.”

Senior Kathryn Smith is the Lady Vikings’ most experienced returning pitcher. Also in the mix for time in the circle are freshman Madison Coltharp and junior Kam Thomas, who is also

set to play a big role in the infield.

“They look to be getting the majority of our innings this year,” Rhea said.

Abby Waldron, Brooke McBrayer and Smith are senior returning starters who will be key cogs for the Lady Vikings.

“Those are three who we are hoping will kind of spearhead this team,” Rhea said. “But you’ve got other kids like Madelien Woodson and Karmen Pfahler who are upperclassmen but haven’t had the opportunity to play.

We are hoping that they can step in and play some roles for us.

“Until we get on the field (in games) and figure out what works for us, it is kind of hard to say (what the lineup will look like),” Rhea said. “Kids are

going to fluctuate (positions) and there will be some different lineups.”

In keeping with his philosophy, Rhea says a big key for North will be effectively limiting their opponents.

“For us to be successful we are going to have to pitch it well and play good defense,” he said. “That’s kind of what we build our teams around.

We are going to put the best nine defensive players out there and try to manufacture runs. In the fastpitch game you’ve got to be able to throw strikes and take pressure off your defense.That’s key for us, being able to get outs and play good defense behind our pitcher. The way I look at it is if I only give up 1 or 2 (runs), I only have to get 2 or 3.”

NORTH PONTOTOC

LADY VIKINGS STRIVE TO WIN WITH PITCHING, DEFFENSE

2022 North Pontotoc lady vikings softball schedule MARCH 22

@ South Pontotoc*

MARCH 24

New Albany*

MARCH 25

@ Itawamba Agricultural

MARCH 29 Houston*

MARCH 31 Ripley*

APRIL 1

APRIL 12

@ New Albany*

APRIL 14

@ West Union

@ Houston*

APRIL 5

APRIL 18

APRIL 7

APRIL 19

@ Pontotoc* South Pontotoc*

@ Ripley* Falkner

* Division game Spring Sports 2022

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Spring Sports 2022

Spring Sports 2022

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PONTOTOC

2022 warriors

track & Field

2022 Pontotoc Warriors Track Team

This year’s Pontotoc Warriors Boys track and field team includes (front row, left to right) Austin Trimble, Keelin Johnson, Beau Hunter, Austin Brown, Jackson Mabus, Kayson Newsom, Marneiko Penrose, (Back) Braylin Johnson, Jayden Bradley, Trenton Alexander, Braden Aratia, Andrew Chrestman, Kylan Farr.

Photo by Galen Holley

2022 Pontotoc Lady Warriors Track Team

This year’s Pontotoc Warriors Girls track and field team includes (front row, left to right) Alajah Dixon, Carmen Owen, Carla Ramirez, Jakayla Foulks, Nakiya Hoskins, Mackaly Brown, Kaylin Simmons, Ava Robbins, Olivia Hamblin, Haley Lowe, (middle row) Jakila Feagin, Alayna Ball, Lauren Virges, Amayah Pinson, Sarahia Hurd, Mackenzie McGuirt, Camryn Stephens, Kyra Gill, Kamia Hamilton, (back row) Paris Vaughn, Jessica Woods, Shariah Fields, Carmen Fields, Alex Roberson.

Photo by Galen Holley

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Spring Sports 2022

Coach Brian Morgan Pontotoc High School

The Pontotoc Lady Warrior track team enters the 2022 campaign with a chip on their shoulder. They were state runnersup last season by a mere 2 points. They will be led by a great group of seniors, including team leaders Jessica Woods and Kaylin Simmons. Both of these athletes have multiple years experience at the State level in multiple events: Woods as a sprinter and Simmons in the high jump and middle distance. Riley Stanford is a returning senior with several years experience in the throws as well as Shariah Fields in the hurdles.

All four of these young ladies know the program and know what it takes to be successful. We are fortunate to have them lead our team this season.

Also returning are reigning individual State Champions Mackaly Brown (100m hurdles) and the 4x400 relay team consisting of Simmons, Carmen Owen, Jakila Feagin and Ava Robbins.

There are a few newcomers this year as well as several returners when you look at this team as a whole. There is a good blend of athletes meaning we could potentially score points in every event. We are looking forward to the season and watching them compete.

The boys squad will have a little work cut out for them as they lost 9 seniors from last years State Champion team. But I believe we have the right guys we need to make another run at it. Leading the charge will be senior Cooper Parmer. He won the individual title in XC this year and is

focused and determined to do the same in the three track distance races. Also returning are seniors Kyleal McShan and Jordan Ball. Both are talented jumpers and can potentially put up big numbers in three jump events between the two of them. Nik Townsend and Carter Cleveland both return with experience in the relays and discus. There is also a talented

PONTOTOC

WARRIORS SET SIGHTS HIGH IN TRACK AND FIELD

group of juniors and freshmen running well, particularly in the hurdles and middle distance. We should have one of the strongest groups distance wise that weve had in a while. Field events will be solid also. Sprints and relays will be the question especially early, but we have guys that are practicing and developing very well.

“Back to Back” is our goal.

2022 Pontotoc Track & Field Schedule MARCH 19

Pole Vault Classic @ Corinth

MARCH 24

Pontotoc Invitational

MARCH 29

Pontotoc Jr High Invitational Spring Sports 2022

MARCH 31

Pontotoc Invitational II

APRIL 7

Division Meet @ Home

APRIL 21

North Half Meet @ Home

APRIL 29

State Meet @ Pearl

APRIL 14

Region Meet @ Tishimingo 21

PONTOTOC

2022 warriors

tennis

2022 Pontotoc Warriors Tennis Team

Members of the Pontotoc High School Tennis team include (front row, left to right) Heather Tedford, Molly Rackley, Caroline Howard, Holly Steward, Allison Floyd, Samantha McGregor, Anna Crane, Izzy Parks, Madison Clements and Coach Kevin Morrow, (middle row) Elijah Farris, Alaska Garcia, Emily Stegall, Brooke Stegall, Emma Claire Nichols, Aubrey Berry, Lila Kate Vandiver, Susie Park, Callie Kidd, Kiera Maxey, Piper McDonald, Jackson Wages and Matt Martin, (back row) Zaden Frierson, Cole Grisham, Shuntavious Thornton, Chambers Lane, Lorenzo Ramos, Sawyer Ritchie, Kyle Webb, Tristian Ferguson, David Metcalfe, Joseph Henry, Joshua Stegall, and Caleb Long.

Photo by David Helms

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Spring Sports 2022

Jonathan Wise Sports Writer

The Pontotoc Warriors have long been a 4A tennis contender, and with a solid nucleus returning, PHS is looking forward to the opportunity for more success this spring.

The boys’ side of the squad will be led by seniors Joseph Henry and David Metcalfe.

“They have played a lot and made it to the state tournament last year,” Pontotoc coach Kevin Morrow said.

“They are kind of our anchors I guess you could say.”

Another key piece looks to be junior Shontavious Thornton.

“I’m not sure where exactly he is going to play, but he’s a real consistent player and is going to help us out,” Morrow said.

The boys do not have a ton of depth, but two players who have positioned themselves to make an impact are Sawyer Ritchie and Chambers Lane.

“They got a lot of JV playing time last year, and they are guys who we are really going to have to count on this year,” Morrow said. “They have both worked real hard.”

Pontotoc brings back a good deal of experience on the girls side, with a several players who have previously advanced to the state tournament.

Key returners are seniors Caroline Howard and Holly Stewart, as well as Heather Tedford, Samantha McGregor and Mollie Rackley.

“Most of our girls are back, and hopefully they have all improved,” coach Morrow said. “Another good

thing about the girls is that we are pretty deep, and we have several kids competing for starting jobs who didn’t start last year. Competition is always a good thing.

“We are looking forward to a good season.”

The Warriors are currently riding a streak of nine consecutive division championships, but they face a chal-

PONTOTOC

WARRIORS WELL-POSITIONED FOR ANOTHER SOLID SEASON

lenge keeping that going with threetime defending 4A state champion New Albany entering Division 2-4A, along with South Pontotoc, North Pontotoc, Ripley and Houston.

“With the division realignment we have our work cut out for us,” coach Morrow said. “We hope to advance to the (team) playoffs and see how far we can go.”

2022 Pontotoc warriors tennis schedule MARCH 21 @ Oxford

MARCH 24 Saltillo

Spring Sports 2022

MARCH 26

Pontotoc Invitational Hernando, Lewisburg and Saltillo

MARCH 30

Host Division Tournament

APRIL 1

@ Lafayette 23

SOUTH PONTOTOC

2022 cougars

tennis

2022 South Pontotoc Cougars Tennis Team

This year’s South Pontotoc Cougars boys tennis team includes (left to right) Assistant Coach Reece Duncan, Connor Walls, Jack Tutor, Colton Fuqua, Landon Long, Hunter Luby, Will Angle, Joshua Fernandez, Head Coach Helen Bowen.

Photo by Galen Holley

2022 South Pontotoc Cougars Tennis Team

This year’s South Pontotoc Cougars girls tennis team includes (front row left to right) Ashley Vidana, Lynsie Johnson, Mary Collins Wardlaw, Jacee McMillen, Molly Chisholm, Autumn Copeland, Yadhira Martinez and Chloe Malone, (back row) Assistant Coach Reece Duncan, Caitlyn Ard, Faith Brown, Leah Long, Mikea New, Sadie Luby, Aubrey Logan, Jada Washington, Gracie Brown, Bailey Whitlock, Abbi Freeman, Head Coach Helen Bowen.

Photo by Galen Holley

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Spring Sports 2022

Galen Holley Sports Editor

Senior standout Colton Fuqua has scholarship offers on the table and is set to lead the South Pontotoc tennis team to success this season.

Fellow senior Nikki Raines is also poised to continue her career on the courts after high school, and she looks to notch wins on the ladies’ side.

Both Fuqua and Raines will provide an example for younger players, according to Coach Helen Bowen.

“Colton and Nikki are great examples of the sportsmanship and excellence we aspire to here at South Pontotoc, and we’re looking forward to seeing what they achieve in their senior seasons,” said Bowen.

Raines finished as the third top competitor in the state last season.

Last year was the first season South didn’t make it to state competition in years, Bowen said, and that should change this year.

Underclassmen will gird up the roster.

Caitlyn Ard and Jada Washington are both juniors and players to watch, Bowen said, as is sophomore Will Angle. Conner Walls is an eighth-grader who made varsity this year.

SOUTH PONTOTOC

SENIORS WILL STRIKE HARD FOR SOUTH PONTOTOC TENNIS

2022 South Pontotoc Cougars tennis schedule MARCH 18-19

Mobie Tournament (boys)

MARCH 21 Mooreville

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MARCH 24

@ New Albany

APRIL 25-28

Individual State @ Oxford

MARCH 30

Home Division Tournament all day 25

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2022 vikings

tennis

2022 North Pontotoc Vikings Tennis Team

This year’s North Pontotoc tennis team includes (front row, left to right) Jennifer Watson, Jada Price, Nevaeh Dedeaux, Makenna Cooper, Marissa Dedeaux, Lena Dedeaux, (back row) Adrian Vega, Jacob Tidwell, Braydon Brown, Mason Beaman, Jarrod Coleman, Daniel Crotwell, Cole Montgomery, Christian Najera, Coach Jeremy Lytal. Not Pictured (FBLA Competition): Hope Nanney, Will Nanney, Jalil Jimenez, Kacey Jimenez, Alivia Warren.

Photo by Galen Holley

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Spring Sports 2022

Jonathan Wise Sports Writer

Boasting a lot of veterans, North put a very solid tennis club on the courts last season. This season will look different after a lot of key departures, but head coach Jeremy Lytal is looking forward to seeing his young group compete and have fun.

“We graduated 9 starters off that team, so to say we are young and inexperienced this year would be a massive understatement,” Lytal said. “We do bring back some young players who gained some valuable experience playing varsity when they could. That will be key in trying to get some wins this season.”

On the boys side, some of the top players look to be Jalil Jimenez, Jacob Tidwell, and Adrian Vega.

“They all bring different things to the table,” coach Lytal said. “Jalil is a finesse player; he is the player on the boys side that has grown the most.

Jacob is someone who will try to just outlast you, and Adrian is athletic and gets to a lot of balls.”

There are a number of others competing for key roles.

“Christian Najera has worked to improve his game and has done so from last year,” Lytal said. “A couple more boys that are young and getting better are Brayden Brown and Jacob Tidwell. They will be looked on pretty heavily to be successful this year. I also have a few new players that have come on quickly. Mason Beaman and Jarrod Coleman are picking up on things very quickly, and they could

end up being used a lot this season.”

Lytal expects Navaeh Hopkins to be strong on the girls side.

“Navaeh has improved a lot and is very competitive,” he said. “She wants to be good, and she has a lot of fun when she is out there. I really look forward to seeing how she progresses this season.”

Jennifer Watson will also be a key contributor.

“Jennifer is a very good player that works a lot with her dad, who played tennis at Shannon, and she has probably improved more than anyone on the girls side, if not on the entire team,” coach Lytal said. “She will be someone I rely on all season.”

Marissa Dedeaux is another important returning starter who Lytal said

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VIKINGS WILL COMPETE WITH YOUNG SQUAD

has continued to improve.

“I don’t have a lot of newcomers (on the girls side), but a few of the players from last season like Hope Nanney and Makenna Cooper will be looked upon to step up and take a prominent role this season to help us out,” Lytal said.

“We play in the toughest tennis region in the state (Region 2-4A). New Albany is obviously in a league of their own, but Pontotoc and South Pontotoc would probably win any other region in the North. It is extremely tough to compete with even an experienced team like last year. So this season is all about getting better every match, win or lose, and learning to love the game.

I look forward to seeing how we do and how much we can improve.”

2022 North Pontotoc vikings tennis schedule MARCH 17 Ripley

MARCH 21 Houston

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MARCH 24

Kossuth @ Corinth CP

MARCH 29

New Albany @ BNA Park

MARCH 30

Division Tournament @ Pontotoc

APRIL 25-27

State Tournament @ Oxford 27

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2022 warriors

golf

2022 Pontotoc Warriors Golf Team

The Pontotoc Warriors Boys Golf Team for 2022 includes (front row, left to right) Larkin Swain, Noah Holland, Cayton Corley, Max Todd, Austin Brown, Carson Poynor, (back row) William Russell, Chance Blanchard, Chip Holcomb, Brady Thomas, Mac Cook, Mason Byrd, and Connor Kilpatrick.

Photo by Trent’s Portrait Design

2022 Pontotoc Lady Warriors Golf Team

The Pontotoc Warriors Girls Golf Team for 2022 includes (left to right) Ally Moore, Embreleigh Crews, Addison Mask, Ally Johnson, Brooklyn Claire, Meg Ross.

Photo by Trent’s Portrait Design

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Spring Sports 2022

Galen Holley Sports Editor

Seniors Chip Holcomb and Matt Cook will look to lead the Pontotoc Warriors on the links this season, and Coach Zach Gory said that mental focus and execution will be keys to success.

“I see kids that want to get better, and that’s the first step,” said Gory.

The Warrior golfers didn’t qualify for the state competition last year, so that will be a goal this spring.

“We’re growing and progressing, and our drive and determination are there,” said Gory.

Thirteen boys and six girls will hit the course this season, the biggest group Gory has had in some time.

Rounding out the team for the ladies are up-and-coming talents Ally Moore, Embreleigh Crews, Addison Mask, Ally Johnson, Brooklyn Claire, and Meg Ross.

For the gentlemen, other players to watch include Austin Brown, Mason Byrd, and Cayton Corley.

Carson Poyner is a seventh-grader who Gory said has a nice swing.

Focusing on the finer points of the game will be another goal, according to Gory.

“We’re starting to do the little things right, and that always lowers scores,” said Gory. “Our guys are

usually within 30 yards of the green within two strokes, then it becomes a matter of not double-chipping, and

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PONTOTOC GOLF WILL FOCUS ON DETAILS

putting yourself in position to make quality shots. A lot is about mental focus.”

2022 Pontotoc warriors golf schedule MARCH 21

@ Pontotoc Country Club

MARCH 24

@ Natchez Trace Golf Course

MARCH 29

@ Starkville Country Club, 18 Hole Starkville Invitational

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MARCH 31

@ Natchez Trace Golf Course

APRIL 4

@ Pontotoc Country Club.

APRIL 7

@ Pontotoc Country Club

APRIL 13

@ Pontotoc Country Club, Girls Regional 18 Hole

APRIL 14

@ Pontotoc Country Club, C ounty Tourney

APRIL 18

@ Pontotoc Country Club, Boys Regional 18 Hole

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2022 cougars

golf

2022 South Pontotoc Cougars Golf Team

This year’s South Pontotoc Cougars golf team includes (front row, left to right) Carson Deaton, Zac Moore, Sawyer Nix, Sheff White, Jordan Montgomery, (back row) John Bryan Waldo, Sam Tutor, Tanner Davis, Landon Bishop, Cooper Bishop, Rylan Roberts.

Courtesy photo

2022 South Pontotoc Lady Cougars Golf Team

This year’s South Pontotoc Lady Cougars golf team includes (left to right) Alana Corder, Anna Brooke Sullivan, Caroline Cook, Liz Pennington Courtesy photo

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Spring Sports 2022

Galen Holley Sports Editor

The pendulum has swung in favor of South Pontotoc having seasoned, veteran golfers this year, and Coach Cage Mills has high expectations.

“This is the first year I’ve had mostly upperclassmen,” said Mills. “From the time we restarted the golf program, about six years ago, I’ve usually had one or two seniors. This year I’ve got Cooper Bishop, Landon Bishop, and Rylan Roberts as guys I’ll really be depending upon to lead us.”

Underclassmen will, of course, play significant roles as well, including Tanner Davis and John Bryan Waldo.

“Tanner has been here for a while, and John Bryan, even though it’s his first year, I”m really looking for him to contribute. I was also impressed, in our first match, with Sam Tutor’s play.

So, altogether, we’ve got some older guys, and it’s time to see what we can do this year.”

Seventh grader Shep White has shown early signs of high quality play.

“I’m really encouraged by the way he played last week (Feb. 15),” said Mills. “I’ve got four or five middle schoolers who all have potential, and if they stick with it, I’m excited about what they will look like in three or four years.”

The South Pontotoc boys qualified

for state last year.

“We had our best season in recent history, and qualifying for state was one of our goals,” said Mills. “We went down there and got some experience, although we didn’t quite play up to our potential.” The team finished 11th in the state.

On the ladies’ side senior Caroline Cook shot her personal best, 44 through 9 holes, in the season opening match at the Pontotoc Country Club on Feb. 15 and Mills said she should provide an experienced hand and leadership.

“We’re looking for Caroline to have a really good year, and her start was

really promising,” said Mills. Fellow senior Anna Brooke Sullivan is new to the team, but, like Cook, the basketball standout has athleticism that should translate well to the links, Mills said.

Underclassmen Liz Penningtom and Alana Corder are up-and-coming, promising players, according to Mills.

“They both have really good swings and, if they stick with it, and put in the work, they can be really good in the years to come,” said Mills.

The Lady Cougars will look to fill the shoes of graduates Maddie Washington and Maggie Gaspard, who solidified the girls team, along with Cook, last season.

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SOUTH GOLF HAS CROP OF SENIOR PLAYERS

2022 South Pontotoc Cougars golf schedule MARCH 21

MARCH 28

@ PCC

Host Nettleton (could change)

MARCH 22

MARCH 29

@ TCC

MARCH 24

Host 18 Hole Match (Amory, New Albany, North Pontotoc, Choctaw County)

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@ TCC

APRIL 4

Host (Pontotoc, North Pontotoc, Mooreville, Ingomar)

APRIL 5

@ TCC 18 Holes

APRIL 7

@ Riverbirch 18 Holes

APRIL 11

Host Girls Region

APRIL 19

Boys Region @ Pontotoc 31

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2022 vikings

golf

2022 North Pontotoc Vikings Golf Team

The North Pontotoc Vikings Golf Team for 2022 includes (left to right) Brayden Brown, Reid Bennett, Clay Pitts, and Brayden Nowlin. Not pictured is 2021 State Runner Up Jackson Wise.

Photo by Galen Holley

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Spring Sports 2022

Jonathan Wise Sports Writer

The North Pontotoc golf squad likes their potential as they get set for the 2022 season. Last season, they ended with only three players and could not advance in postseason team competition. This time around the Vikings are looking forward to seeing what kind of noise they can make.

Of course, it helps when you have one of the best players in the state.

Senior Jackson Wise was the individual Class 4A state runner-up in 2021, falling just short of the state championship in a playoff. Wise, who has signed to continue his career with Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College, is extremely strong in all aspects of the game.

“He works so hard at it. Even in the middle of winter he is working on his game in some way, whether it be at home or on the golf course,” said North Pontotoc coach Chris Parman.

“That work ethic has helped make him what he is.”

The other team members are Clay Pitts, Brayden Nowlin, Reid Bennett and Brayden Brown.

“I think Clay will be pretty good,” coach Parman said. “Him and Jackson play a lot together.”

Bennett and Nowlin are returners.

Nowlin, a senior, battled an injury last year, but he is experienced and has been in the program since junior high.

“Brayden (Nowlin) has potential,” Parman said. “He strikes the ball well.

He’s just got to work on fine-tuning some things.”

Brown, a freshman, is new to the team this season.

The Vikings compete in Region 1-4A. Ripley is expected to be a state-championship contender, and New Albany is always solid, although they lost a good deal from last season.

The other region foes are Corinth,

NORTH PONTOTOC

NORTH GOLF HAS POTENTIAL FOR STRONG SEASON

Senatobia and Tishomingo County.

With four scores counting toward match results, how much success North can ultimately attain will depend on how much improvement happens over the course of the season.

“With how Jackson will score and if Clay is as good as I think he will be, if the others come around and play well we possibly could be right up there (at the top of the region),” Parman said.

2022 North Pontotoc vikings golf schedule MARCH 22

TCPS (18 Hole) Tupelo CC

MARCH 24

South Pontotoc (18 Hole) PCC

MARCH 30

St. Andrews (18 Hole) Lake Caroline GC Spring Sports 2022

APRIL 4

South Pontotoc PCC

APRIL 6

Germantown (18 Hole) Patrick Farms GC

APRIL 14

Madison Central (18 Hole) Lake Caroline GC

MAY 2-3

State Championship TBA

APRIL 12

Division Match TBA 33

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2022 warriors

powerlifting

2022 Pontotoc warriors and Lady Warriors Powerlifting Team

Members of the Pontotoc High School Powerlifting Team include: Lorenzo Ramos, Dylan Jones, Tucker McDonald, Mario Sandoval, Peyton Jones, Dalton Dowden, Carson Fowler, Maddox Jones, Bryan Wray, Maliki Brown, Alleni Zoleta, Ava Robbins, Haylie McDonald, Iyanna Benson, Kaylin Simmons, Piper McDonald, Zacchaea Holesome, Anna Wilbanks, Jada Dixon, Embreleigh Crews, Anna Tzib, Sheronna Fitzpatrick, Johana Gaucin, Larae White, and Syisha Smith.

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powerlifting

2022 South Pontotoc Cougars Powerlifting Team

The South Pontotoc Cougars boys powerlifting team includes (front row, left to right) Reed Patterson, Ethan Patterson, Emery Tedder, (back row) Kenneth Waters, Cameron White, Mark Merillo. Not pictured are Jesse Prater and Jimmy Harpole.

SOUTH PONTOTOC

2022 cougars

Photo by Galen Holley

2022 South Pontotoc Lady Cougars Powerlifting Team

The South Pontotoc Cougars girls powerlifting team includes (front row, left to right) Emily Mooneyham, Lily Henry, Allison Tackitt, Chloe Guin, Maleah Holsey, Laken Jones, Lynzee McGillivray, Destani Gates, (back row) Chelsea Hurst, Jaylen McLeod, Megan Coats, Samantha Pulliam, Alisha McKinney, Morran McMillen, Sierra Swindle, Natalie Ownes, Lexi Pitts, Candace Pullia. Not pictured are Jahkya McGloster and Autumn Copeland.

Photo by Galen Holley

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NORTH PONTOTOC

2022 vikings

powerlifting

2022 North Pontotoc vikings Powerlifting Team This year’s North Pontotoc Vikings boys powerlifting team includes (left to right) Eli Carwyle, Caleb Davis, Leyton Walker, Frank Stark, Ken Randle, Blake McGloughlin, Bryan Heredia, Dez Jones, Stevie Hicks.

Courtesy photo

2022 North Pontotoc Lady Vikings Powerlifting Team

This year’s North Pontotoc Lady Vikings girls powerlifting team includes (front row, left to right) Madeline Woodson, Ana Berryhill, Madison Treadway, (back row) Abby Waldron, Kay Smith, Anne Crotwell, Mikayla Harrison, Hannah Heathcock, Lacey Yarborough, Caden Long, Mackenzie Simmons, Allie Hamilton.

Courtesy photo

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PONTOTOC

2022 warriors

archery

2022 Pontotoc Warriors Archery Team

This year’s Pontotoc Warriors Archery team includes (first row, left to right) Belinda James Castleman, Waylon Cother, Noah Parmer, Arabella Castleman, Emeri Roberts, Hallie McDonald, Jaelyn Cox, Conner Fuller, AnnaLynn McGloflin, Sheniyah Dixon, (middle row) Anna Jenkins, Malia Shipton, Callie Anne Patrick, Gabe Cole, Timothy Nix, Ayden Chunn, Jackson Mabus, Isaac Patrick, John Cheney, Gabe McGloflin, (back row) Cotton Owens, Caiden Ivy, Elijah Ferris, Tucker McDonald, Landen Walls, Cooper Parmer, Ben Jones, Kalyyn King, Addison Vickery, Walker McCright.

Photo by David Helms

PONTOTOC ARCHERY AIMING HIGH IN 2022 Coach Kyle Walker Pontotoc Arcnery

The Pontotoc Archery team is coming off of a good year after qualifying for the state tournament in 2021. In 22 we have a good group of older students that are led by Anna Wilbanks, Anna Jenkins, Belinda-James Castleman, and Gabe Cole. These students have been a part of the program for several years and I am excited to see what they accomplish this year.

We also are lucky to have a very talented group of younger students

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who expect to produce this year and many years to come. If they all stick with it and work hard, we have a chance to do really good for the next couple of years. Some younger students to keep an eye out for are Gabe McGloflin, Marneiko Penrose, AnnaLynn McGloflin, Haley Barefoot and many more. Many of these students are producing for the high school program and very important for our success.

Our program is very lucky to have three assistants to work with our students. Reed McRaney has been with me since I became head coach and

I could not function without him.

Chuck Patrick and James Castleman are volunteers and have put in several hours for this program and do an amazing job with our kids.

So far this year has been a bit challenging due to our gym being renovated and we had to move everything to the gym at D.T. Cox Elementary.

Our kids have responded well and are producing at a competitive level. There are some very competitive teams in Division 2, which consist of 3A and 4A, and we are excited to compete and challenge ourselves to be better.

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SOUTH PONTOTOC

2022 cougars

archery

2022 South Pontotoc Cougars Archery Team

This year’s South Pontotoc Cougars archery team includes (back row, left to right) Braxton Ratlift, Noah Waters, Brennen Ratliff, Hayden Enis, Anthony Hopkins, Ty Bennett and Cadence Baker, (third row) Daycie Cole, Becky Milner, Abby Williams Lucy Ferguson, Chloe Malone, and Caleb Waldo, (second row) Coach Christi Cowsert, Ciara Jenkins, Avery Martin, Tori Cochran, Mack Stutsy, and Asst Coach Heather Hall, (first row) Asst. Coach Gary Cowsert, Ella Washington, Serenity Hollingsworth, Evan Yielding and Jackson Robison. Not pictured- Johnathen Hall, Madisen Williams and Landon Lee. Photo by Galen Holley

EMERGING TALENT, REBUILDING FOR COUGAR ARCHERY Coach Christy Cowsert South Pontotoc Archery

The South Pontotoc Archery team is still in a rebuilding phase for the 2022 season. With new young archers joining this year, there has been a lot of progress being achieved for the team in such a short season. Sophomore archer Evan Yielding is the male shooter to watch with scores in

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the high 270s and 280s with Junior Braxton Ratliff also shooting in the 270s. Newcomer Hayden Enis has proven himself by being in the top 12 shooters in every match this season.

Female shooters outnumber the male shooters and have proven themselves to be an undeniable asset to this year’s team Ella Washington, Becky Milner, Madison and Abby Williams have really brought in the numbers for their team. Coach Christi Cowsert said “

This year’s team has come to win.

They came in wanting to learn and get better. That is exactly what they have done and it has shown by improving every match. I ‘m excited for the rest of the season and seasons to come .

Since our team is young and if they stick with it , we have potential for great things.”

North Half will be March 29-31 and State Championships will be April 4-9.

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2022 vikings

archery

2022 North Pontotoc Vikings Archery Team

This year’s North Pontotoc Vikings archery teams includes (first row, left to right) Kaydence Holcomb, Jade Corzine, Mia Harrison, Sarah Gillen, Hailey Johnson, (second row) London Bunting, Leghton McDonald, Breanna Childers, Allie Wilkins, Anna Beth Brown, Lana McCord, Lauren Bishop, Mackenzie Simmons, Anna Ellis, (third row) Cole Montgomery, Daniel Beamon, Leyson Tutor, Rhodes Patton, Grayson Lytal, Levi McCord, (fourth row) Clint Young (Coach), Case Young, Taylor Hollis, Dalton Umfress, Cason Graham, (fifth row) Jonah Uithoven, Cobb Thomas, Tyler Wilkins, Garrett Oglesby, March Lewis. Not Pictured: Noah Lindsey, Naveah Kraut.

Photo by Galen Holley

NORTH ARCHERY LOOKS TO MAKE STRIDES Jonathan Wise Sports Wrtier

North Pontotoc archery has been a competitive program over the past few seasons, and the Vikings seek to again put together solid results this spring under first-year head coach Clint Young.

“We’ve got 31 archers and only nine of them are in their first year,” Young said. “We’ve got a lot of 7th10th graders and only four seniors. So overall we are young.”

Young expects seniors Cobb Thomas, Anna Beth Brown, Cole Montgomery and Daniel Beaman to be critical

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parts of the team’s success.

“They have all shot multiple years, so they by far have the most experience,” coach Young said.

Veteran juniors McKenzie Simmons, Lauren Bishop, and Lana McCord are also back and should be key contributors.

“The kids who have been in the program have gradually improved over the years,” Young said. “As far as our new shooters, they have been practicing really well and I’ve seen their scores improve, but they have to relax and keep their concentration when there are a bunch of eyes on them. I think they will be able to post some decent scores.

“There are a few who have really made some good leaps and bounds, such as Breanna Childers, Leighton McDonald, Leyson Tutor and Levi McCord.”

The Vikings hope to continue to get reliable production from their experienced competitors while bringing along the newcomers, picking up as many wins as possible along the way.

They are striving to be able to put up their best scores during the season’s home stretch.

“The ultimate goal is to score in the top 10 of our classification when we get to North Half,” coach Young said.

“As far as a point score, I would like us to hit 3,240 at some point this year.”

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