OTMJ 8.25.22

OTMJ OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL u OTMJ.COM

SOCIAL

NEWS

THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2022

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

FUN AND GAMES! WE LOVE FOOTBALL! Over the Mountain high schools have kicked off their seasons, and we want to make sure you’re as prepared as your favorite team. Inside you’ll find our annual pull-out special section spotlighting every school in our coverage area. Read about talented players to watch on the field, meet the new coaches who are pacing the sidelines, and check out each team’s prospects for the exciting weeks ahead. We also take a look back at Homewood’s first football team in1972 and how that team established the Patriots’ winning tradtion. Above, the 2022 Homewood football team is escorted onto the field at Samford Universtiy last Friday where the Patriots took on John Carroll Catholic to open the season.

FOPROEVTIEWBALL AUGUST 25, 2022

2022 OVER THE MOUNTAIN HIGH SCHOOL

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

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Journal photo by Jordan Wald

Coffee Break Vestavia Hills’ Robert Evans shakes hands with Mountain Brook football coach Chris Yeager, who got the best of his former assistant 24-14 last Thursday, spoiling Evans’ head coaching debut. But Yeager believes Evans will get the Rebels’ program on the right track.

“That program over there is a lot different than it was a year ago,” Yeager said. “It’s in good hands now. I’ve never been so happy to have a game in my rearview mirror. Maybe now we can go back to having coffee together.”

For more on the game and how the rest of the OTM area schools did last week see page 24.

Christopher Vizzina

BRIARWOOD PAGE 6

Lions Face Challenging Road in Quest to Keep Playoff Streak Alive

Woods Ray

HOMEWOOD PAGE 8

Senior Quarterback Gives Patriots Hope for a Successful Season

Ahmari Williams

HOOVER PAGE 10

New Bucs Coach Waldrop Not Feeling the Pressure Entering His First Season

Inside

Team Profiles • Key Players to Watch Schedules • Team Pictures

Carson McFadden

JOHN CARROLL PAGE 12

Young Cavaliers Looking to Move Forward in Mara’s Third Season

Homewood’s First Football Team in 1972 Established a Winning Tradition PAGE 4 Top Cat: Clemson-Bound Vizzina Looks Back on Briarwood Career PAGE 2

Garrett Murphy

OAK MOUNTAIN PAGE 16

Crane Believes Eagles Have the Players to Make Another Playoff Run

John Colvin

MOUNTAIN BROOK PAGE 14

Zamir Farris

SPAIN PARK PAGE 18

New Spain Park Coach Vakakes Hopes Hard Work Leads to Winning

INSIDE

Spartans Focusing on Fundamentals as They Pursue Deep Playoff Run

John Paul Head

VESTAVIA HILLS PAGE 20

Evans Preparing Rebels for Challenging Season in His Return to His Alma Mater

2 • Thursday, August 25, 2022

Inside

Murphy’s Law

M THIS NEST IS JUST RIGHT Fuzzy gray flaminglets are the first flamingos hatched at the Birmingham Zoo PAGE 6

NEVER FORGET OTM cities to hold Patriot Day programs PAGE 8

ALL-IN Designer Kenya Buchanan traded her desk for Fashion Week in New York PAGE 10

PUPPY LOVE Merlin’s ‘Magic’ captivates kids at Vestavia Elementary West PAGE 20

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OPINION/CONTENTS

4 SOCIAL 8 SCHOOLS 10 SPORTS

Go Mighty Shrimp!

y grandchildren and I Football games were the pinnacle of watched “Zombies 3” this social life in high school. There were past weekend. I was grateful posters and pep rallies and so much for the sequel if for no other reason hoopla that at times it seemed like the than it meant I would not be hearing whole going-to-class thing was an afterthe soundtrack from Zombies 2 on thought. And I have to tell you, while a repeat whenever we were together in lot of preparation went into the plays the car. made between the goal posts, it paled in If you’re unfamiliar with the series, comparison to the plays that were exelet me fill you in a bit: In Zombies 1, cuted in the stands. zombies leave their isolation and All week, you confabbed with your become part of the human community.

BFF over what to wear, which was of For Zombies 2, a pack of werewolves course so similar to what she was wearSue Murphy joins the crowd. In Zombies 3, there ing that you might have been twins sepwas nowhere to go except to have a arated at birth. You wanted to arrive giant spaceship land and unleash a early enough to get a decent seat bunch of aliens. All of the action is had little to do with viewing Returning a kickoff for (which set to music and there are some realthe game) but not so early that you ly high-tech dance numbers (those 100 yards was nothing were the first ones there and would werewolves can really bust a move), having other people pass you by compared to the skill risk so it has been fun being along on the and choose to sit elsewhere. involved in crossing the Zombie ride.

Then there was your entrance.

Of course, it’s all fantasy. The Returning for 100 yards same 100 yards in front was nothinga kickoff thing that is most unbelievable to me compared to the skill of the stands. about the series is that all of these involved in crossing the same 100 disparate groups would elect to jump yards in front of the stands. You into society at the high school level. wanted to appear cool, eyes focused They sheath their claws and rein in their alien superpow- ahead as if you actually were cool, and to move with a ers so they can become cheerleaders and stars of the nonchalance that had to be rehearsed days earlier in your football team (Go Mighty Shrimp!). Later, of course, driveway. crossing the goal line and enthusiastically cheering on The cheerleaders were always front and center and the sidelines ends up saving the world many times over. the rest of us who had failed at tryouts would cheer when Such is the power of high school football. it was socially expedient, but most of the time we spent I did not play football in high school. At the time I talking with our bench mates and watching everyone else was (a) the wrong gender and (b) of slight and breakable as they crossed in front of the stands trying to appear build, not to mention that I was (and am) averse to being cool. knocked to the turf for hours on end. I wasn’t a cheerI’m sure there were zombies/werewolves/aliens who leader either. No back handspring in my repertoire. I struggled like that, too. You’re just not going to hear could barely eke out a cartwheel. And so, I attended the about them. At least not right now. It will come up years games as a lowly spectator, a role that had its own share later in therapy.

Hang in there, Mighty Shrimp. of glorious wins and agonizing defeats.

14 20 24

otmj.com With everything that’s happening “Over the Mountain,” it can be difficult to keep up. That’s why we have launched the OTMJ newsletter.

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To sign up for our newsletter, visit otmj.com.

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Over the Mountain Views

Blaze Likes Boiling N’ Bragging

OVER THE MOUNTAIN

Vol. 33, No. 2

Over The Mountain Journal is a suburban bi-weekly newspaper delivered to Mountain Brook, Homewood, Vestavia Hills, Hoover and North Shelby County areas. Subscriptions for The Journal are available for $24 yearly. Mail to: Over the Mountain Journal, P.O. Box 660502, Vestavia Hills, AL 35216. Phone: (205) 823-9646. E-mail the editorial department at editorial@otmj.com. E-mail our advertising department at mwald@otmj.com. Find us on the Web at otmj.com.

Copyright 2022 Over The Mountain Journal, Inc. All rights reserved.

The Journal is not responsible for return of photos, copy and other unsolicited materials submitted. To have materials returned, please specify when submitting and provide a stamped, self-addressed envelope. All materials submitted are subject to editorial review and may be edited or declined without notification.

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

August 25, 2022 JOU RNAL Publisher & Editor: Maury Wald Copy Editor: Virginia Martin Features Writer: Donna Cornelius Staff Writer: Anne Ruisi Photographer: Jordan Wald Sports Editor: Rubin E. Grant Contributors: Susan Murphy, June Mathews, Emil Wald, Marvin Gentry, Lee Walls, Bryan Bunch Advertising Sales: Julie Trammell Edwards, Tommy Wald, Gail Kidd

UAB cheerleaders and Blaze, the school’s mascot, made new friends at Rotary’s Boiling N’ Bragging pre-season tailgate party at in Mountain Brook to benefit critical care transport at Children’s of Alabama. See more on page 18.

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ABOUT TOWN

Thursday, August 25, 2022 • 3

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ABOUT TOWN

Autumn Bounty

AUG 25 - SEPT 8 Aug. 25 Classical Indian Music Concert

Grammy Award winner Vishwa Mohan Bhatt and Subhen Chatterjee perform in a free concert of classical Indian music. When: 6:30-8 p.m. Where: Birmingham Museum of Art

Botanical Gardens’ Fall Plant Sale Set for Sept. 10

Aug. 25-27 Lil Lambs Consignment

Consignment sale of children’s clothing, toys, furniture and other items. When: Times vary based on day Where: Trinity United Methodist Church, Homewood

Courtesy The Friends of Birmingham Botanical Gardens

Aug. 25 - Sept. 24 Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star

Birmingham Children’s Theatre performs an interactive 45-minute play recommended for children ages up to 5 years. When: Various dates and times. Where: Birmingham Children’s Theatre at the Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex

Fri., Aug. 26 Sweet Home Brews

cookmuseum.org

The Ronald McDonald House Charities of Alabama Junior Board brings together some of the best Southeastern breweries in one place for a fun night that supports RMHCA’s mission. The voter’s choice award gives one deserving brewery big bragging rights and a traveling trophy until the next Sweet Home Brews.

When: 6-10 p.m. Where: Pepper Place

Sat., Aug. 27 Save The O’s

The Norma Livingston Ovarian Cancer Foundation hosts the annual Save the O’s chip timed 5k and 1 Mile Fun Run. This event is held in memory of Lori Johnson and the 14,000 women who die each year from ovarian cancer.

When: Registration opens at 6:30 a.m. Where: Greystone Golf and Country Club

Just A Call Away

Crisis Center, Inc. presents the eighth annual Just A Call Away. Participants have three options to participate: a live chip-timed 5K, an in-person fun run, or a virtual 5K. Runners and walkers of all ages and abilities are welcome. When: 8 a.m. Where: Patriot Park

Tailgate Challenge

The Bell Center for Early Intervention will host its annual fundraiser to celebrate the upcoming football season. The event will include tailgate food tastings created by various teams, along with live music, kidfriendly events, team spirit and more.

When: 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Where: The

The Friends of Birmingham Botanical Gardens’ much-anticipated Fall Plant Sale will be held Sept. 10 at the gardens.

Dozens of varieties of natives, perennials, tropicals, herbs, ferns, camellias, trees and shrubs will be for sale, and shoppers can get advice from seasoned gardeners at the event.

Only checks and major credit cards will be accepted.

Proceeds from the sale will support the friends’ mission to protect, nurture and share the Gardens with the public.

In a change this year, shoppers can preorder bedding plants at the sale and pick them up Oct. 8.

The sale will be held from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the Gardens’ Formal Lawn and in the Hill Garden. Priority shopping for members of the friends group will be 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. the Friday before, on Sept. 10. Members

also will receive their annual plant gift, courtesy of Leaf & Petal.

“Fall is a wonderful time to plant, and the Friends’ annual Fall Plant Sale offers our community a terrific opportunity to talk with experts about plants that thrive in Southern gardens and to discover tried-and-true tips and tricks for caring for them,” Tom Underwood, executive director of the friends group, said in a press release from the Gardens.

Underwood said the Gardens, its staff and volunteers educate thousands of schoolchildren a year about the science of plants and grow thousands of pounds of fresh vegetables that are distributed to people in need in the community. He said the friends group helps maintain, improve and promote the Gardens.

Bell Center

Years of Cahaba Heights saying “Yes” to annexation into Vestavia Hills. Music by the M-80s, a variety of vendors and food and beverages available from Heights Village restaurants. When: 6 - 9 p.m.

Where: Heights Village in Cahaba Heights

Fairy Tale Ball

Ready your shiny suit of armor, dress in your most sparkly ball gown, or throw on a super hero cape as Childcare Resources will host its annual kid-friendly gala, including a silent auction, gourmet hors d’oeuvres and more. When: 5:30 p.m. Where: Hyatt Regency Birmingham, The Wynfrey Hotel

20 Years of Cahaba Heights

The Cahaba Heights Merchants, City of Vestavia Hills and the Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce have joined together to celebrate 20

For more information about the sale, visit bbgardens.org/fallplantsale.

Thurs., Sept. 8 Gospel Music Concert

Tickets are on sale for a concert by the Grammy award-winning Gaither Vocal Band at www.shades.org/ events. When: 7-9 p.m. Where: Shahes Mountain Baptist Church.

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ABOUT TOWN

Thursday, August 25, 2022 • 5

6 • Thursday, August 25, 2022

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ABOUT TOWN

This Nest is Just Right

Fuzzy Gray Flaminglets Are the First Flamingos Hatched at the Birmingham Zoo

Y

Event Chair Team: Stephanie Cooper, Co-Chair; Alex Morton, First Horizon; Nancy Goedecke, Honorary Chair; Dr. Anthony C. Hood, Co-Chair; and Rosemary Alexander, Co-Chair.

Wild at Heart: Rhino Crash Zoo Fundraiser Set for Sept. 8

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

ou could say the Birmingham Barons directed the stork to the Birmingham Zoo’s American flamingo exhibit earlier this summer when, for the first time, two baby flamingos were hatched.

That’s because soil from the pitcher’s mound at the Barons’ home stadium at Regions Field persuaded the future parents to build nests and hatch their babies, called flaminglets.

“It’s a big deal for us because it’s the first time they’ve hatched. Not everyone’s flamingos will hatch,” Hollie Colahan, the zoo’s deputy director, said. “You have to have everything right for them.”

Everything right means happy, healthy birds and the exact type of soil composition that will inspire flamingos to build nests.

The little birds, Pinecone and Baron – named for the team – eventually came about after the Barons donated the soil, called pitcher’s clay, when the pitcher’s mound was switched out with new soil, said Jennifer Ogilvie, the zoo’s marketing and public relations manager.

Pitcher’s clay is a combination of clay and sand. After the soil was taken in, the birds did the rest, including building the nest and making sure it was nice and wet so they could manipulate it to get it just right. The nests can be up to 2½ feet tall but are worn down a bit since the chicks were hatched about seven weeks ago, said Kristen Eversole, a zoo birdkeeper who works with the flamingos.

While they are now on the same special diet as the adult flamingos, at first the parents dribbled crop milk into their mouths to feed them, Eversole said.

“The parents are very involved,” Eversole said. “Pinecone’s parents took good care of him, but Baron’s parents rejected him at five days.”

While zoo staff doesn’t know why he was rejected, Baron had to be hand

Courtesy The Birmingham Zoo

By Anne Ruisi

Above, Baron – named for the team – eventually came about after the Barons donated the soil, called pitcher’s clay.

fed by zoo staff and is the more outgoing of the two. He’s a noisy little bird who chirps loudly and constantly around people because “if he sees a human, he thinks he’s going to get food,” Eversole said.

Baron weighs about 4.4 pounds, and Pinecone is about 3.3 pounds, she said.

Seen from a distance on a recent sweltering afternoon, the 19 flamingos at the Birmingham Zoo stand so still in their classic one-legged stance that they almost appear to be yard decorations.

The cute little balls of gray fluff making their way on stick-like legs through the tall green grass of the exhibit trigger movement by the adults, who leisurely strut about their enclosure as the little birds rush to the fence to greet visitors.

While it takes about a year for a baby flamingo’s soft gray down to molt into the beautiful pink and coral feathers that make a flamingo so distinctive, the process is beginning on these little ones. Eversole extends one of Baron’s wings a bit and shows how he’s starting to get his pink, coral and

The Birmingham Zoo is debuting a reimagined version of its marquee fundraising event on Sept. 8 – Wild at Heart: Rhino Crash.

No, this isn’t a rhinoceros showdown. Crash is what a group of rhinos is called.

The event will feature an evening at the zoo’s plaza with food, an auction, open bar and live music by Yacht Rock Schooner, according to a zoo news release.

The event, presented by First Horizon Bank, will be from 6:30 p.m. to 10 p.m., with entry at 5:30 p.m. for VIP ticket holders.

Guests are invited to dress in “wild chic,” expressing their inner party animal in their favorite feathers, stripes, spots or scales. The zoo’s Instagram account, @bhamzoo, offers fashionable ideas.

Honorary chairs for the event are the Collat and Goedecke families, wellknown, longtime Birmingham-area philanthropists. The Collat family owns Mayer Electric Supply Company Inc. Event co-chairs are Rosemary Alexander, Stephanie Cooper and Dr. Anthony C. Hood.

General admission tickets are $250 each, or $1,000 for a “crash” of five.

Animal encounter/VIP tickets with an exclusive animal experience and access to the Watering Hole, which includes a private bar, balcony and indoor access, are $425, with only 50 spots available. Watering Hole/VIP tickets are $350 each.

For more information, or to get tickets, go to www.birminghamzoo.com/ event/wildatheart.

white flight feathers. The underside edge of the wing is black, just as it is in the adults.

Flamingos can fly, but the zoo trims the birds’ wings so they don’t take off. If there is a strong wind and they hop the fence, the birds want to return to the enclosure because they are flock animals, Eversole said.

“We gently bring them back” if

they need some help, she said.

During the day Pinecone and Baron roam the flamingo exhibit, which has an island where their nests were built and a large pond. At night the little ones are safely tucked into the flamingo building.

“There are still (wild) hawks, raptor and mink” that roam the area, Eversole said.

Courtesy The Altamont School

Altamont Celebrates Centennial on Sept 10

Students and teachers of Birmingham University School, c. 1925.

The Altamont School will celebrate the 100th anniversary of its founding as The Birmingham University School on Sept. 10, according to a school news release.

The evening event will be held at the school, which will include a dinner.

The school was founded in 1922 to provide college preparation for the sons of families driving Birmingham’s rapid physical, financial and cultural growth. In 1975, it joined with the Brooke Hill School for Girls to form The Altamont School.

Altamont plans later this fall to dedicate a historical marker at the former Birmingham University School building on 28th Street.

Those who are interested in attending the celebration or who want more information can go to www.buscentennial.com or contact the organizers at 100years@altamontschool.org.

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ABOUT TOWN

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

OTM Cities to Hold Patriot Day Programs

By Anne Ruisi

Joint OTM Remembrance

Vestavia Hills, Homewood and

Hoover firefighters at last year’s stair climb to honor the victims of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks. Right, the joint OTM Rembrance held last year in Mountian Brook.

Journal file photos by Jordan Wald

Over the Mountain municipalities are preparing to hold commemorative events to mark the 21st anniversary of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks.

Hoover will observe the anniversary Sept. 10 beginning at 9 a.m. with a ceremony and stair climb at the Riverchase Galleria.

The ceremony will be held in the Galleria food court. Specific details of the event, such as the guest speaker, still are being set, said Officer Brian Hale, the police department’s public information officer. The speaker usually shares their experience of Sept.

11 and talks about how police and firefighters responded on that day, Hale said.

The stair climb will begin right after the ceremony and will be held at the Galleria Towers. The climb will be the equivalent of 110 stories to commemorate the number of stories in each of the World Trade Center towers in New York City that fell after terrorists crashed passenger jets into the buildings.

While the ceremony is free, those who want to climb need to buy a ticket and register. Climbers will receive a T-shirt, which will be for sale at the event. Proceeds will benefit the Hoover Public Safety Charity. Tickets are $30. Go to eventbrite.com and search for Hoover Climb to Remember to buy tickets. Or call fire department headquarters at 205-4447655 for more information.

Mountain Brook will hold their annual joint event on Sept. 11, Lt. Michael Keller, public information officer for the Vestavia Hills Police

Department, said.

The remembrance ceremony and Patriot Day celebration will begin at 8:30 a.m. at Vestavia Hills City

Hall. Michael A. Williams of Birmingham will be the keynote speaker.

Williams retired from the U.S.

‘Our Doors Are Open to Everyone’ Newest Homewood Library Director Takes on Renovation, Expanding Program List

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

By Anne Ruisi

New Homewood Library director Judith Wright.

In its 81 years, the Homewood Public Library has had just seven directors, with Judith Wright as its newest leader.

“It’s an all-encompassing position.

There are a lot of things you don’t learn about when you’re in library school,” Wright said, such as dealing with bills, and the painting and carpeting that are components of the library’s upcoming renovation.

Set in a tranquil setting on Oxmoor Road across the street from Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church and surrounded by Edgewood’s distinctive residential homes, the library is the busiest library in Alabama that serves a community of 25,000 to 50,000 people, Wright said.

“We host 100-plus events a month.

That includes story time, book clubs, computer classes,” the Montgomery

native said.

Those activities are just a sample of the traditional events libraries offer.

Homewood’s fall events calendar is laid out in a 16-page calendar book featuring events in sections for children, teens and adults, technology

Homewood library is the busiest library in Alabama that serves a community of 25,000 to 50,000 people. classes, movie showings and library services for Spanish speakers.

Among the activities are special events such as Trick or Treat for children on Halloween, sushi classes and a Teen CinePhone Film Contest in September, and a pet loss support

Secret Service after a three-decade career that included protection details for former presidents. He was special agent in charge of the Birmingham Field Office with executive oversight for Alabama and Mississippi. He is a Birmingham native who grew up in Ensley.

The three municipalities alternate holding the annual event on Sept. 11 each year to pay respects to and honor those who died in the 2001 terrorist attacks, the department said in a news release.

Commemorating the lives lost and sacrifices made on Sept. 11 “remind our officers and firefighters of what sacrifice can look like and to pay respect to fallen first responders,” the news release said. group and Dungeons and Dragons workshops for adults.

In a special event Aug. 16, the library was turned into the scene of the crime for a Roaring Twenties murder mystery game as part of an F. Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald theme for August. The adults-only evening featured guests dressed in 1920s gear sipping mocktails as they solved the “murder.” Wright said she went out and bought a flapper-style dress for the night.

“We like to think of ourselves as a cultural and a community center. We think about what our community wants and needs,” Wright said.

Librarian Wasn’t the First Plan

When she was young, Wright said, she didn’t know she would be a librarian. As a student she volunteered in the school library, but by the time she went off to the University of Alabama at Birmingham, she thought her career path would lead to becoming a museum curator.

But there weren’t a lot of jobs in the field when she graduated with a See LIBRARY, page 9

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

LIBRARY From page 8

bachelor’s degree in art history from UAB. Her mother suggested she go to library school, so she did and earned her master’s degree in library and information studies from the University of Alabama.

She worked part-time at the Homewood library in 2010 and then worked part-time at the Hoover Library, then was back at Homewood to work as a senior clerk in the circulation department in November 2011.

She moved to the Albert L. Scott Library in Alabaster for a few years and returned to Homewood in late 2014 as the librarian for the Teen Department. It was a position she loved.

“It was one of the most rewarding experiences,” Wright said. “I love teenagers. We try to make them lifelong readers,” Wright said.

As teen librarian, she organized an advisory group consisting of youth from the sixth to 12th grades and handled more than 25 monthly teen events. At the same time, she acted as assistant department head for the Adult Services Department.

In October 2019, she was named the library’s assistant director, a position she held until she was named interim library director earlier this year when longtime library Director Deborah J. Fout announced she was retiring May 1. Wright was then named director.

As library director, she’s responsible for 51 full- and part-time employees, including housekeeping staff. She also oversees the library’s operations and budget of $3 million, Wright said.

“The city of Homewood is extremely generous. The city and the community are very supportive – they

Thursday, August 25, 2022 • 9

NEWS really value libraries,” she said.

The Friends of the Library and the Homewood Library Foundation also are very supportive, she said.

Volunteers with the friends group run the library’s used bookstore and use funds generated by book sales for projects. The foundation’s annual Block Party also raises funds for the library.

Her accomplishments since becoming a librarian are many.

She developed the state’s first telescope lending program – Homewood has nine that can be borrowed – and an online application and hiring system for the Homewood library. She also founded the state’s first Girls Who Code chapter and is involved in several professional associations. This year, she won the Outstanding Youth Services Award from the Alabama Library Association.

In 2017, Wright became Alabama’s only certified librarian who is part of NASA’s Lunar and Meteorite Sample Lending program.

That means she can borrow lunar and meteorite samples from NASA for display in the library.

The samples have to be under lock and key in a safe when they aren’t displayed, and when they are on show, Wright must be with them at all times, along with an armed guard, she said.

Some space objects were displayed at the library in 2017, and Wright said she hopes to hold another exhibit in 2023.

Starting on Sept. 19, the adult and teen departments will undergo renovation, with new carpet and updated paint among the improvements. This phase will last five or six weeks.

The library’s goal is to remain open during the renovation, which will be done in small stages, Wright said.

As the upcoming fall signals the march to a new year, the library will continue its partnership with NASA in 2023 and will offer passport services.

Wright said her goals will include continuing to reach out to the community to see what programs and services people want, “especially those who haven’t been to the library yet.”

These include the community’s Latino population, and the library has started working with the Hispanic Interest Coalition of Alabama to learn how to reach out to the Spanishspeaking community, Wright said.

“Our doors are open to everyone,” she said.

FOODBAR is committed to providing employment opportunities for young people who may have an interest in the culinary field. A number of college and high school age young people have benefitted from and valued their work experiences at FOODBAR. If you think you would have an interest in a front-ofhouse or kitchen position at FOODBAR, please give us a call at (205)876-8100 to discuss the application process.

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Renovation Starting Soon

A major project Wright started to oversee this month is the first stage of a $250,000 renovation, the first since the library was renovated in 1996, Wright said. Scheduled improvements included removing wallpaper and painting.

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LIFE

10 • Thursday, August 25, 2022

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

FALL FASHION

B

y 2013, Kenya Buchanan was so miserable working in the corporate world that one day she decided to just quit her job with an industrial distribution company.

“In that cubicle, I was losing my mind,” the fashion designer and owner of Homewood atelier Kenya B said. “I quit cold turkey.”

Now, she’s designing a luxurious gown that will be featured in the 2nd annual Haute Pink Fashion Show fundraiser for the Forge Breast Cancer Survivor Center on Oct. 12 at The Fennec.

“I’m all-in,” Buchanan said, adding she’s already working on a design that might include detachable elements or maybe some beaded fabric on the bodice.

Last year’s Haute Pink show was “such a beautiful event” that featured a huge, elaborate fuchsia pink ballgown she designed and made – nicknamed “Felicity” by its model, Shannon Preston, Buchanan said.

Haute Pink’s models are breast cancer survivors or are going through treatment or after care. Their friends and Forge’s volunteers also participate.

“On this particular night, they should all feel like queens,” Buchanan said, referring to the Felicity dress, which was made with luxury Italian Mikado fabric.

With its sweetheart corseted bodice, petticoats, layers that create a wide skirt structured to make a big impact, and huge pink puffs of fabric on the model’s arms, the dress was a fantasy come to life.

When the model was in the dress and her hair and makeup done, “you should have seen the look on her face,” Buchanan said. “These are the moments I live for.”

The woman wearing this dress, like all of Haute Pink’s models, got to keep the gown.

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

By Anne Ruisi

Kenya Buchanan, in her studio above, is designing a luxurious gown that will be featured in the 2nd annual Haute Pink Fashion Show fundraiser for the Forge Breast Cancer Survivor Center on Oct. 12 at The Fennec.

All-In

Designer Kenya Buchanan Traded Her Desk for Fashion Week in New York Changing Her Life

The career switch into fashion, something she’d always loved as a way to express herself, was a game-changer for Buchanan. She’d earned a degree in business management from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, influenced by her family’s viewpoint to study for a degree in a field where she could always find a job. She thought that could be done with a business degree and that a job would be easy to find.

“But that’s not the key to happiness,” Buchanan said.

The first key that unlocked the door to her new career was enrolling at the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa to study fashion design. She earned

straight A’s and graduated magna cum laude.

Then, “My career took off,” she said.

She started designing couture clothing and participated in a number of fashion shows, including the nowdefunct Birmingham Fashion Week and Magic City Fashion Week. In February 2018, she took part in New York Fashion Week, one of the world’s four biggest fashion events. Designs for spring were featured.

“They found me on Instagram,” she said, and invited her to show her designs. Her Instagram handle is @iamkenyab.

Her fashion collection was shown at the one of the smaller shows for up-

and-coming designers.

“There were beautiful clothes and all the famous people. Just to be in the fashion district was unreal,” she said, adding that she was the only Southerner among the designers.

She initially thought the atmosphere would be competitive, but she learned it was all about each designer parading their new collections.

Prom Niche

Buchanan is well-known for her prom dresses, and she said her couture designs have been worn by young women from almost every high school in Jefferson County.

“I’ve built a prom following. I call them my ‘Kenya dolls,’” she said.

At the end of prom season, she invites the women to what she calls a Kenya Doll Prom Program, a gathering with a theme where scholarships donated by sponsors are awarded. A portion of this year’s Paint Party-themed program included canvases and paint for each girl to express her artistic abilities.

Buchanan also is busy creating custom-made garments for clients who need something special to wear for weddings and special events. Right now, she’s working on a gown for a woman who will be receiving her doctorate. A mannequin in her studio wears the black stretch crepe gown as the dress is in progress. Sparkly gold appliques will be sewn on the neckline for a touch of glamor.

When a dress is finished and delivered to a client, it’s not forgotten.

Buchanan said she goes to the event to make sure the piece “is perfect for the pictures.”

Some of her memorable dresses from her Rojo Collection are shown on her website, www.kenyabuchanan.com.

The Rojo Collection is a series of striking red gowns featured at Magic City Fashion Week.

Buchanan’s artistic efforts aren’t limited to the sketch pad. Each summer for the past four years, she’s taught sewing and fashion design at Space One Eleven in downtown Birmingham.

This year her students made a prom gown, with each contributing an element of the dress. They made the bows and flowers decorating the dress from coffee filters.

She also teaches sewing to kids in grades four to six in the after-school program at Highlands Day School in Mountain Brook, where she’s held summer fashion camp.

While Buchanan has made a strong name for herself in the Birmingham area, she’s now trying to venture into other markets, including New York and Houston, which has a vibrant social scene.

“I’d like to get my products in the right people’s hands,” she said.

Courtesy Linly Heflin

Linly Heflin Fashion Show Set for October The Linly Heflin Unit will celebrate its 63rd annual Scholarship Fashion Show on Oct. 12.

The annual cocktail gala is the primary fundraiser for the organization and will be held at The Club. This year’s fashion show again will be coordinated with Gus Mayer and will highlight featured designer Jonathan Simkhai. The show’s chair is Kendall Eagan, and Katherine DeBuys is the cochair.

The Linly Heflin Unit is named in honor of Birmingham resident Linly Heflin, who helped establish a Red Cross surgical unit during World War I so that women at home could support the war effort. After her death in 1919, the Linly Heflin Unit was created as a women’s service organization to continue her work.

In 1923, the organization began awarding scholarships to women to attend college. This year, 110 young women will receive scholarships of $10,000 per year up to four years to pursue undergraduate degrees at Alabama universities.

For more information, contact www.linlyheflin.org.

Above, from left: Kendall Eagan, fashion show chair; Julie Goyer, Linly Heflin president; and Katherine DeBuys-fashion show co-chair. Left, funding committee: Lucie Haynes, Constance Ladd Moore, Kathy Harris, Virginia Phillips, and Julia Wilcox.

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Katie Wade Fought

Thursday, August 25, 2022 • 11

LIFE

Bezshan Dolatabadi

Elizabeth Adams

Kathleen Roberts

Looking Ahead to Fall Fashion 2022 Local Retailers Talk About the Hottest Trends and Must-Have Pieces

A

By Anne Ruisi

s students go back to school, more people return to work in offices and the fall football and social seasons get into gear, what will fashionconscious shoppers be on the lookout for this fall? We caught up with local retailers to see how fashion has evolved and what’s in store.

Talk about some of the new trends for this fall you’re excited about.

“I’m excited about the trend toward embroidery this fall! Tie dye has faded and embroidery is hot!” said Elizabeth Adams, owner of Ex Voto. “We love a good detail, and hand embellishment is a trend we are here for.”

“We are loving the textures this fall,” said Betsy Prince owner Bezshan Dolatabadi. “Rich velvet, supple soft corduroy, lush satin and soft cotton are abundant in each of our collections.”

For Kathleen Roberts, owner of Flip-Flops and What Nots, westerninspired boots and clothing, and platform styles will be on trend.

Gina Saab of Second Hand Rose said floor-skimming hemlines are on fashion’s radar. “I love a great long skirt or dress and a great-looking pair of shoes,” she said. “Denim anything!

And a crisp white shirt! Sneakers! I love all the fashion sneakers.”

Applause Dancewear owner Katie Wade Fought said lots of prints, bright colors and a mix of beautiful florals against dark backdrops are the new fall trends she’s excited about.

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What styles do you see that will be popular for Game Day?

“Our experience (and our advice) for dressing for game day is that not everything has to be so obviously “Game Day” team-themed,” Adams said. “Don’t overthink the precise shade of red or orange too much!

Remember to invest in clothes you love no matter what day of the week it is, and sometimes subtle is best!”

Jackets and blazers are on trend, so I think we will see many styles represented; skirts with cashmere sweaters would be a good look as well,” Dolatabadi said.

“Here in the South, anything cool!

Games can be so hot, so a cute dress or pants – and your team’s colors – are always appropriate,” Saab said.

At Applause Dancewear, “Game Day doesn’t really play into our business, but competition days for us play a vital role and will drive the trends in standout pieces that grab attention,” Fought said.

What’s the one fall fashion trend everyone should have?

“This fall, everyone should jump into the fun ‘animalia’ trend! Prints in motifs of zebra, cheetah, tiger, even bugs, are popping up everywhere and add a lot of excitement to your closet this season. Not to mention, these prints make great conversation starters,” Ex Voto’s Adams said.

“A new blazer, jacket or coat,”

Dolatabadi said.

Cute tennis shoes that go with dresses and casual everyday looks should be on everyone’s fall shopping list, such as in platform and velvet styles, Roberts said.

“I like layered necklaces – it’s something everyone can wear,” Saab said. “So layer up two or three necklaces and go! Your accessories can make your outfit!”

“Black booties – everyone loves them!” Fought said, adding that includes all ages from toddlers to teens. “They can be worn over their ballet shoes so that the dancers can go from backstage to outside without removing their shoes. And they come in great colors!”

in people both purchasing and consigning,” she said.

At Applause Dancewear, “Business is coming back and looks to be strong once again,” Fought said.

“We are excited to see the store filling up daily and customers excited to be shopping again.”

What’s the best fashion advice anyone ever gave you?

“I don’t know that I can recall any specific fashion advice anyone gave me, but I will say that I tell ladies all the time to dress for themselves first,” Adams said. “When you are comfortable in what you are wearing, you feel confident, and then

Gina Saab

you are able to give the best version of yourself to everyone around you.

Too many times, I see women needing to get approval of their outfit from their husband. I really just want to say, ‘He will have a better time with you, if you love what you are wearing.’”

“Less is more,” Dolatabadi said.

“The best thing you can (wear) is a smile. But, if talking about fashion/ clothing, it would be, just be yourself. Fashion is fun not ‘rules,’” Roberts said. “Find out what you like and be confident in your own style.”

Saab said the best advice she ever received is to “Dress for myself!

Wear what you feel good in! Keep your lipstick on and a pretty piece of jewelry and you always will look good!”

“Look your best every time you walk out your door, you never know who you might run into!” Fought said.

How’s business? Have you noticed a return to more shoppers over last fall?

“Business is great!” Adams said.

“We have noticed people are definitely ready to be out and about and excited about getting dressed again.”

“We have noticed an upward trend since the spring of 2021, and it seems that it will continue,” Betsy Prince’s Dolatabadi said. “We are busy!”

Business has been good, Roberts of Flip-Flops and What Nots said. “Of course, ladies have to try on shoes, so in-person shopping is best.”

Saab agreed that business has been good.

“We have definitely had a pick up

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LIFE

Allison O. Skinner Receives Paving the Way Award

2022

Allison O. Skinner of Vestavia Hills (pictured) is the recipient of the 2021 Nina Miglionico Paving the Way Award, presented by the Women Lawyers Section of the Birmingham Bar Association on Aug. 18.

The 2021 ceremony was postponed due to COVID-19.

“I’m very, very honored,” Skinner said.

The award recognizes lawyers who have actively paved the way for success and advancement of women attorneys. The bar association’s Women Lawyers Section created the

free & open to the public

award in honor of Nina Miglionico, who exemplified a life devoted to the public good.

“Miss Nina,” as she was affectionately known, was one of Alabama’s first women lawyers to engage in the private practice of law, in 1936, and was the first woman elected to the Birmingham City Council. Her short stature belied her tall standing as a role model and mentor to women lawyers in Alabama and the United States.

Skinner is president of the bar association and is the sixth woman in

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Courtesy

12 • Thursday, August 25, 2022

that role. She’s been a four-time recipient of its Distinguished Service Award. Currently, she is serving her third elected term as Alabama State Bar Board of Bar commissioner for Place 7. She has served or is serving in various capacities on many boards and committees in professional and civic organizations throughout her career.

She graduated from the University of Alabama and earned her law degree at the University of Alabama School of Law. Skinner is deputy general counsel of Cadence Bank, where she represents the bank on a wide range of matters and serves as the colead for the bank’s employee resource group for women.

After learning she would be receiving the award, Skinner said she and her son headed to Linn Park in downtown Birmingham to take a photo of her at the Nina Miglionico statue.

“I thought it would be nice,” Skinner said.

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Including address andCall phone Client Team Please initial and fax back within 24 hours.

Today (205) If we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the Friday before the press date, 874-9730! your ad will run as is. We print the paper Monday.

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Thursday, August 25, 2022 • 13

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Photos by Beth Hontzas

14 • Thursday, August 25, 2022

Hope Gala honorees: Lee Edwards, Lesly Simon, Cary Wahlheim and Dana Wolter

THE HOPE GALA Four Honored by American Cancer Society

L

ee Edwards, Lesly Simon, Cary Wahlheim and Dana Wolter were honored Aug. 20 at the 42nd annual Hope Gala. The benefit for the American Cancer Society was held at The Country Club of Birmingham. and was presented by Edwards Chevrolet.

A cocktail hour, seated dinner and live and silent auctions, followed by dancing, set the tone for the evening.

Gala chairs were Anna Comer, Kristin McPherson and Summer Starling. Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Starling were the member hosts. ❖

Virginia Wahlheim, Cary Wahlheim and Carolyn Wahlheim

Adelaide Vandevelde and Mary Dee Patrick

Hope Gala co-chairs: Kristin McPherson, Anna Comer and Sumner Starling

Jane Huston Crommelin, Jodi Benck and Logan Sanderson

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Thursday, August 25, 2022 • 15

SOCIAL

Service Awards and Assignments

Mary Charles' Doll House Mary Charles’ Dolls, Doll Houses and Minatures

Doll House

Mountain Brook Kappa Delta Alumnae Honors Its Own

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To: From:

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Mary Charles Robbins Over The Mountain Journal, 205-823-9646 ph., 205-824-1246, fax May 2010

To: Mary Charles This is your AD PROOF from the OVER THE MOU From: Over the Mountain Journal June 3, on 2010 issue.

Please fax approval or c Acrylic canvas

by Maya Eventov 823-9646 ph, 824-1246 fax Above, front row; Adelaide Vandevelde, Lisa Flake, Melinda Curtis, Paula Kennedy and Angie Smith. row:2018 Louise Date:BackNov Please make sure all informati Skelton, Keri Windle, Leah Abele, Kathryn Dorlon, Laura Rue and Rosemary Turner.

including address and phon

This is your ad proof for the OTMJ for the November 15, 2018issue. Plea possible to approve your ad or make changes. You may fax

The Mountain Brook Alumnae Chapter of Kappa Wellhouse, a shelter for victims of human trafficking.

Officers for 2022-2023 are President Lisa Flake; initial and fax backincludin within Please make sure all Please information is correct, Delta recently installed newTo: officers and recognized first vice presidents, Kerri Windle and Melinda Mary Charles RobbinsSusanne McMillan received the 2022 Elizabeth If we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the Friday Nesbitt Simpson Kappa Delta two members for their service to the chapter and Mountain to Curtis; second Vice President Adelaide From: Over The Journal, 205-823-9646 ph.,Service Award. She your ad will run as is. We print the pape served as the chapter’s president for two years and the community.

Vandevelde; treasurer Greer Black; membership, 205-824-1246, fax Thank you for your prompt If we have not 109 heardHilltop from youBusiness by 5 pm of the friday before th Drive Ashley McMahon received the 2022 was actively involved in the Kappa Delta house renLeah Abele; Secretary Paula Kennedy; publicity, Date: MayGarnett 2010 ThankPelham you for your prompt McAdams Deramus Community Service Award. Her ovations at the University of Alabama. She also has Kathryn Dorlan and Angie Smith; young adult liaiservice includes volunteering as a court-appointed helped raise funds for charitable organizations supson Rosemary Turner; recruitment liaisons, Louise www.GriffithArtGallery.com This is your AD PROOF the chapter OVER THE MOUNTAIN forKerri the Windle, Laura Rue and Cathy special advocate, fundraising for Embrace Alabama ported by the from alumnae and provided guid- JOURNAL Skelton, 205.985.7969 June 3, 2010 issue.

Please fax approval or changes to 824-1246. ance to other chapter officers.

Kids and serving on the women’s committee for The McGowin. ❖

Please make sure all information is correct, including address and phone number!

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If we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the Friday before the press date, your ad will run as is. We print the paper Monday.

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Picasso Pets

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Journal photos by Jordan Wald

Pet Portraits and Party Raise Money for Hand in Paw Therapy Teams

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Family Marks Greystone Resident’s 100th Birthday About 50 family members, neighbors and friends were on hand to help Greystone’s Geneva Aycock celebrate her 100th birthday on Aug. 14.

The party was held at the Mt. Laurel home of her daughter and sonin-law, Nancy and David Keith, said Joy Carter, Geneva Aycock and Nancy Norris her other daughter, Joy Carter.

Carter and her husband, Larry, of Birmingham, said her mother’s four grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren were among the guests, who also included relatives who traveled from Texas and North Carolina to celebrate Aycock’s landmark birthday.

One highlight of the party was group singing of five of Aycock’s favorite “old timey” hymns, led by Kelly and Sandy Stephenson of Double Oak Jordan, Grace, Walker and Abby Carter Community Church. ❖ Amy Whitson, Jenny Hedlund and Jessica Tyler

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

The Hand in Paw fundraising celebration Picasso Pets was held at the Harbert Center on Aug. 13. ‘Secret Garden Party’ was this year’s theme as guests were treated to a cocktail reception, sit-down dinner, wine pull and auction.

The 2022 Picasso Pets paintings were unveiled. The paintings were created by prominent local artists who work with patrons and their pets to create commissioned pieces to be treasured for a lifetime.

Proceeds benefit Hand in Paw’s therapy teams, which were at the party to meet guests. ❖

Jamie Gajos, Todd Engelhardt, Tanja Jones, Karen and Jerry Spector and John Wingard

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

‘You Haven’t Changed a Bit!’

Thursday, August 25, 2022 • 17

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Rehab Reality...

Ramsay Class of ’62 Returns for 60th Reunion Ramsay High School’s colors of royal blue and white decorated the scene as members of the Class of 1962 gathered Aug. 12 at the Birmingham Country Club for their 60th reunion.

Thirty-one classmates out of the 108 who graduated that year attended the event, which included a dinner and dancing to a mixtape of the era’s music, such as hits by Chubby Checker and Elvis Presley, said Rufus Elliott of Mountain Brook, a member of the reunion’s organizing committee.

Joining him in planning the event were Mary Putnam of Homewood; Martha Seay, Jerry Chambers and Starr Lane, all of Hoover; Jay Bates of Mountain Brook; Stan Paschenko of Irondale; and Larry Leonard of Auburn. ❖

by Judy Butler

Martha Bickford, Edward Elliott and Fay Eubank

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

Who Are the Best Clients?

Jerry Chambers and Maurice Green

Helen Vance, Maurice Green, Edward Elliott, Stan Paschenko, Mary Putnam, Jay Bates, Starr Lane, Larry Leonard and Martha Seay

Alice Bowsher, Ben Miree, Kathryn Miree and Ginger Stewart

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Hands down I would have to say clients who have been to other rehabs. Only those have a real comparison of being at Bayshore Retreat with its home environment and no more than six (6) people at a time.

Fortunately over the past 11 1/2 years we’ve always had at least one that would enlighten those who didn’t have previous rehab experience.

Bayshore Retreat was created from my son, Jeff’s, experiences in having gone to other rehabs and knowing what worked and what didn’t. For instance we provide real counseling, not 12 step meetings. Not that we don’t find value in it because sometimes that will be a part of the Exit Plan, but our feeling is one shouldn’t have to pay for it.

Stay home, sleep in your own bed, eat your own food and go to meetings. Duh At Bayshore Retreat clients get about 30 hours of counseling weekly individual counseling, group counseling Sunday through Friday and finally Life Skills counseling which covers eight different life issues such as irrational thinking, relationships, money management, etc.

Additionally, our focus is on physical health with exercise, dry sauna therapy, deep tissue massages, and yoga. This, along with freshly prepared meals and vitamins, helps our clients reach their optimum health while at Bayshore and hopefully sets them on a new path to maintain that health once they leave Bayshore Retreat.

Finally, other things that set Bayshore Retreat apart from most rehabs is that clients can bring their cell phone and lap top and work remotely when necessary and they can have family visits on the weekend.

18 • Thursday, August 25, 2022

Boiling N’ Bragging

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

SOCIAL

Tailgate Party Precedes Official Football Kickoff A popular tailgating event that benefits Children’s of Alabama returned to an in-person event for the first time since 2019. Boiling N’ Bragging, presented by Rotary District 6860 was held at Otey’s Tavern in Mountain Brook on Aug. 20.

Those at the party were treated to a cookout, low country boil, children’s activities, drink specials and cornhole.

Hosted by participating clubs from Rotary District 6860, the event benefitted critical care transport at Children’s of Alabama. ❖

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

Addie Weaver, Lillian Lalo and Taylor Kaufman

Durham and Madeline Ellis

Chuck Redden and Derek Brown

Richard Woods, Dana Snider, Kristen Woods and Ty Snider

Brittany Webb and Haleigh Hall

Thursday Night Live

John Paul Dobbs, April Godsey and Holly Ann Luker

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

Block Party Raises Funds for Jemison Park Expansion The Mountain Brook Chamber junior board welcomed guests to its signature event at English Village on Aug. 18.

The block party featured live music from the band Pioneer Chicken Stand, food, drinks, raffle prizes and more.

Proceeds benefited Friends of Jemison Park as they plan for the update and expansion of Jemison Park and Trail on Mountain Brook Parkway. ❖

George Eagan, Barbara Ann Trotman, Lanier Sanders and Richard Randolph

Andrew and Devin Holley

Janet Forbes, Stewart Welch, Alice Womack and Virginia Smith

Tyler and Taylor Powell

Jackie and Parker Alison

Katherine Dodson and Rachel Nesbitt

Keely Kennedy and Haley McFall

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Thursday, August 25, 2022 • 19

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

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Garrett Becker, Val Williams, Annie Sheffield, Mary Jane Rodriguez, Kendra Carter, Danielle Tipton and Paula Rangel

Books, Bands & Brews Literacy Council Rocks Avondale in New Fundraiser

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The Avondale Brewing Company was To: Renee Jeri Kyle, Bob Kyle, Jane Gray Eiland and Sam Price rockin’ Aug. 12 for the inaugural From: Over The Mountain Journal, 205-823-9646 ph., Books, Bands & Brews fundraiser for 205-824-1246, fax the Literacy Date: August Council of Central This is your AD PROOF from the OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL for the August 25, 2022 Alabama. issue. Please contact your sales representative as soon as possible to approve your ad or make changes.

Sponsored by You may fax approval or changes to 824-1246. the Literacy Please make sure all information is correct, Council’s junior including address and phone number! board, the party featured an evening of music, with Please initial and fax back within 24 hours.

If we have not heard from you by 5 pm of the Friday before the press date, Nashville-based your ad will run as is. We print the paper Monday. rock band The Prescriptions as the Thank you for your prompt attention. headliner, preceded

by Birmingham’s own singer-songwriter Taylor Hollingsworth.

Nicholas Finch and Kirstan Cunningham, the Amanda McKinney, Bria McKinney, Destiny Cornelison and Mathew Banker duo behind the True Comedy podcast, were emcees for the evening. ❖

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20 • Thursday, August 25, 2022

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

SCHOOLS

Merlin’s ‘Magic’ Captivates Kids at Vestavia Elementary West

C

Vestavia Hills Elementary Schools Guidance counselors, Dawn Norris and Emily Foster, from left, went to Service Dogs of Alabama in Hope Hull for training before inviting Merlin into the classroom.

stress is prevalent, including police and fire departments and departments managing crime or human trauma.

The school expected to receive a facility dog in 2023, but one became available earlier because another school that was supposed to have gotten him backed out of the program, Norris said.

In May, Norris and Emily Foster, a guidance counselor at Vestavia West and at Vestavia Hills Elementary School East, went to Hope Hull for a week of intensive training. After that was finished, Merlin came home with Norris and they reported back to school the next day.

That meant Merlin had only nine days to get acquainted with the kids at Vestavia West before classes ended for the summer.

Doing the Merlin Wag

On that first day, to prevent the students from getting too excited and rushing at him, the teachers taught

Comedy for Kids

Comedy Show Set to Raise Funds for Hoover Schools Foundation The Hoover City Schools Foundation continues to celebrate its 30th anniversary this year by holding a new event, Comedy for Kids, slated for Oct. 4.

The event will be at the newly renovated StarDome Comedy Club, at 1818 Data Drive, and will feature a catered meal from Ragtime Cafe and comedy from Henry Cho. “The Hoover City Schools Foundation recently awarded nearly $45,000 in teacher classroom grants.

This event will position the foundation to do even more for the 2022-

23 school year and beyond,” foundation Executive Director Shelley Shaw said in a press statement.

“Teaming up with Hoover-based businesses with longtime community ties will benefit students and teachers at all 17 Hoover city schools,” she added.

Cho. a stand-up comedian whose work can be heard on several satellite and online radio stations, is one of the only Asian acts to appear regularly on the Grand Ole Opry and is known for his clean comedy.

Tickets for the show can be pur-

them what’s called the “Merlin wag,” by curling their fingers into the palm of a hand with the thumb up and shaking their hand back and forth, like a dog’s wag. The dog wags back – with his tail.

When Merlin left Coleman’s classroom after his recent visit, all the children raised their arms and performed the Merlin wag.

Merlin was back for the first day of school on Aug. 11 and he’s fitting in very well, the counselors said. He’s responsive to students, such as when a child was upset at leaving mom in carpool.

It can be emotionally hard for some children to get out of the car, but Merlin is there at 7:30 every morning as they arrive.

“Some of our toughest kids respond to him more than anybody else,” Foster said.

“The kids talk to him. Some even pull his ear up and talk to him. He fills a need humans can’t replicate,” chased at www.hoovercsf.org/ events. They range in price from $75 to $150 per person, and sponsorships are available.

“We invite everyone to turn fun into funds at the Comedy for Kids event this fall,” said foundation board President Paul Dangel.

The title sponsor is Hendrick Hoover Automall. General Manager Joel Smith said the company is thrilled to be part of this inaugural event.

“Giving back to organizations within the Hoover community like the Hoover City Schools Foundation fits our mission perfectly,” Smith said. “Our children are our future leaders and anything we can do to support their learning efforts is a worthwhile cause.”

Norris said.

And it’s not just the kids who love him. Teachers and staff like to pop into the guidance office where Merlin hangs out when he’s not working.

“They come in for a snuggle or a break,” Foster said. The women working in the school office think he hung the moon, Norris added.

School Principal Kim Hauser is another big fan.

“He’s increased morale for the children and all the adults in the building,” Hauser said, praising Norris and Foster for their commitment to bringing Merlin to Vestavia West. “I’m just thankful we have a counseling team that wants to go the extra mile for the children of our school.”

Merlin’s popularity extends into cyberspace, where he has more than 400 followers on Instagram, @magnificent.merlin.vhew.

While he has a water bowl and a soft rug to relax on in the guidance office, Merlin doesn’t eat or take potty breaks when he’s on duty. He’s been trained to do that in the morning before school and when he gets home, Foster said.

Home when he’s not on the job is

usually shared with Norris or Foster.

He gets along well with Norris’ own two dogs and her 13-year-old son.

“The four of them have a good time,” she said.

Sometimes he goes home with the principal. This summer, for example, Hauser kept Merlin when Norris and Foster weren’t able to.

As for Merlin’s health care and grooming, two businesses in the community take care of that, Norris said.

The Pet Wellness Center covers all his veterinary needs and flea and tick medication. And Happy Dog Grooming gives him a bath once a month.

Great care contributes to Merlin’s sleek coat and calm, contented and friendly manner that really appeals to students.

Second grader Irby Connor, 7, described Merlin as “really fun.”

“I really like dogs and he’s really cute,” she said.

Her classmate Ford Douglass, 8, described Merlin as a “fabulous dog because he would help people,” and Colton May, 7, agreed.

“He’s a sweet dog, he’s loving. I like having him around school,” Colton said.

Back to School Bash Benefits Homewood Band The City of Homewood Parks and Recreation Department will host its annual event to celebrate the new school year, including an array of rides, bounce houses, food and live music. Proceeds from attraction wristbands’ sales will benefit the Homewood High School Band. When: 4:30-8:30 p.m. Where: Patriot Park

Journal file photo by Jordan Wald

oleman’s Cats, the children in teacher Andrea Coleman’s second grade classroom at Vestavia Hills Elementary School West, might take their nickname from felines, but their hearts belong to a four-legged black lab named for a legendary wizard at King Arthur’s court.

“On a scale of 1 to 100, I’d say he’s a 100,” one of those students, Reese Olvey, 7, said during a recent visit by Merlin, the school’s facility service dog and the only four-legged member of the faculty and staff.

There’s no doubt this Merlin is pure magic, as the youngsters in Coleman’s class eagerly wanted to interact with him when he visited their classroom. Taking turns in small groups, they clustered on the floor around him as Merlin patiently let the children pet him, then flopped onto his back for belly rubs.

“I think dogs can do powerful things we can’t as teachers,” Coleman said. When students are frustrated or are having a bad day, “Animals can help them (handle emotions) in a very different way.”

That Merlin is at school is the result of a long process that began four years ago when one of the school’s guidance counselors, Dawn Norris, attended a conference that had a session on school facility dogs and the benefits they can offer. After a lot of research, she put a proposal together, sought approval from Principal Kim Hauser and Superintendent Todd Freeman, and submitted an application to acquire one from Service Dogs of Alabama in Hope Hull.

Facility dogs are trained for intervention tasks and to work with multiple people, according to the nonprofit organization’s website, www.servicedogsalabama.org. The dogs are awarded to places such as schools, youth facilities and state agencies where

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

By Anne Ruisi

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Thursday, August 25, 2022 • 21

SCHOOLS

S O U T H E R N P R E PA R ATO R Y A C A D E M Y BOYS G R A D E S 6 - 1 2

A Winning Tradition Southern Preparatory Academy is a small school on purpose. One of the benefits of attending a small school is the opportunity to participate in athletics and various extracurricular activities. Southern Preparatory Academy is a member of the Alabama Independent Schools Association (AISA) and competes against schools from across Alabama. As a small boarding school, the focus of participating in a sport is not necessarily about skill level, but rather the motivation and drive to improve themselves and the team.

Every year, our Fighting Rangers varsity football team has been invited to the National High School Association (NHSA) 8-Man Tournament in Panama City Beach, Florida. The NHSA Tournament is an honor to be invited to each year.

In 2019, our boys brought home the Division 2 Championship title, after beating the Freedom Cowboys out of Huntsville 30-18.

At Southern Prep, athletics is more about teamwork and self-discipline, rather than winning seasons and titles. Bigger lessons are learned. Kids

are able to get playing time that they may not get at larger schools - no one sits on the bench! In addition, we have many seniors who sign on to play college ball after graduation. Three Cadets from the class of 2022 will be playing football at Midway University, a private Christian university in Midway, Kentucky, this fall.

It's not too late to join the Fighting Rangers for this season! Our athletic programs will not only prepare your son for the game on Friday night, but for the work of life.

125 Years of Excellence Alabama's Military Boarding School for Boys, Grades 6-12 Open Enrollment: Still Accepting Applications for 2022-23 School Year Southern Prep provides the structure your son needs. We offer the same classes as other public or private schools. The difference? Our class sizes are smaller (8-10 Cadets per class) which allows for more individualized attention, so every student is able to learn and fully grasp the concepts before moving on to the next.

southernprepacademy.org

256.307.7348 or 256.790.9202

22 • Thursday, August 25, 2022

SPORTS

W

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

By Rubin E. Grant

From page 24

Cramton Bowl in Montgomery.

“Oh, wow,” Vakakes said when made aware that he was the only one of the new coaches to win their opener. “This business is crazy. Sometimes it makes you feel good and other times it makes you want to jump off the roof.”

Spain Park visits Briarwood Christian this week.

Homewood Clicks in ‘Battle of Lakeshore’

Prior to Homewood’s seasonopener, Patriots head coach Ben Berguson said their offense was clicking.

“Most of the time when you start practice, the defense is ahead of the offense, but it’s the reverse this year,” Berguson said. “The offense has been good, hitting on all cylinders.”

That was clearly evident in the Patriots’ first game. Senior quarterback Woods Ray led Homewood on scoring drives on five of the six possessions he played in the first half as the Patriots built a 28-6 halftime lead and cruised to a 38-20 against John Carroll Catholic Friday night in the

57 Teams Lined Up

Second Season

Spain Park Looking to Hang a Flag Football Championship Banner This Fall We’re still young, but they have had a year of experience.”

The Jags will have three seniors this year, including wide receivers Kaitlyn Bellanca and Lillian Gourley, and running back Maddie Davis.

Bellanca also plays lacrosse and has committed to play the sport at Gardner-Webb University in Boiling Springs, North Carolina. Gourley and Davis played on Spain Park’s Class 7A state championship soccer team in the spring.

“They know what hard work is all about,” Starr said.

Junior Emily Stricklin returns as the Jags’ quarterback and freshman Jenna Kate Hutchinson will be her backup and play receiver.

“She’s a former basketball player

Across the state, 57 teams have declared field teams this fall, but Starr said some have decided against it, such as Chelsea. Other Over the Mountain schools fielding teams are Hoover, Vestavia Hills, Homewood, John Carroll Catholic and Oak Mountain.

The AHSAA has divided teams into 16 areas. Spain Park is in an area that includes Vestavia and Oak Mountain, but that might change because of Chelsea’s decision to not field a team. Chelsea had been set to be in an area with Hoover and Helena.

The top two teams from each area will advance to qualifying tournaments. There will be eight qualifying tournaments with four teams in each tournament. The winner of the tournament will qualify for the season-ending state tournament.

Spain Park will open the season Sept. 20 at home against Oak Mountain and Helena in a tri-match.

“We definitely want to do great, but our immediate goal is to win area and if we do that, anything is possible,” Starr said. “We definitely want to hang a banner, whether it’s an area championship or a state championship, in our gym and get flag football on the map.”

“Battle of Lakeshore” at Samford’s Seibert Stadium.

Ray threw a 43-yard touchdown pass to Charlie Reeves and scored on an 8-yard run.

The Patriots’ Jackson Parris had a 65-yard punt return for a touchdown.

John Carroll quarterback Carson McFadden passed for 238 yards and three touchdowns.

Lions Still No Match for Cougars

Briarwood Christian’s 2022 season began the same way its 2021 season ended – with a lopsided loss to ClayChalkville.

The defending Class 6A champion Cougars’ stifled the Lions’ highly touted senior quarterback Christopher Vizzina en route to a 48-0 shutout.

Vizzina, who has committed to Clemson, was held to only 93 passing yards while completing 13 of 22 attempts and was sacked four times.

Clay-Chalkville routed Briarwood 56-21 last year in the second round of the state playoffs.

Oak Mountain Takes Advantage

Oak Mountain was opportunistic on special teams, leading to 16 points

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

RECAPS

and she came and said she wanted to play flag football,’ Starr said of Hutchinson. “We are glad to have her.”

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

ith the first season of flag football as a sanctioned Alabama High School Athletic Association sport under their belts, the Spain Park Jaguars are looking to make their mark in the second season this fall.

The AHSAA will host a season ending tournament and will crown a state champion as part of the Super 7 Championships for football in November. Spain Park has its sight set on being there.

“We had a really successful season last year,” Spain Park coach Carmen Starr said. “We were super excited and super happy to finish 7-4, and with the rhythm we had. We lost our first game to Vestavia by a touchdown (19-12) and then beat them 18-0 in our last game. We made a lot of improvement throughout the season.”

Despite their success, the Jags didn’t generate as much interest in terms of girls joining the team as Starr would have liked.

“We did not have many new players come out,” she said. “We had some coaching changeovers in other sports and some of the girls decided to just stick with their sports. We’ve got multiple-sports athletes and most of them have an athletic period yearround.

“Luckily we have some who just play flag. We have a couple who play lacrosse, but lacrosse isn’t until the spring so they are not missing out.

“We graduated only two seniors, so the core of our 14 players is back.

The Jags will have three seniors this year, including wide receivers Kaitlyn Bellanca and Lillian Gourley, and running back Maddie Davis (left).

Homewood’s Calyb Colbert scores a touchdown in the Patriots 38-20 win over John Caroll.

as the Eagles downed visiting Northridge 23-14 Friday at Heardmont Park.

The Eagles took advantage of a blocked punt to set up one touch-

down, a high snap on another punt that resulted in a fumble to set up another score and another high snap for a safety.

Eagles senior running back Trey

Vassell ran for 108 yards and two touchdowns on runs of 1 and 4 yards.

Senior running back Davion Foster scored Oak Mountain’s other touchdown on a 27-yard run.

SPARTANS

Thursday, August 25, 2022 • 23

SPORTS

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

ferent program.”

Clark Sanderson’s TD reception from quarterback John Colvin from 17 yards gave the Spartans a 10-0 lead in the second quarter.

Mountain Brook, which now has won six straight over the Rebels, won 33-3 a year ago, but it led only 17-14 in the fourth quarter, and Vestavia Hills had the ball with a first down at its own 15 with a chance to take the lead.

“This is what high school football is all about,” Evans said. “It’s 17-14 in the fourth quarter in a packed stadium. You can’t ask for more than that.

“I was thinking we had to get to 30 points to win and I thought we could. Obviously, they had some big fourth down stops. I thought we had some bad calls on both sides and that starts with me. That’s a good football team and they’ve done it year after year so there’s no shame in losing to them. We just have to be better.”

The Rebels caught the Spartans off guard several times with their no-huddle, NASCAR-fast offense. Offensive coordinator Josh Donaldson came over from Hueytown, where the Class 6A Golden Gophers lost in the 2021 state championship game after averaging more than 50 points a game.

“Coach (Josh) Franklin (offensive coordinator) does a great job,” Evans said. “He does a great job with our offense and that’s the way we’re going to play moving forward. We just have to be a lot better in situational football and we weren’t this time.

“But you have to give the other side credit, too. When you don’t play well, the other side has a lot to do with that. It’s a learning curve. Still, I was proud of the guys, and I think we’ll be a tough out in the future.”

Head threw a 10-yard touchdown

pointed in the way we played because that ultimately falls on the head coach and that starts with me.

“I guess there’s a little more pressure, but that’s what we want to have.

Obviously, I know a lot of people here and you want to honor those people that have come before us. You know we didn’t play the way we’re going to play in three or four years, but yeah, I’m proud to be here and from here.”

Evans, who played for the legendary Buddy Anderson at Vestavia Hills, replaced Scott Calhoun, who resigned after one season to go back to Georgia. The Rebels were 4-6 in Calhoun’s only season.

“There’s just a different vibe this year,” Head said. “Like last year, nothing against Coach Calhoun because I love him and he was a great guy, but I think he turned us kind of soft. Coach has us back to work and I like that.”

The Rebels are hungry for a winner after going a combined 63-47 the past 10 years, including only three winning seasons in the past eight years.

“I just didn’t think we coached well enough in the second half and that starts with me,” Evans said. “I’m disappointed in the result because our community is awesome and our fans are awesome. We have another opportunity next week and we’ll look forward to getting on the board, I’m proud of our guys and excited for the future of our program.”

“I think you can see that in a year’s time, we’re going to be a dif-

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

Fourth Quarter Energy

From page 24

pass to Keown Richardson to close Mountain Brook’s lead to 10-6 at the half and ran for a 44-yard touchdown to close the gap to 17-14 with 5:26 left in the third quarter. Richardson finished with eight catches for 61 yards.

“We’ve had to learn two different offenses these past two years and that’s tough,” Head said. “I thought we played well tonight and played really hard. We needed to make a play here or there and it could have been different. I think we’ve got a chance to turn this around and be awesome.

We just have to go back to work tomorrow.

“I know we’ll have a bad taste in our mouth after this one.”

Head made two crucial mistakes in the fourth quarter as Mountain Brook’s Tucker Crawford intercepted him twice in the final six minutes, including one in the end zone with 2:03 remaining.

The Rebels rolled the dice twice early in the game, failing on fourthand-three from the Mountain Brook 28 on their opening possession in a scoreless game and on fourth-andthree from the Spartans’ 22 midway through the second quarter down 3-0.

“We lost to a good football team,” Evans said. “I was on the other side last year and it was like 30-0 at halftime (actually 27-0) and this year it was three points going into the fourth quarter. Plus, I think they are a better

HOOVER ing game. Punter Peyton Argent pinned Auburn on its own 1-yard line.

After three plays netted no yards, Freddie Dunson blocked Tyler McKinnell’s punt and Devan Carlisle recovered it in the end zone for a Bucs’ touchdown.

“We got down there tight and we were supposed to have another upback and he stepped up,” Auburn coach Keith Etheredge said. “That caused a little confusion and we missed the guy. He made a great play.

Hoover, they’re gonna make plays.”

Hoover knotted the score at 14-14 with 11:52 remaining in the fourth quarter on senior running back Ahmari Williams’ 27-yard run. But later in the quarter, the second of two lost fumbles set Auburn up at the Buc’s 16 and Towns McGough secured the win with a 36-yard field goal with 2:31 left.

“I thought our kids played hard,” Waldrop said. “The first half there was about a 4-point stretch there that I think turned the entire game, along with the two turnovers in the fourth quarter. We can’t do that.

“I think we’ve got a chance to be a good football team,” he added.

Journal photo by Marvin Gentry

From page 24

Freddie Dunson (2) blocked an Auburn punt and Devan Carlisle recovered it in the end zone for a Bucs’ touchdown.

version of a football team than last year.

“I know we’re better. Maybe the results didn’t show it tonight. We have to get significantly better and it starts with the head coach, putting our guys in the right positions, especially in critical situations. I really thought third downs were the difference tonight.”

Mountain Brook quarterback John Colvin completed 12 of 18 passes for 173 yards and two touchdowns, connecting with Clark Sanderson from 17 yards out for a 10-0 lead in the second quarter and a 5-yard toss to Rob Gillespie for the game-clincher.

Sanderson finished with five catches for 98 yards.

Cole Gamble led the Spartans on the ground with 71 yards on 15 carries, including a three-yard touchdown for a 17-6 lead in the third quarter. Jack King chipped in 60 yards on 16 carries and Will Waldrop 45 yards on nine carries.

Mountain Brook will return home to host James Clemens this week, and if it all goes as planned, the Spartans can clinch the 400th win in school history Sept.15 at Jackson-Olin.

It doesn’t get any easier for the Rebels with a home game this week against Homewood, then back-toback Class 7A, Region 3 contests against No. 1 Thompson and No. 5 Hoover.

“We’re making progress as a program,” Evans said. “But there are no moral victories here.”

“We’re a little down tonight. We were at a little disadvantage from an offensive standpoint starting the game off.”

Freshman Jonah Winston took the opening snaps for Hoover, but he was injured and couldn’t finish the game.

Waldrop brought in regular starter Brewer Smith, who had just been released to play on Thursday.

“It’s a long season,” Waldrop said.

“We know we just played a really good football team. Hats off to them.

They played really hard. We’re going to correct the things we did wrong.”

Pittman completed 11 of 18 passes for Auburn for 140 yards. D.V. Williams paced the Tigers on the ground, rushing 17 times for 82 yards and two touchdowns.

Hoover’s Ahmari Williams had 17 carries for 131 yards. Smith completed 7 of 16 passes for 53 yards, and Winston, the younger brother of former Hueytown standout Jameis Winston, completed 5 of 8 passes for 29 yards.

Etheredge said his Tigers withstood Hoover’s comeback try in an opening game that featured a playoff atmosphere.

“Our kids got to lay it all on the line,” Etheridge said. “Hoover’s got a great football team. I was telling coach Waldrop, ‘Maybe we’ll see you Game 14.’”

Second Season: Spain Park Looking to Hang a Flag Football Championship Banner This Fall PAGE 22

SPORTS Thursday, August 25, 2022 ❖ OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

FOOTBALL PREVIEW AUGUST 25, 2022

2022

OTM High School Football Preview 24Page Special Section INSIDE

OVER THE MOUNTAIN HIGH SCHOOL

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Christopher Vizzina

BRIARWOOD PAGE 6

Lions Face Challenging Road in Quest to Keep Playoff Streak Alive

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OTMJ.COM

Woods Ray

HOMEWOOD PAGE 8

Senior Quarterback Gives Patriots Hope for a Successful Season

Ahmari Williams

HOOVER PAGE 10

New Bucs Coach Waldrop Not Feeling the Pressure Entering His First Season

Inside Team Profiles • Key Players to Watch Schedules • Team Pictures

BACK TO WORK Carson McFadden

JOHN CARROLL PAGE 12

Young Cavaliers Looking to Move Forward in Mara’s Third Season

Homewood’s First Football Team in 1972 Established a Winning Tradition PAGE 4 Top Cat: Clemson-Bound Vizzina Looks Back on Briarwood Career PAGE 2

John Colvin

MOUNTAIN BROOK PAGE 14

Auburn’s Late Field Goal Ruins Waldrop’s Debut as Hoover’s New coach Garrett Murphy

OAK MOUNTAIN PAGE 16

By Solomon Crenshaw Jr.

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

MONTGOMERY – The Wade Waldrop Era of Hoover High School football began with a loss Friday night as the Bucs fell 17-14 to the Auburn Tigers in the AHSAA Kickoff Classic at Cramton Bowl.

Crane Believes Eagles Have the Players to Make Another Playoff Run

Spartans Focusing on Fundamentals as They Pursue Deep Playoff Run

Zamir Farris

SPAIN PARK PAGE 18

New Spain Park Coach Vakakes Hopes Hard Work Leads to Winning

VESTAVIA HILLS PAGE 20

John Paul Head

Evans Preparing Rebels for Challenging Season in His Return to His Alma Mater

to get back to work.”

After a scoreless opening quarter, Auburn’s defense stuffed Hoover on fourth-and-1 at the Tigers’ 15 in the second quarter. Three plays later, Auburn quarterback Clyde Pittman hit Logan Blomeyer on a 76-yard seam route to the Hoover 18.

Wade Waldrop Mountain Brook’s Tucker Crawford intercepted Vestavia Hills quarterback John Paul Head twice in the final six minutes, including one in the end zone with 2:03 remaining, above. Vestavia’s new coach Robert Evans, below.

Journal photo by Marvin Gentry

‘No Moral Victory’

Spartans Spoil Evans’ Homecoming as Vestavia Hills’ Head Coach 21 of 32 passes for 162 yards and a touchdown and rushed for 119 yards on 17 carries with a 44-yard touchdown. “This is home. There’s just a different feeling around here.”

Evans won a state championship with the Rebels in 1998 as the Class 6A finals MVP and won four state titles as a linebacker coach/defensive coordinator at Hoover. He spent the past four years as the defensive coordinator at Mountain Brook.

“There were no nerves at all,” Evans said after the game. “It was a football game and that’s just a natural element for me. I love being at a football game and all the peripheral stuff has no meaning really. I’m disap-

he prodigal son returned home Thursday night, showcasing a NASCAR-fast offense and promising to return the Vestavia Hills football program to the success of its prestigious past.

The initial game drew mixed reviews in a tough 24-14 loss to Class 6A, No. 2 Mountain Brook, but new coach Robert Evans has the Rebels faithful hoping for a quick turnaround after two straight losing seasons and one playoff berth in the past six years.

“With him here, it’s like this is his place,” said Vestavia Hills quarterback John Paul Head, who completed

See SPARTANS, page 23

FOOTBALL OPENERS RECAP

Jaguars Overcome Mistakes to Hand Vakakes a Victory in His Debut

By Rubin E. Grant Tim Vakakes was in his office Saturday morning watching film of his first game as Spain Park’s new head football coach.

“We made plenty of mistakes,” Vakakes said. “Our kids just have got to figure out how to win.”

The Jaguars figured out a way in their opener, edging Calera 14-10 at home and giving Vakakes a victory in his debut.

“I’ve been in this long enough to

appreciate a win,” said Vakakes, who had spent the past nine years as head coach at JacksonOlin.

“Sometimes you play well Tim Vakakes and feel you deserve to win and you don’t.”

Spain Park prevailed when senior

quarterback Evan Smallwood scored on an 8-yard run with 23 seconds remaining. The touchdown capped a nine-play, 70-yard drive.

“That’s what you expect of him,” Vakakes said. “He’s the leader, the glue that keeps us together. He doesn’t panic and the other players follow him. He stepped up that last drive and made plays for us.”

Vakakes was the only one of the three new Over the Mountain coaches to win his debut. Vestavia Hills” Robert Evans suffered a 24-14 setback against Mountain Brook on Thursday and Hoover’s Wade Waldrop was on the losing end of a 17-14 decision to Auburn Friday night in the AHSAA Kickoff Classic at See RECAPS, page 22

The season-opening loss was Hoover’s first to an in-state opponent since the Rush Propst Era opened with a 30-29 loss to Jess Lanier in 1999.

The game was a clash of Top 5 teams as Auburn had a preseason ranking of No. 3 and Hoover was No. 5.

“We’ve got to play a lot better than we did tonight,” Waldrop said after Auburn received the Classic trophy. “That’s the big thing. But I like the direction. I think we can get where we need to be. We’ve just got

Soon thereafter, D.V. Williams scored from the 2 for a 7-0 Auburn lead. Williams wasn’t done, adding a 15-yard scoring run just over four minutes later for a 14-0 advantage.

But the Bucs didn’t lose heart.

“They were fine in the locker room at halftime,” Waldrop said.

“They were still supporting each other. We just had to stay calm, do what we do. We had snapped it 39 times in the first half to their 20. We felt good about that.”

Hoover rallied thanks to its kick-

See HOOVER, page 23

Journal photos by Jordan Wald

T

By Bill Lumpkin III

Homewood’s Jackson Parris tries to break free from John Carroll’s Koron Wright in the Patriots 38-20 win over the Cavs Friday night.

FOOTBALL PREVIEW AUGUST 25, 2022

2022 OVER THE MOUNTAIN HIGH SCHOOL

q

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Christopher Vizzina

BRIARWOOD PAGE 6

Lions Face Challenging Road in Quest to Keep Playoff Streak Alive

q

OTMJ.COM

Woods Ray

HOMEWOOD PAGE 8

Senior Quarterback Gives Patriots Hope for a Successful Season

Ahmari Williams

HOOVER PAGE 10

New Bucs Coach Waldrop Not Feeling the Pressure Entering His First Season

Inside Team Profiles • Key Players to Watch Schedules • Team Pictures

Carson McFadden

JOHN CARROLL PAGE 12

Young Cavaliers Looking to Move Forward in Mara’s Third Season

Homewood’s First Football Team in 1972 Established a Winning Tradition PAGE 4 Top Cat: Clemson-Bound Vizzina Looks Back on Briarwood Career PAGE 2

Garrett Murphy

OAK MOUNTAIN PAGE 16

Crane Believes Eagles Have the Players to Make Another Playoff Run

John Colvin

MOUNTAIN BROOK PAGE 14

Zamir Farris

SPAIN PARK PAGE 18

New Spain Park Coach Vakakes Hopes Hard Work Leads to Winning

Spartans Focusing on Fundamentals as They Pursue Deep Playoff Run

John Paul Head

VESTAVIA HILLS PAGE 20

Evans Preparing Rebels for Challenging Season in His Return to His Alma Mater

2 • Thursday, August 25, 2022

OTM FOOTBALL

TOP CAT

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Clemson-Bound Vizzina Looks Back on Four Year Career at Briarwood

By Solomon Crenshaw Jr.

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

F

our years have passed since Christopher Vizzina chronicled his just-completed summer in a standard assignment his Briarwood Christian High School teacher had given to his freshman English class.

“That was actually a pretty big summer, going into freshman year,” Vizzina recalled. “I went to a lot of different sports camps but ended up getting my first (football) scholarship (offer) in the summer before my freshman year, from UAB. “I just remember being nervous about high school, because I knew I was going to be (playing football) with the varsity,” he said. “But just high school in general. I was nervous.”

If Vizzina was nervous, he didn’t show it, especially not on the football field, where he would become the starting quarterback in the third game on the schedule.

It was a job the Vestavia Hills resident didn’t relinquish on his way to leading the Lions to a semifinal finish in the Class 5A state football playoffs. After back‘He’s always to-back stops in the second round of been mature for the playoffs – the latter in Class 6A – Briarwood is poised to make another his age in the push for a possible title. ways that he They’ll again do it with Vizzina taking snaps from center, still projectcarried himself.’ ing the confidence that made him one MATTHEW FORESTER of the more heavily recruited quarterBRIARWOOD backs in the country.

CHRISTIAN COACH Vizzina’s first starting assignment came in a 38-20 home victory against Woodlawn.

Veteran head coach Fred Yancey had retired, replaced by longtime assistant Matthew Forester, who inserted Vizzina into the lineup when the starter was injured in a loss to Pleasant Grove.

The next week, Forester started his talented freshman against the Colonels.

“Anything you do with high school boys, there’s some reservations, just because they’re high school boys,” Forester said. “But he was very mature. The big thing was, hey, let’s protect him. Let’s allow him to make simple, smart decisions. Nothing so overcomplicated.

“He’s always been mature for his age in the ways that he carried himself. It felt good that night.” ing his junior season, adding 649 yards rushing with 16 touchdowns on the ground.

Now a senior, Vizzina admits he does get nervous, but you could never tell by looking at Grooming a Star him.

Forester began plotting a course for his quar“I would never want to show my opponents terback’s college future following his freshman if I’m tired or nervous,” he said. “I’m never season, suggesting to Vizzina’s mother that he doing that. But I think that I do a lot of things prepare to complete his high school studies in that helped me not become as nervous as other December of his senior year. people do.

“We were talking about potential early grad“The week leading up to the game, I’m going uation and she was like, ‘Why would you want to prepare better than anybody else, just going to do that?’” the coach recalled. “I was like, into the game with a certain mindset and just Alabama and Clemson might offer him a scholdoing that every week. If you do something arship. Her jaw just hit the floor. She was like, weekly, then it’s going to become a habit. Just ‘What?’ It turned out to have come to fruition.” the habit of doing those things makes me not as The 6-foot-4, 215-pounder considered taking nervous as everybody else when I step on the his talents to Georgia, Ohio State, Notre Dame, field.”

Ole Miss and Auburn. “I really kind of knew Vizzina and Oak Mountain grad Evan Smith were the two quarterbacks voted to the 2021 All- Clemson was gonna be it,” he said.

Vizzina picked up football as an eighth gradOver the Mountain team. The Lions’ quarterback er. Back then, basketball was his favorite sport passed for 2,247 yards and 18 touchdowns dur-

as he played all five positions on the court. But his life went on a different trajectory after his ninth-grade year.

“I’ve seen some great leaders and great players. Most of the guys this year are guys that are really good but they’ve waited their turn,” Vizzina said. “I’m excited about that. I just remember back to my freshman year. I got to play, but I know my best friends, they sat back and watched the veteran guys play. It’s great to see my best friends now getting to be those veteran guys.

“That’s my favorite thing about this season, that my best friends are the guys I’m going to be throwing the ball to; they are going to be on the defense side making tackles. My best friends are going to be blocking for me.

“I’ve been super thankful for all the older guys that have taken me in the past three years, but these are truly my best friends, the guys that I know, I go to school with. The guys that are in

Journal cover photos Briarwood Christian, Homewood, John Carroll Catholic, Mountain Brook, Oak Mountain, Spain Park and Vestavia by Jordan Wald. Hoover photo by Marvin Gentry

my classes and the guys I ultimately started playing football with.”

When the season starts, Vizzina will be Briarwood’s first four-year starter at quarterback. Forester said Vizzina basically has been raised to be in the position.

“We grew the offense around him,’’ Forester said. “He’s seen about every defense you can see, especially having played Mountain Brook the past couple years, Homewood and ClayChalkville, Oxford. He’s seen a lot of great defenses. He’s seen a lot of different coverages.

“I think it’s a really exciting time for us on the cusp of the season,” Forester continued.

“You’ve got so much hope about what lies ahead. We’ve had a good group of guys around him that have worked hard all summer and have got a deeper corps of receivers than we normally have. It’s just kind of with great expectations, great hope that we’ll have an outstanding season.”

Thursday, August 25, 2022 • 3

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Photos courtesy Alvin Bresler

4 • Thursday, August 25, 2022

Members of the 1972 Homewood High School football team included, row 1: Tim Lunceford, Richard Reese, Mike Akins, Billy Holmes, Russell Akins, Joe Wurtele, David Dozier, Alan Hardin, Scott Walker, Chris Moore, Charles Mizerany, Kenny Shelton, Bobby Strickland, Roger Malcolm. Row 2: Garry Runyans, Rodney Rickels, Daryl Brown, Wayne Turnipseed, Jimmy Sherk, Mike Renta, Murray Legg, George Dreher, Bill De Van, Rick Kitchen, Kenneth Turner, Chuck Cunningham, Stoney Jackson, manager. Row 3: Joey Dillon, David Longest, Mike Haltiwanger, Paul Dougherty, Peter Brasch, Charles Boyd, Randy Smith, John Sawyer, Jimmy Glass, Dean Snow, Don Campbell, assistant coaches: Dave Beason, Wayne Sheets and Jackie Clayton. Row 4: Randy Galbraith, Danny Brechin, Wade Kirkpatrick, Rod Nelson, Randy Dickinson, David Fletcher, Tommy Coleman, Rick Powers, Bryan McFee, Ray Powell, Dean Black, Wally Freeman, and head coach Alvin Bresler.

THE FIGHTING PATRIOTS Homewood’s First Football Team Established a Winning Tradition

By Rubin E. Grant

R

ay Powell’s roots ran deep at Shades Valley High School.

His three older brothers went to school there. One played baseball, one played football and one was a drum major in the band. His mother was kind of the “band mother” and worked in the concession stands.

Because of his mother’s duties on game nights, Powell found himself at the concession stands, too.

Powell would have attended Shades Valley, as

The biggest challenge was blending players who were already in the system at Homewood Junior High School with the seniors coming from Shades Valley. well, but when it was announced that Homewood High School would open, Powell was among the students at Homewood Junior High who were held back to attend the new high school.

Powell went through spring football drills with Shades Valley during his freshman year but never suited up for the Mounties. Instead, he became a member of Homewood’s first football team in 1972, playing for their new young coach, Alvin Bresler.

“I knew about Alvin since he played at Shades Valley and my brothers went there,” Powell said.

“He was a promoter, and he was always thinking about how to make things happen. He told me he was interested in helping me get a scholarship.”

So, Powell, then a junior, along with 17 senior football players who also had been rezoned from Shades Valley to Homewood, formed the nucleus of the Patriots’ first team.

The team will be honored on its 50th anniver-

sary Sept. 9 at Waldrop Stadium. About 40 former players are expected to attend.

“I am becoming more and more excited about the reunion the closer we get to it,” said Powell, a split end who went on to play at Auburn and now works in real estate. “It will be good to see all of my old teammates who will be there.”

Young Coach

brash young coach was the choice.

Bresler quickly assembled a staff that included successful veteran coaches, such as Dave Beason, Jackie Clayton and Wayne Sheets. Beason was the offensive line coach, Clayton the offensive coordinator and Sheets the defensive coordinator.

Beason, who also was the school’s first head basketball coach, was a key member of the staff because he had grown up in Homewood and knew the kids from the community.

Of course, Bresler will be there. He was only 23 years old when he was handed the reins of Putting a Team Together Homewood’s fledgling football program. He had The biggest challenge was blending players played receiver at Auburn and was a sixth-round who were already in the system at Homewood NFL draft choice of the San Francisco 49ers in Junior High School with the seniors coming from 1971, but he was in training camp only 10 days Shades Valley. before leaving.

Peter Braasch, one of the co-chairs for the “I knew I was not going to be able to make it a career,” Bresler said. “I had suffered a bad knee reunion, was one of the seniors who transferred injury during my sophomore year at Auburn and it never really fully recovered.”

Bresler returned home and discovered that Anniston needed an assistant coach. He hadn’t finished his degree, but he took the position under legendary Anniston coach Bill Farrell. He also enrolled in a class at Gadsden State to complete his degree.

Peter Braasch, #32, a running back/guard and Randy Galbraith, “I taught eighth grade #74, who would earn All-State honors, were co-captains on science and I learned a lot Homewood High School’s first team. from Coach Farrell,” Bresler said. from Shades Valley. He welcomed the change.

Following the 1971 season at Anniston, “Once it was decided we would come over, Bresler heard Homewood was beginning the process of interviewing perspective head coaches, so we weren’t going to get to play our junior year at Shades Valley and they treated us badly,” said he figured he would apply.

Braasch, who later became an assistant football “I was never short on self-confidence or selfcoach for many years at Vestavia Hills before motivation,” Bresler said. retiring. “All the rest of the guys were happy to Bresler met with Homewood Superintendent leave Shades Valley because of how we were Virgil Nunn and Principal Michael Gross, but he treated. didn’t expect to get the job because of his age “Plus, Alvin was a great guy. He was a breath and lack of coaching experience. Surprisingly, the

of fresh air. He was always super positive. He made it feel like a college-type atmosphere. He made playing fun instead of drudgery.”

Ever the innovator, Bresler formed intramural teams so the players could get to know each other’s personalities and bond.

When they began practicing in the spring, the Patriots initially worked out at the junior high school, but the field conditions weren’t ideal, so Samford coach Wayne Grubb allowed them to practice at Samford.

“We loaded up the school bus and went over, and some others got there by car,” Bresler said.

They were far from a cohesive unit. Gene Lorendo, who had been Auburn’s receivers coach when Bresler played there, attended one of their practices and was none too impressed, making an unflattering remark to Bresler.

“I ran him down after practice and asked him, ‘What do you think?’ He said, ‘After you get your first first down, you should call a timeout and have a pep rally,’” Bresler recalled.

Bresler was taken aback, but it also motivated him.

“That stuck in my gut because I knew we had the players to make us successful,” Bresler said.

The First Season

During the summer, the Patriots shifted their practices to Mountain Brook Elementary to prepare for their inaugural season.

Braasch, a running back/guard who was cocaptain and Randy Galbraith, who would earn All-State honors, were two of the team leaders.

Powell, versatile Ricky Powers, who went on to play at Tennessee, and Murray Legg, a quarterback who went on to play defensive back at Alabama, were among the standout players.

Without a stadium of its own, Homewood played its home games at Berry High School, which Berry football coach Bob Finley had agreed to let them use.

As it turned out, the Patriots opened the 1972 regular season against Shades Valley, losing 20-10. The next week, Homewood earned the

See PATRIOTS, page 22

Thursday, August 25, 2022 • 5

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2022 Football Schedule BRIARWOOD HIGH SCHOOL

Date

Opponent

Aug. 19 Aug. 26 Sept. 2 Sept. 9 Sept. 23 Sept. 30 Oct. 7 Oct. 14 Oct. 21 Oct. 28

Date

Location

Clay-Chalkville Spain Park Chilton County Pelham Oak Mountain Helena Calera Benjamin Russell Homewood Fairhope

AWAY HOME HOME AWAY AWAY HOME HOME AWAY AWAY HOME

JOHN CARROLL HIGH SCHOOL

Aug. 19 Aug. 26 Sept. 2 Sept. 9 Sept. 16 Oct. 1 Oct. 6 Oct. 21 Oct. 28

Date Aug. 19 Aug. 26 Sept. 2 Sept. 9 Sept. 16 Sept. 30 Oct. 7 Oct. 14 Oct. 21

Oct. 27

Opponent

Location

Homewood HOME Marbury AWAY Fairfield HOME Hayden HOME G.W. Carver-Bham AWAY Pleasant Grove HOME Ramsay IB Legion Field Wenonah AWAY Maplesville AWAY

SPAIN PARK HIGH SCHOOL Opponent

Calera Briarwood Christian Hoover Thompson Vestavia Hills Tuscaloosa County Chelsea Hewitt-Trussville Oak Mountain Pelham

Location HOME AWAY AWAY AWAY HOME HOME AWAY HOME HOME AWAY

Date

HOMEWOOD HIGH SCHOOL Opponent

Aug. 19 Aug. 26 Sept. 2 Sept. 9 Sept. 16 Sept. 23 Oct. 6, Thur.

Oct. 14 Oct. 21 Oct. 28

Date

John Carroll Vestavia Hills Helena Calera Benjamin Russell Pinson Valley Chilton County Pelham Briarwood Christian Jasper

Location HOME AWAY AWAY HOME HOME HOME AWAY AWAY HOME AWAY

MTN BROOK HIGH SCHOOL

Aug. 18, Thur.

Aug. 26 Sept. 1, Thur.

Sept. 9 Sept. 15, Thur.

Sept. 23 Oct. 6, Thur.

Oct. 14 Oct. 21 Oct. 27, Thur.

Opponent

Vestavia Hills James Clemens Minor Woodlawn Jackson-Olin Hoover Parker Mortimer Jordan Gardendale Baker

Location AWAY HOME HOME HOME AWAY HOME AWAY AWAY HOME AWAY

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Date Aug. 18 Aug. 26 Sept. 2 Sept. 9 Sept. 16 Sept. 30 Oct. 7 Oct. 14 Oct. 21 Oct. 28

HOOVER HIGH SCHOOL Opponent

Location

Auburn Bartlett Spain Park Vestavia Hills Hewitt Trussville Mountain Brook Oak Mountain Tuscaloosa County Chelsea Thompson

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OAK MTN. HIGH SCHOOL Opponent

Location

Northridge Pelham Hewitt-Trussville Chelsea Tuscaloosa County Briarwood Christian Hoover Thompson Vestavia Hills Spain Park

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VESTAVIA HIGH SCHOOL Opponent

Mountain Brook Homewood Thompson Hoover Spain Park Chelsea Hewitt-Trussville Oak Mountain Tuscaloosa County Helena

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6 • Thursday, August 25, 2022

BRIARWOOD CHRISTIAN

Journal photo by Marvin Gentry

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Members of the 2022 Briarwood Christian School varsity football team are: Andrew Kassouf, Ben McNulty, Caleb Keller, Jack Rath, Will Clark, Robert Beason, Brady Waugh, Brooks Travis, Will Werchanowskyj, Sawyer Russell, Grant Dickinson, Garrett Cooper, Josh Thompson, Max Luster, Harrison Self, Colton Williams, Drew Mathe, Cooper Higgins, Peyton Steed, Beau Barnes, Luke Livingston, John Paul Harbor, Christopher Vizzina, Andrew Gill, Luke Taylor, Jake Scott, Gabe Margene, Grey Reebals, Louis Hoff, Jack Cornish, Evan Robson, Ethan Carr, Patrick Wilson, Cameron Harrington, Luke Dickinson, Asa Harris, Walker Chambless, Vaughn Wilson, Sawyer Click, Wes Burgess, Wells Connell, Luke Reynolds, Cace Reynolds, Adyn Barbour, Tyler Lindsay, Rylan Hamm, Gavin Gurtis, Aidan Punch, Preston King, Griffin Albright, Parrish Prickett, Jon Jobes, Eli Stubbs, Caedmon Ervin, Brogan Summers, Knox Jones, Harrison Clemmer, Tanner Hutson, Lude Solomon, Trey Saunders, Andrew McAdams, Cole Carter, Jason Bess, Luke Schultz, Brandon Frank, Griffin Clark, Barnabas Karanja, John Taylor, Charlie Thompson, Reid Hollis, Jackson Barnes, Sam Morris, Chance Freeman, Garrett Witherington, and Garrett Heinnemann.

‘CRAZY’ SCHEDULE Lions Face Challenging Road in Quest to Keep Playoff Streak Alive

By Rubin E. Grant

briarwood KEY PLAYERS TO WATCH

M

2022 SCHEDULE Aug. 19 Aug. 26 Sept. 2 Sept. 9 Sept. 23 Sept. 30 Oct. 7 Oct. 14 Oct. 21 Oct. 28

@Clay-Chalkville 48-0 (L) Spain Park Chilton County* @Pelham* @Oak Mountain Helena* Calera* @Benjamin Russell* @Homewood* Fairhope

*Conference game

briarwood AT A GLANCE

Journal photo by Marvin Gentry

atthew Forester was in a joking mood when discussing Briarwood Christian’s football schedule this season.

But the Lions’ schedule is no joke.

It’s loaded with formidable foes.

“I don’t know who made out the schedule,” Forester said jokingly, knowing full well he was responsible.

“It’s crazy.”

The Lions opened on the road against defending Class 6A champion Clay-Chalkville and also have three 7A foes lined up in Oak Mountain, Spain Park and Fairhope. Those are just the out-of-region games.

In Class 6A, Region 3, Briarwood will face off against Homewood, Calera, Helena, Pelham, Benjamin Russell and Chilton County.

But Forester is not cowering – just the opposite.

“I’m excited,” he said. “It’s a big challenge, but we’re at Briarwood, so we’re used to big challenges. The goal is to make a run in the playoffs.

This schedule helps us do that.”

The Lions have advanced to the state playoffs for 29 consecutive seasons, winning three state championships (1998, 1999, 2003).

With five-star quarterback

Briarwood coach Mathew Forester with, from left, Preston King, Christopher Vizzina, Grant Dickinson and Griffin Clark.

Head Coach: Matthew Forester 2021 Record: 10-2 Region: Class 6A Region 3: Homewood, Calera, Helena, Pelham, Benjamin Russell and Chilton County.

Stadium: Lion Pride Field (5,000)

Christopher Vizzina, a senior, leading the way, the Lions figure to have a good chance to extend the streak to an even 30.

Here’s a position-by-position breakdown of the 2022 Lions: OFFENSE

Quarterbacks

Vizzina, who has committed to Clemson, is the first four-year starter at quarterback in the history of the program. He passed for 2,247 yards and 18 touchdowns and rushed for 649 yards 16 touchdowns while leading Briarwood to a 10-2 record in 2021.

His backups will be junior Josh Thompson and sophomore Will Clark.

“Both of them can run the offense and are talented enough that we’re easing them into other positions,” Forester said.

Running Backs

Senior Colton Williams figures to get most of the carries along with junior Cooper Higgins.

“They complement each other,” Forester said. “Cooper is bigger and is a power back. Colton is smaller and shifty.”

Junior Adyn Barbour and sopho-

BRIARWOOD CHRISTIAN

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

more Evan Robson add depth.

Receivers

The Lions have plenty of receivers for Vizzina to throw to. Among them are seniors Robert Beason, Sawyer Russell, and Brady Waugh, junior Jackson Barnes and sophomores Drew Mathe and Ben McNulty. Thompson and Clark also will play some at receiver.

‘It’s a big challenge, but we’re at Briarwood, so we’re used to big challenges.’

MATTHEW FORESTER

Senior Walker Chambless returns at tight end.

“He’s a tough blocker and has good hands,” Forester said. “He’s also a good leader.”

Offensive Line

The Lions have two returning starters to anchor the line in 6-foot-7, 270-pound senior left tackle Luke Schutz and senior left guard Harrison Clemmer, who also can play center if needed.

“Both of them will be really good,” Forester said.

The other starters will come from a group of four seniors – center Andrew McAdams, guardtackle Jason Bess, guard John Taylor and guard Griffin Clark.

Juniors Lude Solomon, a tackle/center, and Trey Saunders, a guard, will provide depth.

“We’ve got a lot of flexibility on the line,”

Forester said. “They all move well and have gotten in the weight room and gotten stronger.”

DEFENSE

Defensive Line

Forster said he’s excited about the group he has up front on defense. It includes senior defensive ends Preston King and Sully Wright, junior defensive tackles Luke Dickinson, Andrew Kassouf and Max Luster, junior defensive end Cace Reynolds and freshman defensive end Garrett Witherington.

Linebackers

Senior Grant Dickson has moved from weak side linebacker to middle linebacker.

“He’s a tough, hard-nosed kid,” Forester said.

The other inside linebackers are senior Wells Connell and juniors Luke Taylor and Jack Cornish. Junior Grey Reebals, who started at cornerback last year, has moved to outside linebacker.

Sophomores Cameron Harrington and Asa Harris are battling to be in the rotation.

Thursday, August 25, 2022 • 7

WORK HARD & BE NICE TO PEOPLE

Secondary

Senior Peyton Steed is moving from corner to safety. Junior Caleb Keller and senior Jake Scott also will play safety with sophomores Luke Reynolds and Rylan Hamm in reserve.

Seniors Harrison Self and Beau Barnes and juniors Ethan Carr and Brooks Travis are in the mix at cornerback.

Kickers

Senior Aidan Punch will handle all kicking duties, with junior Reid Hollis and sophomore Garrett Heinemann waiting in the wings.

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HOMEWOOD

Journal photo by Marvin Gentry

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Members of the 2022 Homewood High School varsity football team are: Calyb Colbert, Owen Isenhower, Camron Forston, Jackson Warren, Jordan Kiwoi, Adam Parker, Hunter Drake, Kaleb Carson, Mondrell Odell, Jermald Patterson, Jackson Parris, Connor Brunner, Alijah Lavender, Finn Pennington, RC Gartman, Carter Dabbs, Bret Vincent, C.J. Tidmore, Evan Ausmer, Luke Berguson, Charlie Reeves, Darren Stitt, Will Myers, Cooper Mullins, Drew Susce, Talton Thomas, Woods Ray, King Walker, Rigdon Gibbons, Phin Mullins, Clay Burdeshaw, John Griffin, Malek Smiley, Parker Sansing, Giancarlo Antunez, Myles Prim, Aidan Bodkin, Tripp Gann, Eric Davidson, Whit Armistead, Chaise Williams, Maurice Johnson, Trust Darnell, Bryan Thomas, Cannon Ford, Hardy Butler, Richard Fields, Luke Eldridge, Van Sansing, Reed Edwards, Jakari Miller, Jordan Cottrell, D.C. Young, Ford Hawkins, Taylor Lemmon, Austin Drake, Nick Myers, Sam Stone, Randall Jaquez, Jack Watson, Luke Jenkins, Graham McLean, Luke Bowlby, Marcus Swaika, Walker Williams, Khalil Winchester, Marvin Patrick, Micah Jordan, Nicholas Hughes, Caleb Coffey, Will Ray, Presely Taylor, Jaxon Brooks, JT Doughty, William Webb, Hayes DeCoudres, Tomon Felton, David Walden, Alex Law, Alonzo Lymon, Hayden Eldridge, Will Keown, Maxy Salazar, and Aaron Ford.

RAY OF LIGHT Senior Quarterback Gives Patriots Hope for a Successful Season

By Rubin E. Grant

homewood KEY PLAYERS TO WATCH

W

2022 SCHEDULE Aug. 19 Aug. 26 Sept. 2 Sept. 9 Sept. 16 Sept. 23 Oct. 6 Oct. 14 Oct. 21 Oct. 28

John Carroll 38-20 (W) @Vestavia Hills @Helena* Calera* Benjamin Russell* Pinson Valley @Chilton Cty (Thurs.)* @Pelham* Briarwood Christian* @Jasper

*Conference game

homewood

Journal photo by Marvin Gentry

hen the Homewood Patriots opened preseason practice on the first day of August, head coach Ben Berguson noticed something different.

“Most of the time when you start practice, the defense is ahead of the offense, but it’s the reverse this year,” Berguson said. “The offense has been good, hitting on all cylinders.”

Berguson attributes that to senior Woods Ray, a dual-threat quarterback who threw for close to 2,000 yards last season. He probably would have thrown for more if he hadn’t sustained an ankle injury midway through the season.

“He’s got a strong arm and he runs well,” Berguson said. “We ran him a lot last year because he’s such a good runner. We won five of our first six games out of the gate, then he suffered a high ankle sprain and we lost four in a row. We didn’t get him back until the playoffs.

“The key for us this year is keeping him healthy.”

The Patriots have reached the playoffs in each of Berguson’s previous eight years as head coach, but only once have they advanced beyond the second round, and that was in 2018. They finished 6-6 in 2021.

“We want to turn the corner,” Berguson said. “We’ve got experience … with six starters back on offense and six back on defense and a few other guys who have played an awful lot.”

AT A GLANCE

Patriot coach Ben Berguson with, from left, Woods Ray and Clay Burdeshaw.

Head Coach: Ben Berguson 2021 Record: 6-6 Region: Class 6A Region 3: Briarwood Christian, Pelham, Helena, Calera, Benjamin Russell and Chilton County Stadium: Waldrop Stadium (5,000)

Berguson said.

Sophomore Will Myers will be Ray’s backup.

“We feel good about Will,” Berguson said. “He’s a great competitor.”

Running Backs

The Patriots will feature three senior running backs in Mondrell Odell, Jordan Kiwoi and Calyb Colbert.

“Mondrell separated himself some last year, but the other two are really good,” Berguson said.

“It will allow us to run more twoback stuff this year.”

Receivers

Berguson likes the Patriots’ receiving corps. “The last couple of years, we’ve had one guy who kind of stood out, but now we have three or four guys so teams can’t just doubleteam,” he said.

Seniors Jackson Parris and Charlie Reeves are returning starters. Hunter Drake, a 6-3 senior, has emerged as a threat. Junior Camron Fortson is an elusive slot receiver, and Tripp Gann will play tight end.

Sophomores Alijah Lavender and King Walker also are in the mix.

Offensive Line

Homewood will compete in Class 6A, Region 3 along with Briarwood Christian, Pelham, Helena, Calera, Benjamin Russell and Chilton County.

Here’s a position-by-position breakdown of the 2022 Patriots:

OFFENSE

Quarterbacks

The 6-foot-3 Ray has added 30 pounds of muscle to make him more durable at 230 pounds.

“And he still runs well,” Berguson said.

Several schools are recruiting Ray, who at one time had an offer from UAB. “UAB went in another direction, but somebody will pick him up,”

Three of the five starters return up front — senior right tackle Graham McLean, senior center Taylor Lemmon and junior left guard Jack Watson. Junior left tackle Jaxon Brooks also played extensively last

See HOMEWOOD, page 22

HOMEWOOD

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Journal photo by Marvin Gentry

HOOVER

Members of the 2022 Hoover High School varsity football team are: Ahmari Williams, Kaleb Jackson, Freddie Dunson, Keith Christein, Lamarion McCammon, Jay Avery, KJ Law, Jordan Norman, DJ Estes, Jordan Woolen, Bradley Shaw, Jeremy Cook, Chaleb Powell, Devan Carlisle, Jack Lamey, Brewer Smith, Brody Stacey, Braydon Gerstenberg, Quincy Dudely, Harrison Spurling, Garian Denson, Len Wood, Logan Ware, Kamal Amerson, Christopher Wilburn, Jonathan LeBlanc, Payton Morris, Ibn Diop, Cooper Darty, Toshi Yamamoto, Alex Milliagan, Peyton Argent, Isiah Chimara, Malik Bridges, Autori Robinson, Micah Hampton, Brayden Urban, Michael Nixon, Andrew Parrish, Jamar Jones, IB Diop, Kasey Zylstra, Christian Randolph, Preston Morrison, James Morrell, Garrett Page, Justin Kelley, Deangelo Garner, Jamie Travis, AJ Franklin, Cooper Bevis, Tyrick Harris, Billy Looney, Ethan Hubbard, Rashad Smith, Grant Bonner, Yavah Smith, Taylor Jones, Garrett Brasher, Avery Crawford, Brady Sheppard, Christopher Warren, Arian Strait, Jacorey Hayes, Jeremiah Robinson, Donell Williams, Fabian Shuler, Jamar Moultrie, Steven Snodsmith, Chris Lawter, John Whisenhunt, Jordan Jacobs, Treshawn Darden, Antrell Key, John Robert Clark, Kayden Preyer, Moss Fleming, Cam Sumpter, Jack Brandt, Warren Williams, Omari Bryant, Demetrius Yelling, Dylan Bunkley, Cameron Spates, Sam Wood, Shaun Sutton, David Logan, Sam Huffstutler, Stratton Jones, TJ Fields, Parker Hubbard, Samson Coler, Sam Anderton, Sean Edwards, Caleb Reynolds, Landon Costello, Carter Kerf, Storm Fain, Toby Richard, Ricky Ibarra, Ta’Riq Densmore, Demarion Gardner, Carter Thompson, Samuel Updike, Elijah Kelley, Aboubacar Sylla, Nick Musso, Anthony Allen, Jacob Fleming, Tyson Batchelor, Darius Crawley, Jacob Noland, Nicholas Frazier, Pa’Landing Drammeh, Luke Hoesley, Matthew Daibes, Darrell Garner, Branden Rudolph, Dylan Thuo, Noah Shubach and Jonah Winston.

NEW ERA

New Bucs Coach Waldrop Not Feeling the Pressure Entering His First Season

By Rubin E. Grant

hoover KEY PLAYERS TO WATCH

W

2022 SCHEDULE Aug. 19 Aug. 26 Sep. 2 Sep. 9 Sept. 16 Sept. 23 Sept. 30 Oct. 7 Oct. 14 Oct. 21

Auburn 17-14 (L) Bartlett Spain Park* Vestavia Hills* @Hewitt Trussville* @Mountain Brook @Oak Mountain* Tuscaloosa County* Chelsea* @Thompson*

*Conference game

hoover

AT A GLANCE Journal photo by Jordan

ade Waldrop believes pressure comes with the territory of being a head football coach.

So, he doesn’t consider himself to be under any undue pressure as he embarks on his first season at Hoover. He replaces Josh Niblett, who left for a job in Georgia after winning six state championships in 14 years at the helm of the Bucs.

“Pressure is pressure,” Waldrop said. “It’s just part of being a coach.”

Nor is Waldrop feeling any pressure jumping into Class 7A, Region 3, regarded by many as the toughest region in the state. It includes threetime reigning Class 7A champion Thompson and perennial contender Hewitt-Trussville, plus Hoover’s long-time rival Vestavia Hills and cross-town rival Spain Park.

“As a coach, who doesn’t want to be and play in the best region around and play against the best competition?” Waldrop said. “It’s a grind; it’s tough: it’s hard.”

Waldrop has enjoyed success in his three previous head coaching stops, compiling a 100-75 record in

Hoover coach Wade Waldrop with, from left, Bradley Shaw, KJ Law, Andrew Parrish and Ethan Hubbard.

Head Coach: Wade Waldrop 2021 Record: 12-1 Region: Class 7A Region 3: HewittTrussville, Oak Mountain, Spain Park, Thompson, Tuscaloosa County, Vestavia Hills and Chelsea Stadium: Buccaneer Stadium (5,000), The Met (10,800)

16 seasons at Chelsea, James Clemens and Florence.

Even though Hoover will enter the season with an untested quarterback, and dynamic receiver R.J. Hamilton has decided to focus solely on baseball — he’s committed to Vanderbilt — Waldrop believes the Bucs have a good enough nucleus to make a run at the 7A crown.

“I like our defense and our kicking game,” he said. “On offense, we have some experience at running back and a couple of receivers with experience.

We do not have an experienced quarterback, but the biggest question we have is do we have enough depth to make it through this league.”

Here’s a position-by-position breakdown of the 2022 Bucs: OFFENSE

Quarterbacks

The Bucs have to replace Bennett Meredith, who’s now at Arizona State. In his one season as Hoover’s starter, he threw for 2,212 passing yards and 23 touchdowns during the 2021 season.

Either senior Brewer Smith or freshman Jonah Winston will be the

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

starter.

Running Backs

The Bucs are deep at running back.

“We’ve got three or four guys we’re going to play,” Waldrop said.

‘As a coach, who doesn’t want to be and play in the best region around and play against the best competition?’

WADE WALDROP

Senior Ahamari Williams, who was All-State as a junior, returns along with senior Jack Lamey, junior Kamal Amerson, senior LaMarion McCammon and sophomore Jacorrey Hayes.

Receivers

Senior K.J. Law returns as a starter, while junior Jordan Woolen, junior Jeremy Cook, junior Fredrick Dunson and senior Braydon Gerstenberg also will be factors.

Lamey will play some at tight end.

“He’s one of our most versatile guys,” Waldrop said.

Sophomore Sam Wood and junior Chris Wilburn also will see time at tight end.

Offensive Line

Two senior starters return up front in left tackle – Ethan Hubbard and tackle-guard A.J. Franklin – with part-time starter Rashad Smith,

HOOVER a junior, at guard. Senior Grant Bonner will play center and sophomore Toby Richard will start at right tackle.

“This is one of our thinnest spots,” Waldrop said. “We have a few others we’re trying to bring along.”

He mentioned sophomore T.J. Fields, sophomore Storm Fain and senior Billy Looney.

DEFENSE

Defensive Line

While the offensive line lacks depth, the defensive line is one of the Bucs’ deepest positions. Seniors Chaleb Powell, Andrew Parrish and Jordan Norman return. Powell and Parrish are tackles and Norman is an end.

Also in the rotation will be junior Michael Nixon, junior Micah Hampton, sophomore Tyson Batchelor and sophomore Pa Drammeh.

Linebackers

The Bucs will lean heavily on senior inside linebacker Kaleb Jackson and junior inside linebacker Bradley Shaw, two of the best players on the team. Juniors Peyton Morrison and Cooper Darty will be on the outside.

Thursday, August 25, 2022 • 11

WORK HARD & BE NICE TO PEOPLE

Secondary

Seniors D.J. Estes, Jay Avery and Keith Christein are experienced safeties. The cornerback slots will be filled by senior Braxton Urguhart, senior Devan Carlisle, senior Garian Denson, sophomore J.J. Moultrie and senior Logan Ware.

Kickers

Senior Peyton Argent will handle all of the kicking duties.

“He is as good a kicker as there is in the state,” Waldrop said.

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12 • Thursday, August 25, 2022

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Journal photo by Marvin Gentry

JOHN CARROLL CATHOLIC

Members of the 2022 John Carroll Catholic varsity football team are: KJ Beck, John Michael Wos, Grayton Galloway, Brogan Torchia, CJ Wyatt, Brandon Rashleigh, Seth Seidenfaden, Carson McFadden, Koron Wright, Mitchell Nutter, Max Plaia, Zach Archer, Braden White, Jaden Fennell, Garrett Barnes, James Hallman, Noah Syx, Braydon Lowery, Hayden Greer, Jagger Baguer, Austin Pfarner, Sequoah Hicks, Nolan Clayton, Alex Perrin, John Ford, Frank Bradford, Garvey Hannon, JD Latham, William Helms, Jack Tibbs, Jacob DiChiara, Cole Perryman, Luke Wammack, Jacob McMahon, Jackson Rankin, Alex Plaia, Bobby O’Farrell, Jaylin Shepherd, Isaac Kelley, Michael Grinder, Anthony Mokry, Nicholas Gagliano, Jaxon Perrin, Grey Higgins, Barrett Eldridge, William Fieno, Charlie Boone, Chase Botthof, Niajel Morgan, Bo Burke, Andy Everett, Jack Chandler, Elzey Gibson, Michael Helton, Henry Russell, Gabe Wilbur, Jacob Childress, Heath Jehu, Evan Williams, and Will Duncan.

THE NEXT STEP Young Cavaliers Looking to Move Forward in Mara’s Third Season

By Rubin E. Grant ill Mara broke even in each of his two seasons as John Carroll Catholic’s head foot-

ball coach.

The Cavaliers finished 5-5 in both 2020 and 2021, ending a stretch of nine consecutive losing seasons.

Now, Mara is looking to take the next step and have a winning season in 2022, which would be the Cavaliers’ first winning season since they finished 6-4 in 2010.

But to do that, John Carroll will have to fill some big holes with the graduation of three of their most versatile and athletic players — Quad Harrison, Aaron Mason and Christian Harper. Plus, talented running back Derrick Davis transferred to Hueytown.

“We’re going to be lacking some athleticism and talent,” Mara said.

“We’ve got a young group. We’ve got some great seniors, but we have a bunch of young guys who need to step up, including a couple of freshmen.”

“The kids have a great attitude and we’ve had some guys who have stepped up as leaders.”

The Cavaliers will compete in Class 5A, Region 5 along with Ramsay, Fairfield, CarverBirmingham, Pleasant Grove,

OFFENSE

Quarterbacks

2022 SCHEDULE Aug. 19 Aug. 26 Sept. 2 Sept. 9 Sept. 16 Oct. 1 Oct. 6 Oct. 21 Oct. 28

Homewood 38-20 (L) @Marbury Fairfield Hayden* @G.W. Carver-Bham* Pleasant Grove* Ramsay IB Legion Field* @Wenonah* @Maplesville

*Conference game

john carroll AT A GLANCE

Journal photo by Marvin Gentry

W

john carroll catholic KEY PLAYERS TO WATCH

Head Coach: Will Mara 2021 Record: 5-5 Region: Class 5A, Region 5: Ramsay, Fairfield, Carver-Birmingham, Pleasant Grove, Wenonah, Jasper and Hayden.

Stadium: Carroll Field (4,000) John Carroll Catholic coach Will Mara with, from left, CJ Wyatt, Seth Seidenfaden, Mitchell Nutter, Carson McFadden and Jacob McMahon.

Wenonah, Jasper and Hayden.

“We’ve got to keep moving for-

ward,” Mara said.

Here’s a position-by-position

breakdown of the 2022 Cavaliers:

Junior Carson McFadden returns for his third season as the starter.

“He’s a field general, he knows our offense and what we’re trying to do. He gives us the ability to expand our offense,” Mara said.

Mitchell Nutter, who transferred from Spain Park, will be McFadden’s backup, but his versatility also will allow him to line up at running back and H-back and to return kicks.

“He started some at quarterback for Spain Park last year,” Mara said.

“He’s got great speed and some wiggle. We might have two guys to play the quarterback position.”

Versatile senior Jayden Fennell also can step in if needed, but he will mainly play linebacker.

Running Backs

The departures of Mason and Davis mean the Cavaliers will have a new look in the backfield, but Mara believes he has several capable backs.

He mentioned senior John Michael Wos, who also plays in the secondary, sophomore Koron Wright, junior Brandon Rashleigh and Nutter.

“We’ve got four guys back there who we can rotate,” Mara said. “And we could throw Seth Seidenfaden into the mix.”

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Receivers

Seidenfaden, a senior, is a returning starter at wide receiver, although he missed the bulk of last season because of a knee injury.

“We’re happy to have him back healthy,” Mara said. “It’s conceivable that we’ll use him at running back and in the slot and, depending on the situation, he can take some direct snaps.”

Junior Max Plaia also is a returning starter.

The other receivers in the mix are senior K.J. Beck, junior Zach Archer and senior Luke Wammack.

Beck hasn’t played since middle school, spending his time playing basketball, but decided to play this fall. Archer battled foot and shoulder injuries his freshman and sophomore years and, if he stays healthy, will play H-back and in the slot. Wammack is another newcomer after playing baseball and basketball for the Cavs.

Junior C.J. Wyatt, a two-year starter at defensive end, will play some at tight end, as will senior Gabe Wilbur.

Offensive Line

The Cavs had two three-year starters graduate, but they returned senior left guard Chase Bottoff and junior right tackle Jack Chandler.

Sophomore Anthony Mokry will take over at center. “He’s really athletic,” Mara said.

Junior Michael Helton, a transfer from Vestavia Hills, will play right guard and junior Grey Higgins will play left guard. Sophomore Elzey Gibson and freshman Nic Gagliano are battling for the left tackle spot.

DEFENSE

Defensive Line

Wyatt will be a three-year starter at defensive

Thursday, August 25, 2022 • 13

JOHN CARROLL CATHOLIC end and is one of the Cavaliers’ main team leaders.

“We could not get him out of the weight room in the offseason,” Mara said. “He put on 20-25 pounds of muscle.”

Gagliano also will see some action at defensive end, as will Gibson.

Mokry and senior Henry Russell will play on the interior, but Mara said it will primarily be by committee as the Cavs rotate players in and out.

Freshman Charlie Boone will be a factor, too.

Linebackers

Senior Jacob McMahon returns for his third season as a starter and is a strong team leader.

“We’re pretty much, as Jacob goes, so the team goes,” Mara said.

Fennell, Archer, Plaia, Wright and sophomore Braydon Lowery also will rotate in and out.

Rashleigh will see some time at outside linebacker.

Secondary

Lowery and Wright also will play in the secondary at cornerback. Wos and sophomore Alex Perrin will be the starting cornerbacks.

Seniors Grayton Galloway and junior Hayden Greer, a standout baseball player, will be the safeties. This will be Greer’s first year to play.

Kickers

Sebastian Guerrero, who was a solid kicker last season, has decided to concentrate on soccer. But Heath Jehu, a transfer from the Orlando area, gives the Cavs a powerful leg to replace him.

“He’s a senior and he’s ranked in the top 40 among kickers in the nation,” Mara said of Jehu.

“He’s going to change the way we call plays near the red zone. As a punter, we’ve seen him boom kicks off his foot for about 65 yards with five seconds of hang time.”

A concussion is nothing to play with.

A concussion is a traumatic brain injury and should be taken seriously. Although fewer than 10% of concussions involve a loss of consciousness, it is important to understand the dangers and not take them lightly. Even a minor fall or collision may be of concern, so be alert to symptoms such as headaches, unsteadiness, confusion or other types of abnormal behavior.

Any athlete with a suspected concussion should immediately be removed from play and activity, evaluated right away by a doctor or healthcare professional, monitored and not left alone and not drive a motor vehicle.

To make an appointment, please call 205-934 -1041.

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14 • Thursday, August 25, 2022

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Journal photo by Marvin Gentry

MOUNTAIN BROOK

Members of the 2022 Mountain Brook High School varsity football team are: Adair Wade, Charlie Johnston, Kaleb Osborn, Beckett Smith, John Colvin, Reed Harradine, Braxton Dean, Bo Currie, Jackson Beatty, Henry Bell, Rob Gillespie, Mac Palmer, Hulsey Boehme, Jack King, John Cooper, Garrett Kunze, Will Waldrop, Cole Gamble, Bennett Kilpatrick, Clyde Beavers, Jack Earnhardt, Clark Sanderson, Miller Brooks, Drew Widener, Luke Maddox, Jackson Burwell, JB Cook, Howell Fell, Oliver Clark, Wells Marks, Alexander Horn, Hudson Young, Slate Sokol, Harris Crumpton, Palin Wilkinson, Douglas Johnson, Parker Silsbee, Tucker Crawford, Sam Edmunds, David Knott, Simms Sledge, Jack Donahue, Jack Currie, Charlie Elliott, Trent Wright, Michael Garrison, Benjamin Payne, Richard Crommelin, Vaughn Frost, Hayden DiVenere, Reed Smith, Ham Mandell, Harrison Fell, Hampton King, David Tynes, John Evans, Jack Walthall, Pete Fruin, Pelham Comer, Hudson Miller, Carter Kelley, Jackson Short, Sam Hunt, Joseph Green, JC Adams, Billy Flowers, Billy Radney, Thomas Clay, Harper Zanaty, Ben Burkhart, Milo Barclay, Graham Waldrop, Harris Vinoski, Henry Boehme, Richard Kinsaul, Will Lucas, Walker Webb, Mac Smith, William Courtenay, Sam Mcpherson, Campbell Miller, Charles Smith, Watts Alexander, Kevin Hughes, Reed Nelson, Mark Torbert, Carter Colvin, Rickey Whitworth, Harrison Dukes, Slade Anderson, Jack Sullivan, Will Troiano, William Tomlin, Haston Simmons, Quin Miles, Daniel Ellis, Web Walker, Davis Peterson, Noah Lippeatt, Geoffrey Cook, Max Hamer, James Hard, Miles McGilberry, Alex Leonard, Andrew Marks, Hawkins Martin, Ethan Wint, Parker Redden, Cannon Mussafer, Frank Lee, Parker Avery, John Hendry, Carl Evans, David Wood, James Morano, Carter Drew, Billy Hoyt, Jack McNeil and Hart James.

SEASONED SPARTANS Mountain Brook Focusing on Fundamentals as They Pursue Another Deep Playoff Run

By Rubin E. Grant

mountain brook KEY PLAYERS TO WATCH

A

2022 SCHEDULE Aug. 18 Aug. 26 Sept. 1 Sept. 9 Sept. 15 Sept. 23 Oct. 6 Oct. 14 Oct. 21 Oct. 27

@Vestavia 24-14 (W) James Clemens Minor (Thurs.)* Woodlawn* @Jackson-Olin (Thurs.)* Hoover @Parker (Thurs.)* @Mortimer Jordan* Gardendale* @Baker (Thurs.)

*Conference game

mountain brook AT A GLANCE

Journal photo by Marvin Gentry

lthough Mountain Brook reached the Class 6A semifinals the past two seasons before being eliminated in the state playoffs, Spartans coach Chris Yeager is not focusing on kicking the door down to reach the Super 7 Championships this fall.

“I hadn’t thought a lot about that,” Yeager said. “I just hope this group reaches its potential. We’ve had two good groups the last two years.

“A lot of things have to fall right for us to contend for a championship.

We have to be passionate about fundamentals every day and become great at those things, and at the end of day we have to execute.”

The Spartans graduated more than 80 seniors the past two years, producing consecutive 12-2 seasons, and will have more than 40 seniors this year as they attempt to extend their streak of consecutive playoff berths to seven.

“I feel good about our team,” Yeager said. “We have some huge spots to fill on defense, but our quarterback is back, our running back is back and three of five offensive linemen are back.”

Head Coach: Chris Yeager 2021 Record: 12-2 Region: Class 6A Region 5: Minor, Woodlawn, Jackson-Olin, Parker, Mortimer Jordan and Gardendale.

Stadium: Spartan Stadium (4,500) Mountain Brook coach Chris Yeager with, from left, front: Billy Hoyt, Carter Drew and Carl Evans. Back: Davis Peterson and Parker Avery.

Mountain Brook will compete in a revamped Class 6A, Region 5 that now includes Minor, Woodlawn, Jackson-Olin, Parker, Mortimer Jordan and Gardendale.

Here’s a position-by-position breakdown of the 2022 Spartans: OFFENSE

Quarterbacks

Senior John Colvin returns for his second season as the starter. Junior John Cooper and sophomore Charlie Johnson will serve as backups.

“I like all three of our quarterbacks,” Yeager said. “All three are capable. They all bring something a little different. John Colvin is more a pro-style quarterback and John Cooper can run and Charlie is a little bit of both.”

Running Backs

Junior Cole Gamble returns as a starter, as does senior Will Waldrop.

Yeager believes junior Jack King is primed for a breakout year.

“We hope to keep each of them fresh,” Yeager said. “They allow us to run schemes using two backs at a time or three at a time. Cole is big

See SPARTANS, page 23

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

MOUNTAIN BROOK

Thursday, August 25, 2022 • 15

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16 • Thursday, August 25, 2022

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Journal photo by Marvin Gentry

OAK MOUNTAIN

Members of the 2022 Oak Mountain High School varsity football team are: Members of the 2022 Oak Mountain High School Varsity Football Team: Davion Foster, Jacob Porco, Tristyn Vardaman, Trey Vassell, D.J Stone, Ian Laughlin, Devan Moss, Emmanuel Waller, Carter Lehman, Jack Ronilo, Ben Heath, Davis Stallworth, Le’Kamren Meadows, Xander Hughes, Garrett Murphy, Drowdy Hackbarth, Will O’Dell, C.J Hill, Chris Weston, Jacob Moore, Hunter Cox, Sawyer Smith, Bobby Laury, Zach Fitzgerald, J.C Schwender, Seth Tucker, Marty Myricks, James Whatley, Mason Mitchell, Jorge Garcia, Cole Kelly, Jacob Helgason, Ethan Watson, Micheal Dooley, Owen Wells, David Jimenez, Hunter Gaskins, Adrian Borja, Kennedy Silas, Parker McDaniel, Robert Yoder IV, Malachi Plummer, Noah Hagedorn, Niko Varvoutis, Colton Moore, Colton Cason, Carter Hill, Davis Coggin, Jack Bell, Connor Self, Emmett Williams, Barron Meadors, Trey Leckemby, Sawyer Hutto, Bradley Haizlip, Luke Parmer, Cordell Williams, Colin Prestridge, Luke Oswalt, Will Burgess, Hudson Youngblood, Walker Shook, Peyton Swann, Brandon Lewis, Ivan Adams, Jackson Blackwell, Joey Carbonie, Kasen Lemons, J.D. Miller, Jaxon Owens, Jordan Pierce-Harris, Max Cude, Ty Campbell, Joey Lewis, Daveon Johnson and Caleb Jaworski.

‘GOOD NUCLEUS’ Crane Believes Eagles Have the Players to Make Another Playoff Run

By Rubin E. Grant

oak mountain KEY PLAYERS TO WATCH

I

OFFENSE

Quarterbacks

Sophomore Will O’Dell played some last year as a freshman when

2022 SCHEDULE Aug. 19 Aug. 26 Sept. 2 Sept. 9 Sept. 16 Sept. 23 Sept. 30 Oct. 7 Oct. 14 Oct. 21

Northridge 23-14 (W) Pelham @Hewitt-Trussville* Chelsea* @Tuscaloosa County* Briarwood Christian Hoover* @Thompson* Vestavia Hills* @Spain Park*

*Conference game

oak mountain

Journal photo by Marvin Gentry

n his first season as Oak Mountain’s head football coach, in 2021, Tyler Crane had the luxury of having dynamic dual-threat quarterback Evan Smith.

Smith had a brilliant senior season, accounting for 2,294 yards total offense and 28 touchdowns while leading the Eagles to a 7-5 record.

But now Smith is a freshman defensive back at Northwestern, leaving Crane with a large piece missing from his arsenal for his second season.

“You can’t replace Evan,” Crane said. “Evan was a dude.”

Even so, Crane believes the Eagles have the players to make another run at a playoff berth.

“We have a good nucleus of guys,” he said. “We lost a couple of key guys, but I feel like we’ve got guys in place who will do a good job for us.”

Oak Mountain will compete in rugged Class 7A, Region 3, which includes three-time reigning Class 7A champion Thompson and powerhouses Hoover and Hewitt-Trussville.

“There are going to be ups and downs, but I feel when we line up every week, we have a chance to beat them,” Crane said. “I think I’ve got pretty good football players, too. I put mine against anybody.”

Here’s a position-by-position breakdown of the 2022 Eagles:

AT A GLANCE

Oak Mountain Key Players include, front row from left: Bobby Laury, Garrett Murphy, Devan Moss and Trey Vassell. Back: Carter Lehman, Luke Oswalt, Hudson Youngblood and Emmanuel Waller.

Smith was sidelined two games with an injury.

“Will is a good leader,” Crane said. “We’re not going to ask him to do what Evan did. What we want him to do is manage the game because

we’ve got guys who we’ve put in good position to make plays.”

Crane hasn’t settled on a backup.

“We’re going to have quarterback by committee,” he said. “We’ve got some older guys and some younger

Head Coach: Tyler Crane 2021 Record: 7-5 Region: Class 7A Region 3: HewittTrussville, Hoover, Spain Park, Thompson, Tuscaloosa County, Vestavia Hills and Chelsea Stadium: Heardmont Park (5,000)

guys. We’ll be building depth throughout the year.”

Running Backs

Seniors Trey Vassell and Davion Foster will receive the bulk of the car-

ries. Freshman Le’Kamren Meadows also will see action.

“We think he has a chance to be special,” Crane said. “I feel pretty good about our running backs.”

Receivers

Senior D.J. Stone is a returning starter. Juniors Tristyn Vardaman and Sawyer Smith will receive plenty of playing time. Sophomores Zach Fitzgerald and Jacob Moore also are in the mix.

Junior Jackson Blackwell returns at tight end.

“We’re excited about the pieces we have,” Crane said. “Some of them got to play as 10th graders and grew up.”

Offensive Line

Crane described his offensive line as a “strong unit.” Luke Oswalt, a 6-foot-4, 295 senior, returns at left tackle, and Sawyer Hutto, a 6-4, 250-pound senior, returns at right tackle. Senior Hudson Youngblood also returns at center.

Sophomore Cordell Williams will start at right guard, and either sophomore Barron Meadors or sophomore Colton Cason will start at left guard.

Crane said they are looking for some other young players to work their way into the rotation.

DEFENSE

Defensive Line

Crane believes his defensive line

See EAGLES, page 22

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

OAK MOUNTAIN

Thursday, August 25, 2022 • 17

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OVER THE MOUNTAIN OWNED AND LOCALLY OPERATED SINCE 1994 BEDZZZ EXPRESS IS THE PROUD SPONSOR OF THE OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL ALL OTM HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL TEAM

18 • Thursday, August 25, 2022

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Photo by Iron City Studios

SPAIN PARK

Members of the 2022 Spain Park High School varsity football team are: Zamir Farris, George Gilbert, Alex Smith, Reggie Jackson, Jack Kendrick, Jonathan Bibbs, Brian Alston, Zavier Long, Stopher Walls, Caleb Ward, Jackson Mitchell, Clay Spencer, KJ Rudolph, Evan Smallwood, Grayson Brock, Mason Bowden, Jamari Mosley, Brock Bradley, Kelby Roberson, Logan Brownlee, Jonas Harrellson, Keionte Robinson, Eli Smallwood, Colin Cutcliff, Jacob Olsen, JR Thompson, CJ Clency, Derrick Shanks, Aubrey Walker, Angel Ortiz, Jaylon Hatcher, Dakarai Shanks, Caldwell Bussey, Chase Wolsoncroft, Arnold Bush, Noah Hendrix, Tyler Walker, Cailon Hudson, Hagen Holley, Jaxon Haygood, Isaac Battles, Ethan Wilson, Vic Luong, Omar Badawi, Jared Smith, Jack Stewart, Jack Sellers, Landon Huey, Nyc Speer, Andrew Thornton, Brayden Matherson, Evan Bishop, Drake Hibbard, Jacob Roe, Chase Walker, Josh Lewis, Riley Harrelson, Charleston Gray, Dakarai Shanks, Tyler Davidson, Aden Walker, Josh Tulloss, Conner Langston, Jovan Taylor, Sam Messer, Alex Mancill, Hudson Cahalan, Kameryn Stevenson, John Higginbotham, John Griffin, Harris Gregory, Mason Cooper, Ashton Sauder, Trevon Hill, Evan Eaker, Holden Sweitzer, Ryan Breazeale, Fisayo Aduroja, Clete Ponder, Geno Ferguson, David Toolabi, Marcus Ellis, Morgan Bowden, Jackson Bell, Jayden Craig, Tacorrius Nichols, Rayshod Burts, Caleb Hewlett, George Escamilla, Elijah Ferguson, Sean Corey, Alex Lloyd, Mitchell Frazer, DJ Haynes, Landon Crane, Corey Barber, Zion Mims, Cam Mcfarlin, Gabe Mooney, Morgan Rich, Alden Dorn, Nikolas Alston, Jacob Williams, Parker Weimar, Lex Mcelvie and Landon Johnson.

‘SUCCESS WILL COME’ New Jags Coach Vakakes Hopes Hard Work Leads to Winning

By Rubin E. Grant

spain park KEY PLAYERS TO WATCH

W

2022 SCHEDULE Aug. 19 Aug. 26 Sept. 2 Sept. 9 Sept. 16 Sept. 30 Oct. 7 Oct. 14 Oct. 21 Oct. 27

Calera 14-10 (W) @Briarwood Christian @Hoover* @Thompson* Vestavia* Tuscaloosa County* @Chelsea* Hewitt-Trussville* Oak Mountain* @Pelham (Thurs.)

*Conference game

spain park AT A GLANCE

Journal photo by Marvin Gentry

hen Tim Vakakes was hired as Spain Park’s new football coach in December, he wasn’t sure what kind of situation he was entering.

The Jaguars had just completed their fourth consecutive losing season, finishing 2021 with a 2-8 record, which led to the resignation of head coach Shawn Raney.

“When I got here, I was worried about the culture I was walking into,” Vakakes said, “but the kids here work their tails off. That’s a tribute to Coach Raney and his staff. They just have to learn how to win.”

Before coming to Spain Park, Vakakes built a winning culture at Jackson-Olin. He compiled a 49-45 record in nine seasons there after taking over a program that had suffered through 13 consecutive losing seasons and won only 29 games during the span before his arrival in 2013.

Vakakes played in a winning program at Homewood, suiting up for Patriots head coaches Gerald Gann and Bob Newton.

In hopes of turning the Jags around, Vakakes has emphasized weightlifting.

“I’m a big weight room guy and I’ll never outsource that to another

Spain Park coach Vakakes, with, from left, Brian Alston, Evan Smallwood, Zamir Farris and Caldwell Bussey.

Head Coach: Tim Vakakes 2021 Record: 2-8 Region: Class 7A Region 3: Hoover, Hewitt-Trussville, Gadsden City, Oak Mountain, Thompson, Tuscaloosa County, Vestavia Hills Stadium: Finley Stadium (5,000)

coach,” he said. “When the guys are lifting, I’m in there with them. That’s the heartbeat of a team. The overall team strength is really improving.

“Once we get everything aligned, the success will come.”

The Jags will compete in Class 7A, Region 3, which also includes cross-town rival Hoover and threetime reigning Class 7A champion Thompson.

“I’m not afraid to get in there and battle with the big boys,” Vakakes said.

As for the makeup of his team, Vakakes said it’s a mixture of youth and experience.

“We’ve got some new guys and some young guys,” he said. “We need to stay healthy.”

Here’s a position-by-position breakdown of the 2022 Jaguars: OFFENSE

Quarterbacks

Senior Evan Smallwood, also a standout baseball player, returns as the starter.

“He’s a really good athlete,” Vakakes said. “He’s crafty, the kids love to play with him, and he’s tough.”

Smallwood’s younger brother Eli, a sophomore, will be his primary

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Running Backs

Elusive senior Zamir Farris returns and will also play some at slot receiver. Junior Zavier Long will get plenty of carries. Junior Derrick Shanks and his younger brother Dakarai, a sophomore, are transfers from Jackson-Olin who will spend time in the backfield and at slot receiver.

Freshman Aubrey Walker also will play.

“He’s got a chance to be special,” Vakakes said.

Receivers

The Jags suffered a big blow early in preseason practice when senior J.R. Thompson sustained a season-ending knee injury.

Senior George Gilbert returns to lead the receiving corps. Sophomore Reggie Jackson, senior Clay Spencer and junior Jonathan Bibbs also are in the mix.

Junior Cam McFarlin, a 6-foot-3, 210-pound junior, will play tight end.

Offensive Line

Senior center-guard Morgan Bowden and senior left guard Rayshod Burts will anchor the offensive line. Juniors Conner Langston and Hudson Cahalan will man the tackle spots, while sophomores Jayden Craig or Jackson Bell will start at either guard or center. Junior Evan Eaker will provide depth.

“We’ve got some other kids who will help some on the line, too,” Vakakes said.

DEFENSE

Defensive Line

Vakakes believes the line will be the strength of the defense. The four starters all have received NCAA Division I offers.

Senior defensive end Caldwell Bussey (6-3, 245) has committed to Furman; senior defensive tackle Brian Alston (6-3, 260) has drawn interest from Power 5 conference schools; sophomore defensive tackle Nik Alston (6-3, 250) already has offers from Arkansas State and Tulane; and sophomore defensive end Jared Smith (6-6, 225) already has offers from Georgia, LSU, Miami and Tennessee.

Behind them are senior defensive end C.J. Clency, junior defensive end Jacob Olsen, sophomore defensive tackle Landon Johnson and junior defensive tackle Josh Lewis.

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Linebackers

Senior Jonas Harrellson has moved from defensive end to outside linebacker to solidify the group. Seniors Jackson Mitchell and K.J. Rudolph will play inside linebacker. Junior Landon Huey is another inside linebacker, and senior Jack Kendrick, who played safety last season, will join Harrellson on the outside.

Secondary

Seniors Alex Smith and Stopher Walls, juniors Kelby Roberson and Jamari Mosley, and sophomores Hagen Holley and Arnold Bush constitute the secondary.

“They all seem to be in the right place on the field, but they have got to make plays,” Vakakes said.

Kickers

Sophomore Josh Tulloss and junior Alex Lloyd will split the punting and place-kicking duties. Lloyd has the stronger leg, but Tulloss is more consistent.

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backup, while talented freshman Brock Bradley is waiting in the wings. Bradley has already received offers from Troy and UAB.

Thursday, August 25, 2022 • 19

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20 • Thursday, August 25, 2022

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

VESTAVIA HILLS

Photo Courtesy Vestavia Hills High School

Members of the 2022 Vestavia Hills High School varsity football team are: Warren Ainsworth, Victor Altamirano, Sawyer Arnold, Alex Baldone, Yates Bannon, Clay Barnes, Anthony Beam, Gibson Bean, Luke Beckham, Sully Blake, Whit Bohorfoush, William Bond, Ford Brown, Thomas Brown, Sam Brown, Brady Brown, Grayson Bruno, John Michael Chandash, Drew Collins, Daniel Covington, Will Cox, William Cross, Jayden Daniels, Kaden Daniels, Ethan Denaburg, Michael Dobbs, William Douglas, Grant Downey, Leyton Downey, Allen Dye, Harrison Faust, Grayson Folmar, John Friloux, Parker Fulton, Hudson Hager, Chuck Hammack, Spence Hanna, Samuel Hanson, John Paul Head, Harrison Heath, Monty Hedgmon, Marshall Henderson, Jacob Herr, John Hinton Hogue, Hill Hughen, Charlie Ingram, Dylan Jaquess, Aarya John, Brady Johnson, Gaines Johnson, Benji Keene, Matthew Ledbetter, Bruce Littleton, JD Livingston, Jack Lockhard, Chandler Long, James Lucas, Roman Maners, Carson Mann, Riggs Manown, Brendan Marshall, Jack Mayhall, Whitten McCulley, Morgan McInnis, Tanner McInnis, Jack McMurray, Ben Mendheim, Maddox Merrill, Carter Metcalf, Cooper Mollison, Jimmy Moxley, Jake Murphree, Kohen Nelson, James O’Neil, Houston Owen, Landon Page,

Luke Parsons, Douglas Perry, Allan Peterson, William Plaisance, Glen Porter, Daniel Reynolds, Keown Richardson, John Martin Richter, Logan Richter, Braydon Robertson, Eli Rooks, Chase Rose III, Jordan

Ross, William Sasser, Gentry Sharpe, Bo Shea, Loftin Shepard, Carter Shirley, Owen Simpson, Jordan Skrabo, Blake Smith, Greer Smith, Wheeler Smith, Wesley Smith, Hollis Smith, Tucker Smitha,

Blake Smitha, Cole Stafford, Bo Stockard, Worth Stoddard, Robert Stone, Luke Swanzy, Andrew Sykes, Mitch Taylor, Griffin Thompson, Jack Thompson, Townsend Tinney, William Tonsmeirer, Cross

Tonsmeirer, Luke Turner, Talan Turner, Kent Vickers, Vince Visser, Jacob Watson, Thomas Waudby Jr., Chase Webb, William Webster, Lane Whisenhunt, John Clark Williamson and George Wolf.

RETURNING REBEL Evans Preparing Rebels for Challenging Season in His Return to His Alma Mater

By Rubin E. Grant

vestavia hills KEY PLAYERS TO WATCH

R

2022 SCHEDULE Aug. 18 Aug. 26 Sept. 2 Sept. 9 Sept. 16 Sept. 30 Oct. 7 Oct. 14 Oct. 21 Oct. 28

Mtn. Brook 24-14 (L) Homewood Thompson* @Hoover* @Spain Park* Chelsea* @Hewitt-Trussville* @Oak Mountain* Tuscaloosa County* @Helena

*Conference game

vestavia hills AT A GLANCE

Journal photo by Jordan Wald

obert Evans is taking a bold approach as he embarks on his first season as head coach at Vestavia Hills, his alma mater “My goal is to play Thompson twice,” Evans said.

Thompson is the reigning three-time Class 7A champion and is ranked No. 1 in preseason. If the Rebels play the Warriors twice, the second matchup would be in the state playoffs in November. They meet Sept. 2 in the regular season.

“I don’t know who will be there in the end, but I want our guys to be there,” Evans said. “I hate coach-speak and talking about playing them one game at a time. We’re starting with where we want to go.”

Vestavia Hills missed the playoffs the past two seasons and made only one postseason appearance in the past six years, losing in the first round in 2019.

Evans was a star defensive back on the Vestavia Hills’ last state championship team in 1998 and a former assistant at Hoover and Mountain Brook. He was named the Rebels’ head coach in January when Sean Calhoun resigned after one season as the successor to legendary Vestavia Hills’ coach Buddy Anderson.

Vestavia Hills coach Robert Evans with, from left, front: Tucker Smitha and Andrew Sykes. Back: Glen Porter and Houston Owen.

Head Coach: Robert Evans 2021 Record: 4-7 Region: Class 7A Region 3: Hoover, Hewitt-Trussville, Oak Mountain, Spain Park, Thompson, Tuscaloosa County, Chelsea.

Stadium: Thompson Reynolds Stadium at Buddy Anderson Field (5,000)

“I never intended to come back, but the Lord opened a door and I felt like this was the thing I was supposed to do,” Evans said.

Evans has brought in former Spain Park head coach Shawn Raney as the defensive coordinator and Josh Franklin, who helped lead Hueytown to the Class 6A title game last year, as the offensive coordinator.

The Rebels face a daunting schedule. Class 7A, Region 3 also includes Thompson and powerhouses Hoover and Hewitt-Trussville.

“It’s been a long time since Vestavia has played meaningful games late in the season, but if we can stay healthy, I feel we’ve got a chance to be there in November,” Evans said.

The Rebels will have plenty of new faces as starters to open the season since they are returning only four starters on offense and five on defense.

Here’s a position-by-position breakdown of the 2022 Rebels.

OFFENSE

Quarterbacks

Junior John Paul Head entered preseason practice as the front-runner to start after splitting time as a starter

See REBELS, page 22

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

Thursday, August 25, 2022 • 21

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OTM FOOTBALL

HOMEWOOD

Junior Will Keown will be the primary backup at defensive end.

From page 8

Linebackers

season. William Webb, a 300-pound senior, will play right guard.

Sophomore Marvin Patrick will be a utility guy, but the Patriots lack depth behind those six.

DEFENSE

Defensive Line

The three starters on the defensive line return: senior nose guard Maxy Salazar, senior defensive end Aaron Ford and junior defensive end Hayden Eldridge.

Berguson is excited about freshman nose guard Randall Jaquez.

“He’s just a baby, but he disrupts a lot of plays and is hard to block,” Berguson said.

REBELS From page 20

in 2021.

“He’s a Tim Tebow type because he can run and get the tough yards,” Evans said. “He’s a good leader, someone the other kids will follow.”

Junior Luke Turner also will play. He received most of the reps in spring training while Head was playing on the Rebels’ state playoff baseball team. Sophomore Bruce Littleton is waiting in the wings.

“I feel good about our quarterback situation,” Evans said. “We’re going to try to play as fast as possible. We want to snap it more than any team in Alabama.”

Running Backs

The Rebels are thin at running back — “It’s an area of concern,” Evans said — and will rely on youth with brothers William Tonsmeire, a sophomore, and Cross Tonsmeire, a freshman, sharing the load.

Senior Tucker Smitha will line up sometimes at running back and also at tight end and slot receiver. “I think he’s going to have a big year if he stays healthy,” Evans said.

Receivers

Evans believes junior Keown Richardson is ready to have a breakout year.

“I think he has a legitimate chance to be a top prospect,” Evans said. “He’s very talented. He’s going to get a lot of touches in our offense.”

This is the one group on the defense that lacks experience. Senior outside Adam Parker is the only returning starter. Senior Rigdon Gibbons moved from the defensive line to middle linebacker to give the Patriots another veteran presence.

Sophomore Trust Darnell and freshman Luke Eldridge will get time at inside linebacker, while sophomore Talton Thomas, junior Finn Pennington and senior Jordan Cottrell will play some at outside linebacker.

Secondary

Three defensive backs return, including starting cornerbacks Parker Sansing and Owen Isenhower, both seniors. Sophomore Malek Smiley and senior Carter Dabbs will provide

Brady Johnson, a 6-foot-5, 200-pound senior who transferred in from Southlake Carroll in Texas, will give the quarterbacks a big target.

“He’s a good-looking kid,” Evans said.

Juniors Jayden Daniels and Cooper Mollison will provide depth. Senior Warren Ainsworth returns at tight end.

Offensive Line

The Rebels will have a senior-laden offensive line, anchored by center Hudson Hager and guard Jack Lockhart, who moved over from running back.

Senior tackles Glen Porter and Riggs Manown, and sophomore guard J.D. Livingston are the other starters. Senior guard Mitch Taylor also will rotate in, but the Rebels lack depth.

DEFENSE

Defensive Line

“We’ve got two good seniors back in Andrew Sykes and Lane Whisenhunt,” Evans said.

Sykes is a defensive end and Whisenhunt a defensive tackle.

Newcomer Jordan Ross, a 6-5, 215-pound junior, is slated to start at the other end. “He’s a basketball kid who decided to come out,” Evans said. “He’s very raw, but he is very athletic and has good size.”

Senior Wheeler Smith will be in the mix at nose guard, with senior Will Brown and sophomore Monty Hedgmon providing depth.

PATRIOTS

Photo courtesy Alvin Bresler

From page 4

first victory in program history, beating Holt from Tuscaloosa 16-13, but that was followed by a heartbreaking 13-7 loss at Tarrant.

Then, the Patriots played a “home” game against John Carroll, falling 19-14.

“We shouldn’t have lost that game,” Bresler recalled. “We deserved to win but didn’t.”

Afterward, the Homewood players loaded up the school bus to return to the junior high school.

Homewood head coach Alvin Bresler, front, assembled a staff that included successful veteran coaches, from left, Dave Beason, Wayne Sheets and Jackie Clayton.

depth at corner.

Senior Clay Burdeshaw returns at safety and is the leader of the defense.

“We thought about using him at linebacker because he’s such a hard hitter, but he’s too valuable at safety,” Berguson said.

Junior Jackson Warren, sophomore C.J. Tidmore and freshman John Griffin are also vying for playing time at safety.

Kickers

Whit Armistead, who kicked a game-winning field goal against Vestavia Hills last season, will handle the place-kicking duties.

“He’s got a good leg and is pretty good on field goals from 35 yards in,” Berguson said.

Ray will be the punter. “It adds another dimension when you have your quarterback as your punter,” Berguson said. “If they leave someone uncovered, he will just throw it to them. Plus, he’s a good punter.”

Linebackers

Evans called the linebacking corps a “good group,” spearheaded by senior middle linebacker Houston Owen. Senior Chase Rose also will play some in the middle.

Juniors Gaines Johnson and Gibson Bean and senior Dylan Jaquess will rotate on the outside. John Martin Richter – a 6-3, 220-pound senior – will line up at linebacker or free safety, depending on the situation.

Secondary

Plenty of experience returns in the secondary with senior safeties Will Cox and Michael Dobbs and senior cornerback Grant Downey.

Senior Kent Vickers also will play some at safety. Juniors Kohen Nelson, Luke Beckham or Kaden Daniels or senior Vince Vickers will be the other starting cornerback.

“I like our depth in the secondary,” Evans said. “I think it’s the strength of our defense.”

Kickers

The Rebels entered preseason practice without a clear-cut favorite for the punting and kicking chores.

“We’ve got to find a punter and we have three competing to be the place-kicker and handle kickoff duties,” Evans said. “It’s an area of concern.”

Jack Brewer, who was the place-kicker last year, has decided to focus on soccer. Sophomore Owen Simpson, juniors Carter Shirley and William Webster and senior Benji Keene are listed on the roster as kickers.

John Carroll passed them along the way on Columbiana Road, riding in a Trailways bus. That only added insult to injury.

“They made us look pitiful,” Bresler said. So he went to Mr. Gross, who was on the bus with them, and told him that was going to be the last time they were taking a school bus to a game.

“Mr. Gross, who was a 100 percent supporter of the football program, said, ‘Coach, what do you want to do?’ I told him we’re going to ride Greyhound to the rest of our games,” Bresler said.

With their new mode of transportation, the Patriots won four of their next five games, beating Midfield, Vestavia Hills, Tuscaloosa County and Emma Sansom from Gadsden and losing only 7-0 at Erwin. They took a 5-4 record into their season finale at Mountain Brook. Bresler treated it like it was the Super Bowl.

“It was one of the most important talks I gave

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

EAGLES From page 16

has a chance to be decent, although it lacks depth. Senior Davis Coggin returns at nose guard. Emmanuel Waller, a 6-4, 250-pound senior who transferred from Chelsea, will start at one defensive end.

Either sophomore Caleb Jaworski or senior Jack Ronilo will be the other starter at defensive end.

Linebackers

Senior Garrett Murphy returns at outside linebacker.

“He’s one of the best in Birmingham,” Crane said.

‘We lost a couple of key guys, but I feel like we’ve got guys in place who will do a good job for us.’

TYLER CRANE

Senior Carter Lehman and juniors Jacob Porco and Hunter Cox will play inside.

Freshman Colton Moore (6-2, 190) also will receive playing time.

“He’s got a really bright future,” Crane said.

Secondary

Senior Devan Moss returns and will play both cornerback and safety. Senior Bobby Laury also will play cornerback, as will junior Drowdy Hackbarth, who was the backup quarterback last year.

Sophomores Robert Yoder and Cole Kelly and senior Jacob Helgason will receive playing time at safety.

“We’ve got some young guys who need to work and develop each day,” Crane said.

Kickers

Murphy handled all the kicking chores last year and figures to do most of it this season. Junior James Whatley, a soccer player playing his first season, also will kick.

to them,” Bresler said. “I told them we had a chance at a winning season or we could have a mediocre season.

“We won 6-0 to finish with a 6-4 record, and afterward I told them we were no longer the Patriots but the Fighting Patriots,” Bresler said.

“Finishing with a winning record was fantastic,” Braasch said. “I heard that was the first time a team had a winning record at a first-year school.”

Powell said, “It was really important for us to have a winning record. We were all very competitive and wanted to establish a winning tradition.”

Bresler believes what the Patriots’ first team accomplished paved the way for Homewood’s state championship in 1974, in only the third year of the program.

“We had established a winning team,” Bresler said. “I think that set the stage for our state championship team two years later.”

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

SPARTANS From page 14

and strong; Jack has a burst of quickness; and Will has great vision and great hands. All three of them can catch the ball out of the backfield.”

Receivers

Senior Jackson Beatty is a seasoned veteran who has committed to Samford. Junior Clark

‘I feel good about our team. We have some huge spots to fill on defense, but our quarterback is back, our running back is back and three of five offensive linemen are back.’

CHRIS YEAGER

Sanderson and senior Rob Gillespie also have varsity experience. Junior Hudson Young, senior Sam Edmunds, senior Jack Earnhardt and junior Andrew Marks are also in the mix.

Offensive Line

Three starters return up front – senior center Davis Peterson, senior guard Mac Smith and junior guard William Courtenay.

Senior Henry Boehme, senior William Tomlin or junior Watts Alexander will start at the tackle spots.

OTM FOOTBALL Junior guard Charles Smith, junior tackle Ben Burkhart and junior center Carter Colvin will provide depth. Junior Richard Kinsaul will serve as a utility guy.

Junior J.B. Cook will be the long snapper.

Thursday, August 25, 2022 • 23

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DEFENSE

Defensive Line

Senior nose tackle Ethan Wint and senior defensive end Parker Avery are returning starters. Several others will rotate in and out. The group includes senior Sam Hunt, senior Billy Hoyt, senior Geoffrey Cook, senior Carter Drew, senior Will Trojano, senior John Handy, senior Carl Evans and junior James Hard.

Linebackers

Senior Trent Wright returns at middle linebacker and senior Vaugh Frost at weak-side linebacker. Junior Drew Widener is expected to start at strong-side linebacker.

Providing depth are junior Pelham Comer, senior Billy Radney, senior Pete Fruin, junior Joe Green, junior Will Lucas, junior Simms Sledge and senior Sam McPherson.

Secondary

Seniors Mac Palmer and Braxton Dean will man the safety positions, with junior Clyde Beavers, junior Tucker Crawford, sophomore Hampton King and junior Benjamin Payne serving as cornerbacks.

Kickers

Standout senior Reed Harradine, fresh off helping the Spartans win their first soccer state championship in the spring, will handle the kicking chores.

“He’s pretty special,” Yeager said.

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OTM FOOTBALL

OVER THE MOUNTAIN JOURNAL

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