celebrate.
A Message From The Mayor
This time of the year is all about spring sports and the march toward summer break – at least for the youth of our community!
Youth Nation is a great tool to highlight the good that’s happening – not only on the fields but also in the lives of the children and families in our area As Mayor of the City of Hurricane, I am honored to be able to go out to the gyms and fields to see our young athletes and performers doing what they love and provide a little bit of financial support from the City so that these programs can not only survive – but thrive!
My hope is - if you see a young person out and about at a game or at a practice - that you’ll give them a high five or a word of encouragement. I’m willing to bet it will mean more to them than you can even imagine! I like to believe that we are a great big family here in Hurricane, and I hope we always can encourage the sense of camaraderie that comes with that. Below you will find just a few photos of the opportunities I’ve recently had to meet with some local teams. I hope you will agree with me that the support we give to all the kids in our community is so important!
Thank you Christian Brand, State Farm, for being our Cover Sponsor!
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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MEET THE TEAM
THE PLACE TO FIND...
Welcome to Youth Nation, your go-to platform for celebrating the achievements of young athletes while strengthening community ties Dedicated to serving local youth sports, each month, our magazine spotlights athletes and provides valuable insights for leagues and coaches, all while driving growth through a unique fundraising model that benefits both sports leagues and the community
This section is one of the key areas of Youth Nation The Information Hub is a space designed for parents to get more involved and stay connected Here, parents can easily sign up for text notifications, upload photos, and even guarantee their child’s photo is featured in the magazine The hub also provides opportunities for parent shoutouts, kid nominations, and keeps everyone informed with the latest league updates and announcements It's a one-stop resource for making sure every moment and milestone gets the recognition it deserves Check it out!
and would like to? Easy!
Photo Submission
Use this link to submit your ALL of your favorite photos each month! If you do not see them in the next issue, don’t worry, we continue to pull from the uploads each month!
We do our very best to try and include as many athletes as possible. There are some size requirements that may effect if your photo is chosen. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us at youthnationteam@gmail.com
New!
PLAYER PROFILE Nomination
(Limited Available)
Want to See Your Athlete Featured in Youth Nation?
We love celebrating the hard work, heart, and hustle of young athletes in our community and your child could be next! To have your athlete considered for an upcoming Player Spotlight feature in Youth Nation, simply scan the QR code below and complete the short submission form It only takes a few minutes! You'll be asked to provide some basic info, a photo, and a few fun questions to help us tell their story.
�� Don’t forget to upload a great photo in uniform!
Scan the QR code and share your athlete’s journey with the Youth Nation family today!
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GUARANTEED PHOTO UPLOAD
Powered by Local Businesses
Introducing our new Guaranteed Photo Upload option, designed to celebrate your athlete while giving back to the local businesses that support our community
Every month, Youth Nation receives hundreds of amazing photos of young athletes, and while we love seeing all these great moments, not every photo can make it into the magazine. With this option, you can ensure your athlete's photo is featured in one of our upcoming issues by agreeing to connect with one of the local small businesses that sponsor this program It’s a win-win: your athlete gets to be featured, and you help support the businesses that keep the community thriving
When you participate, you’re choosing to engage with the businesses that make it possible for us to continue offering our services free of charge to leagues, athletes, and families; AND allows us to donate THOUSANDS back to the sports league
There is no requirement or obligation to purchase or participate, just to allow them to connect with you!
This can done every month!
PLAYER PROFILE
LITTLE
| SAVAGE | #13 | CATCHER / PITCHER
#13
On the field, Canaan Stewart is all about focus, fire, and friendship A key player for Hurricane Little League and Savage, Canaan wears #13 and splits his time between the pitcher’s mound and behind the plate as a pitcher and catcher two of the game’s most demanding positions. But for this Hurricane native, hard work and heart come naturally
HURRICANE
LEAGUE
After five years of baseball, Canaan continues to grow into a strong, smart player. Inspired by his dad, who also played the game, Canaan has always looked up to him not just as a baseball role model, but as someone who constantly encourages him to be his very best. It’s that mix of support and selfmotivation that helped him achieve his favorite moment this season: striking out the very first batter he ever pitched to.
Off the field, Canaan stays active with flag football and KidzFit speed and agility training, showing the same level of effort and dedication in everything he does. His favorite player, Ronald Acuña Jr., matches his love for the game with high energy and exciting play something Canaan brings to every inning.
But what really sets Canaan apart is the way he lifts up his teammates. Whether it’s a highfive, a kind word, or just leading by example, he knows the value of building trust and forming bonds. His parents say it best: “What we love most about watching you play is how encouraging you are to your teammates.”
With talent, heart, and a deep respect for the game and those around him, Canaan Stewart is more than a player he’s a true teammate and a leader in the making. Keep shining, Canaan!
PLAYER PROFILE
HURRICANE MIDDLE | REDSKINS | #25 | CENTER
#25
Standing tall as #25 for Hurricane Middle School, Gunner Dunlap brings intensity, teamwork, and a strong sense of purpose every time he steps onto the court As a center, Gunner is a key force in the paint defending, rebounding, and playing with grit on both ends of the floor After three years of basketball, his love for the game only continues to grow
This season, Gunner’s favorite memory wasn’t just about stats or highlights it was about meeting and playing with new teammates That attitude says a lot about who he is: a player who values connection, camaraderie, and the effort every teammate brings to the game “The best part of being on a team,” he says, “is when everyone contributes to win against a tough opponent ”
Inspired by Shaquille O’Neal, Gunner brings size and strength to the court, but also humility and respect. His biggest role models? His coaches the people who give their time, energy, and encouragement to help him and others grow not only as athletes, but as individuals. “I try to be respectful and open to all my coaches,” Gunner says, a mindset that reflects maturity well beyond his years.
Off the court, Gunner has a passion for collecting sports cards and playing Xbox, but no matter what he’s doing, he carries a dedication to improvement. His favorite team, Duke, mirrors the same championship mindset he brings to his own game.
With a work ethic built on his parents’ words “Keep working hard. Never stop grinding.” Gunner Dunlap is a name to watch and a leader to follow. Keep dominating the paint and lifting up your team, Gunner!
PLAYER PROFILE
HURRICANE BASKETBALL| BUCKS | #11 | GUARD
#11
With a basketball in his hands and a deep love for the game in his heart, Daniel Dunkley is a natural on the court. Repping #11 for Hurricane/Bucks, Daniel plays guard, bringing energy, speed, and sharp instincts every time he steps on the hardwood. Hailing from Scott Depot, this young athlete has been immersed in the game since birth, growing up in a basketball family with a dad who coaches both middle and high school teams
Daniel’s love for the game is matched by his love for his family, who are also his biggest role models. Their support, encouragement, and example push him to keep improving every day. Off the court, Daniel enjoys baseball and hanging out with friends, showing he knows how to balance hard work with fun.
What’s the best part of being on a team? For Daniel, it’s simple: having fun—and that joy shows in every fast break, assist, and big moment he shares with his teammates.
With favorite teams like UVA and Louisville, and a future as bright as his jumper, Daniel Dunkley is well on his way to making a name for himself. Keep playing, learning, and growing, Daniel—the game loves players like you!
PLAYER PROFILE
HURRICANE LITTLE LEAGUE| DODGERS | SHORTSTOP/ 1 BASE / 3 BASE ST RD
When David Jenks steps on the baseball field, you can count on two things: he’s going to give it everything he’s got and he’s going to do it with a smile. Playing for the Hurricane Little League Dodgers, this enthusiastic young athlete covers shortstop, third base, and first base with confidence, hustle, and a love for the game that shines in every play.
In just his second season of baseball, David is already stacking up big moments including one he won’t forget anytime soon: hitting two home runs in the same game! Inspired by watching the sport he loves and by his favorite player, Elly De La Cruz, David brings both energy and skill to the field each time he plays.
But it’s not just about home runs and highlight plays for this Hurricane native. Ask David what the best part of being on a team is, and he’ll tell you: “Cheering each other on.” That teamfirst mindset is exactly what makes him such a valuable part of the Dodgers.
Off the diamond, David enjoys riding his scooter, playing with friends, and hanging out with his family, showing that his joy for life stretches far beyond baseball. And when it comes to role models, there’s no doubt who’s at the top of his list his dad. “He helps me learn how to do things and be better with my throwing,” David says, with the same spirit of learning that’s helped him grow into a strong young player.
As his family puts it best, “Whether you're hitting a home run or cheering your teammates on, you always do it with a smile.” Keep swinging for the fences, David your love for the game is your biggest strength!
What's Happening AROUND THE AREA
SPONSORED BY:
STRONGER TOGETHER: THE POWER OF TEAMWORK FAITH IN SPORTS
By Nick Chapman
Inspired by Ecclesiastes 4:9-10
"Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up " – Ecclesiastes 4:9-10
In sports and in life there’s one truth that never changes: we’re better when we’re in it together. Whether you're playing baseball, soccer, basketball, or any other game, the bond you share with your teammates can make all the difference not just in the score, but in the person you’re becoming.
Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 reminds us that teamwork isn’t just about passing the ball or cheering from the dugout. It’s about being there for each other in the highs and the lows. A good team celebrates the home runs, but they also rally around each other after a tough game. They pick each other up, literally and spiritually.
Think about the last time you felt down after striking out or missing a play Now think about the teammate who patted your back, smiled, and said, “You’ve got this ” That moment? That’s Ecclesiastes 4:10 in action
That’s what makes a team feel like a family.
Being on a team means learning how to work together, to trust, and to encourage one another. It's not always easy there are challenges, disagreements, and tough losses but that’s when teamwork really shows its strength. You learn that lifting someone else up doesn’t make you weaker. It makes you stronger.
So the next time you take the field, remember: every play, every pass, every cheer matters. Not because you’re doing it alone but because you’re doing it together. Keep working hard. Keep lifting others up. And never forget two are better than one.
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PLAYER PROFILE
HBAL CHARLOTTE HORNETS | #4 | CENTER
Meet Bruce Russell, a rising basketball standout representing the HBAL Charlotte Hornets with the same energy, hustle, and heart as his favorite player, Anthony Edwards. As #4 and the team’s dominant center, Bruce brings power to the paint and passion to every play. This Scott Depot native has been an athlete since the age of 4, and his hard work is starting to shine in a big way especially this season, when his team celebrated an unforgettable HBAL championship win.
LBruce’s love for the game started early, thanks to his parents, who introduced him to sports and have cheered him on every step of the way Now playing since third grade, Bruce continues to grow not just in skill, but in leadership, character, and determination Whether it's blocking shots, grabbing rebounds, or setting big screens, Bruce is a true force on the court
Ask him what the best part of being on a team is, and he’ll tell you straight up: “Making friends ” That love for connection and camaraderie is a huge part of what makes Bruce such a great teammate and leader Off the court, he enjoys video games and hanging out with his family, showing that his loyalty and funloving nature go well beyond basketball
His biggest role model? His dad, who not only supports him from the sidelines but teaches him key techniques and life lessons “He gives me great advice and motivates me,” Bruce says with pride
From early mornings to championship moments, Bruce Russell’s journey is just getting started but his dedication and team spirit already make him a standout Keep pushing, Bruce the best is yet to come
PLAYER PROFILE
HURRICANE LITTLE LEAGUE | GRIZZLIES | #12
At just three seasons into his baseball journey, Jamison Runion is already proving that heart, hustle, and having fun are just as important as any stat in the game. Playing for Hurricane Little League, this energetic and positive young athlete proudly wears #12 and is always ready to jump in and help no matter what position he’s playing
Jamison’s love for the game started early and is fueled by the people closest to him Inspired by his family and especially his favorite player his sister Aubrey Jamison steps onto the field with excitement and determination each and every game
This season’s highlight? Making new friends, of course. Whether he’s swinging a bat or cheering from the dugout, Jamison knows that the best part of being on a team is the friendships that grow along the way. Off the field, you'll likely find him playing outside and enjoying the simple joys of childhood with that same big smile he brings to every game.
And when it comes to role models, Jamison looks up to his dad, saying it best: “Because he’s the best.”
With a love for Marshall sports, a great attitude, and a team spirit that’s contagious, Jamison Runion is the kind of player every coach wants and every teammate appreciates. Keep playing your heart out, Jamison your journey is just beginning!
PLAYER PROFILE
#9
HURRICANE LITTLE LEAGUE T-BALL | MARLINS | #9 | FIRST BASE
Meet CJ Heflin, a rising star in Hurricane Little League T-Ball, proudly representing the Marlins in the bright blue and gray Rocking #9 and playing first base, CJ brings his love of the game and a whole lot of energy to every single play
CJ has been playing baseball for two years, but it didn’t take long for him to fall in love with the sport A fan of all things active, CJ says his inspiration came simply because, "I love all sports!" That love shines through on the field, especially when he’s doing his favorite thing running the bases with a huge smile on his face
When CJ isn’t out on the diamond, you’ll probably find him playing football or soccer, showing off the same determination and excitement he brings to baseball He loves the camaraderie of team sports, and says the best part of being on a team is “playing with friends ”
CJ’s favorite athlete? His sister, of course And when asked who his biggest role model is, he gives a shout-out to his big brother, proving that this young athlete looks up to the people who are closest to him.
With his favorite team being the Cincinnati Reds, and a bright future ahead of him, CJ is definitely one to watch. Keep chasing those bases and dreams, CJ your journey is just beginning!
PLAYER PROFILE
HURRICANE LITTLE LEAGUE | GRIZZLIES | #13
#13
Meet Aubrey Runion, a rising star in Hurricane Little League who’s already winning hearts in her very first season of T-ball At just the beginning of her journey, Aubrey wears #13 and is happy to play any position on the field as long as she’s having fun and helping her team
Aubrey was inspired to start playing by watching her brother, Jamison, and now she proudly calls him her favorite player Her favorite memory from this season? Simply playing T-ball and soaking up all the fun that comes with it
When she’s not on the diamond, Aubrey loves playing outside, exploring and enjoying the world like any energetic young athlete. Her favorite team is Marshall, and her biggest role model is her dad, who she looks up to and admires deeply.
For Aubrey, the best part of being on a team is making friends a true teammate at heart. With the love and support of her family cheering her on, especially her proud parents who say, “We love you, Aubs!”, there’s no doubt that this is just the beginning of something special.
Keep smiling, playing, and making memories, Aubrey your future in sports is bright!
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