Sports Gwinnett, May 2014 by Sports Gwinnett

THE ROAD LESS TRAVELED: CORNHOLE

CYCLING: MEGAN HEATH

life is active | MAY '14

four great

ultra moms

cooper o'brien story park events Race Calendar cycling

Atlanta, GA Permit #2883

football & baseball summer camps

see page 27

PAID

PRSRT STD ECRWSS US POSTAGE

THE ROAD LESS TRAVELED: CORNHOLE

CYCLING: MEGAN HEATH

LIFE IS ACTIVE | MAY '14

FOUR GREAT

ULTRA MOMS

COOPER O'BRIEN STORY PARK EVENTS RACE CALENDAR CYCLING

FOOTBALL & BASEBALL SUMMER CAMPS

SEE PAGE 27

THE ROAD LESS TRAVELED: CORNHOLE

CYCLING: MEGAN HEATH

LIFE IS ACTIVE | MAY '14

FOUR GREAT

ULTRA MOMS

COOPER O'BRIEN STORY PARK EVENTS RACE CALENDAR CYCLING

FOOTBALL & BASEBALL SUMMER CAMPS

SEE PAGE 27

THE ROAD LESS TRAVELED: CORNHOLE

CYCLING: MEGAN HEATH

LIFE IS ACTIVE | MAY '14

FOUR GREAT

ULTRA MOMS

COOPER O'BRIEN STORY PARK EVENTS RACE CALENDAR CYCLING

FOOTBALL & BASEBALL SUMMER CAMPS

SEE PAGE 27

May 24, 25 weekend

For T-Ball and Pee Wee teams

Teams eligible: Any Gwinnett County Association Rec T-ball or Pee Wee All Star teams Ages are according to Dixie Youth rules Each team is guaranteed a 3-game minimum with seeding determined from pool play. Entry Fees Pee Wee-$275 a team T-ball-$250 a team Entry Fees include 15 tickets to the June 9 Gwinnett Braves game. (Additional tickets can be purchased at the time of registration for the discounted price of $2.00/each.)

At the newly renovated Lions Club Park 5500 Rockbridge Road, Lilburn, Ga Special thanks to: gwi n n ettco un

rk s

& r e c re a

ti o

The tournament proceeds will benefit Gwinnett Parks Foundationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Youth Sports Scholarship Foundation Fund For more information, contact Gary Schussler gary.schussler@gwinnettcounty.com or 770.822.8849

PortraitSnap PHOTOGRAPHY

The only good thing about

CONCUSSIONS is that they can be

T R E AT E D . Knowing the facts could save your athleteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life. Recognition and proper management of concussions when they first occur can prevent further injury or even death. Most athletes can safely return to play after a concussion, but must recover at their own rate. The Concussion Institute at Gwinnett Medical Center-Duluth is the first facility of its kind in the Southeast, and its experts help athletes return to the field as quickly, and as safely, as possible. Learn more about concussions and how to protect your athlete. Download A Parentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Guide to Concussion Care at gwinnettsportsmed.com/resources.

Transforming Healthcare SPORTS GWINNETT MAGAZINE www.sportsgwinnett.com MAY 2014

CONTENT tHe ROaD less tRaveleD: cORNHOle

tHe ROaD less tRaveleD: cORNHOle

CYCLING: MEGAN HEATH

life is active | MAY '14

tHe ROaD less tRaveleD: cORNHOle

CYCLING: MEGAN HEATH

life is active | MAY '14

tHe ROaD less tRaveleD: cORNHOle

CYCLING: MEGAN HEATH

life is active | MAY '14

CYCLING: MEGAN HEATH

life is active | MAY '14

four great

cooper o'brien story park events race calendar cycling

ultra moms

Atlanta, GA Permit #2883

football & baseball summer camps

see page 27

football & baseball summer camps

see page 27

football & baseball summer camps

see page 27

football & baseball summer camps

see page 27

paiD

PRSRT STD ECRWSS US POSTAGE

COVER CREDIT In light of having 4 great moms to profile this issue we decided to have 4 unique covers shot. To accompany Reg L. Carver's great story we held a weekend photo shoot at Jeannine Smith's PortraitSnap studio in Norcross, GA. Covers from left to right: Rachael Reid, Stacy White, Susan Fleming and Heidi Kluesner.

[10] ULtra moms

7 8

Four Exemplary Mothers Making Differences In The Lives Of Many

[20] The road less traveled Gwinnett Cornhole

EXTRAS Short take on upcoming events

First UP Events, Races and Programs in the Next 45 Days

19 THE KASE Advice from a lawyer and licensed

[23] how i do it Cyclist Megan Heath [25] Cooper O'Brien Suwanee 8th grader continues fight against cancer

sports agent

22 CYCLING 24 PARKS Gwinnett Parks and Recreation

Events and Programs

26 best seat in the house Highlighting the past month in pictures.

SCAN THE QR CODE TO VISIT OUR WEBSITE AND ENTER OUR ONLINE CONTESTS! To get the app reader (i.e. ScanLife), visit your phoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s app store and search QR Code readers. facebook.com/ sportsgwinnett

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Full-day Camps from $126/week*

Arts  Music  Athletics Outdoors  Martial Arts Dance  Theatre  Science Sign up online at www.gwinnettparks.com or call 770.822.8840

Kidsplosion Creative Camp Starting at $80/week*! Lucky Shoals Park & Best Friend Park

SPORTS GWINNETT MAGAZINE www.sportsgwinnett.com MAY 2014

CONTRIBUTORS SPORTS GWINNETT

Clint Conley and Rico Figliolini C0-PUBLISHERS

Rico Figliolini EXECUTIVE EDITOR

REG L. CARVER

Reg is a freelance writer and photographer from Johns Creek, Georgia. He is the author of Jazz Profiles: The Spirit of the Nineties (Billboard Books 1998), which was nominated for the Ralph J. Gleason Award for excellence in music writing. He is also the author of Walking Up Lombard: My Long Journey Home (AuthorHouse 2012), a memoir of his journey through major depression and healing. You can find him at www. reglcarver.com and also www.500px.com/RegLCarver.

Reg L. Carver Associate Editor Print Edition CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Reg L. Carver Joel Hillsman Matthew Quinn Abby Wilkerson CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Jeannine Smith Jonathan Phillips Kathryn Nee Sonny Kennedy CREATIVE DIRECTOR & GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Rico Figliolini Advertising Sales

Patti Leach patti@sportsgwinnett.com Website Assistant

Katherine Macmanus

SPORTS360GROUP LLC 4305 River Stream Circle, Peachtree Corners, GA 30092 678.358.7858 www.sportsgwinnett.com

JONATHAN PHILLIPS

Jonathan Phillips has been a professional, award-winning photojournalist for the past 13 years and the owner of JTPhotography . Jonathan was born and raised in Gwinnett County and has seen it change and grow into the bustling metropolitan area that it is today. You can visit his website at www.capturelifethroughthelens.com

KATHRYN NEE

Kathryn is a photographer and owner of Kathryn Nee Photography. An Atlanta area native, Kathryn has been photographing life as art for over fifteen years. Her portfolio can be viewed at www.KathrynNee.com

MATTHEW QUINN

Matthew W. Quinn is a freelance writer from Marietta, Ga. He is also associate editor of The Roswell Current and has edited a weekly newspaper and reported for a daily. An aspiring novelist, he has a book under consideration with two publishers.

ABBY WILKERSON

A country girl at heart but metro Atlanta by address, Abby cultivated a lifelong love of sports and writing at the University of Georgia before moving to Gwinnett upon graduation. Abby is a pop culture lover, brakes for yard sales, and an unashamed basher of all non-SEC conferences.

JOEL HILLSMAN

Joel is a sports media freelancer covering high school and pro sports since 2009. He is play-by-play announcer and show host for high school football and basketball on NFHS Network covering the southeast and produces game highlights for NBA TV and Turner Sports.

KATHERINE MACMANUS

Katherine is an IB Diploma student at Norcross High School. She is a member of the NHS Marching Band and Relay for Life Team.

KRYSTAL COX

Krystal Cox is mom to 3 girls and 1 boy who have played several sports as part of Shiloh Athletic Association and Gwinnett Angels Travel Softball program. She served as team mom for numerous teams. She has also served on the softball board and is travel program co-founder.

FROM THE PUBLISHERS

Coming Issue: JUNE 2014

Sports Gwinnett Magazine is published once a month by SPORTS360GROUP LLC. Opinions expressed by the contributing writers and editors are not necessarily those of the publishers, editor or Sports Gwinnett. The publisher will not accept responsibility for submitted materials that are lost or stolen. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this publication. However, the publisher cannot assume responsibility for errors or omissions. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any manner whatsoever without written permission. ÂŠ2014 SPORTS360GROUP LLC. The editors welcome submissions and photogrpahy. Please direct them to editor@sportsgwinnett.com.

SPORTS GWINNETT MAGAZINE www.sportsgwinnett.com MAY 2014

Ad & Editorial Deadline: MAY 24, 2014

EXTREME DADS The good extreme. The dads that take their passions, sports and family seriously. Rico Figliolini and Clint Conley Co-Publishers

Please email editor@sportsgwinnett.com about advertising deadlines and editorial considerations.

extras NSTA FOOTBALL TRAINING CAMP

Norcross Sports Training Academy – Summer Training Camp June 2-5 at Cemetery Field 7:30a-11:00a (Ages 8-11) | 11:30a-3:00p (Ages 12+) This fun and challenging camp offers players the ability to train with expert coaches to set proper foundations and build skillful techniques that prepare them for the actions and reactions of the game. Special appearances by Atlanta Falcon All Pro Jessie Tuggle and 2X State Champion Norcross Varsity Football Coach Keith Maloof •

Hydration and cooling stations

•

Certified Athletic Trainers on hand

•

Free T-shirt and gifts from sponsors

Only 70 players allowed per age group. $125 before May 23, $150 after May 23, $50/day walk-in $25 sibling discount For more information call 770.559.0083 or email danny@nsta.net Register here: www.nsta.net/#!footballtrainingcamp/c16e8

NSTA 2014 SUMMER BASEBALL CAMP HOSTED BY NORCROSS HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL & NSTA May 27-30 at Pinckneyville Park | 9:00a-3:00p Norcross High School and NSTA are partnering to provide a 4-day Summer Baseball Camp for players ages 7-14. Players will be divided by age group as they focus on hitting, fielding, base running, speed and agility, and scrimmage games. We are only taking the first 100 registrants. $225 before May 1, $250 after May 1, $25 sibling discount For more information call 770.559.0083 or email danny@nsta.net Register Here: www.nsta.net/#!summer-baseball-camp/c13s

Gwinnett County Adult Athletics Softball Leagues Summer 2014 Team registration began April 15 and will end on May 22 or when leagues are filled. League availability cannot be guaranteed. Entire entry fee of $475 per team is required at registration. League play begins June 2 with each team playing a ten game season. Bethesda Park - 225 Bethesda Church Rd, Lawrenceville 30044 Game times are 6:30pm - 10:30pm Best Friend Park - 6224 Jimmy Carter Blvd. Norcross, 30071 Game times are 7:00pm - 11:00pm George Pierce Park - 55 Buford Hwy. Suwanee 30024 Game times are from 7:00pm - 11:00pm

PROVIDENCE 2014

summer camp Daycamp

SPORTScamp

SPORTS

Day

camp

Learn athletic skills and fundamentals at sports camp, or get the full experience of outdoor sports, art projects, music and more at day camp — all within the safe, spiritually enriching environment for which Providence is known. Space is limited. Sign up today!

Find out more at providencesummercamp.com 4575 Lawrenceville Hwy, Lilburn, GA 30047 SPORTS GWINNETT MAGAZINE www.sportsgwinnett.com MAY 2014

FIRST UP

FIRST UP Super Mom Race Saturday, May 10, 8:00am

Historic downtown Buford, Georgia 395 E. Main St. Buford, GA 30518 This race, held over Mother's Day weekend, will take runners through historic downtown Buford, and a portion of the proceeds goes to the North Metro Mothers of Multiples Club. To learn more, go to http://fivestarntp.com/ Super_Mom_5K.html

Congenital Heart Walk May 10, 2014

Stone Mountain Park U.S. Highway 78 East, Stone Mountain, GA 30087 www.kintera.org/faf/home/default. asp?ievent=1087269 The Congenital Heart Walk is a national event dedicated to fighting congenital heart disease. This year, this exciting joint effort between the Adult Congenital Heart Association and The Children's Heart Foundation is coming to nearly 30 communities across the United States, including right here in Greater Atlanta.

Mother's Day Half Marathon

Events, Races and Programs in the Next 45 Days

SJN S.M.I.L.E. 5K Race and One Mile Walk May 17, 2014

Camp Creek Greenway 76 Main Street, Lilburn, Georgia 30047 www.smile4.info/s-m-i-l-e-5k-race 5K race and one mile walk. Fundraiser. First 300 finishers receive a medal.

Big Peach Running Company Potluck Dinner Walk/Run

Gwinnett Life Run

June 3, 2014

May 24, 2014

Get ready for the Gwinnett Life Run benefiting the Pregnancy Resource Center of Gwinnett! You may run or walk with a stroller in the 10k, 5K, and 1 Mile race. Directly beside the finish line of each race will be a free Family FunZone, which is filled with several inflatables. For more information visit www.cfaraceseries.com/races/113/

Pre Memorial Day Half Marathon, 10K & 5K May 25, 2014

Tribble Mill Park 2125 Tribble Mill Parkway, Lawrenceville, GA 30045 www.deborahmontgomeryracing.com Entire course will be run around a lake in a beautiful scenic park. Well stocked aid station at the start/finish area. Generic tech shirt and medal to all finishers.

May 11, 2014, 7:00 am

Harbins Park 2995 Luke Edwards Road, Dacula, GA 30019 Admission: $55 Contact: Deborah Montgomery Email: dm85247@gmail.com Looking for a fun and healthy way to spend Mother's Day? Well, look no further because Harbins Park is hosting a half marathon during the morning of Mother's Day! It will be run on a wide paved path through the gorgeous park, and all runners who finish will be given a t-shirt and medal.

This day will be filled with fun, excitement, and most of all, bubbles! Use the discount code "GSC14" when buying tickets for half off ticket price. For more information go to www.bubblepalooza.com/atlanta-ga/

Bubble Palooza Saturday, May 31st, 10:00 am Gwinnett County Fairgrounds 2405 Sugarloaf Pkwy, Lawrenceville, GA 30045

SPORTS GWINNETT MAGAZINE www.sportsgwinnett.com MAY 2014

Suwanee Town Center Park Buford Hwy at Lawrenceville-Suwanee Road, Suwanee, GA 30024 www.suwanee.com/whatsnew.events.php Join the regular Big Peach running club group - no entry fee or pre-registration required. Stay after the run for some yummy dinner, potluck style provided by the vendors!

Kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Fishing Derby I FREE, May 17 May 17 from 10:00am to noon. Children through age 15 will be able to fish without a license this day. Bait and prizes will be provided, but be sure to bring your own fishing rods. The competition ends at 11:45am. Winners will be announced at noon. Parents must be present to sign a waiver for children to participate. No need to register, but contact the community center if you wish to volunteer. Centerville Community Center, 3025 Bethany Church Road in Snellville. Call 770.985.4713 for more information.

Gwinnett Braves vs. Buffalo Bisons May 5,6,7, 8, 2014

Gwinnett Braves vs. Indianapolis Indians May 17,18,19,20 2014

Gwinnett Braves vs. Norfolk Tides

May 22,23, 24, 25 2014

Coolray Field, One Braves Avenue, Lawrenceville, GA 30043 The Atlanta Braves AAA affiliate, the Gwinnett Braves, plays baseball in their 10,000 seat state-of-the-art Coolray Field on Buford Drive in Lawrenceville, less than 5 minutes from I-85 and the Mall of Georgia.

RUN the RAILS in BUFORD Saturday, June 7, 2014 5k-7:30a.m. 10k-7:45a.m Benefits Buford High School Athletic Department. It is a 2015 Peachtree Qualifier. Race starts at the Amphitheatre in Downtown Buford, 395 East Main Street, Buford, GA Entry Fee $25 until May 21st and $30 thereafter. 10k & 5k awards to 1st Overall & Masters. Door Prizes. Race Day Registration Opens at 6:30a.m. and closes at 7:15a.m. Phantom runner donations accepted. FOR DIRECTIONS, SEE WEBSITE bufordwolves.com and ONLINE REGISTRATION AT active.com SPORTS GWINNETT MAGAZINE www.sportsgwinnett.com MAY 2014

Ultra Mom Exemplary Mothers Making Differences In The Lives Of Many

Written by REG L CARVER

Photography by Jeannine smith, portraitsnap hen you stop and think about it, you realize that mothers truly keep the whole world moving. Mothers provide no less than the gift of life itself. Mothers are the first to feed and hold us, read to us and even (reluctantly) scold us. They are their children’s first loves, role models, teachers, and friends.

“Mothers are the people who love us for no good reason. And those of us who are mothers know it’s the most exquisite love of all.” Maggie Gallagher

In short, from a child’s beginning, his mother is his whole world. And odd as it may seem, generally mothers have no formal training for this most important of roles. They operate mostly out of instinct, with nature pointing the way. Mothers do the best they can with what they have. And most meet the many challenges of motherhood with a high degree of success. This month’s feature story “Ultra Moms” is a tribute to all mothers everywhere, and at all stages of motherhood. And in the spirit of celebration, Sports Gwinnett chose four mothers (all from readers’ nominations) whose stories are prime examples of what it means to be a great mom.

SPORTS GWINNETT MAGAZINE www.sportsgwinnett.com MAY 2014

ms Rachael Reid SPORTS GWINNETT MAGAZINE www.sportsgwinnett.com MAY 2014

Sports Gwinnett’s “Ultra Moms” provide for and support their children and their children’s endeavors to a truly exemplary extent and in the most inspiring of ways. They do this while also holding demanding jobs. (All these ladies work “full time,” which nowadays requires much more than 40 hours per week.) And remarkably, these mothers also participate regularly in sports or recreation for themselves. As difficult as some days may be, not one of them would have it any other way. These ladies embrace their roles with unbridled enthusiasm, and inspiring strength of character. And each has a love for life that is indeed uplifting. Perhaps not surprisingly (though not by design), Sports Gwinnett’s “Ultra Moms” are comprised of two teachers and two nurses. While each one has an extraordinary amount of time devoted to her own children, each also plays a motherly role to countless others, including patients, students, and their children’s friends. As you might surmise, these ladies try their best to downplay the credit due them for the love, compassion, and lessons they impart each and every day. But Sports Gwinnett is not going to allow that with respect to this group.

Rachael Reid The Glass Is Always Half Full

fter spending a bit of time with Rachael Reid, you realize that you are in the presence of the most selfless person you may ever meet. And by the time you depart, you feel humbled to know that one person gives so much of herself to so many. Meeting Rachael Reid makes you take a look at what you are doing (or not doing) for those around you. But honestly, Rachael literally has never known, or even thought about, any other way to live. As a young child, her upbringing included years of traveling with her parents (both Christian missionaries) throughout Europe. Doing whatever is needed for others was instilled in Rachael as a little girl – and she has

SPORTS GWINNETT MAGAZINE www.sportsgwinnett.com MAY 2014

Stacy White

made it her life’s work. Rachael and her husband, Hank, have five children, two boys and three girls. She will let you know quickly that she is their biggest fan and most enthusiastic cheerleader. Noted Rachael, “You know when you are at an awards event, and they ask that applause be held until the end? Well, I’m the one who ignores that and shouts when they call one of my children’s names!” Their first-born is son Davonta, 21, an IT Specialist in the US Army, currently stationed at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. (He completed one tour in Afghanistan serving his country.) Davonta is married and a new proud parent himself – with a baby boy who will soon celebrate his first birthday. Before joining the military, Davonta played football and basketball for South Gwinnett High School. The Reids’ second child, Chace, 16, is a junior at South Gwinnett High School, where he is a standout in football. Also performing well in the classroom, Chace is currently being courted by a host of Division I schools, including Harvard, Dartmouth, Michigan, and Illinois. (Rachael gives much credit to her boys’ strong character to her husband, Hank, and John Small, the head football coach at South Gwinnett.) After two boys, their young girls – triplets now age 12 - arrived. Among Niiah, Neeyah, and Neenah, they participate in cheerleading, soccer, softball, basketball, and flag football. The girls have also formed a singing group, and write their own music and lyrics. Hank, an executive chef, is currently working an extended assignment in Florida. This leaves Rachael to handle substantially all of the “on-site” parental duties. She manages all this while working full-time as a special needs teacher in Gwinnett County. (That said, Rachael is quick to point out that her husband is as “hands-on” as he can be from a distance, noting, “our parenting is very much a collaborative effort.”)

Susan Fleming

Frankly, there is no stopping for Rachael. She devotes time to several charities, including Exceptional Kids Athletics, Be The Match, LiftUp Atlanta, as well as being active with Grace Fellowship Church’s children’s ministry. Rachael’s faith plays a major role in her life. And again, it always has – watching her parents “walk the walk” with their faith made SPORTS GWINNETT MAGAZINE www.sportsgwinnett.com MAY 2014

a lasting impact upon her. An athlete herself, Rachael has been running seriously for three years. Running about five days per week, she runs the gamut of distances – from 5K’s to marathons. She runs to maintain her own health, as well as to raise money for various causes, most notably research relating to leukemia and lymphoma. Of utmost importance to Rachael is a positive attitude. Her motto is “the glass is always half full.” Rachael’s mettle (and her motto) were challenged severely for the entire year of 2009. In February of that year, her mother experienced a nearly fatal automobile accident, suffering a traumatic brain injury. Her mother was pronounced dead at one point, but was revived. Over a span of four months, Rachael’s mother went from actually being declared dead, to being in an extended coma, to intense rehabilitation. Rachael has become a mother figure to her own mother. In July 2009, Rachael’s brother was savagely murdered – literally beaten to death. Rachael reached him within minutes, before he actually passed away, and took a traumatic ambulance ride with him. On the way to the hospital, he died in her arms. Incredibly, and in keeping with her motto, she noted, “My brother is actually still with us. Several of his organs were harvested and donated to others. So, he lives on to this day.” Finally, her biological father suffered a massive stroke in November 2009, and died in January 2010. So in the course of one year, Rachael witnessed her mother suffer extensively, held her brother as he died in her arms, and lost her biological father. With most, t h i s

would be almost unbearable. But Rachael not only weathered these storms, during the same period, she continued her education, earning a degree in human services/psychology. Come what may, Rachael refuses to falter. She admits to going through natural grieving, but she leaned on her faith, Hank, her friends, and found an outlet in running. Using her mantra of “the glass is always half full,” she notes that she is “still standing, still happy, still feeling joy, and [is now] a stronger person.” Said Rachael, “introducing my children to the notion of having a spiritual life, and showing them that life is more than just about yourself is my greatest contribution to them.” She knows she is an unusual person in how much she gives – to her children and to so many. But she laughs and says, “I just can’t help myself!” After meeting Rachael Reid, you will never again fail to at least try to see the glass as half full.

Stacy White They Call Me "Mama White”

“S

he is always positive and a joy to be around, she is a great role model, and a perfect ‘Ultra Mom.’” These are the words of the individual who nominated Stacy for the honor of "Ultra Mom.” And Sports Gwinnett could not agree

more. Another teacher, Stacy is a life-long resident of Gwinnett County. She moved to Lawrenceville at just two weeks old, and was educated from elementary through high school in Gwinnett, graduating from Central Gwinnett High School. Sports have been a life-long passion for her. She said, “I grew up playing sports my entire life. I started playing year round sports at the age of 8 through my last year of high school. I played softball, basketball, tennis, and swam competitively – finishing first in swimming one year [in the Gwinnett County Recreation League.]” In high school, Stacy played varsity all four years in basketball, tennis, and swimming. She played softball for two years as well before stopping to focus more of her efforts towards basketball and tennis. She played intramural and sorority league basketball and flag football during her college years at West Georgia. Stacy will always play sports. She continues to play tennis to this day – in both USTA and ALTA leagues. She is “currently playing with the Graystone Women’s team out of Wildwood Subdivision.” Her passion for sports has proved crucial in her role as a high school teacher. And both have shaped her views regarding motherhood. (She received her teaching degree from the University of Georgia and a Master’s Degree in Technology in the Classroom from Walden University. She also holds an ESOL (English Speakers of Other Languages) add-on teaching degree.) Stacy has taught high school for 11 years – at Central Gwinnett, Archer, and as an adjunct teacher at Gwinnett Online Campus. She taught Business Education for six years at Central Gwinnett High School (where she also served as the Boys and Girls Varsity Swim/ Dive coach, as well as the Varsity Girls Tennis coach). For the last five years, she has taught Business Education at Archer High School and also serves as the TAP (Teaching As a Profession) teacher, responsible for placing seniors who desire to be teachers in local elementary schools to gain mentoring from an elemenStacy White with her mom Pam Autrey

SPORTS GWINNETT MAGAZINE www.sportsgwinnett.com MAY 2014

Heidi Kluesner SPORTS GWINNETT MAGAZINE www.sportsgwinnett.com MAY 2014

tary school teacher. At Archer High, she has been a senior class sponsor, responsible for coordinating activities for seniors, including the graduation ceremony. As for sports, she serves as the Varsity Girls Tennis coach, having just finished this year’s season with a 12 -2 record. Stacy gained a lot of experience as a “mother” prior to actually becoming one herself. She is much more than a teacher and coach to her students. Noted Stacy, “After teaching high school for 11 years, I have unfortunately run across kids who don’t really have [traditional] families, and so it made me kick into a motherly gear. I just want to love them all, help them all, and care for them all. Sometimes, my tennis team kids call me 'Mama White,' and some of my other students call me 'Mama White'." It’s just natural for me to [help them] if they need money, or if they need a ride home, or somebody to talk to.” As for her own children, she and her husband, Kyle, have one son, Brogan, age 10, and a daughter, Morgan, age 8. Brogan has played football (both as a running back and defensive lineman) with the Grayson Athletic Association since age 4. (His father is his head coach.) He has also played basketball for the last three years, baseball for six years (now with a GGBL travel team), and swam for three summer seasons. As young as he is, he already has a clear preference when it comes to sports. Said Stacy, “he definitely loves football. Football is his favorite.”

derstatement to say that Stacy has made an extraordinary commitment to her children – and to all the children who have crossed her path.

Heidi Kluesner Making The “Impossible” Look Easy

eidi Kluesner has been a resident of Gwinnett County since 1998, currently living in Lawrenceville. She is a nurse with Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, specifically working as an Operating Room Nurse at the Children’s Outpatient Surgery Center at Satellite Boulevard. Not surprisingly, in addition to her duties during surgery, she provides comfort to children as they are in the process of being put to sleep. Heidi has one son, Karson, 13, and one daughter, Hannah, 11. Both are heavily involved in their chosen sports. And as a single

Karson plays catcher for the Peachtree Ridge Lions, part of the GGBL travel league. In addition to an arduous travel schedule, he practices with his team at least twice per week in addition to his two or three games each week, often on both Saturdays and Sundays. Karson’s regular season runs from March to May, with post-season tournaments lasting until mid-June. (At one time, he also played football, basketball, and swam, but Karson is serious about baseball, and is coached and conditions year round.) “He wants to play in high school for Peachtree Ridge, and would love to get a scholarship to play [at the collegiate level],” notes Heidi. Karson’s extraordinary commitment to baseball forced him to choose one sport. Hannah is plenty busy as well. A committed gymnast (she has been in the sport since age 3), she spends at least 12 hours during the week at GTA Suwanee. And just like Karson, Hannah has weekend meets as well. And just like her brother, she already has college plans – Heidi notes that Hannah says, “one day she’ll be at Georgia as a Gym Dog.” Heidi plays tennis herself – in both spring and fall seasons, and in two leagues. She plays both ALTA and T2Tennis, and has been playing doubles competitively for the last eight years, winning division titles in both leagues.

Heidi served as team mom for Karson’s baseball teams for six straight years. She has also been team mom for his football and basketball teams. “I was pretty much always his team mom,” she noted. A time-consuming task itself, the team mom is generally in charge of communications to parents, coordinating picture days, planning end of season parties, providing creative mementos to each player, and generally doing all the things that no one else steps up to do.

Morgan is quite the athlete as well. She is active in gymnastics, and also has been a swimmer for the last three summers, a cheerleader with the Grayson Athletic Association for the last three years (in addition to one year with a church league), a tumbler last year, and has played softball for the last three years. Stacy has served as assistant cheerleading coach for Morgan’s squad every year she has participated. In addition to cheer coaching, Stacy has served as a softball team mom, a youth basketball team mom, and a swim team lane timer. As with all of the “Ultra Moms,” it is quite the un-

mom, Heidi is required to perform magic on occasion to juggle their weekly schedules.

Heidi with kids Karson and Hannah

SPORTS GWINNETT MAGAZINE www.sportsgwinnett.com MAY 2014

It almost seems miraculous that these “Ultra Moms” actually do all they do. And, again, all of them do it while holding demanding, full-time jobs.

Heidi is proof positive that “where there’s a will, there’s a way,” is not just a cliché. It is a truth that is proven over and over by so many like Heidi, who manage to do what others deem impossible.

sunsets, and inspirational vistas after a long, long climb. . . . When I am on my long trail runs I feel connected to myself and to nature. . . . I am usually ready to tackle anything after one of my long trail runs.”

“Ultra Moms” Make The World A Better Place

Heidi sees all she does as nothing less than a necessary part of being a good mother. She notes that, in her opinion, the most important part of being a mother is “loving [her children], caring for them, and preparing them to become responsible adults in a crazy world.”

Susan has run distances of up to 50 miles – by slowly and steadily working up to farther distances. During the week, she runs anywhere from 3 to 6 miles at a time, and reserves weekends for long distance trail running, logging three hours, four hours, even all day runs when the her mind and body allow her to run for such prolonged periods.

Sports Gwinnett’s “Ultra Moms” prove that the ways in which parents can care for and inspire their children are endless. There certainly is no one particular path one must follow. And all, in their own way, have proven to be awesome moms. And they influence many more lives than those of their own children. These ladies have and do make positive impressions upon everyone they encounter.

No one could dispute that she has and is going beyond her call to duty.

Susan Fleming A Truly Ultra “Ultra Mom”

ports Gwinnett’s final “Ultra Mom” is Susan Fleming. Born in Lima, Peru, she has lived in Gwinnett County since 1990. A graduate of Vanderbilt University, Susan has been a nurse practitioner since 2002. She works with Gwinnett Medical Center’s IMPACT program, where she is responsible for evaluating and helping to prepare “higher risk” patients for surgery. Susan and her husband, Bill, are “ultra” runners – those who regularly run distances beyond the traditional marathon distance of 26.2 miles. Susan started running 22 years ago after the birth of her first child – for the simple purpose of losing weight and maintaining her health. When she first started, she had no goal (nor idea, for that matter) that she would be running the distances she runs these days.

Susan and Bill have two sons – William, 22, and Andrew, 20. They attended Collins Hill High School, both running cross-country. William also played soccer and Andrew played lacrosse. Susan was team mom for William’s soccer teams for several years. William is currently a senior in college and played soccer in college (Nova Southeastern University) for three years. He is contemplating attending medical school upon graduating from college. Andrew is currently in training with the United States Coast Guard in Cape May, New Jersey. Upon completing his training at the end of this month, he will then have a five-year commitment with the Coast Guard.

To sum up her main role as a mother, Susan believes she has been a role model for her children with respect to the notion that one is never too old to start something new. She went back to school when they were 8 and 10 years old. (They saw firsthand that, with true commitment, one can “change course” and always find new a new path in life.) And even now, at 47, she is proving that it is never too But with the encouragement of her hus- late to follow a new passion and push oneself band, she simply started walking and running mentally and physically. at times and paces with which she felt com- With one of her sons pondering medifortable. As a matter of fact, for 21 years, she cal school, and the other serving in the Coast described her running as “low key.” It has only Guard, it is safe to say that Susan has met her been in the last year (after joining Gwinnett goal of being the type of role model she set out Medical Center’s running club) that she has to be. worked up to ultra distances. Within the last year, she has taken up trail running as well, enjoying the beauty of nature a trail run brings, as well as the relaxation and energy she gains on these runs. Notes Susan, “for me, ultra running is about slowing down and truly enjoying the process of running for hours on end while watching wildlife, beautiful

Congratulations and a heartfelt thank you to each one of Sports Gwinnett’s “Ultra Moms.” Reg L. Carver is a writer and photographer in Johns Creek, Georgia. You may find him at www.reglcarver.com and www.500px.com/RegLCarver.

More Online Check online for the story when it gets posted for an image gallery from our photo shoot weekend, plus short videos taken during the shoot. www.sportsgwinnett.com

Celebrating 10 Years of Supporting School Sports

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SPORTS GWINNETT MAGAZINE www.sportsgwinnett.com MAY 2014

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adult tennis league for all skill levels between the ages of 18 and 35! The league runs June 10 - July 15 and each co-ed team plays at their choice of facility every Tuesday night from 7:00-9:00 pm.

SPORTS GWINNETT MAGAZINE www.sportsgwinnett.com MAY 2014

THE KASE

TIPS FOR CHOOSING YOUR CHILD’S COACH Written by Alan Cleveland

The KASE is a regular column by an attorney, licensed sports agent and dad sharing what he knows with other parents who want the best choices for their children in sports.

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in a college savings account and encourage good grades. 3. Certifications, college and professional experience are not indicators of coaching ability. The most important aspect of choosing an instructor is whether their style and abilities are in harmony with your child’s learning style and personality. Having played the sport at a high level indicates a good knowledge base about the fundamentals, but has no correlation to the instructor’s ability to teach your child. There are many good certification programs, but you should investigate the certifying organization’s processes and philosophies and decide for yourself if it’s meaningful.

our child just finished their first season and showed a lot of promise. You learn that some of the better kids on the team have been taking lessons from a professional instructor and you wonder if perhaps your child should too. Sound familiar? In our competition 4. Choose an instructor appropriate driven society, it’s natural to want for your child’s skill level. Lesson our children to excel. Professional inprices usually vary based on the skill and experience of the instructor. If your child struction has become commonplace, just started playing, you may not need but is it necessary? Here are some tips a college or professional level instructor to consider. when a less experienced instructor will 1. Be honest about your child’s interest do. Most high level athletes go through a in the sport and their ability. This can progression of instructors as they develop save you a lot of money and time. Exceland climb the ranks in their sport. ling at any sport requires lots of practice 5. Ask for references and have an unand dedication. Regardless of whether derstanding of the fundamentals. Go they get professional instruction, kids watch the instructor teach a few kids. Do who practice more will get better than they repeat the same things or are they kids who don’t. Is your child willing to adjusting to the child’s ability and skill work outside of team practices to get betlevel? Educate yourself on the fundamenter? tals of the sport. There are usually some 2. Playing a sport is not the answer to accepted fundamental mechanics that evgetting a college scholarship. About ery instructor should know. 2% of all high school athletes receive NCAA level scholarships, which are usually given on a yearly basis and average Alan Cleveland is a Gwinnett attorney and licensed sports agent. A father of two boys, he coached youth baseball for less than $11,000. Far more academic and 13 years. For seven years he served on the Board of the merit scholarships are given out. You North Gwinnett Baseball Softball Association as President, could spend thousands of dollars on in- Communications Director and Sponsorship Director. He struction. Consider putting that money can be reached at Alan@Kasemanagement.com.

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SPORTS GWINNETT MAGAZINE www.sportsgwinnett.com MAY 2014

column

THE road less traveled GWINNETT CORNHOLE Written by Reg L. Carver photographs courtesy of Gwinnett Cornhole The Road Less Traveled. is a regular column, where we will take a look at individuals and sports/recreation that are often overlooked by most mainstream sports magazines. We hope you enjoy our detours.

kay, so I am kind of embarrassed to admit this, but until a few weeks ago, I had never heard of the game known as “cornhole.” Now, I have seen it played (while watching tailgaters), but I had no idea what I was watching. And as a result, I have been missing out on a good bit of fun. As I have said on more than one occasion in this magazine, I do not believe there is a sport or game that exists that you cannot find a place to play it in Gwinnett County. And sure enough, just last year, an official Gwinnett Cornhole league was founded.

What Is Cornhole? So if there is anyone out there who is as ignorant as I was about cornhole, let me tell you that it is basically what I have always known as “bean bag toss.” (Honestly, if you have never heard of bean bag toss, you may be the one person who needs to get out even more so than me.) In my opinion, cornhole is actually more of a game than a sport. Basically, there is not a whole lot to learn – and I mean that in the best

of ways. Anyone can play cornhole. The whole game consists of simply tossing a bag (filled with corn or beans) toward a board with a hole carved in it. Scoring is quite simple – if you toss the bag onto the board such that it stays there, you’ve just scored one point. If you happen to toss the bag through the board’s hole, you’ve just scored three points. Basically, the first team (which can be comprised of either 2 or 4 players) to reach 21 wins the game. A full match is typically the team who wins two out of the three games.

Currently, there are approximately 20 teams comprised of about 60 people – it’s a large enough group to get to make some new friends, but not so large as to ever feel lost in the crowd.

There you go. That is cornhole.

Please visit www.gwinnettcornhole.com for information covering just about everything you need to know – from how to play, to team fees, to giveaways.

Actually, Cornhole May Be A Perfect Outlet Truthfully, cornhole is the perfect game for accomplishing any one of several worthy things. One, much like darts or horseshoes, it is the perfect way to unwind with a group of buddies. Two, it’s an awesome way to spend a little time outdoors and enjoy the sun. And three, I would bet that some of the most fun, good-natured ribbing takes place during any given cornhole match. Let’s face it, life is difficult. Who couldn’t use a little time of fun and get a little exercise in the process. And cornhole does not require a huge time commitment. You can join a league and spend an hour or so one night a week to unwind.

Gwinnett Cornhole League In the spring of 2013, Gwinnett residents Joel Wyse and Nick Boyers founded Gwinnett Cornhole. Said Joel, “It’s something Nick and I love to play, so when we moved to this area, we started this to serve the community.” Its website is www.gwinnettcornhole.com. Anyone can sign up for the spring, summer, or fall season and come out to the Suwanee Town Center and play. Equipment is provided – you need only bring your team t-shirt to participate.

SPORTS GWINNETT MAGAZINE www.sportsgwinnett.com MAY 2014

The Spring 2014 season is wrapping up, but now is the perfect time to sign up for the Summer league. (You have the choice to sign up with the “A” league (a/k/a the “Ringers”) – the more competitive group, or the “B” league (a/k/a the “Dingers”) – one that is just pure recreation and relaxation.)

Give Cornhole The Old College Try If you are looking for a fun and relaxing way to enjoy the outdoors, take a look at the league’s website. If you’ve played, Gwinnett Cornhole will give you a chance to play most anytime – not just while tailgating. And if you’ve never tried the game, I hope you will give it a try. Reg L. Carver is a writer and photographer in Johns Creek, Georgia. You may find him at www.reglcarver.com and www.500px.com/RegLCarver.

SPORTS GWINNETT MAGAZINE www.sportsgwinnett.com MAY 2014

CYCLING

Highlighted Parks and Recreation Events and Programs

LIBRARY BIKE RIDES

SOUTHEAST REGIONAL JUNIOR CHAMPIONSHIPS MAY 24 and 25

Peachtree corners and buford dam. by Sports Gwinnett Staff The Library Bike Ride, hosted by the Peachtree Corners Branch of the Gwinnett County Library

Youth Racers

Event Day: Saturday, June 7, 2014 The library is encouraging people to read more, and “exercise of the mind” and riding, to "exercise of the body," with two bike rides. All proceeds will benefit the Children and Teen departments of the Gwinnett County Library.

tlanta-based Junior Flyers (Roswell GA) and Frazier Cycling Juniors (Suwanee GA) have partnered together with TopView Sports to deliver the first Southeast Regional Junior Championship. This championship will feature two days of racing, and will give riders the opportunity to test themselves before the USA Cycling Amateur National Championships in July. The Regional Championship will see competitors as young as 9 years old and go all the way to age limit of 18 years of age. The USA Cycling sanctioned event will offer a criterium on Saturday, May 24th. The West Oak course is one of the most popular group ride locations in the Atlanta area, and will deliver a fast race course for the riders to race on. The road race

Gwinnett Biking Trails

BELL Helmets is giving AWAY $100,000 to build 3 dream trail projects and you get to choose who wins! 26

on Sunday, May 25th (Harvins Hill Road Race, Dacula, GA) will feature a rolling route that will challenge riders and crown a worthy champion. The road race will also serve as the state road race championship for juniors in the state of Georgia. There is a Masters 40+ category for dads who race. Juniors will complete in their junior fields as well as category fields. The crit is open to youth ages 6-8. USAC licenses are required. One-day licenses are available.

Gwinnett Area Trail Riders (GATR) a chapter of the International Mountain Biking Association (IMBA) has partnered with Gwinnett County Parks and Recreation (GCPR) to compete for a Bell Helmets Bell Built Grant that will help fund a bike park area at Yellow River Park. The organization is now an East Coast Region Finalist for the grant. The winner is selected by online voting. This is a great opportuni-

SPORTS GWINNETT MAGAZINE www.sportsgwinnett.com MAY 2014

Contact information Race Director, Eric Broadwell, ebroadwell@gmail.com, 678-520-7337 Tim Molyneaux, tim@topviewsports.com, 407-256-7971 Host Housing, Cathy Frazier, cfrazier@fraziercycling.com, 770-513-8640

ty for GATR, GCPR, and Gwinnett County residents. To vote and help them win the grant please go to: http://www.bellhelmets. com/bellbuilt/ The winner will be announced May 21. To find out more about GATR visit www.sorbagatr.org View the GATR’s finalist video here https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=gbVt3szgYkk

The Family Bike Ride leaves from the Peachtree Corners Library at 7:45 AM with a fire truck escort and continues to pedal through the streets of Peachtree Corners and returning to the Library for a post-ride brunch and raffle prizes. Cost: $10/child $15/adult (over 18 years) $35/family • Helmets are REQUIRED • No training wheels • Riders 18 and under must be accompanied by Adult on the Ride

The library’s Buford Dam Ride, for the experienced and advanced cyclists, begins at 7:30 AM at the Peachtree Corners Library, and will cover a 60 mile route to Buford Dam on Lake Lanier, and back to the Library. Water stops will be provided at Buford Dam and the Duluth Library Branch, along with a post-ride brunch and raffle prizes at the end of the ride. Cost: $35.00 • Helmets are REQUIRED • Riders 18 and under must be accompanied by Adult on the Ride

To register for the Rides, go to: folgwinnett@gmail.com for a downloadable registration form. For information on this community event please email us at : folgwinnett@gmail.com

how I

DO IT

CYCLING

Megan Heath When did you start Cycling? I started cycling in February 2013, but I did not start racing until June 2013. Was it easier having two brothers into cycling already? Yes. Since my dad and two brothers were already involved in cycling, they had a lot of knowledge about the sport. I had been on the sidelines of many races so I was familiar with the atmosphere and race strategy. This made it easier for me to become comfortable and progress at a faster rate. What does your weekly training program consist of? I ride six to seven days a week, averaging 150 to 200+ miles per week depending on if it is racing season or off season training. My schedule consists of a variety of different workouts, alternating harder training days with recovery days. What inspires you to keep riding? God has given me a gift and I want to honor Him by using it well. He has blessed me with a healthy body - it's my job to help keep it that way. My passion for racing compels me to train well so that I can race well. What are your pre-race rituals? I eat a protein and a carb about two to three hours before my race and more carbs about an hour before my race. I warm up on a trainer or on the road for a about thirty minutes before my race. How do you stay focused? One thing that spurs me on is training and racing with more experienced or faster cyclists. That provides a constant challenge! It also helps to have the accountability of a cycling family, a coach, and a team. What challenges do you place on yourself? Each year Frazier Cycling has a goal setting workshop. I have a poster hanging in my room of my annual goals, which include challenges in number of miles for the year and a time trial speed goal. Long term goals are included as well. Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your favorite foods before a race? Fruit, such as apples and bananas, rice, and my mom's oatmeal peanut butter cookies. What is an important lesson that you have learned about yourself through your riding experience? I've learned through racing that I can dig deeper, endure more, and be tougher than I ever imagined. Most people have more in them than they realize. How has cycling helped you in other areas of life? When someone develops the habits of focus, discipline, and hard work they naturally carry over. Schoolwork and my other commitments require these same habits. I can study longer, work harder, and push myself farther than I previously realized.

Want to read more about Megan? Visit us online for a slightly longer Q&A and look for a short video from the photo shoot. Photography by Jeannine Smith, PortraitSnap.com

SPORTS GWINNETT MAGAZINE www.sportsgwinnett.com MAY 2014

PARKS

Highlighted Parks and Recreation Events and Programs

Summer Kickoff Classic May 24,25

Saturday, May 10

National Train Day at Vines Park 10:00 AM Contact 678.277.0900 Free! Celebrate National Train Day in the park! The Vines Garden Railroad will celebrate its seasonal opening of the only public G-scale garden railroad in the state of Georgia. For more information visit www. vinesgardenrailroad.com or call 678.277.0900. Vines Park, 3500 Oak Grove Road, Loganville.

Baseball

“T

he Gwinnett Parks Foundation Summer Kickoff Classic will be the first time Gwinnett County Parks and Recreation (GCPR) is hosting a baseball athletic event or tournament in quite some time,” says Gary Schussler, Athletic Coordinator with GCPR. It’ll take place at the newly renovated Lions Club Park in Lilburn on May 24, and 25th. They are currently soliciting both T-ball and Pee Wee All-Star teams from all their partnering athletic associations to enter into our tournament Memorial Day weekend. According to Schussler, “This is not only to have fun crowning a county champion in each age division, but to help generate funds for our youth athletic scholarship fund.” The fund annually distributes anywhere between $3,000-$5,000 to families who otherwise might not be able to get their kids into the programs within our parks. These funds are gathered through the county’s Youth Sports Expo raffles and silent auction, donations, and with events like the Summer Kickoff Classic. In years past Atlanta Braves’ all-star catcher Brian McCann and his parents hosted an annual travel baseball tournament (called Brian McCann Summer Classic) within the county parks

Saturday, May 10 at dusk

Movies Under the Stars and donated funds to the program. McCann is gone from the Braves and the county has now picked up the challenge to make up the dollars no longer available from that event continues Schussler, “so we can sustain the current support [levels] to recreational athletics throughout the county.” The new tournament event will mimic rules and play that many of these teams are familiar with via Dixie Youth Baseball. Schussler says, “Right now we plan to limit the tournament to 8 teams per age division with the top 4 seeds from pool play to determine a champion. We will offer a 3-game guarantee which is something not all tournaments offer. This is so teams can get on field game experience with their coaches and new teammates prior to competing at the district, state, or national level within Dixie Youth Baseball

SPORTS GWINNETT MAGAZINE www.sportsgwinnett.com MAY 2014

post season tournaments. It’s going to be a great warm up for them.” Teams eligible: Any Gwinnett County Association Rec T-ball or Pee Wee All Star teams. Ages are according to Dixie Youth rules. Each team is guaranteed a 3-game minimum with seeding determined from pool play. Entry Fees: Pee Wee-$275 a team T-ball-$250 a team. Entry Fees include 15 tickets to the June 9 Gwinnett Braves game. The tournament proceeds will benefit Gwinnett Parks Foundation’s Youth Sports Scholarship Foundation Fund. For more information, contact Gary Schussler gary.schussler@gwinnettcounty. com or 770.822.8849.

Town Center Park Activities start at 7 pm, movie around 8:30 pm. Movie: Saving Mr. Banks

Saturday May 17

Kids Color the Park Day

11:00 AM Contact 678.277.0910 Free! Come and color the Park for National Kids to Parks Day! Come color our sidewalks and have a picnic at the park - you bring the kids and Gwinnett Parks will bring the chalk! Prizes for different categories. For more information, call 678.277.0910. George Pierce Park Community Recreation Center, 55 Buford Hwy, Suwanee.

May 31, 3 pm

Braves Game on the Green

Town Center Park Atlanta Braves @ Miami Marlins

Suwanee 8th grader continues fight against cancer Website raises funds for his care Written by MATTHEW W. QUINN

less than 100 doctors that have dealt with this type of sarcoma.”

photography courtesy of the family

Medications they’ve tried before have stabilized the cancer for a short time before it adapts. There are options left, but none known to work. One possible next step is immunotherapy. The family will participate in a clinical trial beginning soon at Children’s Healthcare at Scottish Rite in Atlanta.

Though the struggle is tough, North Gwinnett Middle School basketball player Cooper O’Brien continues his fight against clear-cell sarcoma.

ooper O’Brien, an eighth grader at North Gwinnett Middle School and a rising freshman at North Gwinnett High School, is still undergoing treatment for clear-cell sarcoma. His father Kevin O’Brien said Cooper, 14, went to the doctor in May 2013 for soreness under his arm and a pea-sized swelling was found there. The doctors said these were reactive lymph nodes, but during surgery found they were clear-cell sarcoma. Within three months, they’d found the cancer had spread into his lungs from the lymph system. His mother Donna O’Brien said Cooper finished radiation treatment in mid-July and was scheduled for surgery in mid-August. This was canceled when they found the cancer had spread into his lungs. At that point they started looking into clinical trials and tried two different inhibitor drugs. This slowed the cancer, but not enough. Kevin said for this type of cancer there’s no set treatment or standard protocol that has been successful like there is for more common cancers like breast, colon, prostate, etc. There’s no known survival rate. Anything that they do is unknown at this point. The O’Briens have been in touch with the community of people with this cancer, including creating a private Facebook group for those who have or have been involved with clear-cell sarcoma. “We share information,” he said. “We’ve spoken to doctors and have been to the Boston Children’s hospital for a second opinion. There’s

Despite the situation, Cooper keeps up a positive attitude. He trusts his parents, especially his mother, completely. He’s also retained his sense of humor — when he found out he couldn’t play basketball, he joked he would run track instead.

the faculty. Though the faculty won, Cooper put together a good game plan that gave everybody play time. Cooper would like to resume play in high school. He’s played in the shooting guard position since the third grade and would like to do it all the way to the college level if possible. Web designer Angie O’Farrell created the website curecooper.com to help raise money for Cooper’s medical care. “I’m a good friend of the O’Briens,” she said. “We’re in the same neighborhood with them.”

She had the idea to buy the domain name when on the phone with a neighbor. She knew the medical bills would be astronomical and that the community would want to help out, so an online fundraising mechanism would provide a good avenue for well-wishers to help the family. The website includes links to donate money directly as well as order t-shirts. There is inforCooper O'Brien mation about sarcoma and a video on Cooper’s progress. Sponsors and donors are recognized. Cooper said he’s feel- The website is not the only fundraiser for Cooing “somewhat all per’s care. Jose Hevia, the owner of the Cheeky right.” Right now his right arm is swollen from Taqueria in Suwanee, Cumming, and East Cobb his shoulder to his wrist due to the cancer in- masterminded a fundraising golf tournament held last November. The tournament was the volvement in his lymph nodes. single largest fundraiser. T-shirt sales have also His last year at North Gwinnett Middle raised a good bit of money for Cooper, but their School is going well. Cooper attends class evprimary purpose is to provide a way for the comery day he can. Though he wasn’t able to play munity to show its support for Cooper visually. basketball this past year as he did in seventh Wristbands and headbands have also been sold grade, he did work as a manager for the team. to raise money by football, basketball, and baseHe’d asked Coach Todd Posey if he could still ball organizations in the North Gwinnett area. be part of the team and Posey gladly agreed. As manager, Cooper takes down statistics dur- “There’ll all sorts of different things people ing the games. It’s not really the same, but if he have created,” she said. can’t play himself, working on the statistics is the closest thing. Kevin added that at the end of the season, Cooper coached his fellow eighth graders, both boys and girls, in a game against

No major fundraising events are planned for the future, although people will still be able to donate online. O’Farrell said the Suwanee community has supported the O’Brien family overwhelmingly and she is proud to live there.

SPORTS GWINNETT MAGAZINE www.sportsgwinnett.com MAY 2014

BEST SEATS

BEST SEAT IN THE HOUSE The Passion of Sports and Recreation in Pictures

The Greater Gwinnett Championship 2014

TOP ROW: Miguel Jimenez celebrates his win. Miguel Jimenez' 3rd shot on the 18th David Frost on the 17th fairway MIDDLE ROW: Fred Couples in the 18th sand trap 18th green BOTTOM ROW: Fred Couples in a sand trap Larry Mize's 3nd shot on the 18th green Photography courtesy of Sonny Kennedy, www.sonnykennedyphotography.com

SPORTS GWINNETT MAGAZINE www.sportsgwinnett.com MAY 2014

Stone Mountain Golf Course Junior Camps & Kiddie Kamps Kiddie Kamps - ages 5-8 - $75.00 Tuesday-Thursday - 9:00am-11:00am June 9-11 - July 8-10 - July 22-24 Junior Camps - ages 8-15 - $200.00 Monday-Friday - 9:00am-12:00pm June 9-13th - June 23-27th - July 14-18th - July 28-August 1 Come get in the swing with our Golf Camps! Camps lead by LPGA/US Kids certified professional Heidi Mitchell. We will focus on fitness, fun and golf. For full details on our camps and to register visit www.heidimitchellgolf.com or contact Heidi Mitchell at heidimitchellgolf@gmail.com or 678-637-2802.

Life is Active â&#x2013;Ş www.sportsgwinnett.com SPORTS GWINNETT MAGAZINE www.sportsgwinnett.com MAY 2014

THEY’RE ALL INSPIRING. BUT ONLY ONE WILL BE COMEBACK ATHLETE OF THE YEAR. Help choose our Comeback Athlete of the Year. Visit choa.org/vote between May 1-15, 2014, to watch these 8 amazing stories and cast your vote.