Acworth Yellow Jackets Sports Insider

Acworth Yellow Jackets

Sports Insider 9-10 Age Division

2019-2020

Meet The Acworth Yellow Jackets From Left to Right: Ryenn, Merric, Garvendy, Carter, Isaac, Brayan and Dylan

Special Edition Issue $Priceless U.S.

Acworth

Yellow Jackets 9-10 Age Division

We are a...

“Ramblin’ Wreck” a special thank you to assistant coach nanu sowemimo, assistant coach noel hamilton, Assistant Coach Vincent Jackson, holly nunnally, leeann lamanac and erica payne for assisting with different tasks during the basketball season.

2 Acworth Yellow Jackets Sports Insider

Contents

2019-2020

Special Edition Issue 4. Coach Ken Leverett's Coaching Career 5. Coach Ken's Inspirational Quotes 8. Assistant Coach Jackson's Basketball Career 12. An Exclusive Interview with Coach Ken 14. Scott Williams Special Letter to the Team 15. ESPN 100 Recruiting Database

Acworth Yellow Jackets

16. Merric Nunnally

Sports Insider

18. Dylan Hamilton 22. Isaac Sowemimo

9-10 Age Division

24. Garvendy Jacques 26. Brayan Gil 30. Carter Dexter 32. Ryenn Elwin

2019-2020

Meet The Acworth Yellow Jackets From Left to Right: Ryenn, Merric, Garvendy, Carter, Isaac, Brayan and Dylan

35. Preventing Injuries in Youth Sports: Go Outside and Play.

By: Angie Guggino 40: Ryenn Opens Up About Being an "Aspie Kid" 44. Special Message from Dylan to his Teammates

Special Edition Issue $Priceless U.S.

On The Cover Photography By: SMAX Photography

Acworth Yellow Jackets Sports Insider, 2019-2020 Special Edition Issue smaxart.com

Editorial Team

Publisher

Lisa Hamilton

Lisa Hamilton

Advertisement Representative

Latoy Cotton Deztinie Hughes

Contributing Photographer SMAX Photography Stephanie Gomez Photography

Lisa Hamilton Acworth Yellow Jackets Sports Insider is published annually by Lisa Hamilton, Acworth, GA, 404-4509681. ©2020 Lisa Hamilton, all rights reserved. May not be reproduced in whole or part without written permission from the Publisher. Acworth Yellow Jackets Sports Insider Magazine has no subscription price, and ads were free not for sponsorship purposes. All advertisements are assumed to be accurate. Giving credit to GA Tech for their Yellow Jackets logo and "We are a Ramblin' Wreck" motto. Giving credit to ESPN for their logos. Giving credit to the Michigan State Spartans for their logo. Giving credit for the Asperger's logo.

COACH KEN LEVERETT'S COACHING CAREER

K

en Leverett has spent more of his life involved in the world of sports than out. His athletic career coupled with his many life lessons learned, have prepared him for the challenges that come along with being an effective coach. He witnessed many coaching styles in which teaching the fundamentals were being neglected.

Coaching players from a young age (6-15) allows him to prepare them mentally and physically to play at the high school level.

Coach Ken followed in the steps of his father who also coached baseball and football. His dad exposed him to various sports, but the first sport he placed him in was boxing. Eventually, his dad would coach him in baseball. Recognizing his astounding athletic talent, his older friends allowed him to practice and scrimmage with them. He made the high school varsity football team when he was in the 7th grade.

Being a multisport athlete, Coach Ken was also on the wrestling, baseball, and soccer team.

In 1984, Coach Ken graduated from TW Josey High School in August, GA which he is also a native of.

After high school he spent six years playing semipro baseball for the Augusta Giants, Martinez Tigers, and Harlem Braves. Playing on this level taught him how to deal with varying degrees of attitudes and personalities. With his love of sports and natural talent, Coach knew there was only one career to pursue. He was talented enough to take his semi-pro career to the next level, but he felt his negative attitude hindered that. This is one reason why teaching his players to maintain their cool on the court is so important to him. He knows how detrimental it can be to an athlete’s future.

Coaching for August Richmond County Recreation Department in 1986, was his first job. He coached ages 6-12 and stuck with age group for many years.

Over the next eight years he would coach football, baseball, and basketball for ages 9-15. Between his River Hawks, Hurricanes, Phillies, Rockies, Mets, and Sixers they won multiple championships.

4 Acworth Yellow Jackets Sports Insider

Coach Ken, his wife Phyllis, and family relocated to the Atlanta area which required temporarily pressing pause on his career. When things settled, he returned to coaching. Coach has followed most of his players throughout their middle, high school, and college careers. He has and continues to remain in touch. Coach Ken makes himself available to his former players whether they need someone to talk to or motivation to strive for greatness. They know they can expect to see Coach on the sideline of their games and tournaments. Javen (Andrew College), Keith (Andrew College), and Timmy (Charleston Southern University) are a few college players he follows.

Coach Ken feels his ability to push his players to be their best distinguishes him from other coaches.

Striving to make today better than yesterday is part of Coach Ken’s process of preparing them for high school sports. Although, his youngest son plays football for North Cobb High School, Coach Ken chooses not to coach at the high school level. He prefers to focus on developing talent among young athletes. He believes there is a gift in every player, but it takes a special coach to unveil the hidden talent that lies within.

2019-2020 Special Edition Issue

GAME TIME Yellow Jackets

36-12

Spartans

VS.

Coach Ken's Inspirational Quotes to the Yellow Jackets "Confidence is about knowing and loving yourself enough to not compare yourself to others. If it's not bringing you to where you need to be; it doesn't need to be in your life!"

"Challenges make you more responsible. Always remember that a life without struggle, is a life without success. Don't give up and learn not to quit!"

2019-2020 Special Edition Issue

Acworth Yellow Jackets Sports Insider 5

Days-Brand-FullPg-Jan20.qxp_Layout 1 1/6/20 11:56 AM Page 1

Celebrating 61 Years FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED

■ Family Owned & Operated in Cobb County Since 1959 ■ New Chevrolets & Used Vehicles ■ Best Prices & Largest Selection ■ Full Service Department ■ Quick Lube Service Center ■ Full Body Shop Services ■ Knowledgeable Sales Staff 3693 North Cobb Parkway, Acworth•770-974-4242•dayschevrolet.com

For the best in local sports

Ken Rodriguez

Assistant Coach Jackson's Basketball Career High School would be Group 6A Champions for his remaining

3 years (1975-1977). Coach Vincent won Multiple AllAmerican Awards including: High School, Street and Smith, and McDonald’s. MVP was also among his many awards.

Receiving a scholarship to play basketball for Oklahoma State University (1977-1980) was one of his greatest accomplishments. He was voted Top Freshman of the Year and Consensus All American. His other four starting teammates Bill, Milt, Kevin, and Dwayne all received scholarships to Division I schools. After graduation Coach Vincent played professional basketball in Europe for fifteen years with Coach Luther Jefferson for the Milan Flares Team.

A desire to still play the game pulled Coach Jackson out of

F

retirement and into coaching. He coached in Maryland at the middle school level for five years before moving on to ourth grade recess is where Vincent Jackson would

high school athletics. What drew his attention and stuck

be introduced to the game of basketball. His friend,

out most, were the many players that were willing to put

Charles Marshall, asked Vincent to play a game of

in extra work during and off season to enhance their game.

basketball. Charles was shocked when Vincent said

This motivated his idea for the Run and Shoot Summer Camp

he had no idea how to play. Although his friend introduced

in Charlestown, MD. He ran this youth camp for five years

him to the game, Coach Clarence Turner, inspired Vincent to

(2010-2015).

pursue a career in basketball.

He now resides with his wife Mikki in Cobb County, GA. Camden High School in New Jersey was well known as a

He uses the knowledge he’s gained from his years playing

school that produced elite players. Those that made the

basketball to work with recreational and school level youth.

basketball team, were guaranteed athletic scholarships. The

His daughters, Lisa and Kayla chose not to play sports.

previous year Vincent's high school team loss to Camden 49-

Although, coach was slightly disappointed, teaching the

61. Being intimidated by the various level of skills and talent

game along with watching recreatonal and school level

displayed by the players, this prevented him from trying out

youths development displayed on the court gives him a

for the team. Recognizing Coach Vincent as a player from

sense of pride. His advice to young players is “Whatever

another team, Coach Turner encouraged him to try out. He

sport you play have fun and leave nothing on the floor.

made the team and became part of the starting five. Camden

Always remember you have teammates.”

8

Acworth Yellow Jackets Sports Insider

2019-2020 Special Edition Issue

YY OO UU R RT T I CI C KK EE T TT T OO SO MM EE TH IN G GMM OO RR EE SO TH IN

Q&A

With Coach Ken

Q: What makes a team a winning team?

Q: What’s the best way to help a player understand

Coach Ken: Winning is not based on a record;

their weakness?

it is based on a team giving it their all. It is about

Coach Ken: You have to show them their

learning how to play as a full unit. Because young

weaknesses.

players haven’t learned many life lessons yet, they don't understand the importance of working as a

Q: How important is the point guard and why?

team and not getting upset about a loss.

Coach Ken: The point guard is like a head coach on the court. They make sure the team

Q: Why is defense more important to you than

functions the way they are supposed to.

offense?

Coach Ken: If the opponent can’t score; they

Q: What makes an effective shooting guard?

can’t win. Defense leads to easy offense.

Coach Ken: One that’s not afraid to take a shot.

Whether he makes it or misses it, he’s got to be

Q: What is the most effective defense strategy

willing to take that shot.

and why?

Coach Ken: It depends on the opponent, because

Q: What strengths does a Power Forward need?

you want to take away the opponent’s strengths and

Coach Ken: He needs inside strength and the

force them to use their weaknesses.

ability to rebound. The power forward has to be able to finish at the basket and be able to move his

Q: How do you pull the best out of each player?

feet on defense.

Coach Ken: I don’t let up. I treat each player as if they were my child, and I focus on making their

Q: What makes a good small forward?

weaknesses their strengths.

Coach Ken: A small forward is just like a

12 Acworth Yellow Jackets Sports Insider

2019-2020 Special Edition Issue

shooting guard, so he needs the same qualities as

coaches continue in this career is to hold on to

a shooting guard. The only difference is the small

that "coaching" title. The basics and skills aren't

forward is a taller version of the shooting guard.

being taught anymore. This really damages young players when they hit middle and high

Q: Is height or weight more important for a

school. Some coaches have their son on the team.

center position and why?

Sometimes they focus more on their own child and

Coach Ken: Neither is more important,

neglect the rest of the players on the team. I like to

because it’s more about heart. When you have a

foucs on my entire team, and not play favortism. I

heart, you can play any position.

try to make my weakest player just as powerful as the strongetst player.

Q: In a tied game, what is the most important thing you focus on to ensure a win?

Coach Ken: Overall it depends on who has the ball. It could be taking a good shot or playing good solid defense.

Q: Towards the end of the game how do you keep your players focused to make every possession count?

Coach Ken: The focus starts in practice. In my mindset a player plays as he has practiced.

Q: What makes you keep your passion for coaching?

Coach Ken: I love working with youth and teaching them. I have noticed in my many years of coaching that the only reason many

2019-2020 Special Edition Issue

Acworth Yellow Jackets Sports Insider

13

To the Acworth Yellow Jackets: Congratulations on a great season Merric, Dylan, Isaac, Garvendy, Brayan, Carter and Ryenn!

In the words of Michael Jordan, “Obstacles don’t have to stop you. If you run into a wall, don’t turn around and give up! Figure out how to climb it, go through it, or work around it.” Continue to work hard and I look forward to seeing each of your names in the recruiting database!

Also, Lisa Hamilton is the best team Mom ever!

BEST REGARDS, Scott Williams Sr. Director SEC Network Multimedia Sales

14 Acworth Yellow Jackets Sports Insider

2019-2020 Special Edition Issue

2027 or 2028 ESPN 100 Recruiting Database.

This page only lists the first 7 of 100 players.

The Top Seven Players All Ranked #1

Rank

Player

Merric Nunnally Video | Scouts Report

Dylan Hamilton Video | Scouts Report

Isaac Sowemimo Video | Scouts Report

Position

PG

Current Team Playing For

Stars

HT

Acworth Yellow Jackets

4’11”

PG

Acworth Yellow Jackets

4’8”

PG

Acworth Yellow Jackets

Garvendy Jaques Video | Scouts Report

Bryan Gil Video | Scouts Report

Carter Dexter Video | Scouts Report

Ryenn Elwin Video | Scouts Report

2019-2020 Special Edition Issue

C

SG

Acworth Yellow Jackets

Grade

School

N Carolina Signed

Duke Signed

4’9” Ohio State Signed

4’9”

Acworth Yellow Jackets

4’3”

SG

Acworth Yellow Jackets

4’2”

SG

Acworth Yellow Jackets

4’4”

Texas Signed

Georgia Signed

Georgia Signed

Memphis Signed

Acworth Yellow Jackets Sports Insider

15

16

Acworth Yellow Jackets Sports Insider

2019-2020 Special Edition Issue

Get to Know a Little About

Merric Nunnally...

1. Height:

4'11" 2. Birth Month:

June 3. Favorite Position:

Point Guard 4. Favorite NBA Team(s):

Atlanta Hawks 5. Dream College to Play For:

The University of North Carolina

7. Hobbies:

Soccer and Basketball 8. Favorite Dessert:

Chocolate Ice Cream 9. Favorite Color(s):

Green 10. Favorite Holiday:

Christmas 11. Dream Vacation Spot:

London, England

6. Favorite NBA Player:

Trae Young

#4

18

Acworth Yellow Jackets Sports Insider

2019-2020 Special Edition Issue

Get to Know a Little About

Dylan Hamilton...

7. Hobbies:

1. Height:

Basketball, Reading,

4'8" 2. Birth Month:

Making Waffles and Going to Sports

January

Games

3. Favorite Position:

8. Favorite Dessert:

Point Guard 4. Favorite NBA Team(s):

Golden State Warriors and The Los Angeles Lakers 5. Dream College to Play For:

Duke University 6. Favorite NBA Player:

Stephen Curry

Cheesecake 9. Favorite Color(s):

Royal Blue 10. Favorite Holiday:

Christmas 11. Dream Vacation Spot:

The Bahamas

#10

BOOK NOW FOR YOUR NEXT EVENT!

KONA ICE OF NORTH GEORGIA 404.271.5887 mkinney@kona-ice.com www.kona-ice.com

We go the extra mile...

To See Your Child’s Awesome Smile Busy Work Schedules?

Let us make getting your child to their orthodontic appointments easy for you.

Our Brace Bus is a complimentary service that picks your child up from school for their appointment and returns them back to school afterwards.

Schools, Parents and Students Love It!

Brace Bus serves all nearby schools within a 15 minute drive to our convenient locations!

Beautiful state of the art facilities that are owned by Dr. Depew. Trained and Certified Orthodontic team!

KENNESAW

2748 Watts Drive, Kennesaw, Georgia 30144

CEDARCREST

2161 Cedarcrest Road, Acworth, Georgia 30101

770.422.3939 DepewSmiles.com

22

Acworth Yellow Jackets Sports Insider

2019-2020 Special Edition Issue

Get to Know a Little About Isaac Sowemimo...

7. Hobbies:

1. Height:

Basketball and

4'9"

Video Games

2. Birth Month:

8. Favorite Dessert:

January

Brownies

3. Favorite Position:

9. Favorite Color(s):

Point Guard

Blue

4. Favorite NBA Team(s):

10. Favorite Holiday:

Milwaukee Bucks

Christmas

5. Dream College to Play For:

The Ohio State University

11. Dream Vacation Spot:

6. Favorite NBA Player:

Giannis Antetokounmpo

#11

Hawaii

24

Acworth Yellow Jackets Sports Insider

2019-2020 Special Edition Issue

Get to Know a Little About

Garvendy Jaques...

1. Height:

4'9" 2. Birth Month:

February 3. Favorite Position:

Center 4. Favorite NBA Team(s):

Los Angeles Lakers 5. Dream College to Play For:

University of Texas at Austin 6. Favorite NBA Player:

LeBron James

#5

7. Hobbies:

Reading, Playing Basketball and Going to Sports Games 8. Favorite Dessert:

Cookies and Cream Ice Cream 9. Favorite Color(s):

Blue and Yellow 10. Favorite Holiday:

Easter 11. Dream Vacation Spot:

Las Vegas

26

Acworth Yellow Jackets Sports Insider

2019-2020 Special Edition Issue

Get to Know a Little About Brayan Gil...

1. Height:

4'3" 2. Birth Month:

July 3. Favorite Position:

Center 4. Favorite NBA Team(s):

Golden State Warriors 5. Dream College to Play For:

UGA 6. Favorite NBA Player:

Stephen Curry

#1

7. Hobbies: Playing Fortnite and Basketball 8. Favorite Dessert:

Three-Milk Cake 9. Favorite Color(s):

Blue 10. Favorite Holiday:

Christmas 11. Dream Vacation Spot:

Spain

20 CAMP CAMP 20 ACWORTH ACWORTH TWO LOCATIONS •lake acworth adventure camp •overlook adventure camp

8 WEEKS

june 1 - july 31 ages 6 - 14 $115 residents | $140 non-residents prices per week per child

www.campacworth.org

ELEVATE CELEBRATE THE WAY YOU

Add 100% more play to your birthday or special event with a Sky Zone party package. You and your Guests focus on wall-to-wall aerial action while our Party Pros handle everything else – from décor to food and drinks, we’re here to make your day fun, easy and unforgettable.

PLAN YOUR NEXT PARTY AT SKY ZONE!

SkyZone.com/Kennesaw · 678.426.4400

Kennesaw

1650 Airport Rd Suite # 105 Kennesaw, GA 30144

30

Acworth Yellow Jackets Sports Insider

2019-2020 Special Edition Issue

Get to Know a Little About

Carter Dexter...

1. Height:

4'2" 2. Birth Month:

November 3. Favorite Position:

Power Forward 4. Favorite NBA Team(s):

Atlanta Hawks and Golden State Warriors 5. Dream College to Play For:

UGA 6. Favorite NBA Player:

Stephen Curry

7. Hobbies:

Sports, Video Games and Cooking 8. Favorite Dessert:

Pumpkin Pie 9. Favorite Color(s):

Blue 10. Favorite Holiday:

Christmas 11. Dream Vacation Spot:

Jamaica

#3

32 Acworth Yellow Jackets Sports Insider

2019-2020 Special Edition Issue

Get to Know a Little About Ryenn Elwin...

1. Height:

7. Hobbies:

4'4"

Basketball, Acting, and

2. Birth Month:

Modeling

May

8. Favorite Dessert:

3. Favorite Position:

Slushies

Small Forward

9. Favorite Color(s):

4. Favorite NBA Team(s):

Red

Golden State Warriors

10. Favorite Holiday:

5. Dream College to Play For:

Christmas

The University of Memphis

11. Dream Vacation Spot:

6. Favorite NBA Player:

Cruise to Haiti, Jamaica

Stephen Curry

or Mexico

#2

The Premier Youth Sports Destination

GAME ON...

LAKEPOINT SPORTS SERVES OVER 30 SPORTS YEAR-ROUND AND FEATURES: 8 Major League-Sized Baseball Fields 12 Indoor Basketball Courts 24 Indoor Volleyball Courts 10 Court Beach Volleyball Pavilion 3 Multi-Use Fields for Soccer, Lacrosse, Rugby, Football 130+ Cameras for Live Streaming and Video On-Demand

LAKEPOINT SPORTS PREMIER PARTNERS

LAKEPOINTSPORTS.COM

Preventing Injuries in Youth Sports:

GO OUTSIDE AND PLAY!

A

s a kid, I particpated in several sports leagues. Doing

Many of today’s youth specialize in one specific sport, as seen by

so taught me how to handle the joy of winning and

the many travel teams. Their schedules are full throughout the year

the sting of defeat. At the age of ten, I learned how

with formal practices and games. This over scheduling can often lead to

to deal with a season ending injury when a baseball

mental fatigue, stress, and overuse injury. The National Athletic Trainer’s

collided with my face breaking my nose. Sadly, baseball ended for me and

Association recommends delaying sport specification to reduce the risk of

more than likely started my career in Sports Medicine.

overuse injury and decrease the chance of burnout.

Injuries are a part of sports and can take the fun out of playing them.

Kids do not need to participate in an organized sports team to play

Injuries are classified as overuse or acute (sudden) in nature. Overuse

multiple sports. The benefits of sports can be achieved from a pickup

results from repetitive trauma to the joints or muscles. Acute is a result of

game of basketball or a flag football game in the back yard. Free play

a onetime traumatic event. Some acute injuries can be prevented with the

allows kids to develop the physical strength and endurance necessary to

proper protective equipment. According to the National Athletic Trainer’s

prevent injuries, but it also allows kids to develop interpersonal skills. As

Association, 50% of all youth sports injuries are due to overuse. Many of

kids become adolescents, they can use these skills to solve conflict and

these injuries can be prevented if children would do one thing: Go outside

become leaders of their organized sports team.

and play.

The participation in youth sports for boys and girls has increased over

Today’s youth spend less time doing simple athletic activities like

the last decade. As this increases, so does the rate of injury. The rate of

running, jumping, climbing, and riding a bicycle. These activities improve

trauma could potentially be reduced if kids played outside more. As my

muscle coordination and strength. Injuries to joints and muscles often

mom would always say, “go outside and play.”

occur when the muscles are fatigued. Muscles will increase strength and endurance when used in everyday play and activity. Formal strength and conditioning programs are not necessary until the teenage years.

As kids begin to increase in height, muscles become less flexible, leading to pain in the surrounding joints. We see this often in overuse injuries of the knee and hip. Scheduling a few minutes at the end of a workout to stretch the large muscles of the legs and hips (Quadriceps, Hamstrings, Calf, Glutes), can decrease the potential for injury. Flexibility exercise should be incorporated into every conditioning program.

2019-2020 Special Edition Issue

Angie Guggino has been certified by the National Athletic Trainers’ Association for over 22 years and is Licensed to practice Athletic Training in the state of Georgia.

She has been the head Athletic Trainer and Sports Medicine instructor at North Cobb High School since 2006.

Acworth Yellow Jackets Sports Insider

35

KCITYSC.COM

Ryenn Opens Up About Being an

“Aspie Kid”

Hello, my name is Ryenn Elwin, but my mom calls me RyPie. I’m the owner and founder of RYEl’s world. I’m a 9-year-old “Aspie Kid” and before you ask what “Aspie” is….

conversation, may only talk about their interest 10. Difficutly with nonverbal conversation skills 11. Anxiety and depression 12. Clumsiness (butter fingers)

"Now this is a story all about how my life got flipped-turn upside down and I’d like to take a minute, just sit right there, I’ll tell you how I became a prince of a town called..." Acworth (based off of DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air theme song and lyrics.com).

Aspie is a nickname for Asperger’s. I was diagnosed with it a few years ago. I’ve always been very different, and my mommy loved me for it. Unfortunately, I didn’t talk for a very long time, so my mom got worried. I went to many doctors and they diagnosed me with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Level one (Asperger’s). ASD is considered a developmental disorder because it's usually found in very early years and Asperger's syndrome is one of those.

Our (Aspie's and others on the Spectrum) difficulties are different but can be very similar as well. Here are some of our symptoms (https:// www.autismspeaks.org/types-autismwhat-asperger-syndrome): 1. Interacting socially is hard for us 2. Restricted interest

40

That being said, I'm going to let my mom take this over. I’ll be back later to talk to you guys.

Ryenn is very special. He puts a lot of effort into perfecting the few things he loves. For example, basketball is one of his passions and he is and strives to be the best defense player that he can be. Drawing and being involved in the industry as an actor and model are the only other things he loves doing and he puts all effort towards ensuring he is giving his very best to become the best.

3. Desire for sameness 4. Distinctive strengths 5. Remarkable focus and persistence 6. Aptitude for recognizing patterns 7. We pay attention to small details others may not notice.

8. Hypersensitivity to lights, sound, etc.

9. Difficulty to hold 2 side

Acworth Yellow Jackets Sports Insider

Ryenn approached me one day with, “I wanna model and act for my people" (Aspies and people on the spectrum). I was hesitant about the idea, at first, because he's never mentioned anything like this to me before.

I explained how personable the jobs would be. He said, “Ok, mom, I don’t care imma do it anyways.” As a mother of an Aspie, I knew if he had his mind set on modeling and acting that he

2019-2020 Special Edition Issue

would make it his lifetime goal to achieve it.

Ryenn: Basketball made me feel Q: Do you still struggle with

I've seen Ryenn's tears and fears.

Together we have overcome being belittled, bullied, and misunderstood.

As a mother, it's very hard to see your child hurting. Ryenn just keeps growing stronger through each experience and we have learned to draw strenghth from each other.

Q: Ryenn what does basketball

Overcoming so many obstacles has led him to so many great opportunties and experiences. Here are 3 that he is very proud of: 1. Starred in a music video with 2 Chainz 2. Has an amazing acting coach that actually coaches celebrities 3. Has friends he never thought he would have.

Now a Q&A with Ryenn and His mom Hey Ryenn, If you don't mind, here's some questions you can answer for your friends with nonASD lifestyles.

more comfortable to do modeling.

do for you?

Ryenn: Basketball helps me get my energy out, and I really like my Yellow Jackets Team. It’s hard switching teams and starting over.

Q: What made it easy for you to

interact and socialize more and to be able to be on a team?

Ryenn: Basketball made it easy to talk to adults and listen to other people besides my mom and dad. Some of my teammates have known me for awhile from other teams or from school. Isaac is one of my closest friends and he always sticks up for me.

Q: Would you encourage other

kids to be on a basketball team to improve their social skills?

Ryenn: Yes, it helped me work with a team and not be scared of social environments so much.

Q: Why do you want to model and act?

Ryenn: I like to because it’s

your everyday life?

fun. I like to do it for everyone with autism so they can see no matter your obstacles you can overcome anything.

control my emotions.

Q: Were you scared to model

Q: What’s the hardest thing in Ryenn: Not being able to playing basketball?

and act because of the personal interaction with people?

Ryenn: Yes...yess. Very

and learning how to play offense.

Q: Well how did you overcome

Q: What is hardest thing about Ryenn: Being able to keep up

ASD even though you’re doing all these activities?

Ryenn: Yes, every day. I take it a day at a time, but when it gets bad, I grab my weighted blanket and my emotional support animal and cuddle with my mom.

Q: What would you wish you

could change?

Ryenn: Being able to interact with others and not have anxiety.

Well this is all you guys. I hope this is helpful to everyone that has a kid or even if you are an adult on the spectrum. Never let your label be a crutch, get out there and strive to be anything and everything you want. Find your passion and live it up.

Follow me on IG Ryenn_Elwin for my journey.

Love y'all, Ryenn aka RyPie

it?

Q: What difficulties do you have Ryenn: I think about being with when meeting new people?

Ryenn: Not being expressive and being able to show emotions.

They think I’m mean and don’t want to be around them. I lose friends a lot.

Q: Did modeling help you to

socially open up more to prepare you to play basketball?

2019-2020 Special Edition Issue

my family and it helps me feel like I'm not having a sensory overload.

Q: What would you say to kids

who have ASD and want to act and have their own business?

Ryenn: Don’t think you can’t do it. Work hard at what you like and never give up.

Acworth Yellow Jackets Sports Insider

41

SUNDAY, APRIL 26, 2020 ATLANTA WALK | ATLANTIC STATION

georgiafitnessgyms.com

678.210.6286

Celebrating 23 YEARS!

start the new year off in shape at acworth’s best & oldest gym!

Expansive Cardio Floor for a Great Workout

$0 $1999 –OR–

Enrollment

Dues as Low as

/mo.

Expires 3/31/20.

“I’m able to get in and get a great workout while my 3 kids enjoy their time in the Kids Club. Highly recommend the group fitness classes when you need some motivation!”– Anna E.

Don’t wait! Limited time offers!

FREE FREE 3 Day VIP Guest Pass Expires 3/31/20.

eR nc

d Blv

Cobb Pkwy McC

lure

Acworth Du

Acw orth

mit

Sum

e West Rd

Na

41 Rd

Personal Training Session OR Directive Stretching Session Expires 3/31/20.

d

3362 Acworth Summit Blvd Ste 100 Acworth, GA 30101

Amenities We Offer: • Child Care

• Cycle Studios

• Group Classes

• Nutritional Counseling

• Personal Training

• Open 24 Hours

• Free Weights

• Locker Rooms & Showers

• Resistance Machines

• Dynamic Stretching

• Cardio Training

• Variety of Classes

To My Awesome Teammates, Thank you for helping me keep my head in the game. I enjoyed playing with each one of you. We built an awesome team. We had great defense and offense. We worked as a team and couldn't have won games without doing this. Never do anything negative that will hurt your dreams of playing in the NBA. Be yourself your whole entire life. Never try to be like someone else. Always remember Coach Ken told us our favorite player should be ourselves.

Hope you guys make it to a Division I college.

Dylan Hamilton 44

Acworth Yellow Jackets Sports Insider

2019-2020 Special Edition Issue

"Alone we can do so little, to

--Helen

together we can do so much."

elen Keller

Acworth

Yellow Jackets Thank You To Our Amazing Fans!

See You Next Season!