UPSTATE GAME DAY by Upstate Game Day youth sports magazine

>> SUMMER SPORTS CAMPS: Guide to Area Offerings

> NFL DRAFT: LOCAL STANDOUTS EYE NEXT LEVEL BRANDON THOMAS, COREY MILLER HAVE BIG DAY IN SIGHTS

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DANIEL GOSSETT winds up to deliver a pitch this season. Gossett and ex-Byrnes teammates STEVEN DUGGAR and REED ROHLMAN are members of the Tigers baseball team.

PLEASE TAKE ONE > Q&A:

WOODRUFF COACH

TREY ELDER vol. 3, no. 7 / April 20-May 19, 2014

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FREE!

TIGERS’ TALE

FRIENDSHIP, BASEBALL LEAD REBELS TO CLEMSON

PROVIDED PHOTO / CLEMSON

>> SPRING SIGNINGS: LOCAL ATHLETES ANNOUNCE COLLEGE DECISIONS >> athletes in action photo galleries / columnists & more <<

better stronger

faster Don’t let injury knock you out of the tournament. Is an injury preventing you from being your best? Get professional orthopaedic treatment and preventative care to train right and play right, no matter the game. We are experts in treating all sports injuries from the fingers to the toes and everything in between: • • • •

Fractures Shoulder instability ACL tears Ankle sprains

• Rotator cuff tears • Back pain • Cartilage tears

OA physicians: M. David Mitchell, MD; Michael P. Hoenig, MD; Michael Henderson, MD; Michael W. Funderburk, MD; James Behr, MD; Stephen Harley, MD; Mary Joan Black, MD; Anthony DiNicola, MD; Gerald L. Rollins, MD.

Orthopaedic Associates

Better. Stronger. Faster.

www.upstateoa.com • 864.582.6396 North Grove Medical Park, Spartanburg, SC • West Grove Park, Duncan, SC

2 APRIL 15 - MAY 14, 2014 u GAME DAY

Since 1962

Leading Off > 14

BRANDON THOMAS, COREY MILLER HAVE NFL IN SIGHTS

Q&A INTERVIEW with new Woodruff coach TREY ELDER

SUMMER SPORTS CAMPS: Guide to area offerings

> 12 TENNIS LEGACY provides Net

games for local family

> 20

LOCAL SPRING SIGNINGS

> 26

DAVE GUTSHALL honored

Looking for an extra copy? Upstate GameDay is located in more than 250 high-traffic locations. Copies can be picked up inside many restaurants, including Bojangles, Fuddruckers, Pizza Inn, The Clock, Chick-Fil-A (eastside & Hwy 290), bookstores such as Barnes & Noble, Academy Sports, medical offices, gyms/fitness centers, schools, hair salons, and many more locations. For more information, email les.timms@upstategameday.com. GAME DAY u upstategameday.com 3

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GAME DAY Youth Sports Magazine

EDITOR & PUBLISHER / LAYOUT/DESIGN EDITOR

LES TIMMS III les.timms @upstategameday.com

ASSOCIATE EDITOR / SENIOR WRITER

JOHN CLAYTON john.clayton@upstategameday.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS & PHOTOGRAPHERS

Karen Puckett • Ken Finley Seth Buckley • Tim Lambka Bucky Rogers • Ed Overstreet Gwinn Davis • Pete Cochran Lorin Browning • Steve Hinds

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les.timms@upstategameday.com 864-804-0068

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CONTACT GAME DAY 864-804-0068 Upstate Game Day Youth Sports Magazine is not responsible for the return of submitted photography, artwork, or manuscripts and will not be responsible for holding fees or similar charges. © Upstate Game Day Youth Sports Magazine 2014 Upstate Game Day Youth Sports Magazine is published by Timms Communications. All contents are copyrighted by Upstate Game Day Youth Sports Magazine. All rights reserved. No portion of this magazine, including publisher-designed advertisements, may be copied, scanned, or reproduced in any manner without prior consent from the publisher. Unauthorized user will be billed appropriately for such use.

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NEWS & NOTES FROM THE LOCAL YOUTH SPORTS SCENE

Members of the team, from left to right: Austin Maynor, Hunter Cauthen, Will Dawes, Hunter Buice, Jason Fletcher and Devin Fuller. Tammy Hodges, center, teaches the Outdoors Education Class.

BROOME ANGLERS HOOK STATE TOURNEY WIN >> Members of Broomeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Outdoors Education Class captured the S.C. Department of Natural Resources 2nd Annual State Championship Bass Fishing Tournament title in late March at Lake Murray. Broome anglers took first and second overall in the two-man competition with Devin Fuller and Austin Maynor taking first, catch-

ing five fish with a weight of 15.08 pounds. The tandem of Hunter Buice and Jason Fletcher was second overall with a combined weight of 14.73 pounds. The Broome team combined for a total weight of 35.09 pounds. Defending state champion Dorman finished second with a total of 26.68 pounds.

STATE CHAMPS!

GWINN DAVIS / for Upstate Game Day

coming up

Wolverine Clean-A-Thon set for June 13 The inaugural Wolverine CleanA-Thon, a weightlifting fundraiser featuring members of the Woodruff High School football team, is scheduled for Friday, June 13, beginning at 7 p.m. Pledges can be made to players for each round in which they compete.A silent auction is also planned. For more information on how to support the fundraiser, contact Woodruff head coach Trey Elder by email at telder@spartanburg4.org.

Members of the J.L. Mann girls lacrosse team celebrate their 13-11 victory over Wando on April 22. The Patriots (15-3) captured the 4A SCHSL State Lacrosse Championship at White Knoll High School in Lexington. GAME DAY u upstategameday.com 5

UPSTATE GAME DAY Q&A

TREY ELDER

Woodruff tradition made coaching job an easy call By JOHN CLAYTON On Twitter @JCTweetsOn

n April, former Byrnes quarterback and college assistant at Appalachian State and Western Carolina Trey Elder was hired as Woodruff ’s head football coach.

Elder succeeds Brian Lane, who left Woodruff to take over work. I got to see the support here as head coach at Byrnes -- also his QUESTIONS coming to games on Friday night. high school alma mater. It’s crazy -- the town shuts down for Game Day’s John Clayton sat down football here. with Elder for 10 questions concerning the Being able to sit down with Dr. Lipscomb, first-time head coach and Woodruff football: Dr. Fulmer and Coach Lawson and hearing their vision and getting their support really Q: Why did you leave the college coaching intrigued me. track for a high school job? A: I had two goals by the time I was 30 -Q: Where do you rank this job among No. 1 goal was to be a high school head coach others in the county? by the age of 30 or, if I was a college coach, to A: It’s hard to say because I’ve been out of be an offensive coordinator by the time I was Spartanburg County for several years. But, in 30. my opinion, from tradition from way back, it’s So, when I got the call that they were got to be one of the top jobs in the state. That’s interested in me, I started thinking about it another thing that so intrigued me about it. It’s and praying about it, and it really got the juices not just another job. It’s one of the premier jobs flowing about it. To be able to accomplish a in the state, in my opinion. goal, and to be able to accomplish that goal here in a place that has so much tradition and Q: Given that you and Coach Lane are to be 20 minutes from home, too, is a reat Byrnes products, do you think that will make opportunity. the transition easier for you and the team? A: I don’t think being Byrnes products Q: What in particular made the Woodruff makes the transition easier. I think it’s being job so appealing to you? the same sort of person as Coach Lane. I was A: I had talked to Coach Lane a lot. I blessed to play at Byrnes. We had some great had recruited this area, and Coach Lane had teams, some great people and a great coach in coached me in high school. He’s been one of Coach (Bobby) Bentley. We all come from sort my closest friends in the coaching profession. I that same school of thought, being guys who got to come through here and see how the kids like to edify and build a man before the football 6 APRIL 15 - MAY 14, 2014 u GAME DAY

TREY ELDER succeeds Brian Lane, who left Woodruff to take over as head coach at Byrnes, his high school alma mater.

part is the school of thought we come from. Q: What did you learn about being a head coach at Appalachian State and Western Carolina? A: I was blessed to really be under the three guys I have been as a coach and a player. Coach Bentley and (former Appalachian State head coach) Jerry Moore, who is one of the all-time greatest. He was the winningest coach in Southern Conference history, and the thing I learned him the most is how to be relatial with players. His big thing was that people wouldn’t necesarily remember what you do for them, but they will always remember how you made them feel. Coach always had a special way of making people feel special, no matter what your role was. With Coach (Mark) Speir at Western Carolina -- he recruited me at App -- it was just watching him and watching him build a program. I saw how tirelessly he worked, and it got the wheels turning in my head with some creative ideas I’ve had around here comes from what Coach Speir taught me. Q: There have been several head coaches here at Woodruff since the Willie Varner era, but is there still pressure here given the history here?

A: I wouldn’t say it’s pressure. Obviously, people still bring up Coach Varner a lot. But just to be able to sit in this office and go out and play on a field named after him, you feel that you’ve got some big shoes to fill here. Coach (Freddie) Brown and Coach Lane here before me, they’ve done a great job paving the way for this era of Woodruff football. I think if you’re a coach and a competitor, you’re going to want that kind of stuff. You want to be in a place where it’s expected of you to win. I don’t want to go to a place where there’s no pressure. I want to go to a place where people want to win; the town wants to win; the players want to win. That’s good pressure. That’s the kind of presure that brings the best out of you. Q: What have you learned about Woodruff and your players since taking over? A: It’s a very disciplined environment, and it starts with the school. They do a great job here with our schools -- and it’s why

WOODRUFF’S WINNING TRADITION SPARKED TREY ELDER TO GO TO A “PLACE WHERE PEOPLE WANT TO WIN; THE TOWN WANTS TO WIN; THE PLAYERS WANT TO WIN.”

our grades are so good -- of instilling discipline in the kids. When you get them in the weightroom and you get them after school, you don’t have to worry about them doing what you asked them to do because that’s instilled in them already. They’re going to work and do what you asked them to do. There’s still a few exceptions, but you’re going to find that everywhere. For the most part, I’ve been very, very pleased with how disciplined our players are.

Q: What’s the most important attribute of a head coach, in your opinion? A: Being able to meet every player where they are. I think I learned this from Coach Bentley -- every person who walks through that door and puts on a Woodruff helmet is important to the program. Some people’s roles are more valuable in their perception by the community, but one person’s role is as important as the next in

the football program -- whether you’re a scout-team linebacker, whether you’re the quarterback, whether you’re the kicker -- at some point your role matters and it matters just as much as the next person’s. The biggest quality is making sure I relay to them just how important they are to us and how their role is the most important thing. They’re in that role for a reason, and they have to fill that role like nobody else can.

NOW OFFERING TWICE-WEEKLY STRENGTH TRAINING SESSIONS for the summer for MIDDLE SCHOOL and HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETES. Please call for days and times.

Now offering classes on the Westside at All-Star Bat CALL FOR CLASS TIMES AND LOCATIONS.

FALL STRENGTH TRAINING. Call for schedule and to sign up.

All-Sports Performance Training at the

Speed AcAdemy

of Finley Physical Therapy & Sport Training 1420 Skylyn Drive / Spartanburg, SC / 864.342.0180 / facebook.com/FinleySports

iddle and High School coaches are looking for young athletes with foot speed, agility and explosive quickness. Many young athletes are not prepared physically for middle school and high school sports. At The Speed Academy of Finley Physical Therapy and Sport Training, young athletes receive a structured training program to help them gain a competitive edge. At each session, athletes are taught sport-specific skills that will help increase vertical leap, improve speed and core strength while reducing the risk of injury.

864.342.0180 864.342.0180 GAME DAY u upstategameday.com 7

Summer Camps

Whatever your sport, summer is the perfect time to hone your skills. Area colleges, universities and high schools offer to chance to improve alongside other athletes, sometimes under the tutelage of college players and coaches. From baseball to lacrosse to equestrian, from half-day camps to weeklong overnight stays, there’s a camping experience to help many athletes have a fun, productive summer. >> COMPILED BY MARY CALDWELL <<

>> WOFFORD <<

WOFFORD COLLEGE ID SOCCER CAMP Dates: June 8 and Aug. 3 Age: rising 9th-12th grade girls Description: Train and be evaluated at the college level Cost: $100 (includes lunch and T-shirt) More info: ferrellhj@wofford.edu WOFFORD COLLEGE CROSS COUNTRY CAMP Dates: June 4-6, Mondays Wednesdays and Thursdays 7:30-10:30 a.m. Age: open to any and all Description: includes running, strength/core training work, interval training and more Cost: Varies from $250 for half of the sessions to $475 if you register the day of camp More info: Johnny Bomar at bomarjc. wofford.edu or 864-597-4109 WOFFORD COLLEGE COACH I BASEBALL FULL DAY SKILLS CAMP Dates: June 9-13 Age: 6-12 Description: skill instruction, daily baseball games and other baseball-related activities Cost: $235 More info: Jason Burke at 864-597-4126 or burkejb@wofford.edu WOFFORD COLLEGE COACH I BASEBALL HALF DAY SKILLS CAMP Dates: June 16-19 or June 30-July 3

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Age: 6-12 Description: skill instruction, daily baseball games and other baseball related activities Cost: $125 More info: Jason Burke at 864-597-4126 or burkejb@wofford.edu

Age: boys and girls ages 5-6 years Cost: $135 Description: daily work on fundamentals, instruction from Wofford players and coaches More info: call 864-597-4456 or 864-597-4115

WOFFORD COLLEGE COACH I HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL SKILLS CAMP Date: Aug. 30-31 Age: high school Cost: $215 Description: skill instruction, daily baseball games and other baseball-related activities More info: Jason Burke at 864-597-4126 or burkejb@wofford.edu

WOFFORD COLLEGE FULL-DAY BASKETBALL CAMP Dates: June 16-20 or Aug. 4-8, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Age: Boys and girls ages 7-18 Cost: $230 (lunch provided) Description: daily work on fundamentals, instruction from Wofford players and coaches More info: call 864-597-4456 or 864-597-4115

WOFFORD COLLEGE MIKE YOUNG BASKETBALL TEAM CAMP Date: June 12-15 Cost: For teams attending four days: $205 per camper or $700 per team that commutes; cost for three days is $180 per camper for boarding teams or $600 for teams that commute Description: individual workouts, games, Wofford coaching staff available More info: call 864-597-4456 or 864-597-4115

WOFFORD COLLEGE HALF-DAY BASKETBALL CAMP Dates: June 16-20 or Aug. 4-8, 9 a.m.-noon

WOFFORD COLLEGE EDGAR I. FARMER JR. WOMEN’S BASKETBALL CAMPS Terrier Team Camp Date: June 21-22 Age: open to Varsity, JV or Club Teams, Grades 7-12 Cost: $150 non-refundable deposit, $600 per team (meals and housing included), $350 per team (no housing, meals included), $300 per team (no housing, no meals). Registration will take place in the Benjamin Johnson Arena from noon-2 p.m. on June 2. TERRIER DAY CAMP Date: June 23-27 (8 a.m.-5 p.m.) Age: grades 1-9 Cost: $200 ($75 non-refundable deposit).

Terrier Elite Camp: Date: Session 1: June 28 from 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; Session 2: June 29 from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Age: Open to grades 9-12 Cost: $100 or $175 to attend both sessions ($50 non-refundable deposit). Additional charge of $50 to attend both sessions and stay overnight in the dorms WOFFORD COLLEGE CHAMPIONS JUNIOR GOLF DAY CAMP Date: June 3-6 Age: Boys and girls age 5-17 Cost: $195 if paying by cash or check, $200 if paying using PayPal link on championsjuniorgolf.com Resident camp: June 15-19 (boys and girls age 10-18). Cost: $995 resident camper or $925 commuter camper if paying by cash or check; $1,020 resident/$950 commuter if paying using PayPal link on championsjuniorgolf.com More info: championsjuniorgolf.com WOFFORD COLLEGE RON SWEET VOLLEYBALL CAMPS Date: July 5-8 (All Skills Camp) Age: 10-16 Cost: overnight $280, extended day $260. Position camp: July 9-11, ages 10-18. Cost: overnight $265, extended day: $250. Advanced camp: July 12-15, ages 13-18. Cost: overnight: $300, extended day: $275.

Team Camp 1: July 17-20, ages 14-18. Cost: overnight $290, extended day: $265. Team Camp 2: July 22-25, ages 14-18. Cost: overnight $290, extended day: $265 Description: pass/set/hit drills, digging and blocking, practice games and more More info: 864-597-4152 WOFFORD COLLEGE MIKE AYERS FOOTBALL CAMPS The Option Camp: June-15-17. Grades 6-12. Designed for teams and individuals to become better players in the Option offense Top Prospect Camp: May 31, June 14 and June 18: Rising juniors and seniors, all positions Team Camp: June 22-24, all positions To register online, go to athletics.wofford. edu. For more information, contact Peter Kalinowski at KalinowskiP@wofford.edu or 864-597-4118 WOFFORD COLLEGE ROD RAY TENNIS CAMP Dates: Session 1: June 3-6: Day camp or half-day; Session 2: June 8-12: Overnight Camp or Day (FULL); Session 3: June 15-19: Overnight Camp or Day; Session 4: June 2226; Overnight Camp or Day; Session 5: June 29-July 2: Day Camp or half-day Cost: $649 for overnight camp; $335 for day camp; $199 for half-day camp Description: specializes in experienced players as well as though who aren’t quite there yet More info: Rod Ray at rayra@wofford.edu ,

WANT TO PROMOTE YOUR CAMP IN THE NEXT EDITION OF UPSTATE GAME DAY? email LES.TIMMS@UPSTATEGAMEDAY.COM

Special Advertising Rates are Available. 864-597-4154 or 864-809-8827 WOFFORD COLLEGE RALPH LUNDY SOCCER ACADEMY Date: June 19-22 Ages 9-13, boys and girls. June 26-29: ages 13-18, boys and girls Description: builds a solid technical foundation and adds advanced tactics More info: ralphlundy.com

>> CONVERSE <<

CONVERSE COLLEGE SOCCER DAY CAMP Date: June 3-6 Ages: 4-12 (co-ed) Cost: $70 for ages 4-6, $80 for ages 7-9, $90 for ages 10-12 Description: learn and hone essential skills and techniques More info: converse.edu/summer-camps-activities CONVERSE COLLEGE ELITE VOLLEYBALL CAMP Date: June 30-31 Age: rising 9-12 graders Cost: $180 overnight campers; $140 commuter campers. Description: focused, intense training More info: Regina Poppie at regina.poppie@ convserser.edu or 864-577-2060

CONVERSE COLLEGE BEGINNER/ INTERMEDIATE VOLLEYBALL CAMP Date: July 28-29 Ages: rising 5th-8th graders Cost: $155 for overnight campers, $115 for commuter campers Description: focuses on the building blocks essential to the sport More info: Regina Poppie at regina.poppie@ convserser.edu or 864-577-2060 CONVERSE COLLEGE GIRLS’ BASKETBALL DAY CAMP Date: June 16-19 Ages: girls ages 6-13 Cost: $160 Description: develop character as well as basketball skills More info: Kaye Waldrep at 843-822-3609 or kaye.waldrep@converse.edu CONVERSE COLLEGE LACROSSE CAMP Date: June 9-11 Ages: rising 7th-12th graders Cost: overnight camper: $315, day camper: $200 (lunch included) Description: teaches lacross literacy, specific skill and dodge work, game situation breakdown and more More info: Ryan Weiss at ryan.weiss@

converse.edu CONVERSE COLLEGE PREMIER RESIDENTIAL SOCCER CAMP Date: July 21-25 Ages: 15 to 18-year-olds Cost: $450 (includes room, meals, training, T-shirt Description: focuses on teaching the techniques and tactical tools essential for the college-level game More info: John Constable at 864-706-2777 or john.constable@converse.edu

>> DORMAN HS <<

Dorman High School Football Camp Date: June 2-6 Ages: rising 2nd-8th graders Cost: $80. More info: Michael Lancaster at lancaMB@ spart6.org or 864-342-8929 DORMAN HIGH SCHOOL BOYS BASKETBALL MIDDLE SCHOOL CAMP Date: June 2-4, 6-8 p.m. Ages: rising 7th-9th graders Cost: $30 More info: Thomas Ryan at ryanth@spart6. org or 864-342-8907 DORMAN HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS BASKETBALL CAMP Date: June 3-6, 9 a.m.-noon Ages: rising 3rd-8th graders Cost: $40

GAME DAY u upstategameday.com 9

More info: Valorie Whiteside at whitesv@ spart6.org or 864-342-8905 DORMAN HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS SOCCER CAMP Dates: June 3-5, 9 a.m.-noon Ages: rising 3rd-8th graders Cost: $50 More info: Liz Stojetz at stojetea@spart6.org or 864-582-3479 ext. 4149

>> USC UPSTATE << UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA UPSTATE BASKETBALL CAMP Date: June 9-15 and June 23-30, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Ages: 7-15 Cost: $150 More info: Kente Hart at khart@uscupstate.edu or 864-503-5297 UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA UPSTATE BOBBY BENTLEY QB CAMP Date: June 26-28 Ages: middle-schoolers and high-schoolers Cost: $295 for non-commuters; $270 for commuters More info: Paulette Bentley at bentleys@charter. net or 864-809-5092 UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA UPSTATE GREG HOOKS’ SOCCER CAMP Date: June 16-19, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Ages: 5-18 (coed) Cost: $190 late stay; $180 full day; $120 half

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day; $95 mini-camp Description: offers intensive instruction More info: Greg Hooks at 864-503-5117 or ghooks@uscupstate.edu UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA UPSTATE’S SPARTY’S KIDS CAMP Dates: June 16-20; June 23-27; June 30-July 3; July 7-11; July 14-18; July 21-25. 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Ages: K-5th grade Cost: $60 Description: games, swimming and more More info: Shane Conti at 864-503-5174 or sconti@uscupstate.edu. UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA UPSTATE BASEBALL CAMP Dates: June 16-19, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Ages: 7-15 Cost: $200, includes lunch More info: Matt Fincher at 864-503-5135 or mfincher@uscupstate.edu UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA UPSTATE FASTPITCH SOFTBALL CAMP Date: June 24-27, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Ages: for girls 8-18 Cost: $300 resident, $190 commuter More info: Chris Hawkins at 864-503-5171 or chawkins@uscupstate.edu UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA UPSTATE TENNIS CAMP Date: June 23-26; July 21-24; July 28-31. 9

a.m.-1 p.m. Ages: 11-18 (coed) Cost: $200 More info: Dr. Oliver Trittenwein at 864503-5131, 864-384-0794 or otrittenwein@ uscupstate.edu UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA UPSTATE WOMEN’S SOCCER SUMMER CAMP Date: June 19-22 Ages: 10-18 Cost: residential: $425, commuter: $275, twoday residential: $375 More info: India Trotter at 954-817-1352 or itrotter@uscupstate.edu

>> CLEMSON <<

CLEMSON UNIVERSITY BOYS LACROSSE CAMP Dates: July 13-16 Ages 9-18 Cost: overnight: $495; commuter: $395 Description: includes multiple focused-instructional sessions for all positions and skill levels More info: clemson.edu/summer/camps/#Athletic CLEMSON UNIVERSITY GIRLS LACROSSE CAMP Dates: July 13-26 Ages: 9-18 Cost: overnight: $495, commuter: $395 Description: includes multiple focused-instructional sessions for all positions and skill levels More info: clemson.edu/summer/camps/#Athletic

CLEMSON UNIVERSITY BASEBALL CAMP OVERNIGHT CAMPS Dates: Week 1: June 22-26; Week 2: July 6-10; Week 3: July 13-17 Half-Day Camp: June 23-27 Ages: 8-18 Cost: overnight sessions: $595; half-day camp: $225 Description: known as one of the top fundamental baseball camps in the country More info: clemson.edu/summer/camps/#Athletic CLEMSON UNIVERSITY BRAD BROWNELL BASKETBALL CAMP Dates: Individual camp: June 15-18; Team camp: June 20-22 Ages: for boys in 2nd-12th grade Cost: boarding camper: $440; commuter camper: $300; day camper: $200 Description: provides a competitive learning environment for each camper to improve his skill level More info: clemson.edu/summer/camps/#Athletic CLEMSON UNIVERSITY DABO SWINNEY FOOTBALL CAMPS Dates: High School: First session: June 9-11; second session: June 13-15 Ages: For rising 8th-12th graders Cost: resident: $320. Evening commuter: $260 Description: provides each participant with a solid foundation of the basic football fundamentals necessary to excel at his specific position.

PARKWOOD POOL Parkwood Pool is a private community swimming pool that is owned by the members. It is conveniently located on the west side of Spartanburg in Woodland Heights neighborhood, between W.O. Ezell Blvd. and John B. White, Sr. Blvd. We are a family-oriented pool offering the Parkwood Sharks swim team, recreational swimming, relaxation, and parties for kids of all ages. Parkwood Pool is open from Memorial Day through Labor Day each year.

FOOD & FRIENDS ARE WELCOME

At Parkwood, non-members pay only a nominal guest fee ($2.00) when accompanied by a member. Members may bring their own coolers with food and sodas...no alcohol permitted. Drink vending machine is available as well.

PARTIES & SOCIALS ARE A MUST

Socials are planned throughout the summer members and their guests. Birthday Parties and celebrations/socials for churches, sports teams, and clubs may book swim parties…a great and affordable way to celebrate and socialize with friends.

WHAT ELSE SHOULD I KNOW?

Swim team is an excellent way for your child to gain athletic confidence as well as self-esteem in a safe, friendly atmosphere. This year we have new leaders, new coaches, and a new way to learn! So encourage your child to grow while having fun ...become a Parkwood Shark today!

POOL PERKS!

✔ Certified Lifeguards at all times ✔ A diving board and 12 foot diving well ✔ Water basketball goal ✔ Kiddie pool for ages 6 and under ✔ Covered Picnic Area ✔ Bathrooms include showers

Join us this summer & stay cool by the pool!

MEMBERSHIPS AVAILABLE NOW Family and Single/Couple Memberships

For more information and an application please contact Chara Hosom at 864-809-6605 or email us at swimparkwood@gmail.com

207 Mohawk Drive | Spartanburg, SC 29301 | 864-574-2552 Parkwood Pool Membership swimparkwood@gmail.com Chara Hosom 864-809-6605

Parkwood Pool Swim Team parkwoodsharks@gmail.com Terry and Susanne Troutt

Home of the Sharks!

GAME DAY u upstategameday.com 11

TENNIS LEGACY: From left, Billy Roberts, Patricia Hutton, Patrick Tobacco, Elaine Grove and Tyler Grove have made the game their life.

ALL IN THE NET

KAREN L. PUCKETT PHOTO

>> Four generations of top-ranked tennis players mark local family’s legacy By KAREN L. PUCKETT

FOR UPSTATE GAME DAY

atrick Tobacco’s destiny as one of South Carolina’s top prep tennis players didn’t start the day when the sevenyear-old first picked up a junior racquet to swat at balls. It actually began the day his greatgrandfather was diagnosed with emphysema more than 50 years ago. “He stopped smoking that day and starting hitting tennis balls. Actually, he and my mother hit balls in the street,” recalls Patrick’s grandmother, Patricia Hutton of Hendersonville, of her father’s initiative to improve his health. However, what was born that day in the streets of South Florida was a family legacy of numerous highly ranked and rated players spanning three generations--in Florida, North Carolina and South Carolina.

12 APRIL 15 - MAY 14, 2014 u GAME DAY

ED OVERSTREET PHOTO

Patrick Tobacco competes during a a recent tennis match for Dorman High School. He is ranked seventh in South Carolina among prep players and has plans to play tennis in college.

Patricia’s parents eventually moved their game to the tennis court, and soon after, Patricia, who was in her early 20s at the time, decided to join in the newfound family sport. “It looked like fun so I started playing,” Patricia, 74, says. “My mother and I eventually started playing doubles together, in tournaments and in competitive leagues which was before they had the USTA.” This was Hollywood, Fla., in the 1950s. Patricia would soon begin a family of her own—five children— and three of them, Patrick’s aunt, uncle and mother would excel at the game. His uncle became a teaching pro, and as adults, his aunt and mother reached the 4.0 and 4.5 USTA levels, respectively. Patricia herself held a 4.0 rating for many years and continues to play, saying she looks forward to playing USTA league tennis in Hendersonville this spring after rebounding from a knee injury. “I was already playing tennis and I dragged them with me when I played so they were exposed to it early on,” Patricia recalls. While the older family members played on the courts, the younger ones watched or found other forms of entertainment at the park. “I remember playing in the dirt,” says Billy Roberts, Patrick’s uncle who would later team up with Jeanne Evert, Chris’s sister, to win the USPTA National Mixed Doubles Championship. Public clay courts, where the family honed their skills, are common in South Florida. Patrick’s mother, Elaine Grove, was 7 when she, along with her older sister, Colleen, and younger brother, Billy, signed up for a six-week summer tennis program. All three won their respective age divisions that year, receiving a trophy and local press recognition. All three then were hooked on the game. Playing in the “dirt” is also an early memory of Billy’s other nephew and Patrick’s older brother, Tyler Grove, a former USC Upstate player who is now a teaching pro in Landrum. This dirt was on the clay courts at his grandparents’ tennis facility, Oakhill Racquet Club, in Hendersonville. With many family members having moved from Florida to Hendersonville and many

“Tennis is a perfect fit for our family because it’s competitive and so many of us play. That means we have fun together.” >> BILLY ROBERTS

of them playing tennis, Tyler was never at a loss for a hitting partner. But his primary teacher was Billy, the pro at the club. “Uncle Billy taught me the mental aspect and how to be tough, without a question,” Tyler says. By the way, Billy’s daughter, Victoria, and Colleen’s children, Alexis and Ryan, also excelled in tennis in high school, earning a vast number of awards and kudos. Ryan is now a teaching pro. Which brings us to Patrick, who is seven years younger than Tyler, who as a prep player won the NC State Singles Championship. Like his mother, Elaine, Patrick’s interest in tennis was sparked in his first tournament, the Pepsi Junior Open, in Florence where he reached the finals in the 8-year-old age division. “I liked it and stuck with it,” says Patrick, 16. “I started hitting with my brother a lot, and I played with my mom, but she beat me pretty bad.” That didn’t sit well with Patrick. In fact, losing does not sit well with anyone in this competitive family. “What separates the top 2 players from the 50th ranked player is all mental,” says Billy, explaining that a competitive player must have the internal drive to win and the mental toughness to overcome any obstacle (injury, for example). Elaine says she didn’t force her sons into tennis, adding that they both tried other sports first before settling on tennis. Tyler played baseball a couple of years and Patrick gave T-Ball a try, which was short-lived. “One day I set the ball on the T for Patrick, and he swung and whacked me in the thing,” Elaine recalls. “I said, ‘Let’s try tennis.’” From that point, Patrick’s goal was to beat his brother on the court. It was a goal that took several years to reach, but he finally did it. Today, he says the two are pretty equal though their styles are different.

“Patrick’s a scrapper,” Elaine says. “He runs everything down, which frustrates his opponents, and wears them down.” Currently, Patrick is ranked seventh in South Carolina and 88th in the Southeast. A 3-star recruit according to tennisrecruiting. net, Patrick wants to improve his rankings in the next year for a shot to play for a Division I school. The junior also is the No. 2 singles player for Dorman. Though time, place and age often prevented Patrick’s family members from facing off in tournaments, occasionally they landed in the same bracket, such as in the NC State

Mother/Son Championships when Tyler was 10. Tyler teamed up with Mom Elaine and reached the semifinals only to meet his grandmother and Uncle Billy, the defending champions, who then advanced to the finals. When they’re not on opposite sides of the court, they support each other on and off the court. Just as Patricia and husband, Raymond, trekked across Florida and the Southeast for their children’s tournaments, her children did the same for their children across the Carolinas and the Southeast. (Patrick’s Aunt Colleen’s and her children’s tennis careers are based in Florida.) The many miles between

Hendersonville and South Florida separating the family today do not diminish the family’s closeness, according to Billy. “Tennis is a perfect fit for our family because it’s competitive and so many of us play. That means we have fun together,” says Billy.

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GAME DAY u upstategameday.com 13

Draamfst Dre

>> Local products BRANDON THOMAS, COREY MILLER ready to take games to pro level Former Byrnes standout Corey Miller, above, and ex-Dorman player Brandon Thomas, right, are two local players UNIVERSITY OF TENNESSEE PHOTO

expected to have their names called by the National Football League on May 8 during its annual draft.

By JOHN CLAYTON On Twitter @JCTweetsOn

randon Thomas couldn’t get to the National Football League fast enough.

Really. Thomas and former Byrnes and Tennessee defensive end Corey Miller are local players eligible for the 2014 NFL Draft, which was to take place May 8. Thomas, the former Dorman and Clemson standout offensive lineman, began team visits and individul workouts as the days wound toward the NFL Draft in April. An outstanding Senior Bowl week had upped Thomas’ stock in the eyes of NFL scouts, but more than a half-dozen teams, including the Cleveland Browns and New Orleans Saints wanted a closer look. All it took was one false step in New

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Orleans to turn Thomas’ draft stock from a lock to tenuous. Thomas tore the anterior-cruciate ligament in his right knee during a non-contact drill. “Yeah, it’s something I’d done a thousand times before,” Thomas said. “I tried to stay positive and hope for COREY MILLER that it wouldn’t be anything serious.” Despite a Clemson career played without a major injury, Thomas’ NFL fate changed with that injury. He was to undergo surgery in mid-April, but was confident that he would be able to come back as strong as ever. The surgery was to be performed by Dr. Michael Hoenig with Orthopaedic Associates.

Thomas suffered a similar injury to the left knee as a senior at Dorman, so the recuperation and rehabilitation will be somewhat familiar. “The rehab was tough,” he said. “I’m not glad that I’ve had the experience with the other injury, but I do know what I have to do, so that’s good. I came back. I had a good surgeon who fixed me up.” But the stakes are higher this time around. Thomas had been projected as second- or third-round pick by draftniks, but his stature had risen steadily since the Senior Bowl. Some mock drafts had Thomas going in the late first round until news of the injury spread. “There are still a lot of teams interested in Brandon,” said Thomas’ agent, Jonathan Kline, of the South Florida-based Sports Capital Group. “He may lose a round due to the injury -- maybe he’ll go in the third round

FOR NFL DRAFT UPDATE, GO TO

>> upstategameday.com >> facebook.com/upstategameday

>> BRANDON THOMAS’ KNEE INJURY MAY CHANGE THE WAY NFL HOPEFULS DO BUSINESS IN THE FUTURE. tale.

Thomas suffered a torn anterior-cruciate ligament to his right knee while participating in a non-contract drill during a private workout for the New Orleans Saints in April. The All-ACC Clemson offensive lineman, who was projected as high as a late first-round pick and at least a second-round lock in the 2014 NFL Draft, had reportedly participated in more than a half-dozen such workouts in addition to the annual NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis and Clemson’s Pro Day. He also participated in the scout-driven Senior Bowl college all-star game. Due to the injury, Thomas is expected to drop at least one round -- potentially to the third or fourth -- in the draft, costing the former Dorman star possibly hundreds of thousands of dollars in signing bonuses and over the life of his rookie contract. Other players and NFL agents have taken notice. South Carolina defensive end Jadaveon Clowney, who is the predicted No. 1 overall pick of the draft, canceled scheduled private workouts in the wake of Thomas’ injury. In the future, others with millions of potential dollars on the line are expected to follow suit. -- John Clayton

CLEMSON UNIVERSITY PHOTO

instead of the second now, but teams still have a lot of interest.” Dallas was among them. Thomas visited the Cowboys just prior to undergoing surgery. “Teams just know now that he won’t be someone they can plug into their lineup immediately, but he could help them down the stretch next season or definitely in 2015,” Kline said. Thomas, at 6-foot-3, 317 pounds, impressed teams with his athleticism, but most project him at guard instead of tackle, where earned all-ACC honors at Clemson. That athleticism and versatility should keep him on most teams’ draft boards.

His story has at least become a cautionary

“I like playing outside, but I think a lot of teams are looking for versatility. They want depth at every position,” Thomas said. “So, I definitely think that will help.” Like Thomas, Miller proved his versatility at Tennessee, starting at defensive end and defensive tackle with the Vols. After being recruited by Lane Kiffin, Miller played under Derek Dooley, who was fired late in the 2012 season, and current coach Butch Jones while at Tennessee. Miller made the end of his college career memorable with a record-setting game against SEC rival Kentucky. Even so, Miller is projected to be drafted in the late rounds or to sign a free-agent

contract after the draft. In his final game at Tennessee, Miller broke the Vols’ single-game sack record set by NFL Hall-of-Famer Reggie White with 4.5 sacks against Kentucky. He played his final collegiate game close to home in the College All-Star Bowl at Furman University’s Paladin Stadium in February. Miller also impressed during Tennessee’s Senior Pro Day for NFL Scouts, bench pressing 225 pounds a team-best 33 times. “After playing 4 years at the Univ. of Tennessee,” Miller Tweeted in April. “I can truly say that it’s a blessing. Nothing like the orange and white.” n GAME DAY u upstategameday.com 15

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4455 Anderson Mill Rd Moore, SC 29369 info@amrbc.org www.IgniteSpartanburg.com

GAME DAY u upstategameday.com 17

CLEMSON’S DANIEL “GOOSE” GOSSETT, left, and STEVEN DUGGAR have been friends or teammates since elementary school.

Tigers’ TALE

Friendship, baseball lead Rebels to Clemson By JOHN CLAYTON On Twitter @JCTweetsOn

CLEMSON UNIVERSITY PHOTO

Reed Rohlman, a two-time All-State selection at Byrnes who missed his senior season due to a wrist injury, said his former high school teammates helped make his decision to attend Clemson an easy one.

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D colors.

aniel Gossett and Steven Duggar began playing together long before their respective baseball careers were linked by first high school and now college

The duo starred first at Byrnes and then signed NCAA Division I scholarship offers with Clemson. Gossett, a right-handed pitcher, joined the Tigers in 2011 and Duggar, a strong-armed outfielder, in 2012. Reed Rohlman, a redshirted freshman outfielder, made the third Rebel to sign

with the 14th-ranked Tigers in as many years in 2013. “It is (unusual),” Gossett said of having two former high school teammates join him on the same college roster. “It’s something we can say that not many people can. It’s good to have friend here, and it’s good to have that connection on the ballfield, too.” That connection started early on with Duggar. “I grew up with him and we were always competing whether we were eating or playing basketball or video games,” Gossett said. “We were always competing and I think it’s that drive to win that came from that environment. If

nicknamed “Goose,” played you’ve got that will to win, it can an integral part in Duggar’s happen. We’ve got that desire to recruitment and said he helped win and to get better.” convince Duggar that Clemson Both players made immediate was the place for him. A year impacts with the Tigers. earlier, Gossett had passed up a Gossett earned Male Rookie professional contract to sign with of the Year honors at Clemson the Tigers. He was drafted in the after his freshman season, which 16th round of the 2011 Major included a 6-3 record with two League Baseball amateur draft by saves and a 4.32 the Boston earned-run average “Having one of my bud- Red Sox. in 19 appearances. dies here since I was But there His sophomore campaign went 10 years old, I can go have been no even better as he to him and say, ‘relax regrets, said who anchored the Tigers’ me, calm me down.’ Gossett, will be draft starting rotation We know how to talk to eligible again and finished with each other and how to this June. a 10-4 record and make each other go, so “I love it 2.56 ERA. here, ” he said. it’s good to have him.” Last year, “It’s great. I Duggar became a needed it. It’s >> DANIEL GOSSETT full-time starter from a learning the outset, earning experience and growing Freshman All-America honors from experience. I keep learning every Collegiate Baseball. He hit .300 with day, and I needed that.” 39 runs, 10 doubles, two triples and Gossett was named the ACC two home runs. He added 15 steals Pitcher of the week in late April and 30 RBI. after a shutout win over Pittsburgh. “It’s definitely lived up to (my Gossett had a 1.83 ERA and a expectations),” Duggar said of 5-0 record, but left with leads in his Clemson career. “I just keep several early-season games only to coming to the field every day and receive no-decisions. keep trying to get better.” He missed one start with Gossett, affectionately

STEVEN DUGGAR says Clemson has lived up to his expectations. “I just keep coming to the field every day and keep trying to get better.” Duggar was named a Freshman All-America last season.

CLEMSON UNIVERSITY PHOTO

shoulder stiffness but returned April 11 against No. 2-ranked Virginia. Meanwhile, Duggar moved into the cleanup role in the Tigers’ batting order and was hitting .315 with 25 runs scored and 27 RBI through 39 DANIEL “GOOSE” games. GOSSETT was “I had a good named the ACC year last year and this Pitcher of the year is going pretty Week in late April good so far,” Duggar after a shutout said. “Hopefully, I win over Pittscan keep that going burgh. for the remainder of my career here. . . . I just feel lucky enough and blessed enough to play this game at the next level. Hopefully, I can do just that and use my experience here to take me to the next level as well.” Gossett said it’s been good for him to have Duggar in Clemson’s trademark purple and orange. “Having one of my buddies here since I was 10 years old, I can go to him and CLEMSON UNIVERSITY PHOTO

say, ‘relax me, calm me down.’ We know how to talk to each other and how to make each other go, so it’s good to have him.” Rohlman, a two-time all-state selection at Byrnes who missed his senior season due to a wrist injury, said his former high school teammates helped make his decision to attend Clemson an easy one, and they have also helped him acclimate to college life. “They played a huge part of (me coming here), talking to them and seeing how excited they were made me want to be here,” said Rohlman, who is coming back from wrist surgeries that sidelined him for the past two seasons. Rohlman said he has definitely noticed a difference in the speed of the game -- the arms are stronger and the bats are faster -- but Duggar said that’s just part of the transition to Division I baseball. “You’ve just got to relax, man,” Duggar said. “You’ve been playing this game for ever many years you’ve been playing. But at the end of the day, it’s the same game you’ve been playing since you were little. You’ve just got to come out and compete -- always compete.”

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SPRING SIGNINGS

20 Dorman athletes sign Letters of Intent A record 20 student-athletes made their college decisions known during a signing ceremony in the Dorman arena on April 16. This marks a total of 40 student-athletes from Dorman to sign National Letters of Intent to play sports at colleges and universities in 2014-15. Many of those opted to stay close to home with Newberry leading the way, the choice of four athletes. Spartanburg Methodist, Limestone, North Greenville and Converse each received committments from two Dorman athletes.

RACHEL MABRY Spartanburg Methodist

VOLLEYBALL

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A group of 20 student athletes pose together following their signing cermony at Dorman High School in April.

TRACK / CROSS COUNTRY

ROC HAMILTON The Citadel

MARTIN MORROW USC Upstate

WRESTLING

CHELSEA BABB Spartanburg Methodist

BASEBALL

TENNIS

SWIMMING

CALEB BRANNON Charleston Southern

GRAYLAND FOWLER Catawba College

BARRETT HARDY The Citadel

KYLE HENDRICH Limestone

GIRLS BASKETBALL

BAILEY BROWNING Converse

KAYLA MCMILLIAN Spartanburg Methodist

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MORIAH NOLEN Newberry

LOGAN HOLLIS Converse

MYKELL SIMS Newberry

BOYS LACROSSE

COMPETITIVE CHEER

DARA HOOPINGARNER Newberry

KATIE ANN WILSON Pfeiffer

FOOTBALL

GIRLS SOCCER

CHRISTAN MARONI Gardner-Webb

VOLLEYBALL

HAYLEIGH KSOR Newberry

ALLEN MCBRIDE North Greenville

CODY DOREMUS Limestone

RODNEY WALTON North Greenville

EDITORS’S NOTE: Coaches may submit Signing Day photos that do not appear here for publication in future editions. Coaches are encouraged to notify Upstate Game Day of their respective Signing Days and other newsworthy events. It is our goal to provide positive coverage of local athletes in a high quality publication. / More info, email: les.timms@upstategameday.com

STATE TITLE PROPELS CAVS’ CHRISTIAN MARONI TO GARDNER-WEBB By JOHN CLAYTON On Twitter @JCTweetsOn

Spurred by the Class 4A state wrestling campionship he won at 170 pounds as a junior, Dorman’s Christian Maroni found his passion for the sport reignited. “After I won my state title in 11th grade, it was almost like something clicked and I wanted to be on the mat as much as possible,” Maroni said. “Over the summer I wanted to be wrestling as much as I could and when the season got here, I couldn’t wait to get started.” After a sterling senior season that ended one match away from perfection and a second state title, Maroni signed an NCAA letter of intent to continue his wrestling and academic careers at Gardner-Webb University. “I knew I’d fit in as soon as I got there. . . . Everybody there had the same work ethic and same personality type,” he said. “It’s been awesome every time I’ve been up there.” Maroni, who began wrestling as a fourth grader in Pennsylvania with the Highland Rams Wrestling Club in Natrona Heights (outside of Pittsburgh) chose the

Christian Maroni, above, pins an opponent during a recent match. He will attend Gardner-Webb.

Bulldogs over Belmont, Spartanburg Methodist and Shorter. “Starting out wrestling somewhere where the competition is so good and it’s so serious shows you what it’s all about and what it takes to be successful,” Maroni said. Maroni posted a 51-1 record as a senior, winning a second-straight Upper State championship before falling for the first time all season in the Class 4A state finals. During his dominating 51-match winning streak, Maroni won 48 straight

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matches without giving up an offensive score to any opponent. In addition to his state title, Maroni earned all-state honors twice, a NorthSouth All-Star berth, and three Spartanburg County Championships. He was also a two-time Region II-4A champion and region wrestler of the year this past season. “It seems like it happened overnight, but when I look back at it and some of the things I accomplished, I just think, ‘Wow, hard work really does pay off.’”

SPARTANBURG HIGH SCHOOL

Six Vikings inked by Upstate schools From left, Elizabeth Carey (North Greenville/lacrosse), Brittany Battisti (North Greenville/lacrosse), Forrest Fowler (Anderson/ golf), Spartanburg High Principal Jeff Stevens, Rashaad Miller (North Greenville/football), Krislyn Moore (Converse/volleyball), Josh Smith (North Greenville/golf).

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BROOME HIGH SCHOOL

Broome basketball standout Jada Wallace with family and Broome teammates signing with Lander College.

JADA WALLACE SIGNS WITH LANDER, BROOKS RICHARDSON TO USC SUMTER By JOHN CLAYTON On Twitter @JCTweetsOn

Broome senior second baseman Brooks Richardson signed a letter of intent to continue his baseball career at USC Sumter. Richardson hit .381 with 17 RBI and a .502 on-base percentage for the Centurions as a junior.

24 APRIL 15 - MAY 14, 2014 u GAME DAY

In the end, Lander University’s small-town, family atmosphere near the lake won over Broome’s Jada Wallace. Wallace, Broome’s all-time leading scorer and rebounder and perhaps its most decorated girls basketball player, signed with NCAA Division II Lander during a mid-April ceremony. She chose the Bearcats over Division I Savannah State, Limestone and several other suitors. “I want to make an impact,” Wallace said of joining the Lander program. “I want to let them know I’m there; I’m ready to play; and I want to help the program win.” Kim Goode, Broome’s outgoing girls basketball coach, said a visit to the school’s Greenwood campus and a dinner at the home of Bearcats’ head coach Kevin Pederson helped sway Wallace. “It’s a good fit,” Goode said.

“She’ll be good there. . . . We visited several times and it wasn’t too big, and it wasn’t too small. It was just right. . . . It was a family-oriented environment and I think that’s what sold it for her.” Pederson was thrilled with his latest addition to the Bearcats roster. He believes Wallace could play all five positions. “More than anybody we’ve recruited in a long time, Jada gives us the flexibility to go and truly attack a mismatch,” he said. “We believe she is the ultimate player in regards to matchups.” Wallace, who plans to pursue a career in medicine after college, was a five-year starter at Broome and scored more than 2,200 points for the Centurions, including a school-record 773 as a senior (32.3 points per game). “I’m looking forward to a new start at Lander University,” she said. “I’m excited that this came, and I get to start a new chapter in my life.”

CARDINALS’ CARLA BRUCE TO PLAY VOLLEYBALL AT THE CITADEL By JOHN CLAYTON On Twitter @JCTweetsOn

Carla Bruce’s older brother, Danny - a rising junior at The Citadel - gave his kid sister a little advice as she struggled with her college choice. “If you want to come to The Citadel, don’t let anybody talk you out of it,” he told her, “not even me.” The Landrum senior volleyball standout did choose The Citadel, picking South Carolina’s once all-male military college over Erskine, Lander and William Peace University in Raleigh, N.C. She said her older brother did try to talk her out of it, but HIGH SCHOOL the lure of playing volleyball at the NCAA Division I level was too strong. “He’s a big brother, so he wants to protect me. He didn’t want me to go through all that,” Bruce said, alluding to the school’s plebe system and rigorous military training. “In the end, it builds character and I’m not really scared or anthing like that because I feel like I can hang with them. I just have to get through it and I can look back and say, I got through it.” Bruce’s familiarity with the school helped her make her decision. “Who wouldn’t want to go live in a castle for four years? It’s beautiful down there, and I love it,” she said. “I get to go there and play the sport I love, volleyball. . . . It just feels right.”

LANDRUM

Bruce, a versatile outside hitter at 5-foot-8 1/2 who played at the club level with Upward Stars, said she plans on majoring in biology and has not completely ruled out military service afterward. Citadel cadets can pursue military careers through ROTC programs but are not required to serve after graduation without ROTC contracts. She also became the second Landrum female Landrum’s Carla Bruce goes up athlete to commit to kill the ball during a volleyball to The Citadel this match last season. year. Cross-country runner Paige Herbst committed to the Bulldogs earlier this year. “The Citadel always stood out,” she said. “Citadel is D-I, so that was also a key in making a decision in where to go.”

Upward Coach Lauren Mueller with Carla Bruce at the signing in April at Landrum High School.

EMBRACING the PAST BUILDING for the FUTURE

Visit Welcome to and see all we have to offer. visit: www.cityoflandrum.com

GAME DAY u upstategameday.com 25

PPPlease submit your best pics to

photos@upstategameday.com

Athletes in Action

photos by: Steve Hinds • Les Timms III • Gwinn Davis / gwinndavisphotos.com - gwinndavis@gmail.com /

20 APRIL 15 - MAY 14, 2014 u GAME DAY

Teamwork makes the dream work

GAME DAY u upstategameday.com 21

GUEST COMMENTARY

REFLECTIONS ON DORMAN COACH DAVE GUTSHALL’S HALL OF FAME CAREER I had heard about Dave Gutshall’s exploits in North Carolina before he moved into District 6 and down the street from my house. It was the summer of 1993, I was between my freshman and sophomore years at Dorman when we all heard Gutshall was coming. We knew about his three state titles. We heard about his high-octane offense that was equal parts from Sam Wyche’s no-huddle and Mouse Davis’ run-and-shoot. We heard he was coming to change Dorman football. By the time I met Coach Gutshall, I had been friends with his daughter Carridy for a few weeks. Coach and I didn’t really meet; so much as he spotted me on the couch in his home. He was a stoic figure, a gaze of steel-grey and blue. He wasn’t unfriendly,

but I got the feeling do the same. But how he didn’t want to would that stack up to talk football at the the physicality of Region house. Not with me, II-4A? Intelligence alone anyway. wouldn’t do much against the Division I prospects Most of my at Northwestern and friends were Gaffney. We got our playing football that answer pretty quickly. season. Everyone MATT I was one of many was excited to SMITH that rushed Snyder be a part of what Field in celebration Coach Gutshall was when Dorman upset bringing to the Upstate. I was Spartanburg in the playoffs at the told he wasn’t making the team end of Gutshall’s first season. run for conditioning after practice. It doesn’t sound like Almost everything I learned much now, but in 1993 football about Coach Gutshall came conditioning was treated like a from my father. Dad had hosted boot camp and coaches like drill a sports talk show alongside sergeants. Gutshall was different. Steve Cunningham (On The He didn’t scream and he didn’t Bench with Scott and Steve), intimidate. Instead, he took a and somehow he’d gotten Coach cerebral approach to the game Gutshall to open up. Over pork and encouraged his players to chops and apple sauce, my Dad had told me how Dorman would challenge for a state title. “How soon,” I asked. “Now,” he said. Impossible. Dad must not have known how good Gaffney and Rock Hill and Spartanburg were. How? “Because Dave’s smart. He thinks on a different plane, he’s willing to adapt,” … “and he’s got a quarterback.” The quarterback was Derek Burnette. But I still couldn’t see the guys I knew, Daniel and Mickey and Desmond and Dominique and Led and Marcus and David and Friar beating Gaffney, Rock Hill and Northwestern. But they did. Ask “Dr. Mom” Throw in a win at Sumter, too, in a 13-2 season. All this before Conditioning * Alignment * falling at Death Valley in the final Sports Exams * Rehab seconds to a team that featured future NFL LB Anthony Simmons and the late Brian Wofford. That team set the bar the two Dorman state championship teams would later surpass. The success has been 215 W. Poinsett St, Greer, S shoehorned between dynasties at Spartanburg and Byrnes. It’s like being in the AL East with 864-877-5795 the Red Sox and Yankees. Doc Follow us on Twitter and Tumblr @ AskDrMom Davis and Spartanburg won three And Like our Facebook page consecutive titles in the 90’s, but Greer Chiropractic Center that run was bookended by losses

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Dorman head football coach Dave Gutshall was one of seven elected to the S.C. Athletic Coaches Association Hall of Fame. Gutshall, who began coaching at Dorman in 1993, is to be inducted with the six other honorees in a July 27 ceremony in Greenville. This year’s inductees also includes Mickey Moss of Blacksburg and retired Riverside coach Willie Wooden. Local radio host Matt Smith recounts his first memories of Gutshall:

to Dorman. The Cavaliers would later slay another Goliath when they toppled Byrnes and Marcus Lattimore for Gutshall’s fifth state title. What is often forgotten is that Dave Gutshall re-invents his offensive philosophy with each class. He’s run a 4-wide receiver set under center, a 3-wide receiver set from shotgun, a 2-tight end set, a shotgun set with a blocking fullback and taken each of these offenses either South on I-85 or East on I-26 to the final game. Some of these I’ve watched from the stands, others I’ve seen from the press box as a journalist. Coach still sees me on occasion, a little less annoyed each time. As we reflect on what we’ve seen Dave Gutshall accomplish and his Hall of Fame career, it’s clear it was no small feat to live up to the promises others made for him. To fulfill those promises, he had to change a football culture and win championships … at Dorman, where winning wasn’t expected. It is now. Radio host Matt Smith may heard on Open Mic weekdays be 3-6 on 105.7 FM/910 AM and thesourceforspartanburg.com

ATHLETIC PERFORMANCE

BUILD A BETTER FOUNDATION FOR A BETTER ATHLETE

n over fifteen years of training young athletes one of the most important things I’ve learned is that teenagers are not adults. In a competitive world where we often compare our children to others, the need to get ahead is often placed ahead of the need to help the athlete progress at a rate that is both beneficial physically and mentally. Some teens may look like adults because of their physical size; they may talk like adults, but make no mistake, teenagers are not yet adults. Physiologically, psychologically, mentally and emotionally they are children transitioning to adulthood. Just because a pro trains a certain way or uses particular exercises doesn’t mean that those are right for your son or daughter. Too often we copy what we see or read on television or in a magazine. The solution is to put a greater focus on building a strong, safe foundation, progressing through the appropriate stages of training, and emphasizing the importance of the athlete’s career longevity. This will not only build the necessary physical abilities needed to avoid injuries, but also the emotional and mental maturity needed to succeed.

I am often asked at lunges are best to do on what age should a young a regular basis. I avoid athlete begin weight trainsit-ups because of the poor movement patterns that this ing. My answer is one of exercise reinforces. When sage advice and wisdom. doing push-ups, lunges and It usually goes like this, ‘It squats I look for symmetry, depends’. posture and alignment. Children from a very During a push-up the early age begin to stress body should be kept in line their bodies in various from the ears through the ways and often lift things shoulders, hip and ankles. If that are ‘too heavy’ for KEN the head drops or shoulders them even as toddlers with FINLEY sag then the athlete needs no repercussions at all. to place the hands on a box In fact this is part of their or countertop to make the growth and development. exercise a little easier until they can mainSo we can start training at fairly early ages. However, we must take into account tain the proper alignment. Make sure that our young people are busier than to keep the hands in close to the body. ever with year round sports. Again make the exercise easier until they There are ways that a qualified get the proper form. Poor technique on coach can determine when its right to lift this exercise will lead to poor technique weights. When an athlete works with me, in running, jumping and other weight I observe very carefully there movements, training exercises such as the bench press. flexibility and the way that they perform Squats and lunges require similar exercises without weights. There are speattention to detail. When squatting, the hips should lead the way moving back becific tests that we use to determine when it’s safe to proceed with strength training. fore the knees bend. Keep the knees over If you are trying to do this at, the the outer half of the feet and the heels basic exercises like push-ups, squat and should stay on the ground. Don’t allow

TRade TRade GUESS THE PIC

the knee to come toward one another and really try and ‘sit back’. The position of the knees should be similar in the lunge. The front leg knee should stay to the outside of the foot while maintaining the shoulders over the hips. Don’t allow the shoulders to drift forward past the knees. Remember that teens require more sleep and rest than adults do and our schedules today are set up in such a way that the young athlete gets less sleep and less rest. Because of long school hours, longer practices, more intense workouts, homework and the desired social life; our kids today live in a perpetual state of exhaustion. Ensure that your young athlete is getting proper rest and learning to do the basic exercises correctly. Doing these simple but important steps will help a young athlete to develop the foundation they need to succeed.

up in october event

Ken Finley is a physical therapist and certified youth speed and agility specialist. To learn more about his youth athletic development programs you can contact him at kfinley@ finleypt.com.

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FAITH in SPORTS Rev. BUCKY ROGERS

PASSING THE BATON

OSHUA 1.2 “Moses, my servant is dead. Now you and all the people prepare to cross over the Jordan to the land I am giving the Israelites.” God was calling Joshua to take up the mantle of leadership after one of the greatest leaders Israel had ever known, and he was sending Joshua on one of the most difficult journeys of his life. Pretty depressing way to begin a journey, right? While you’re probably not taking the place of someone who has recently died, every athlete at some point reaches the place where he is in the oldest group on the team. Obviously, for high school, that’s senior year. On good teams, the ones who have been there longest invest in and train the younger team members. They see it as their job to raise the standard of the whole team by setting the example themselves. Some of you are athletes who are following a strong group of

seniors on your team, and now it’s your turn. Others may be following a weaker group who didn’t lead as well as they could have. Regardless, for many of you, this coming year is your year. It’s time for you to take the baton and lead your team. So, how do you do that?

Lead by example.

You’ll never be able to lead your team to a place you haven’t been yourself. If your team needs more perseverance, they need to see you sticking it out to the very end. If they need more motivation, be the first one to express optimism and to get excited about the season. If they need to be in better shape, suck it up and get to running.

Let go of past seasons.

Whether good or bad, hanging onto yesterday can bog you down. Celebrate the win, and move on. Learn from the loss and move on.

The important thing is to keep the focus always on what is ahead. Resting in yesterday’s win or loss is only an option if you want to fail.

Invest in someone.

Pick one or two on your team to intentionally invest in, and lead other seniors to do the same. Take them aside, spend extra time with them, and intentionally encourage them. Celebrate their big wins in practices and games more than you do your own. Not only will you help your team get better, you’ll be a rung in the ladder of someone’s life, helping them get to the next level.

Remember, people matter more than the game.

One day, you’ll look back at your life, and the games will have all faded away. The relationships you formed with people are what will last. Don’t get so im-

mersed in the game that you forget the people walking this life right beside you. Your Jordan River is waiting to be crossed. You have what you need to cross it. The question is, will you lead, or be content to follow? Bucky Rogers is the Pastor of Students and Worship Arts at theMill in Spartanburg SC where he and his wife Julie have served for the past 7 years. They have 4 children and plan to adopt many more. Bucky leads IgniteSpartanburg, is on the advisory board for the International Center for Youth Ministry, has written curriculum for Student Life and Nav Press, speaks at various camps and retreats, is the author of ‘Rooted in the Ancient Words’, and blogs at www.buckyrogers.net

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