CHECK US out at SCOREATL.COM VOL 6 NO 20 02 I SCORE ATLANTA Get in the Game!

MAY 14-20, 2010 CHECK US OUT AT SCOREATL.COM VOL 6 NO 20 02 I SCORE ATLANTA Get In The Game!

ALW A Y S AT SCOREA TL.COM MAY 14-20, 2010 SCORE ATLANTA I 03 ™ STARTING SHOT OF THE CCAANN’’TT LINEUP MMIISSSS THIS WEEK PUBLISHER/EDITOR I.J. Rosenberg Braves GENERAL MANAGER Bob Houghton WEEK… “The Fletch” discusses how NBA announcer Troy Glaus MANAGING EDITOR: Stephen Black Hubie Brown slammed Josh Smith during ART/CREATIVE DIRECTOR DJ Galbiati 4 BUSINESS MANAGER Marvin Botnick the Hawks-Magic series. SALES MANAGER Mark Mayo BEAT WRITERS Josh Bagriansky (Falcons), Stephen Black (UGA), Jason Boral (Thrashers), Dave Cohen (Georgia State), I.J. Rosenberg gives his opinion on head Ricky Dimon (Tech), Rajesh Gupta (Hawks), Fletcher Proctor (Braves), Brian Jones (Preps) 5 coach Mike Woodson’s future with STAFF WRITERS Joe Deighton, Foster Lander, Brian Jones, the Hawks. Krissy Wade, Jennifer Sugarman CONTRIBUTORS Alex Ewalt, Tad Arapoglou, Dean Zindler, Zander Lentz, Kevin Dankosky, Mitch Evans, Matt Judy, Tony Schiavone, Richard Diamond, Joe Haines, Brian Katrek, Chris Dimino, Our Ricky Dimon reflects on the Mike Bell, Matt Stewart, Fred Kalil, Nick Cellini, Phillip Leopold, Hawks’ postseason flop in this Dave Marshall, Greg Smith, Steak Shapiro, Mike Cather, Beau Bock, 9 Hal Lamar, Chris Cotter, Roy Hickman, Dave Cohen, John Olah, week’s cover story. Jeff Woolverton, Chris Voss, Bob Rathbun, Courtney Capps, Bill Hartman, Chuck Dowdle, Shannon Alderman, Dan Kamal, Dennis Scott, C.C., Hal Lanier, Jeff Batten, Micah Hart, Ben Wright, The Regions Bank Championship Alan Vasquez, Andrew Vedlitz, Brian Jones Page, where you will find a list of SPECIAL CONTRIBUTORS Mitch Albom, Dave Kindred, Barry Bloom 10 this season’s state champ. ™ SCHOOL LISTING TEAM SCOOP AND VOICES INSIDE AT SCORE

E Score Atlanta is looking for new sales associ- CHEROKEE/FORSYTH: Cherokee, Creekview, Etowah, Forsyth Central, ates. If you are interested, email general manag- North Forsyth, Sequoyah, South Forsyth, West Forsyth, Woodstock COVER DESIGN BY DJ GALBIATI H er Bob Houghton at [email protected] COBB: Allatoona, Campbell, Harrison, Kell, Kennesaw Mountain, Lassiter, T Marietta, McEachern, N. Cobb, N. Cobb Christian, Pebblebrook, COVER PHOTO COURTESY OF DJ GALBIATI or call him at 404-256-1572. Score also has a Pope, S. Cobb, Sprayberry, Walton, Wheeler few internship openings for graphics, writing, DEKALB: Chamblee, Columbia, Decatur, Druid Hills, Dunwoody, Lakeside, Falcons tight 6 SCORE LIST - KATREK 7 DREAM N editing, radio, web video and production and Marist, Miller Grove, M.L. King, Paideia, Redan, St. Pius X, Southwest GONZO DOES GOOD: O DeKalb, Stephenson, Stone Mountain, Tucker end Tony Gonzalez visits students at a local ele- internet development. If you are interested, FULTON: Alpharetta, Blessed Trinity, Centennial, Chattahoochee, Douglass, 8 HAWKS 11 SCORE MORE email creative director DJ Galbiati for graphic Grady, Lovett, Mays, Milton, North Springs, Northview, Riverwood, mentary school during the offseason. Gonzalez artist positions at [email protected] or Roswell, Tri-Cities, Westminster, Woodward Academy and teammates are currently butting heads in 12 BRAVES - GA STATE 13 CALENDAR managing editor Stephen Black for the other GWINNETT: Berkmar, Brookwood, Buford, C. Gwinnett, Collins Hill, Dacula, openings at [email protected]. Grayson, Greater Atlanta Christian, Meadowcreek, Mill Creek, Norcross, minicamp during the first on-the-field action of North Gwinnett, Parkview, Peachtree Ridge, South Gwinnett, Wesleyan the 2010 season. Photo courtesy of Atlanta Falcons. 14 AD INDEX 15 GA TECH - UGA

ALW A Y S AT SCOREA TL.COM 04 I SCORE ATLANTA Get In The Game!

Burke should not be assigned NBA games; West too harsh on callers he biggest media story involving Atlanta Burke REALLY know what it is like in an here. First off, Johnson could have been a lit- Tlast week was WITHOUT QUESTION NBA locker room? No. Does she really know tle “ticked” off after all of the hubbub that the Hawks. They made the biggest splash, but what it is like to even dunk? No. Call me sex- these comments surely brought to the AJC as CAN YOU BELIEVE... for all of the wrong reasons. ist, whatever. Serve as a sideline reporter if well as to 790 The Zone. On my way to host- ...HE SAID THAT? you want to be involved. Don’t take a spot ing Score Atlanta Sports Sunday, I heard BROWN SLAMS SMOOVE … from someone that REALLY KNOWS the Sam taking call after call on the issue and the “Josh Smith is kind of like George W. As Atlanta faced the Orlando Magic, game. (Weird. Normally, I am calling out for calls continued for over an hour into our Bush.” Brandon Adams tried to say that ESPN and ABC awarded the series with Mike the former jocks NOT to get jobs over the show. The negative pub could have turned Josh Smith’s attitude may be that of a Tirico and Hubie Brown as an announcing trained commentator/announcer, but in this Johnson into Marcel Marceau whenever go-getter, but we just see him appear- crew. These two certainly are one of the top case, come on. I could at least fake that I’ve Cunningham approached him for a coming to loaf and pout and not care. crews in NBA basketball and while not the A- been in the NBA. Doris Burke cannot.) ment. But Johnson continued to talk to the Adams made the point that perhaps team, certainly a B+ to be sure. Both Tirico and AJC beat writer, so gold star to Johnson. Bush was intelligent but we just saw the especially Brown were critical of the Hawks’ SAY IT AIN’T SO, JOE … Also, Cunningham himself earns a gold confused eyebrows furled up everyday effort in the first two games of the series. After the Magic annihilated the Hawks star for realizing he had a story and going with in news segments. I don’t think anyone Brown seemed openly frustrated by Josh by 30 in Atlanta’s own building, Joe Johnson it, but not in a malicious way. He told it in the outside of Adams’ family enjoys and Smith’s effort in the contests, calling Smith out put his foot in his mouth in front of reporters most truthful and forthright way, and even respects his radio work as much as I for not running back on the defensive fast and credit the AJC’s Michael Cunningham for appeared on 790 to give the full background do, but I didn’t follow the “Josh Smith break. Brown has forgotten more about basket- following through on the story. Johnson told as well. Most reporters witnessed what hap- as W,” logic. In Brandon’s defense, he ball than I will ever know, and it is nice when a reporters after he had had time to cool off that pened when the Florida Gators’ beat writer was three hours into a solo show. commentator doesn’t just sugarcoat or gloss he “could care less if they showed up or not.” went to his Orlando blog with an actual quote over the player’s effort because they are friends That quote was NOT taken out of context. In taken in context and Urban Meyer went crazy. And, I must say that West has a bit of Skip in or they used to play together. I have heard about fact, here is what Johnson said to That might scare some beat writers from him. Perhaps it was just the one show I hap- the athlete/coach code of not overly knocking a Cunningham in the writer’s blog following last going through with a story that needs to be pened to tune into, but West was Mr. Negative former teammate or charge, but it is refreshing Saturday’s game: “That [the booing] doesn’t told for fear of losing their job or beat if the towards several callers. Just to make sure I to hear Brown, Jon Gruden and Bobby Knight bother me and I hope it doesn’t bother anyone guy that popped off tries to pull an Urban. didn’t catch him on an off-day, I tuned in the tell it like it is up there in the booth. You don’t in this locker room. It’s about us in this locker Gold stars for both of the parties involved. next day to the wrap up show and sure need a Simon Cowell impersonator to tear room. We could care less if [fans] showed up.” enough, Steve-hater was back, either giving someone apart, but it is nice to hear that YES Cunningham appeared on 790 The Zone WEST CHANNELING SKIP … inane stats that had zero to do with what the the player is loafing or the shortstop just plain Sunday morning and Sam Radin got him to set I caught the Braves Wrap Up show on caller had said or simply ignoring callers’ MISSED that grounder. the exact scene of how the comment happened. 680 The Fan following the postgame show for questions. I enjoy West’s work during the high The Hawks’ effort apparently was so bad Cunningham said that Johnson got out of the the first time last weekend. The major format school football season but you cannot just in the first two losses to Orlando that, upon shower with a towel, walked up to reporters and of the show, at least from what I heard, is sim- disregard the callers’ thoughts and questions. arrival at Philips Arena, Tirico and Brown addressed the booing with his statement. The ply Steve West taking phone calls from every- That is the point of the show. I assume that if were nowhere to be seen and instead a crew next day, Johnson didn’t exactly take the com- one that couldn’t get through on the postgame you anger enough people and the calls stop, including Doris Burke was calling the game. ment back when given a chance, telling show with Chuck Dowdle. the show likely will stop too. Don’t bite the Not that Burke isn’t qualified to talk NBA, Cunningham, “In the heat of the battle you tend I remember listening to the late, great hands that feed you, even if they ask 13 but come on. Couldn’t she do the WNBA and to say a lot of things. But it was tough, man. I Skip Carey on some of the Braves pregame straight questions about Terry Pendleton. have one of the seven former players that was a little [ticked] off but I am over now.” shows back in the day and you could tell Proctor can be reached at ESPN uses in studio to do the games? Does Two parties need to be given gold stars when Skip would get irritated with callers. [email protected].

ALW A Y S AT SCOREA TL.COM MAY 14-20, 2010 SCORE ATLANTA I 05

Where do the Hawks go now; Gray makes best decision for all involved he Hawks let us all down. Period. Bradley earlier this week: “Still, the man I’d was a good season for the Hawks and one T hire was interviewed for this job when they certainly can build on. They just have to The team that looked like it could be a Woodson got it in 2004. (Also interviewed decide who under Sund does that building on OUT FRONT serious contender in the NBA’s Eastern back then: Mike Brown, who now coaches the court. For Woodson, if he’s not back he Conference down the stretch seemed to for- LeBron.) The man I’d hire is Dwane Casey, should have no problem getting another job. get everything come playoff time, getting who’s currently being sought by other teams He has proven he can rebuild teams and there beat by a combined 101 points in are plenty that need his talents across the four losses to Orlando and the league. But the Hawks are past going 4-7 in the postseason. that and we all have to think that Even owner Michael Gearon Woodson is the one that has led the told the AJC, “I thought we kind of team to water but now someone else looked like a deer in headlights.” must get them to drink. ASSESSING THE DAMAGE … THE RIGHT MOVE … What happened? Not real Georgia’s football team got a break sure. But it is apparent that while this week when quarterback Logan this team won 53 games in the Gray decided not to transfer. While regular season, there is a serious Gray will probably always be a back- Hawks head coach Mike Woodson has leadership problem, whether that up, his departure would have left the seen his Hawks teams improve their win is on the bench or on the court. team in a horrible situation consider- total in each of his five seasons in Let it be said that head coach ing No. 1 QB Aaron Murray doesn’t Atlanta. However, after another second- Mike Woodson has done a very have a down of college experience good job getting the team to this and Lassiter signee Hudson Mason round playoff sweep, rumors are swirling point, taking them from 13 wins is not ready to play in the SEC, or at that Woody may be on the chopping in 2005 to a third-place finish in GRAY STAYS: UGA junior quarterback announced on Wednesday that he was going least play and give the Bulldogs a block. Also up in the air is the future of the conference, three more wins to remain in Athens instead of transferring. This is great news for the Bulldogs, who chance to be really competitive. franchise player Joe Johnson, whose over Boston that, at press time, return just two scholarship signal-callers besides Gray. Photo courtesy of Rob Saye. Gray did the right thing, which is contract ran out at the end of this past had No. 1 seed Cleveland down nice to see in college sports these season. See page 9 for Ricky Dimon's three games to two in their quar- days and said in a written statement: cover story on this situation. Cover photo terfinals series. “I have decided to stay at the and above photo courtesy of DJ Galbiati. But we all must ask if CATCH I.J. ON SUNDAYS University of Georgia because I truly Woodson has done about as much do love being a Georgia Bulldog. I ‘Woodson has proven he can rebuild teams and there are plenty that need want to be a part of this team getting Berry twins at Creekside, soon-to-be sopho- as he can do here. Eventually, mores and younger brothers of Eric Berry, NBA players stop listening to his talents across the league. But the Hawks are past that and we all have back to the SEC championship game their coach and even the best of to think that Woodson is the one that has led the team to water but now and winning it.’’ Gray will get some the defensive back who just went No. 5 in the league’s head coaches. someone else must get them to drink.’ work at wide receiver but is there as the NFL draft to Kansas City. Word is the an insurance policy to Murray. It’s twins are better players now than when Eric Perhaps it’s time to make a change and bring — he has interviewed with the Hornets — but in a coach with a different style who can take easy to pull for a kid that makes that kind of was the same age. That’s scary. might have a greater interest in these Hawks. unselfish decision. Rosenberg can be reach at the organization to the next level. It just so happens, Casey worked under The good news is there is plenty of [email protected] and 404-256- now Hawks general manager Rick Sund. The AND FINALLY … talent. I can’t see Mike Bibby coming back two were in Seattle when Casey was an assis- 1572. Score continues to look for graphics and, despite his play in the postseason, tant to Sonics head coach Nate McMillan. Kudos to AJC high school writer interns for the summer. If you are interested they will find a way to keep free-agent-to- What Casey, according to Bradley, does best Michael Carvell, who currently is preview- in getting some print and web design experi- be Joe Johnson. But young point guard Jeff is deal with players and it became obvious in ing 30 high school football teams during ence, email Score’s creative director DJ Teague is going to be a player and Jamal the playoffs that Woodson had trouble on a spring practice, putting one out every day on Galbiati at [email protected] or call Crawford proved this year he can carry a communications level with his team. There AJC.com. It’s amazing how popular the her at 404-256-1572. Also, don’t forget to team offensively. didn’t appear to be any trust between them. sport has become year-round and Carvell is check out Score’s high school website, a As far hiring a new coach, this is where Meanwhile, it is important to remember one of the best at covering high schools. He partnership with the Georgia High School I agree with the AJC’s Mark Bradley. Wrote that despite the debacle against Orlando, this had an interesting piece this week on the Association, at GaPrepNews.com.

ALW A Y S AT SCOREA TL.COM 06 I SCORE ATLANTA Get In The Game! SCORE LIST BY BRIAN JONES

ANOTHER PLAYOFF THUD: SMOLTZ FALLS SHORT: John THUMBS UP TO THUMBS DOWN TO Just when you thought the Hawks Smoltz had a chance to become part were going to go deeper in the play- of the PGA Tour, as he took part in a NOT RETIRING BAD ATTITUDES offs, Dwight Howard and the U.S. Open qualifying event in Orlando Magic put their plans on Florida. However, he fell short of the 1 hold and swept the Hawks in the 6 goal, shooting a 6-over par 76 which Eastern Conference Semifinals. was six shots from contention. Where do the Hawks go from here? Better luck next time, Smoltzie. BRAVES ARE FALLING: There THE BIG EXPANSION: There is no other way to put this, but the have been talks that officials from Braves are not playing good base- the Big Ten Conference are offering ball. At press time, the Braves were teams from other conferences to last in the NL East and have scored join them. However, Big Ten com- 2 only 129 runs. This is not what 7 missioner Jim Delany has come out Bobby Cox had in mind for his last and said that they have done no Jones not retiring Johnson Talks season as the Braves skipper. such thing. Yeah, right. After Chipper Jones mentioned last Not only did Johnson fail to lead dur- fall that there was a retirement possi- ing the playoffs, but he also angered FALCONS GONE CAMPING: PERFECT MOTHER’S DAY: Fans and media members got a Oakland A’s pitcher Dallas Braden bility, Braves fans mourned. For the Hawks fans when he responded to chance to see the 2010 Falcons up pitched a perfect game on Mothers’ time being fans can turn that frown the crowd’s booing by saying, “They close and personal, as they held Day and dedicated the game to his upside down because Jones said don’t bother me. It’s about us in this minicamp at their headquarters at mother, who passed away from can- Tuesday that for the time being he has locker room. We could care less if 3 Flowery Branch. The story had to be 8 cer while he was in high school. no plans to walk away after 2010. they showed up or not.” Michael Turner, as he looked fitter These are stories we need to hear than last season. The Burner is back! more often in the world of sports. Tech Ladies Leader GLAUS HEATING UP: Braves WALTON ROLLS ON: The The Lady Yellow Jackets have hired a new Smith Walks first baseman Troy Glaus is break- Walton girls tennis team continues coach for their basketball team. Jim Lewis has J-Smoove was not so smooth during the Magic ing out of his early-season slump. to make history as it won its sev- been added on as an assistant coach. This is series. His failure to hustle back on defense The 6-5, 240-pound veteran is on enth consecutive state title and great news for the Jackets because Lewis sealed the deal for Hawks fans to believe their an eight-game hitting streak and have not lost a match in 133 happens to come with over 40 years of coach- team had given up. After his comments about 4 has driven in 13 runs in the last 10 9 attempts. Being a Walton alum, I’m Milwaukee backfired, Smith should have kept games. If Chipper and McCann get proud of what the Walton girls have ing experience. He has spent the last two sea- back into form, this could become a accomplished and I hope they can sons scouting for the WNBA’s Indiana Fever. his head down and played harder. dangerous lineup. make it eight. Dallas Braden Sleepless in Seattle GRANT GETS TIME: Former MANCHESTER TO THE Braden first made headlines last month for Ken Griffey Jr. allegedly fell asleep in the UGA and New Orleans Saints defen- DOME: The Manchester City getting into a shouting match with A-Rod Mariners’ clubhouse during a game last sive end Charles Grant was sentenced Soccer Club will play an exhibition Saturday night and now all hell is breaking to probation on Tuesday for his game at the Georgia Dome on July after the slugger walked across the pitch- loose in Seattle. Griffey denies it happened 5 involvement in a Georgia nightclub10 28, taking on Club America. This is er’s mound. Now, Braden is known for a lot and is furious with two unnamed teammates fight, which resulted in a death of a part of the plan for getting the World more. Last Sunday against Tampa Bay, he who broke the story. The entire team, mean- pregnant woman. Oh yeah, and Roger Cup to Atlanta in 2018 or 2022. All I tossed the A’s first perfect game since 1968 while, is refusing to conduct interviews at Goodell is going to look into this. have to say to that is, GOAL!! and the 19th perfect game in MLB history. which the Tacoma News Tribune is present.

CRUNCHING THE SANITY NUMBERS LOOKING FOR A SWING COACH AT LAST Improvement from Troy Lots of people saw Tiger Woods and walk away. Either way, the way it went down Glaus’ April slugging per- Hank Haney splitting up. I heard about it was classy, if not informative. Who is next? “It’s not the end of the world. .308 centage (.292) to his May every time Tiger played in a tourna- I have heard Butch Harmon, Billy We were awful in the second slugging percentage (.600). ment and didn’t win. I didn’t see it Harmon, Sean Foley, even Mark coming the way it actually went O’Meara or John Cook. No one round, that’s a fact. But we Jason Heyward’s RBI per AB down with Haney walking away. knows right now. The first step for didn’t play the kind of ratio, best in Major League What we heard from Haney Tiger will be getting his neck basketball the Atlanta Hawks Baseball among players with might have actually been the healthy again. Then, it shouldn’t 3/10 at least 16 RBIs. true story. Or, Tiger could have be too hard to find a new teacher. are capable of playing.” actually decided to let him go, Brian Katrek can be heard on More runs the Braves scored but let it be Hank’s idea. Or, even 790 The Zone’s “On The Green - Hawks general manager Rick Sund in two games against on the team’s performance in the Milwaukee (19) than they more damaging to Tiger given the with Brian Katrek” Sundays from did in their entire nine-game current climate, Hank could have 8-9 a.m. and can be reached at second round of the NBA playoffs 2 losing streak (17). had some other reason for wanting to [email protected]. against the Orlando Magic

ALW A Y S AT SCOREA TL.COM MAY 14-20, 2010 SCORE ATLANTA I 07

Dream begins preseason with two losses he Atlanta Dream has started its presea- attended Middle Tennessee State University. Tson work with two losses under its belt. She then coached women’s basketball at The Connecticut Sun defeated Atlanta 86-79 MTSU before it was a varsity sport and then during the Dream’s first preseason game. went on to coach 20 seasons at Tennessee Tech. Despite the loss, the individual performances “It brought back a lot of memories being by the Dream were stellar. Angel there; it was special for me especially” McCoughtry stole the show and was the high Meadors said. scorer with 19 points. Rookie Brittainey The Dream vs. Mystics game marked the Raven debuted in her first pro game with 10 first professional women’s basketball game to points. Armintie Price and Shalee Lehning be played at the Hooper Eblin Center. scored 10 points for the Dream as well. “The fans were so appreciative. They loved the game and despite us not playing FIRST TIPOFF … very well it was all about these people seeing The Dream played the Washington what the WNBA is all about,” she said. Mystics on May 9 without many of its play- Shalee Lehning is entering her second ers. Erika de Souza, Chamique Holdsclaw year as a pro ball player. The Dream guard was and Coco Miller were among those not in recruited last year from Kansas State. When attendance. Their presence was sorely asked about what she thought the Dream needs missed as the Mystics dominated the to do to start winning games this season, she Dream 77-58. Iziane Castro Marques led had a very similar response to her coach. the Dream in scoring with 13 points. She “We still have some players coming back was followed closely by Angel McCoughtry from Europe and the first week of training who put up 11 points. Rookie Raven con- camp there were only a couple of us here that tinued to impress with seven points, third- were on the team from last year,” Lehning best on the team. said. “The biggest thing is to not focus on Despite the losses, Coach Meadors is what we didn’t do in the first two preseason optimistic going into the first official game of games but to focus on getting in the gym the season against San Antonio. “What needs together, playing together and learning each to happen is we need to get all of our players other’s styles again.” here,” Meadors said. “We have been really Lehning is also optimistic when it comes short in the post area with experienced play- to the Dream’s first regular-season game ers and by the beginning of next week we will against San Antonio. “We’ll be more than have Yelena Leuchanka, which will help.” fine, once we get our missing teammates the Leuchanka is currently playing overseas crew and foundation will be back together.” in the Turkish Championships. Slowly but The rookies have been adjusting well to surely, the missing players have been filing life as a pro basketball player. They have into camp. Two guards arrived this past made that quite clear with their first two Friday and everyone is learning to play well performances so far. Lehning made the together again. Kelly Miller and Raven are transition just one short year ago and two new guards to the Dream. Everyone on remembers it well. the team is currently trying to recognize what “As far as my role with the rookies go, they do, what their strengths and weaknesses I have just tried to be a leader to them,” are, and getting their timing in sync. Lehning said. “I talk to them throughout “We have to keep working together to get practice and let them know they put in a that continuity,” Meadors said. great effort and that they have the energy we The Dream are back at practice prepar- need.” Lehning thinks what makes a team ing for San Antonio this weekend. “By the great is not necessarily putting the ball in the time Saturday rolls around, we’ll be ready to basket but being a teammate people look play,” said Meadors. forward to playing with. The Dream’s first regular season game NEUTRAL-SITE OPENER … will be May 15 at San Antonio and their first The Dream played the Mystics at the home game will tipoff at Philips Arena on Hooper Eblin Center in Cooksville, Tenn. It May 16 against Indiana. was somewhat of a homecoming for Coach Sugarman can be reached at Meadors, who grew up in Nashville and also [email protected].

ALW A Y S AT SCOREA TL.COM 8 I SCORE ATLANTA Get In The Game!

Futures of Johnson and Woodson in question as offseason arrives for Hawks t wasn’t pretty, but in the end, two facts ing 21 points and grabbing 16 rebounds. Like again. Every time the Hawks scored down turned down one mid-year extension offer Iemerged from the second-round playoff so many times this season, a whole host of low, the Magic had an answer with a three or from the Hawks. Johnson was the subject of series. The first is that the Hawks still have a players had stepped up to be the number two a thunderous Howard dunk. rumors all season and he did not make any long way to go if they want to enter the con- scorer on the team and, on this night, it was Vince Carter had 22 points and Michael new fans in the playoffs, even after his All- versation as one of the elite teams in the Rashard Lewis. Lewis scored a team-high 22 Pietrus, though only recording 12 points, hit NBA selection. He averaged 12.8 ppg and Eastern Conference. Secondly, the Magic are points on 8-for-13 shooting while going 4-for- big shots to help build an early first-half lead. shot the ball just 17-for-57 for the entire series playing the best basketball in the NBA right 7 from beyond the three-point arc. During the The Hawks continued to struggle on defense against the Magic, which calculates to 29 per- now. Going forward, an offseason awaits that regular season, seven different players made as the Magic continued to prove that they are cent. His performance left many wondering if at the moment provides more questions than 75 or more three-pointers for the Magic. the most unselfish team in the NBA with he is fit to lead the team. answers about the futures of two important The Hawks, on the other hand, shot 34.9 their ability to make the extra pass, especial- Mike Woodson also may be on the hot members of the Hawk’s team: floor leader Joe percent from the floor as a team, slightly bet- ly on the perimeter. In the end, it was a seat and is entering the offseason without a Johnson and head coach Mike Woodson. ter than the horrible 34.6 percent performance painful end to a series that everyone in contract extension. Woodson has certainly in Game 1. Jamal Crawford led the Hawks Atlanta just wants to forget. had his chance to build a competitive team. SECOND-ROUND DISASTER … with 22 points, but it was another game that For both Johnson and Woodson, it Even at Philips Arena, the Hawks could seemed over as soon as the ball was tipped. KEY DECISIONS … seemed everything came crashing down in not stop what seemed inevitable based on what With frustrations at a premium, the As of late, the NBA has gotten a reputa- the Orlando series. Nobody liked going seven took place in Orlando. After returning home Hawks faced a must-win in Game 4. The tion as a league that is more about what hap- games with Milwaukee, but it was still a win. for Game 3 there was still a sense of hope, but outcome was a 98-84 Magic win, solidifying pens in the offseason than that of the actual Even after a 53-win regular season, it would- that went by the wayside in a hurry. In the end, a sweep. The Hawks started the game season. Perhaps the most anticipated free n’t surprise anyone if one or both are some- the Hawks lost by 30 points 105-75, and it aggressively trying to score more in the agency class in the history of the NBA is only where else next year. wasn’t even the worst loss of the series. paint with Josh Smith and Al Horford, but adding fuel to the fire. Gupta can be reached at Dwight Howard was unstoppable, scor- the Magic were up to the challenge once Enter Joe Johnson, who has already [email protected].

ALWAYS AT SCOREATL.COM MAY 14-20, 2010 SCORE ATLANTA I 9

After getting swept by Orlando, several Hawks face uncertain futures ifferent year. Same story. all suspense by seizing a huge early advan- ance in the four losses to Orlando. better the next time. The real key for teams is D tage. The Hawks did not lead for a single sec- Even if the Hawks offer Johnson max you have to be able to learn without losing. For the second consecutive season, the ond in Game 4 and the Magic jumped ahead money to stick around (and that seems You have to be able to do it after wins if Hawks won a Game 7 to reach the second by 11 at the end of the first quarter before unlikely after the way this season ended), the you’re going to be a really good team.” round of the playoffs, only to get handled in coasting the rest of the way. former University of Arkansas and Phoenix The Magic are a championship-caliber four straight games by a superior opponent. Suns standout could bolt for another location. team. The Hawks hope they’re on their way. Last year it was the Cleveland Cavs. This year WHAT NOW? … Major players for Johnson’s service could Dimon can be reached at it was the Orlando Magic. And this year it For Orlando, it’s time for a return trip to include the Knicks (former Suns [email protected]. was even worse. the Eastern Conference Finals and—by the coach and current Knicks coach In fact, the lopsidedness of the Hawks- looks of it—quite possibly a repeat appearance Mike D’Antoni loved Joe in Magic series reached historic proportions. in the NBA Finals. For Atlanta, it’s time to take Phoenix), the Bulls and who knows Orlando prevailed by a combined 101 points in a serious look at the direction of this franchise. how many other teams. the four-game sweep for what amounted to the First and foremost, the contracts of both Johnson said that what tran- most one-sided four-game series in the history Woodson and Johnson are expiring this offsea- spired throughout the Magic series of the NBA. The Magic won by scores of 114- son. In five seasons with the Hawks, Woodson would “definitely” have an impact 71, 112-98, 105-75 and 98-84, and it’s safe to has compiled a regular-season record of 206- on his decision, but—like Gearon— say the visitors could have extended the mar- 286 and a postseason tally of 11-18. It is worth he is not about to jump headlong to gins in Games 3 and 4 had they felt like it. nothing that the Hawks have improved in each any ill-advised conclusions. Despite losing at Orlando by a combined of their past five campaigns, setting win marks “I’ll take some time off, clear 57 points in the first two games, the Hawks of 26, 30, 37, 47 and 53 following a disastrous my head, spend some time with my had to be hoping they could turn this series 13-win season in Woodson’s first effort as an family, and then when it gets close into something like their 2008 first-round NBA head coach (2004-05). I’m sure me and my agent will sit showdown with Boston in which the home Now, the question is if Woodson will be down here in the next couple team held serve every time. Instead, the back for a sixth go-around in Atlanta. General weeks or so and probably just talk Philips Arena faithful never came close to manager Rick Sund has never been one to jump and just kind of see what's out witnessing any kind of resurgence. the gun on crucial decisions and he is expected there,” ESPN.com reported him Game 3 saw the Magic seize a 10-point to take at least a few days to ponder this one as saying after Game 4. lead after one quarter and a virtually insur- after Woodson’s contract ends on Monday. mountable 19-point advantage at halftime. “He’s not reactionary, and that’s why he’s ROOM FOR IMPROVEMENT … Orlando out-rebounded the overwhelmed had success,” co-owner Michael Gearon, Jr. If Johnson and the rest of hosts 51-34, shot better than 50 percent from told the Atlanta Journal Constitution, speak- the puzzle pieces remain in the floor, and limited Atlanta to dismal 34.9 ing of Sund. Gearon went on to call his team place (or if Johnson goes and is percent shooting. “a deer in headlights” against the Magic, but replaced by—say—Chris Bosh), Even with the series all but over (no he also hinted at minor tinkering of the roster then perhaps the Hawks can team has ever come back from a 3-0 deficit), rather than a complete demolition. learn from this humbling expe- the Hawks said all the right things prior to “It’s not the end of the world,” said rience and turn it into yet anoth- Monday’s fourth and final contest. Gearon. “We were awful in the second round, er season of improvement in “Forget history,” explained head coach that’s a fact. But we didn’t play the kind of 2010-11. They learned from the Mike Woodson, stressing the importance of basketball the Atlanta Hawks are capable of 2008 Celtics series and got bet- taking it one game at a time. “Go out and playing. We have a core, and now what do we ter, and they built on last year’s force Game 5. At this point it just comes do to take that core and get it better?” second-round appearance with down to trying to complete a game; a 48- Of course, whether the core stays intact 59 regular-season wins. What minute game.” is not necessarily up to Sund, Gearon and will they do now? “It’s either win or go home,” said Joe the rest of the front office. Johnson endured “I think you might gain Johnson. “I know we’ll come out and give a dismal postseason both on and off the some things from a loss, everything we got. Nobody wants to see the sea- court and was the recipient of vociferous there’s no question,” said son end, especially not like this in our house.” booing when he exited both of Atlanta’s Magic coach Stan Van Gundy, Saying proved to be much easier than home games against the Magic. His well- whose team has not taken one AS JOE GOES: Since acquiring the former Arkansas star in 2005, doing, however, and the season did, in fact, documented remarks toward the fans had in that column since April 2. the Hawks have largely had success when Joe Johnson has been come to an end inside the Highlight Factory. plenty to do with it, but so did his 17-for-57 “Every team in the league, they on his game. However, Johnson is in the last year of his contract There were no highlights for Atlanta on shooting, 3-for-17 shooting from beyond lose and they get a little bit with Atlanta and will command another mammoth salary from Monday night, as Orlando once again ended the arc, and 12.8 points per game perform- more of a commitment to be whatever team signs him. Photo courtesy of DJ Galbiati.

ALWAYS AT SCOREATL.COM 10 I SCORE ATLANTA Get In The Game! CHAMPIONSHIP MONTH PRESENTED BY 2010 STATE CHAMPIONS AS OF MAY 12 FOOTBALL VOLLEYBALL BOYS SWIMMING AND DIVING GIRLS GOLF Class 5A - Camden County Class 5A – Pope Class 5A – Brookwood Class 5A – Collins Hill Class 4A – Sandy Creek Class 4A – Whitewater Class 4A-A – Greater Atlanta Class 4A – Glynn Academy Class 3A – Peach County Class 3A – Woodward Academy Christian Class 3A – Oconee County Class 2A – Buford Class 2A/A – Wesleyan Class 2A – Greater Atlanta Christian Class A - Wilcox County GIRLS SWIMMING AND DIVING Class A – Savannah Christian BOYS BASKETBALL Class 5A – Lassiter SOFTBALL Class 5A – Milton Class 4A-A – Marist BOYS TENNIS Class 5A – Collins Hill Class 4A – Miller Grove Class 5A – Alpharetta Class 4A – Marist Class 3A – Columbia GYMNASTICS Class 4A – Starr’s Mill Class 3A – Columbus Class 2A – Greater Atlanta Christian Class 5A-A – Lassiter Class 3A – Johns Creek Class 2A – Buford Class A – Wesleyan Class 2A – Blessed Trinity Class A – ELCA BOYS GOLF Class A – Walker Class 5A – Harrison GIRLS BASKETBALL GIRLS TENNIS BOYS CROSS COUNTRY Class 5A – Norcross Class 4A – Lakeside, Evans Class 5A – Brookwood Class 3A – Columbus Class 5A – Walton Class 4A – Marist Class 4A – SW DeKalb Class 4A – Marist Class 3A – Columbia Class 2A – Westminster Class 3A – Flowery Branch Class A – Brookstone Class 3A – Woodward Academy Class 2A – Westminster Class 2A – Buford Class 2A – Blessed Trinity Class A – Wesleyan Class A – Wesleyan Class A – Athens Academy GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY WRESTLING GIRLS TRACK AND FIELD Class 5A – North Gwinnett Class 5A – Collins Hill Class 5A – Lassiter Class 4A – Marist Class 4A – Alexander Class 4A – Tucker Class 3A – St. Pius X Class 3A – Gilmer Class 3A – Monroe Class 2A – Westminster Class 2A – Jefferson Class 2A – North Oconee Class A – Our Lady of Mercy Class A – Bremen Class A – Athens Christian

ALW A Y S AT SCOREA TL.COM MAY 14-20, 2010 SCORE ATLANTA I 11

E TEAM OF

R THE WEEK…

O Hawks have hit playoff ceiling he Atlanta Hawks season came to an let it define them. They didn’t ask any- Tunceremonious end at the hands of one to throw them a pity party. They the Orlando Magic after four games. went out there and played hard, which The Magic dominated every part of the is all anyone expected.

M series from start to finish, leaving no The Hawks have been one of, if doubt that they are one of the best teams not the healthiest team all season long, in the NBA. If you’re an Atlanta Hawks yet they played like all the odds were fan, there’s nothing positive you can stacked against them this entire post take from this series. The team managed season. Fans of the Thunder, Bobcats, to play about two and a half out of a pos- Spurs, Blazers and Jazz are disappoint- E sible sixteen quarters of good basket- ed that their team lost, but not disap- ball. That’s awful, and there’s no way to pointed in their team. Hawks fans make it seem better. They lost four should be disappointed in their team games by a combined 101 points! and how they lost. No one would have R The Magic are better than the been upset about them losing a series Bobcats and Hawks, just like the to the Magic who are clearly the better Lakers are better than the Thunder and team. But, when you don’t bother to Jazz, and the Suns are better than the show up and play hard for four straight

O Blazers and Spurs. There’s no shame in games, it’s unforgivable. There’s no losing to a better team. However, reason to blow this team up, but as it’s unlike the Thunder, Bobcats, Spurs, currently constructed, their ceiling is KNIGHTS TAKE MAYLA CUP: Centennial High School’s sev- Blazers and Jazz, the Hawks didn’t put the second round. enth-grade lacrosse team won the Boys Junior Select MAYLA Cup on Monday. The

C up much of a fight. Those teams It’s time to go back to the drawing played hard until the bitter end. They board and make the necessary changes Junior Knights competed against other high school feeder teams from North Fulton, had players with broken noses, surgi- to try to get this team over the hump. Cobb, Forsyth and Cherokee counties. They finished the season with a glistening record cally-repaired knees and starters who C.C. can be reached at of 17-1 in the Junior Select Division and qualified for the final by defeating South S missed the entire series, yet they didn’t [email protected]. Forsyth in the playoffs. Centennial then beat Harrison 15-10 in the championship game. S C O Fans enjoy free glance at team during minicamp; Ward, Walker make roster ost of the Atlanta Falcons have “It was great for the organization to goal is to become one of those defenses NEW ADDITIONS … Malready been together as a team knock off the back-to-back winning sea- that you don’t want to play.” The team always signs a few “proj- R for over a month now, but they took the sons, but we want more,” Ryan said. Meanwhile, Robinson is trying to ect” players for minicamp to search for field together officially for the first time “We want to be in the playoffs and have help revamp a secondary that was one of a few diamonds in the rough. This year, this offseason last weekend, hitting the an opportunity to play late in the season. the league’s worst last year. a pair of players made the roster after an E Flowery Branch practice fields for a We are working hard to get there.” “We just have to have that belief impressive weekend at Flowery Branch. Quarterback Eric Ward will attempt to in ourselves,” he said, “That’s the three-day mini camp. give John Parker Wilson a run for the third “There is a lot of optimism and I SHORING UP THE DEFENSE … tone you try to set [in minicamp], string quarterback job. A native of Atlanta, think everyone is excited,” said quarter- One of the main issues for the season that we are the best.” Ward threw for 2,396 yards and 16 touch- M back Matt Ryan. is Atlanta’s defense, a struggling unit Also in the spotlight was 2008 Pro downs at Richmond, and also was a threat in Ryan’s excitement was shared by the whose improvement is imperative if the Bowler Michael Turner, who suffered the running game with 1,406 yards and 22 rest of the roster as well as the fans that Birds are to return to the playoffs. On dis- through injuries and inconsistency touchdowns. The 6-2, 310-pounder rewrote

showed up for Saturday’s two practices, play, were the two key additions on that during last year’s campaign. Turner the Spider record books, setting single-sea- O which were open to the public. Atlanta side of the ball. Cornerback Dunta looked more fit and nimble then he did son records in passing yards, completion finished 9-7 and on the outside looking in Robinson was signed from Houston and this time last summer, although mini- percentage, touchdowns and more. camps aren’t exactly the place to deter- Defensive back Daylan Walker regarding the postseason, but did win first-round pick Sean Weatherspoon R also had a good showing and made the mine the effectiveness of players. their final three matchups to notch the should compete for playing time at line- team. The former Arkansas State team’s first back-to-back winning seasons backer. Weatherspoon came out of his “I feel great being back because I Indian racked up 153 career tackles, in franchise history. But with a young ros- first practices with the defense impressed. didn’t finish the season last year,” he

with 51 tackles and an interception E ter figuring to improve and a few impor- “[Brian] VanGorder put up the [2009] said. “It seems like everybody’s more coming in his senior season. tant additions made via the draft and free rankings, we see where we finished last excited this year. We have a chance to Bagriansky can be reached at agency, expectations are much higher. year,” said the outside linebacker, “Our do something special.” [email protected].

ALW A Y S AT SCOREA TL.COM 12 I SCORE ATLANTA Get In The Game!

Braves struggle in DC and Philly; Heyward and Chipper battle injuries he road has not been good to the Atlanta Nats in the bottom of the frame. Eric Hinske doubled home a run and would ON THE INJURY FRONT … TBraves this season and this recent road In the series rubber match, the Braves later score himself as the Braves posted a In what is becoming a bit of a broken trip was no different. were nearly no-hit for the second time this three-spot. The Braves bullpen then came to record for the Atlanta Braves beat, injuries Atlanta traveled to the nation’s capital season as Nationals starter Scott Olsen the rescue of Kris Medlin, going 4.2 innings continue to pile up. Chipper Jones missed for a series against the Nationals, and the breezed through the first 7.1 innings. In the with nary a run allowed. Glaus added an the series finale against the Phillies after Braves likely pictured things turning out a eighth, however, pinch-hitter Jason Heyward insurance run in the ninth inning, driving tweaking his groin last Saturday while beat- little better. After dropping the first game, knotted the game at two with a two-run single home McLouth for a three-run lead. ing out an infield single in the Braves vic- Atlanta ended its long road losing skid with that may have gone for a double if the groin O’Flaherty picked up the win and Wagner he injured the day before had not affected his tory. He missed the one game, returning a 7-6 extra inning victory in game two. posted yet another save in the 4-1 win. against the Brewers. Heyward meanwhile, After giving up an early lead, Matt Diaz running. In the bottom of the ninth, Eric In the series finale, Kenshin Kawakami broke the 4-4 tie in the sixth by scoring on O’Flaherty surrendered the walk-off hit to allowed five runs in 6.2 innings of work, the reigning NL Rookie of the Month for Nate McLouth’s RBI double. Omar Infante former Brave Willie Harris to give including three home runs and Atlanta could April, came up lame with a groin injury in scored a run in that sixth and also added a Washington the 3-2 win. draw no closer than 4-3 through six innings. the Nationals series. Heyward has appeared two-run homer. After the Braves bullpen Brad Lidge closed down the Braves in the ninth as a pinch-hitter several times but has not blew the lead in the eighth, Troy Glaus NOT SO BROTHERLY … for his first save of the season. Glaus had two started in right field as of press deadline. started the 10th inning rally with a single. In game one of the Phillies series, per- RBIs and Infante was 3-5 with a run scored. Heyward appeared just once in a game Brandon Hicks then made his major league haps the Braves forgot their bats in The Braves did manage to put things against Philadelphia. debut as a pinch runner and Melky Cabrera Washington as Jamie Moyer dominated the together in game one of the Brewers series, Finally, Jair Jurrjens’ stint on the DL moved him over with a bunt. Diaz floated Braves as Philadelphia cruised to a 7-0 win. crushing Milwaukee 8-2 behind eight allowed the Braves to recall reliever Craig the go-ahead single to right, scoring Hicks The Braves were held hitless until the scoreless innings from Tommy Hanson. Kimbrel from Gwinnett. and ultimately giving the Braves the win fifth and scoreless until the sixth in the sec- Martin Prado had a grand slam and Glaus Proctor can be reached at after closer Billy Wagner shut down the ond game of the series. In the sixth, though, added a solo shot. [email protected].

Baseball takes series from UNC-W; softball finishes second, heads to CAA tourney t was another successful weekend for the with two runs scored and three RBIs. In the TO THE BIG APPLE … omore Alana Thomas is 11-5 with a 2.04 ERA. IPanther baseball team as they moved into second game, a Brandon Williams RBI single On the softball diamond, following a The women’s golf team was competing at second place in the CAA after going on the scored Bradley Logan with the game's only sweep of Towson, the Panthers locked up sec- the NCAA Regionals in Greenville, NC, last road and taking two of three from UNC run. Pitcher Charley Olson allowed just four ond place and now head to New York for the weekend. Iliska Verwey and Charlotte Lorentzen Wilmington. The Panthers swept a doublehead- hits. Georgia State lost the Sunday game 8-3. May 12-14 CAA Championships hosted by posted the new lowest Regional three-day scores er Saturday, taking the first game 11-4 and then Now 29-18-1 overall and 12-5-1 in the Hofstra University. Georgia State (35-17) will in school history at 216 (even par) and 217 (+1) held off the Seahawks 1-0 in the night cap. CAA, the Panthers are just a game and a half meet third-seeded James Madison, the defend- to tie for ninth and 13th respectively. In game one, it was another fine pitching behind James Madison for the top spot. ing champ, in their opener. From what I’ve seen, Dave Cohen is in his 27th season as the performance from Aidan Francis (5-3) who They’ve gone 15-3-1 in their last 19 games. pitching is the number one ingredient in softball “Voice of Georgia State Basketball and went eight innings while allowing five hits and Following a mid-week loss at Georgia, the and head coach Bob Heck has two hurlers that Baseball on WRAS-FM (88.5) and works on three runs with five strikeouts. Offensively, Panthers will host Northeastern in a weekend are difference makers; Freshman McCall the football radio crew at Furman University Mark Micowski finished game one 4-for-6 series at Panthersville. Langford is 14-3 with a 1.34 ERA while soph- in Greenville, S.C.

ALW A Y S AT SCOREA TL.COM MAY 14-20, 2010 SCORE ATLANTA I 13

THE Summitt Basketball Camp. All Tournament Players field trips, skills clinics, 9 games and more! Register BASKETBALL SOCCER Park - Marietta, GA (678) 384-6500 www.atpp.com while space is still available Saturdays October 11 & Club Sport, “Where Atlanta Comes To Play!” Registration Challenged Soccer. Ongoing. For mentally and physically Top of the Key Basketball Camps. Boys and Girls Ages 18, 2008, 10 AM to 12 PM. Location: Corpus Christi Ongoing - Men's League plays on Sunday evenings at disabled youngsters. For information call Ken Higgins 5 - 13 Contact: (404)634-3815 www.topofthekey.com Church Sports Arena, 600 Mountain View Drive, Stone the Brookhaven Boys & Girls Club. For more info or to at 770-985-0434. Trilogy Lacrosse. Middle & High School. Fellowship Mountain, GA 30083. For info, call 770-469-0395, register visit www.usclubsport.com Hall of Fame soccer clinics. Ongoing on Fridays Clarkston Christian School June 28 - July 1 www.trilogylacrosse.com email [email protected] or visit the league’s website Open Recreational Basketball. GSL -- Georgia Sports Community Center. For under-6 through under-12 players. Atlanta Silverbacks Soccer Camps. Youth Skills Camp (www.ccybl.net). Leagues. Georgia’s Best Sports Leagues. Registration Fees: Free. For information call 404-508-1050 or visit July 12-16 (Ages 4-14) Goalkeeper Striker Camp July ongoing. We offer “Top Gun,” “B,” “C” and Co-Ed styles of www.clarkstoncommunitycenter.org. 5:30-7 PM. 26-30 (Ages 9-18) All Day Soccer camps June 21-25, SOFTBALL play around Atlanta. We play ALL year round. For more Competitive Amateur Soccer in Atlanta For more information, July 12-16 (Ages 6-16) All Day Multi-sport camps AYSA Spring Season. Ongoing - North Park - Cogburn and information please contact (678)799-0159 or email visit www.majesticsoccer.com. July 5-9, July 19-23 (Ages 6-16) www.atlantasilverbacks.com Bethany - Alpharetta. Fees: If Alpharetta Residential [email protected]. Property Tax IS NOT PAID at the primary residence of the Visit www.georgiasportsleagues.org. Competitive Edge Sports. Spring Break Performance Camps April 5-9 (Ages 8-18) Elite Athletes Speed & Performance player, then the Non-City Resident Fee must be paid. After Roundtable Fundamental Basketball Camp Boys and Girls. TENNIS Jan. 13, $10 late fee is charged. Rising 6th-10th Graders (Current 5th-9th Graders) June 7- Technique Clinics. Ongoing - Bitsy Grant Tennis Center. Ages 8-18 boys and Girls 6 Week Summer Training 11. 9am-2pm. St. Francis High School, Alpharetta. Contact Tuesdays (serve/volley) and Saturdays (forehand/back Programs Begins June 1Monthly Speed/Strength Training Coach Huff [email protected]. hand). Fees: $18. For information call 404-790-4772 (678) 957-1333 www.cesatlanta.com GYMNASTICS or email [email protected]. 2 PM on Saturdays, The Pitcher's Mound. Fast Pitch Softball Camps Pitcher/Catcher, Gymnastics Classes at Gymnastics AcademyofAtlanta. 6:30PM on Tuesdays. College Showcases, Beginners, Advanced Skills Camps Ongoing - 3126 Cobb Parkway Kennesaw, Ga. For BASEBALL Tennis camps for kids. Ongoing weekly. Lost Mountain information call 770-975-8337 or visit Braves. May 14 vs. Arizona 7:35 PM. May 15 vs. Arizona Tennis Center. For information call 770-528-8525. (678) 957-9080 www.thepitchersmound.net Hitters Box. Instruction from the Pros Jasha Balcom www.gymnasticsacademyofatlanta.com. 7:10 PM. May 16 vs. Arizona 1:35 PM. May 17 vs. Gymnastics Classes at Gwinnett Gymnastics Center New York Mets 7:10 PM. May 18 vs. New York Mets LACROSSE (Chicago Cubs, UGA) Timi Moni (Philadelphia Phillies) Ongoing - 927 Killian Hill Road Lilburn, Ga. For 7:10 PM. May 19 vs. Cincinnati 7:10 May 20 vs. Lacrosse. Ongoing. Registration for 1st-8th grades. For (678) 386-4206 [email protected] North Metro Gymnastics. Summer Day Camps, Seven information call 770-921-5630. Cincinnati 1:05 PM. May 21 at Pittsburgh 7:05 PM. information call 404-216-5870, email jasona@bagat Atlanta School of Gymnastics in Lawrenceville. Ongoing. May 22 at Pittsburgh 7:05 PM. May 23 at Pittsburgh awaylacrosse.com or visit www.bagatawaylacrosse.com. Weekly camps, Victory Cheer Camp, Elite Team Training Double Stixx Lacrosse. Ongoing - Leagues, Travel Teams Camp (770) 384-8058 www.northmetrogymnastics.com Classes for tots through teens. Cheerleading classes for 1:35 PM. May 25 at Florida 7:10 PM. May 26 at ages 5 and older. For information call 770-277-9434. Florida7:10 PM. May 27 at Florida 7:10 PM. and Tournaments for youth, high school and adult’s Future Stars Soccer Academy. Day/Overnight Camps boys and girls. More information about the best (678)612-1888 www.FSsoccercamps.com The Little Gym of Snellville. Ongoing. Noncompetitive Gwinnett Braves. May 14 vs. Lehigh Valley 7:05 PM. May gymnastics and motor-skills development classes and 15 vs. Lehigh Valley 7:05 PM. May 16 vs. Lehigh lacrosse programs in Georgia can be found at Sports-A-Rama. Marietta, GA Multi Sport Camp Spring Break Valley 2:05 PM. May 17 vs. Lehigh Valley 7:05 PM. www.doblestixxlacrosse.com or by contacting Chris Camp Summer Camp (770) 977-9789 www.sareastcobb.com camps. For ages 10 months-12 years. For information May 18 vs. Columbus 7:05 PM. May 19 vs. Columbus Smith at [email protected] or 404-550-5322. FCA Team Wrestling Camp. Riverside Military Academy call 770-982-0901 or visit www.tlgsnellvillega.com. 7:05 PM. May 20 vs. Columbus 7:05 PM. May 21 vs. Gainesville, GA (770) 364-2527 www.fcawrestlinggeorgia.org Columbus 7:05 PM. May 22 at Indianapolis 7 PM. May RUNNING The Roundtable Fundamental Basketball Camp. Boys & Girls RACING 23 at Indianapolis 2 PM. May 24 at Indianapolis 7 PM. ATC Peachtree Jr. 3K (kids 7-12). May 22. Atlanta; (current 5th-9th graders) St. Francis HS Alpharetta, GA Friday Night Drags and Show-N-Shine. May 14 at Atlanta May 25 at Indianapolis 7 PM. May 27 at Louisville 7:05 PM. 404-231-9064. (404)-432-9646 [email protected] Motor Speedway. Dirty Spokes (Race #4) - Silver Comet Trail Running Atlanta Thrashers Summer Camps. June 21-25 at the Ice Richard Petty Driving Experience. May 14-16 at Atlanta Motor Prospect Watch. Ongoing - Buckhead. Baseball pitching Forum in Duluth. Mite, Squirt, Pewee/Bantam Camp. and hitting lessons by a former college and minor Race 6.2 Miles. May 22. Hiram Speedway. Uptown Rhodes Race 5K. May 22. Atlanta, Ansley Park, Goalie Camp and Cross Ice Camp is from June 14-18. To Friday Night Drags and Show-N-Shine. May 21 at Atlanta league coach. For information call 404-869-7966 register go to www.atlantathrashers.com/youthhockey. or visit www.eteamz.com/tryouts. 8:00 AM. 404-885-7812. Atlanta Hawks Summer Camp. June 14-18 at Philips Arena. Motor Speedway. Adult Baseball League Metro Atlanta. Ongoing. MSBL Race for Champions 5K benefiting Special Olympics Boys and girls ages 7-14 can register. Fee is $295. For SCCA National. May 22-23 at Road Atlanta. 18+, 28+, 38+, and 48+. Sunday League contact Georgia. May 22. Atlanta, Lullwater Park; 770.414.9390. more information, go to www.hawks.com/youthbasketball. info is 770.785.2588, e-mail [email protected]. Great Escape McDonough 5K. May 22. McDonough, MSBL 18+ Saturday League contact info is 770-436- 8:00 AM. 404-425-3352. VOLLEYBALL 8114, e-mail [email protected]. MSBL 18+ GeneRACEtion 2010 10K/2K. May 22. Atlanta, Grant Gwinnett Sports Center. Registration ongoing. For infor OFFICIATING Midweek Wood bat league contact info is 770-436- Park, 8:15 AM. 404-605-8540 mation call Jerry Robison at 678-491-0203 or visit Fall 2010 Basketball Referee Training Program. Last 8114, e-mail [email protected]. MSBL 18+Fall Grizzly Trail Run. May 22. Dalton, 8:00 AM. 706-278-8143. www.gscfun.com. chance to become a trained basketball referee before League contact info is 770-436- 8114, e-mail 10th Annual Race for Champions 5K. May 22. Atlanta, start of season. Begins Fri Nite/Sat Morning August Emory, 7:30 AM. 770-414-9390. SWIMMING & DIVING [email protected]. For more information about Swimming lessons. Ongoing - Alpharetta City Pool - 20/21 with orientation! Nine session, “101 Referee our Atlanta Adult Baseball League, please visit our web WOW (Walk of Women) 7K Charity Walk for Women’s Cancer. May 22. Marietta, 8:30 AM. 404-644-3722 Alpharetta, Ga. - 1825 Old Milton Parkway. For infor Course” (Saturdays) held in Roswell/Alpharetta area. site at www.AtlantaMSBL.com. Inaugural HOCO Bears 5K Run & 1M Stroll to the mation call 678-297-6107. Call (404) 943-9950 or email [email protected] TNT Sports. Ongoing. Baseball pitching and hitting lessons Finish. May 22. Warner Robins, 8 AM. 478-953-6217 Dynamo Swim School. DynaBabies, Preschool, Grade 9RCorp Sports Officials. Ongoing. Provider of sports by Rob Blair, former college coach, Snellville. To set up Coastal Georgia 4 Mile Trail Run & 2 Mile Walk. May School, Adult Classes. Youth Swim Team. Call us officials for multiple sports including basketball, flag a free pitching or hitting analysis call. 678-344-5876. 22. Brunswick, 8:00 AM. 912-996-2064. (770) 457-7946 Ext 16 www.dynamoswimschool.com football, & softball. Looking for additional officials. For Jack City Baseball. Ongoing. Baseball pitching and hitting. Inaugural Fire House 5K & Mile Fun Run. May 22. Gwinnett Aquatics. Ongoing - 2800 Quinberry Drive and information call Dennis Reagan at 404-213-0588 or Instruction with former pro Keith Whitner. 18-y looking Covington, 8:30 a.m.; 706-769-6593. Bethany Church Road. For ages 5-18. Swim team and email [email protected]. for high school players. The new location is inside The Alcove 18th Annual 5K Race. May 22. Monroe, lessons available. For information call 770-972-4055. Georgia Lacrosse Officials Association. Needs boys youth Velocity Sports in North Gwinnett. For more informa Senior Water-Exercise class. Ongoing - Mountain Park tion call 770-633-0948 or visit jackcity.net. 7:00 AM. 770-267-9156 and High School officials for 2010 season. Games are Run for a Child 5K. May 22. Villa Rica, 6:00 PM. pool - Lilburn, Ga. Fees: $1 per class. For information played Spring, Summer, and Fall. Great way to earn 770-265-3621 call 770-546-4650. 10-10:50 AM. extra money and get some fun aerobic exercise. For FOOTBALL Pave the Path 10K, 2K & Metric Century Ride. May 22. SwimAtlanta Sugarloaf at Kid’s Village. Ongoing. Swim Atlanta Xplosion. May 15 vs. Carolina TBA. May 22 at more information, please visit www.GALAXREF.com or Conyers; 770-483-1231. team, lessons, lap swimming, master’s program, email [email protected]. Miami Furry TBA. 2nd Annual Run for Kids 10K & Fun Run. May 22. water aerobics and scuba available. For information Collins Hill Athletic Association. Ongoing. Accepting Monroe, 7:30 AM. 706-769-6593 call 678-442-7946. applications for qualified coaches in all age groups. For Flowery Branch Annual Spring 5K Run/Walk. May 22. ATLANTA SPORTS COUNCIL information email Craig Deneau at [email protected] Flowery Branch, 9:00 a.m.; 678-316-6780. YOUTH REGISTRATION Chick-Fil-A Bowl. Dec. 31, 2010. Georgia Dome. For Grayson Athletic Association. Ongoing. Football coaches Keep Newnan Beautiful Walk n' Wag. May 22. tickets, call 404-444-4444. Soccer-Soccer Alley. Ongoing - 3265 Roswell Road- To reach the Atlanta Sports Council call 404-586-8510 needed for eighth grade and all age groups. For infor Newnan, 9:30 AM. 678-855-5058. Atlanta. For information call 404-266-0762 or visit mation call Duane Davis at 678-300-0282 or visit HOPE 5K & Mile Run/Walk. May 22. Homer, 8:30 AM. www.starsoccerclub.com. or visit www.atlantasportscouncil.com. www.gaasports.org. Tucker Youth Soccer. Ongoing - 2803 Henderson Road Flag Football. GSL -- Georgia Sports Leagues. Georgia’s CAMPS Tucker, Ga. For information call 770-414-0538 or MISC. Largest Flag League. Registration ongoing. We offer 7- Harlem Legends. The Harlem Legends have scheduled visit www.tysa.com. Club Sport. Club Sport opens registration for summer leagues Man, 8-man, Youth and Co-Ed styles of play around their 2010 Shoot for the Stars Basketball & Physical Track and Field - Peachtree City Flash Youth Track on May 1st with league play beginning in June. Club Sport Atlanta. We play ALL year round. For information please Fitness Camps. The “Shoot for the Stars Youth Team registration. Ongoing - Riley Field - Peachtree is Atlanta's recreational sports and social group with over contact (678)799-0159 or email mark@georgiasport Basketball Camps and Clinics” are a unique form of City, Ga. For ages 6-14. For information call 770-631- 10,000 participants each year on 1200 teams in 120 sleagues.org. Visit www.georgiasportsleagues.org. 3552 or email [email protected]. Arena Indoor Football. Ongoing. Youth and Adult Leagues. learning experiences geared towards young basketball leagues. Each season Club Sport offers leagues in flag foot Youth 7 vs. 7; Adult 6 vs. 6. For information, call 678- players of all skill levels. There are two Gwinnett Gymnastics - Georgia Gymnastics Academy. Ongoing. ball, softball, soccer, sand and indoor volleyball, basketball 714-7454 or e-mail [email protected]. County camps this year. Please visit our website For registration in Lawrenceville call 770-962-5867; in and more. Club Sport is where Atlanta comes to play! For www.atlantasilverbacks.com/indoor. (www.harlemlegends.com) or call 404-837-6719 Suwanee call 770-945-3424. more information about Club Sport, upcoming events, pho Capitol City Officials Association. CCOA is accepting for additional camps. Gym Elite. Ongoing. Registration for ages 2 and older. tos or interviews with the owner, please contact Rich Alvarez ongoing registration for the upcoming GHSA High University of Georgia. The University of Georgia offers Cheerleading for ages 6 and older. For information at 678-994-0793 ext. 818 or visit www.usclubsport.com. School season in football. We hold weekly training camps for boys and girls basketball, tennis, soccer, call 770-242-0678. GOkickball "Atlanta's Premier Social Experience". Providing meetings. For more information, contact Irvin Seabrook golf, track & field, cross country, and volleyball. Go to Youth Soccer Training. Ongoing. Start age 3 and up. For social, co-ed adult kickball leagues throughout metro- their website at www.georgiadogs.com for more infor information, call 678-714-7454, e-mail at 404-957-3331 or e-mail [email protected]. [email protected], or visit Atlanta centered around having a good time, meeting new mation about all of their camps. people, and playing recreational games of kickball at local Georgia Tech. Georgia Tech offers camps for boys and www.atlantasilverbacks.com/indoor. HOCKEY girls basketball, tennis, soccer, golf, swimming, cheer Corpus Christi Youth Basketball League Registration is parks. Registration is open now for spring season. Join the Peachtree Booster Club. Ongoing - Pickneyville Roller leading, baseball, softball, sports medicine and volley now underway for our 29th season! Boys and girls fun! For more information and to register, go to Hockey Rink. Fees: $95 for 12-game season, $30 out- ball. Go to their website at www.ramblinwreck.com for ages 5 through 14, any skill level, are welcome. Cost: www.gokickball.com/atlanta. Special Score Atlanta 15% of-county fee. For information visit www.pbcsports.org. more information about all of their camps. $90 per child/$85 for siblings. Fee includes uniforms, off discount code: “Score15”.

ALW A Y S AT SCOREA TL.COM 14 I SCORE ATLANTA Get In The Game!

Hawks front office should rise to the challenge; Braves will be okay tlanta sports fans, as well as the entire lapse. In Woodson’s six years in Atlanta, his postseason by August. However, the team ANBA, learned quite a bit about the Hawks teams have gradually improved each year. has begun hitting in Milwaukee and cer- during this postseason. Not only did some Woodson’s first team won just 13 games, but tain players in the lineup are starting to Atlanta players embarrass themselves on the the Hawks have since increased their win produce consistently. court, but they also embarrassed themselves total to the 53 wins this past year. In fact, since the losing streak, Atlanta through the media. A lot of the talk around town has been has won seven out of 11 games. Venerable The Hawks are known throughout the that Woodson is to blame for the team’s prob- manager Bobby Cox has to be relived at the league as being very athletic and very talent- lems. However, after listening to and watch- sight of his team scoring more runs of late. ed, but also very young. Head coach Mike ing Josh Smith and Joe Johnson during the Martin Prado and Jason Heyward have Woodson’s group appears to many to possess playoffs, many fans are also upset with the been the lynchpins of the lineup thus far in tremendous potential, but has not yet put it two highly-paid stars. the season, but were joined recently by hot- all together. When faced with an equally tal- Woodson has now taken the team to hitting Troy Glaus. Despite widespread criti- ented Orlando Magic squad, the Hawks wilt- three consecutive playoff berths and has cism and a devastating hitting slump early ed on the vine and failed to challenge in even seemingly been able to reign in certain play- on, Glaus has rebounded at the plate and is a single game. ers who may not be the most coachable guys now hitting a respectable .268 as of This team is virtually the same as it was in the league. His success in moving Atlanta Wednesday. The mammoth first baseman is SCORE ATLANTA two years ago when it took eventual World up the ladder in the Eastern Conference can- currently on an eight-game hitting streak. Champion Boston to Game 7. But the spirit and not be overlooked. The Braves’ pitching, meanwhile, has ADVERTISING INDEX energy that was with that team in Games 3, 4 Also, veteran point guard Mike Bibby been solid for much of the year. Tommy 790 The Zone ...... Cover and 6 has seemingly gotten lost in the shuffle. has shown signs of age recently and also Hanson and Tim Hudson have given Atlanta In the first round of the 2010 playoffs, received a bevy of criticism for his suspect quality starts nearly every time out while Associated Credit Union...... 9 the mediocre and ailing Milwaukee Bucks defense during the Magic series. Derek Lowe and Jair Jurrjens who, despite Atlanta Falcons ...... Cover pushed Atlanta to the brink of elimination. A “He’s getting older now,” Woodson told struggling at times thus far, have track desperate rally allowed the more-talented the AJC after Game 4. “He might have taken records of success and reliability. Atlanta Braves ...... 8 Hawks to win Games 6 and 7 of the series. us as far as he can take us. Teague, we prob- The bullpen has been surprisingly serv- While it was the Hawks that pestered the elite ably have to give him first crack to see if he iceable. Billy Wagner, despite his advancing Atlanta Dream ...... 7 Celtics three seasons ago, it was a scrappy can do the job (next year).” age, has pitched consistently well and sports Georgia State ...... 12 and resilient Bucks team that nearly got the Young stars like Al Horford and Jamal a miserly 1.64 ERA. better of Woodson’s crew. Crawford have been nothing short of sensa- Cox’s final squad may not beat out Hooters ...... Cover, 2 That scrappy underdog attitude was com- tional since arriving in Atlanta. It may be time Philadelphia for the East Division title, but it Intonu ...... Cover pletely missing during the series with Orlando. for them to become the core of the franchise. can certainly make some noise in the wild card race. And, with the old skipper hanging Man’s Best Friend ...... 4 MOVING FORWARD … BRAVES SHOWING PROMISE … up the spikes at the end of the season, it is way National Guard...... Back Page General manager Rick Sund has the After a dismal nine-game losing too early to give up on the Braves. unenviable task of figuring out what to do streak, the Braves looked like they might Black can be reached at North River Tavern ...... 5 with this bunch after the recent playoff col- be mathematically eliminated from the [email protected]. Play It Again Sammy ...... 14 Pole Vault ...... 15 TO ADVERTISE IN SCORE ATLANTA: Copyright 2010 Score Atlanta Publishing, LLC. All rights reserved. CHECK OUT THE Score Atlanta is published every week on Fridays. Views expressed in Score Atlanta are not necessarily the opinion of Score Atlanta, its staff or Rhodes Bakery ...... 14 404.256.1572 advertisers. Score Atlanta does not knowingly accept false or misleading NEW AND IMPROVED editorial content or advertising nor is Score Atlanta responsible for the content or claims of any advertising or editorial in this publication. No Ron Veal Football Camp ...... 14 content (articles, photographs, graphics) in Score Atlanta may be used SCOREATL.COM! for reproduction without written permission from the publisher. Worthmore ...... 3

ALW A Y S AT SCOREA TL.COM MAY 14-20, 2010 SCORE ATLANTA I 15

Yellow Jacket teams gear up for tournies Diamond Dawgs end losing streak oth of Georgia Tech’s tennis teams are Chandler Stadium. The Jackets rolled to vic- he misery continued for the Georgia base- 13-9. Levi Hyams hit a home run for Georgia Bkicking off their 2010 NCAA tournament tories of 8-4, 11-5 and 5-2 for their seventh Tball team last weekend as Tennessee came and drove in three runs in the win. campaigns this weekend. On the heels of its three-game series sweep of the season. to town and swept the Bulldogs on their home Georgia will take on Florida this week- surprising run to the ACC title, the women’s Deck McGuire struck out six in six field. However, Dave Perno’s team was able end in Gainesville. team earned the No. 14 overall seed when the innings for the win in Game 1, while senior to end a four-game losing skid on Tuesday selection show was held earlier this month. first baseman Tony Plagman recorded his night with a 13-9 win over Georgia State. SOFTBALL LASSOS HORNS … The Yellow Jackets are hosting first- and sec- 200th career RBI. In the second contest, The No. 10 Georgia softball team ond-round action, opening with Austin Peay Brandon Cumpton picked up his seventh win SEC DROUGHT … defeated Big XII champion Texas 11-5 in the on Friday before a potential clash against behind three RBIs from both Cole Leonida The series sweep by the Vols extended regular season finale on Monday in Austin, either Mississippi or UC-Irvine. and Thomas Nichols. Finishing off the Georgia’s SEC losing streak to 10 games. The Texas. The Bulldogs also hit three home runs “It is always nice to accomplish a goal Flames in style, Jed Bradley struck out 10 Dawgs have not won an SEC contest since a in the win to set a single-season school and one ours was to host a regional here at batters in six innings for his eighth victory. 6-3 win over Ole Miss on April 11. record of 86 dingers. Georgia Tech,” head coach Bryan Shelton Chase Burnette had three hits in the final On Friday, Georgia received a solid pitch- The three home runs came during a six- told RamblinWreck.com. “Our team has had game, including a home run. ing performance from Justin Grimm, who run third inning, the second time this season to work hard all season so we are definitely The Yellow Jackets (39-9, 17-7) are struck out 11 in the 4-1 loss. However, the that UGA has hit three home runs in an hosting Miami (36-11, 18-6) in a huge ACC battle-tested. We just want to continue to Bulldog offense was stymied by Vol pitcher inning. The six-run outburst gave the build on our ACC tournament.” series this weekend and they will wrap up Bulldogs an 11-1 lead after three against the their regular season the following weekend Stephen McCray, who threw a complete game. The men’s team also garnered an NCAA The Dawgs had just six hits on the night. No. 12 Longhorns. berth, its first since 2007. The Yellow Jackets at Boston College. “Grimm was excellent and I’m really Allisa Goler hit her 13th home run of the are going up against Binghamton on Saturday HEWITT TO COACH NATIONAL TEAM … happy for him,” said Perno. “He threw very season and drove in four runs on the day, morning in the Lexington Regional. while Ashley Razey and Brittney Hubbard “Our guys are just excited,” noted coach Men’s basketball coach Paul Hewitt well tonight. We had our guys up and we just also homered in the win. Kenny Thorne. “They’ve played well and was named an assistant for the USA Men’s couldn't take advantage of that. We need to had a good year, so anywhere we go, they’re U18 National team last week. Oklahoma’s continue getting ourselves in position to win very excited to play.” Jeff Capel is the head coach and will lead and eventually, you have to be able to come AWARD FOR GYM DOG … On the softball diamond, Tech (46-9, 19- the squad along with Hewitt and Buffalo’s up with the big hit in those situations.” Senior Marcia Newby was named the 2 ACC) is surging into this weekend’s ACC Reggie Witherspoon in the FIBA Americas On Saturday, Georgia was shellacked 25- 2010 Arthur Ashe Jr. Female Sports Scholar tournament in Blacksburg, VA. The Jackets U18 Championship from June 26-30 at St. 5 by Tennessee. The Vols scored a whopping of the Year on Monday. The award is given out won the conference regular season by 5.5 Mary’s University in San Antonio, Texas. 13 times in the third inning and ended up with by Diverse Magazine, a publication that pro- games and they are opening with eighth-seed- The top four teams at the tournament will a total of 28 hits on the day. files top athletic scholars from around the ed Boston College (16-32, 2-18) on Friday. advance to next summer’s FIBA U19 “We’re treading in a tough spot right now country who are making their mark on the Championships will soon heat up on the World Championship. because we have to start making moves for field and in the classroom. links as well, and the Georgia Tech golf squad Hewitt also made headlines by assuming next year without taking opportunities away Newby is a member of the 2010 senior was named the No. 3 seed in the NCAA the role as commencement speaker last from our seniors,” lamented Perno. “It’s real- class, which won three national titles in Southeast Regional on Monday. Action will Saturday at his alma mater, St. John Fisher ly getting frustrating and everything’s getting gymnastics at UGA. The native of Virginia get under way next Thursday at the Capital College, in Rochester, NY. A member of the exposed for us right now.” Beach, Va., was a three-time All-American City Club Crabapple in Alpharetta. ’85 class, Hewitt earned a bachelor’s degree Sunday was a bit better for the Dawgs, at Georgia. Newby plans to enroll in med- in communications/journalism and econom- but still counted for a loss, as Tennessee out- ical school next fall after graduating from BASEBALL SWEEPS UIC … ics. He also received an honorary degree of scored the Dawgs 14-11. UGA with a 3.9 GPA and a degree in bio- Tech’s baseball team took care of Doctor of Laws last weekend. Against Georgia State, the Bulldogs logical science. Illinois-Chicago last weekend in a three- Dimon can be reached at threw seven pitchers and gave up nine runs on Black can be reached at game set in the friendly confines of Russ [email protected]. 15 hits, but still came out on top by a score of [email protected].

ALW A Y S AT SCOREA TL.COM