South Charlotte Sports Report “HOMETOWN TEAMS ... HOMETOWN KIDS” Volume 3, Issue 6 www.southcharlottesports.com Early September Issue - FREE

RONA MACHICOTE COMES BACK HOME TH You may remember OUR 50 ISSUE a story we published last 50 ISSUES! Wow! It’s hard to believe this is the 50th issue of The summer about The Machi- South Charlotte Sports Report. I only have to think back to the night of June 4, 2006 to realize how far the paper has come. After weeks of cote Family and the fight hard work, it was almost time to print our first edition; we barely met that Rona Machicote had the deadline for our printer. Around midnight I went to bed with a on her hands. She had feeling of nervousness knowing that in just 6 hours, The South Char- been diagnosed with Guil- lotte Sports Report would be born. In many ways, I felt like a Dad lain Barre Syndrome in waiting on a child to be born. February 2007. Her chil- Needless to say we have come a long way since that first newspaper. dren Austin and Foster With each issue, I believe the paper has improved. I am proud to say Machicote are talented we have maintained our commitment to providing positive news on young athletes here in the the young athletes of the South Charlotte community. Over 25,000 names, stories and photos have appeared in our pages to date. South Charlotte area. Both It’s very important to note that without the amazing companies boys play for the Charlotte and organizations that support The South Charlotte Sports Report, Megastars and Austin is we would have never made it this far. I ask all of our readers to please a pitcher for Ardrey Kell continue to give these supporters an opportunity to earn your busi- High School. The following ness. They are all first class businesses owned by people that believe is a story of determination in the role youth sports play in a child’s life. and never giving up in the Alex, Foster, Rona and Joe Machicote at the “Miracle Mile” Walk. Your support has allowed The South Charlotte Sports Report to grow beyond the actual newspaper. Under our umbrella, we now pursuit of goals. tients, however, recover from mune system begins to attack Guillain-Barré syndrome is operate South Charlotte Sports Action Photography which provides even the most severe cases of the body itself, causing what is affordable action photography, team and organization photographic a disorder in which the body’s Guillain-Barré syndrome, al- known as an autoimmune dis- services. In addition to the tens of thousands of photos we take of immune system attacks part of though some continue to have ease. Guillain-Barré is called a athletes, we also offer a great fundraising program for athletic associ- the peripheral nervous system. some degree of weakness. Guil- syndrome rather than a disease ations, schools and teams. Call us at 704-906-5466 for more informa- The first symptoms of this dis- lain-Barré syndrome is rare. because it is not clear that a spe- tion and please visit www.scsractionphotos.com to view our photos. order include varying degrees of Usually Guillain-Barré occurs cific disease-causing agent is I am also very proud of the Sports Camps that are operated by weakness or tingling sensations a few days or weeks after the involved. Reflexes such as knee The South Charlotte Sports Report. We have hosted 8 camps in the in the legs. In many instances, patient has had symptoms of jerks are usually lost. Because last year for area youth. Our camps are committed to providing first class instruction with a commitment to Good Sportsmanship and the weakness and abnormal a respiratory or gastrointesti- the signals traveling along the sensations spread to the arms Fun. Continue to look through our newspaper for more information nal viral infection. Occasion- nerve are slower, a nerve con- on upcoming camps this Fall and Winter. We promise to deliver the and upper body. These symp- ally, surgery or vaccinations duction velocity (NCV) test can best camp possible to every parent and child in the area. toms can increase in intensity will trigger the syndrome. The give a doctor clues to aid the di- One of the most exciting projects for The South Charlotte Sports until the muscles cannot be disorder can develop over the agnosis. The cerebrospinal fluid Report has been the creation of The Greater Charlotte Hot Stove used at all and the patient is course of hours or days, or it that bathes the spinal cord and League and the first ever Hot Stove League Dinner held last Janu- almost totally paralyzed. In may take up to 3 to 4 weeks. No brain contains more protein ary. This pre-season Baseball and Softball Awards Dinner will return these cases, the disorder is life- one yet knows why Guillain- than usual, so a physician may January 24, 2009 in an even larger format than the first dinner! threatening and is considered a Barré strikes some people and decide to perform a spinal tap. So sit back and enjoy our 50th issue. With the continued and amazing support of the community, we hope to publish another 50 medical emergency. The patient not others or what sets the dis- is often put on a respirator to issues and continue to offer positive news and programming for the ease in motion. What scientists See Machicote, page 5 South Charlotte Community. assist with breathing. Most pa- do know is that the body’s im- From the bottom of my heart, Thank You to everyone that has offered a kind word, sent in stories and photos, spent time in our camps or participated in any of our programming. Without you, The On a 6 issue introductory advertising package with The South Charlotte Sports Report. South Charlotte Sports Report would have never made it past that Starting a new business? Looking for new ways to market your business? first issue. Save Want to show your support for youth sports? Tripp Roakes Publisher Market your business to over 70,000 South Charlotte area residents. South Charlotte Sports Report Take advantage of this introductory offer no later than September 15, 2008. [email protected] 33% 704-906-5466 Call Tripp Roakes at 704-906-5466 or email [email protected] for more information Read my blog at www.southcharlottesports.blogspot.com

South Charlotte Sports Action Photography The South Charlotte Sports Report is Call now to schedule our team of professional Teams, Leagues & Organizations looking for a few good student writers. photographers to visit your games this fall. Advertise your function or event on Earn great experience and have your Team Photos, Posed shots and Action Photography our new Bulletin Board! See page 2 work published in our newspaper. 704-906-5466 Email [email protected] Page  South Charlotte Sports Report Volume 3, Issue 6 THE BULLETIN BOARD LOOKING FOR A FEW MORE PLAYERS FOR YOUR TEAM, NEED TO ANNOUNCE A SPECIAL EVENT, LEAGUE REGISTRATION COMING UP SOON, SOMETHING FOR SALE? THE SOUTH CHARLOTTE SPORTS REPORT BULLETIN BOARD OFFERS AN AFFORDABLE OPTION TO LET THE OVER 25,000 FAMILIES THAT READ OUR NEWSPAPER KNOW ABOUT YOUR EVENT. TO PLACE YOUR ANNOUNCEMENT, VISIT WWW.SOUTHCHARLOTTESPORTS.COM/BB JUST $24.00 FOR UP TO 75 WORDS, ONLY $18 MORE FOR EACH ADDITIONAL ISSUE

SCHOOLS, CHURCHES: The South Char- Softball classes are also being offered. Sign up Mark your calanders! The 2nd Annual lotte Sports Report is searching for gym space asap to ensure your space. Carolinas Baseball Greater Charlotte Hot Stove League for upcoming camps and programs this fall and Center 704-499-9040 www.cbcbaseball.net Banquet will be held on Saturday Janu- winter. We will pay top-dollar and or trade ary 24th. For more information, call 704- advertising space for usage of your church or Marvin Ridge Cheerleading is pleased to 906-5466 or visit www.hotstovedinner.com ADVERTISE HERE school gym. Great opportunity to raise addi- announce the First Marvin Ridge Classic Announcements will be made in September FOR AS LOW AS tional funds and/or gain advertising exposure in Cheerleading Competition to be hosted at on how to nominate players for awards as well The South Charlotte Sports Report. Call Tripp Marvin Ridge High School on October 25th and as information on buying your tickets for this @ 704-906-5466 or email Tripp@southcharlot- 26th.If you would like more information or to year’s banquet. tesports.com register a Middle School or High School team, $18 please follow this link: http://marvinridgemav- VISIT SEPTEMBER BASEBALL CLASSES ericksclassiccheerleadingcompetition.com ques- WWW.SOUTHCHARLOTTESPORTS.COM/BB CBC Baseball is offering September baseball tions should be directed to the MRHS Varsity TO PLACE YOUR AD ON THE BULLETIN classes for hitting, pitching, catching and infield. Cheerleading Coach: [email protected] BOARD.

Volume 3, Issue 6 South Charlotte Sports Report Page 23 PICK UP YOUR COPY OF THE SOUTH CHARLOTTE SPORTS REPORT AT THESE LOCATIONS Play It Again Sports Velocity Sports Performance Community House Middle School Quimby and Collins - Fountains Cardillo’s Charlotte All-Stars Dick’s Sporting Goods – Pineville Dilworth Coffee House (Hwy 521) Dick’s Sporting Goods – Matthews Omega Sports YMCA – Morrison Branch Four Seasons Barber and Salon YMCA – Siskey Branch Dunkin Donuts (Highway 521) Mathnasium Lax Zone Southeastern Gymnastics Fitness For Women Steps N’ Motion – The Fountains Palone’s Pizza On Deck Baseball Sports Connection Ballantyne Now scheduling all fall Tokyo One Express Peak Fitness Ballantyne Extreme Ice Center Eddie’s Place Restaurant sports photography. Dr. Sellers Orthodontics Epicenter at OrthoCarolina La Strada Pizza Presbyterian Urgent Care – Blakeney Weddington Activity Center Presbyterian Urgent Care – Pineville Call to set a time for Baskin Robbins (Highway 521) BP Station near Siskey Y Nothing But Noodles Citgo Station near Col. Beaty Park usRecent to visit Galleries for team Athletic Republic The Ice House Charlotteand individualChristian Football Mecklenburg Aquatic Club Port City Java (Downtown) Adidas Cup Soccer Carolinas Baseball Center In the Game Athletics photos as well as International Sports Center Premier Soccer South Meck vs Catholic Football Action Photos. Manhattan Coffee and Ice Cream Super Bi-Lo (Matthews) Try Sports Charlotte Running Company Pet Essentials Run for Your Life Jesse Brown’s Adventure Chiropractic Fitness Ballantyne Bean n’ Bakery Sports Clips (Promenede) CALL US ABOUT Guitar Center Good Ol Days Jersey Mike’s (Stonecrest) Juice Place (Promenede) OUR SPECIAL CrossFit Charlotte Marvin Ridge High School ATHLETIC Laxer, Long and Savage Marvin Ridge Middle School Grand Slam USA Charlotte Catholic High School ORGANIZATION Papa Johns – Camfield Corners Marble Slab Creamery (Waxhaw) Tebby Sports Medicine Movie Gallery (Waxhaw) PHOTOGRAPHY Meridian Medical Group Harris Teeter (Cureton) Specializing In: PACKAGES Call 704-906-5466 or email [email protected] and we will add your location to this list. • Personalized Customer Service • Network Designs & Installations • Network Administration & Training • Voice & Data Cabling South Charlotte Sports Report • Business & Residential Sales, Service & Support Covering the Active Children and Families of Our Community The South Charlotte Sports Report is published twice a month by The South Charlotte Sports Report, 9901 Zackery Ave, Charlotte, NC 28277. Phone: 704-341-0086. The South Charlotte (704) 905-0488 Sports Report is distributed free throughout our coverage area in neighborhoods and local 2301 Highland Forrest Drive, Waxhaw, NC 28173 businesses. If you would like copies delivered to your business for distribution to customers, call 704-341-0086. Paid subscriptions delivered by USPS are available for $59.00 a year. www.millenniumcci.com . [email protected] Payment may be made to South Charlotte Sports Report, 9901 Zackery Ave, Charlotte, NC 28277

Story ideas and photo submissions are welcome for use on our website and in our newspaper, email to [email protected]. Advertising rates are available upon request. The SCSR Team! VISIT MY BLOG AT PUBLISHER WEBMASTER ADVERTISING Tripp Roakes Scott Page REPRESENTATIVES Jill Shea WWW.SOUTHCHARLOTTESPORTS. GRAPHIC DESIGNER PHOTOGRAPHERS Louise Giusto Frances Adams Richard Bolen Lisa Cude Jennifer Patterson BLOGSPOT.COM COPY EDITOR Chip Auger SPORTS POSTERS! Catherine McKay Greg Arthur Contact South Charlotte Sports Report to schedule our team of professional photographers to visit your team this fall. WE OFFER GREAT ACTION PHOTOS, TEAM PHOTOS AND SPORTS POSTERS! SCSRACTIONPHOTOS.COM 704-906-5466 Volume 3, Issue 6 South Charlotte Sports Report Page  Lacrosse Recruiting Rundown The College Coach Call Written by Greg Basch, Providence High School Written by Greg Basch, Providence High School Imagine traveling five hundred miles on a bus, playing on a team As much as I strive not to begin articles with clichés, I can’t help but feel that one would be fitting here… with athletes from all your rival schools and competing in a tourna- so here goes: I’ll never forget when I received my first phone call from a college coach. I was out on my front ment of over seventy teams sprawled across an entire county during lawn at about nine o’clock at night, dragging the recycling bin down to the curb when my cell phone rang the blistering heat of summer. Now imagine doing all of this while try- with a number I did not recognize. I answered the phone and, to my disbelief, was greeted by an assistant ing to impress college lacrosse coaches from all divisions, conferences coach of a Division I lacrosse team. He was very temperate and calmly kind as he asked how my off season and regions of the country. How you play at any particular point could was going, inquired how my grades were holding up and commented on how he had been impressed with set in motion an important chain of events that could determine which my play at a tournament earlier that summer. While our brief conversation, early in the recruiting process, coaches choose to recruit you, and thus which college you choose to did not include any talk of official visits or commitments, needless to say I was left grinning like a child on attend…a decision which will ultimately lay the outline for the rest of Christmas morning. your life. This is the pressure-cooker atmosphere of summer recruiting A student-athlete’s first contact with a college coach is without a doubt one of the most exciting moments for lacrosse athletes. Recruiting for lacrosse is most similar to soccer they will experience in high school, but beyond the initial thrill of knowing that a college coach is interested and volleyball, where the majority of recruiting is done in you, a phone call is an important measuring stick in the compli- while playing with select teams or all star teams in des- cated world of recruiting. It is common for an athlete’s family to be ignated recruiting tournaments (generally in the sum- confused on where they stand in a coach’s priority list of prospects, mer and fall). For those of us in the Southeast, trav- so the varying levels of contact that occur between the family and the eling to tournaments up north are virtually our only coach are vital to understanding the situation. To further illustrate opportunity to be seen by coaches. Unlike in football, this point, I’ll run through a simulation of how a college program will lacrosse players are rarely scouted by coaches who at- typically communicate with their average prospective recruit. tend regular season games, or by sport-specific com- Junior Summer/Fall : September 1st of Junior Year is the first day bines, or even by word of mouth. Lacrosse recruiting for NCAA Division I and II sports, excluding Men’s Basketball and is done almost completely through a handful of major Men’s Ice Hockey (June 15th), that coaches may begin to send out recruiting tournaments held in the Summer and Fall. recruiting materials. As many as a thousand athletes will receive a In fact it is completely possible that a lacrosse player generic letter from the coach, often addressed “Dear Athlete” or “Dear could refrain completely from playing during the regu- Prospect.” This letter will include only general information about the lar season in the Spring, and still be recruited by com- college and the particular team. In most cases, the letter will also con- peting in recruiting showcases during the off season. tain a brief academic/athletic questionnaire for the athlete to fill out Along those same lines, lacrosse players are not offered and return. The coaching staff may have seen these athletes play at scholarships to top play for top teams purely because some point and been impressed, or simply pulled their name off of a

of 40 yard dash time, or a freakish amount of muscle Rich Bolen, SCSR Action Photos roster at a combine, camp or tournament and put them on their mail- mass. ing list. The purpose of this early, general letter is simply to introduce In lacrosse, coaches prefer to assess the entire the athlete to the college and establish a line of communication with athlete…style of play, leadership abilities and “coach- the athlete’s family. This may be the only letter the athlete ever re- ability” all weigh as much, if not more than athleti- ceives from the coaching staff. cism when it comes to evaluating a player. Similarly, Junior Winter/Spring : Many colleges will have set up a periodic academics and citizenship are extremely important in contact mailing or e-mail system. Most of the original prospects may lacrosse recruiting. Lacrosse players are not given the receive occasional updates about the college or the team meant to same amount of leeway in the admissions process as Greg Basch keep the college on the athlete’s mind and in their considerations for athletes in other sports, and therefore it is important the future. If an athlete has begun to stand out in a coach’s recruiting that a recruit has the scholastic ability to fit into a University, as well as picture, he or she may receive a more personal letter or e-mail. A good indicator of a coach’s sincerity is if the athletic ability to fit into the lacrosse program. they mention specifically where or when they saw the athlete compete, or what about the athlete impressed The recruiting process for lacrosse players in general is difficult, but them. Men’s and Women’s Basketball and Football players may begin receiving phone calls at this point. for those of us in North Carolina and the rest of the south, it is even The major military academies (Army, Navy, Air Force) are permitted to call athletes of all sports during this more daunting. Lacrosse is traditionally a Northeastern sport, played at time. the highest levels in New York, Maryland and New Jersey. In the past, Senior Summer : Many athletes will be able to participate in recruiting combines, tournaments or camps college coaches have almost exclusively concentrated their recruiting on during the summer following their Junior year. By this point, most colleges will have drastically narrowed these northern states and regarded southern lacrosse as sub-par. While their recruiting scope to a couple hundred, or even less than a hundred prospects. Division I coaches can top recruits such as Charlotte Latin’s Andrew Tanneberger (University begin calling athletes on July 1st following Junior Year and Division II coaches can begin calling on June of Delaware) and Charlotte Catholic’s Michael Sawyer (Loyola Univer- 15th. At this point coaches may begin talking about scholarships and commitments. Almost all will invite sity) are helping to reverse this trend, the Northeast is still the central their prospects to take an unofficial visit to their college. focus of high school lacrosse recruiting. To compound our regional dis- Senior Fall/Winter : For all sports and divisions of the NCAA, coaches can extend Official Visit invita- advantage, the vast majority of colleges that compete in NCAA lacrosse tions beginning the first day of classes. By this point, most coaches will have made “final cuts” on their list of are located in the North, making it simply illogical for 90% of coaches prospective athletes. In many cases, being invited to take an Official Visit coincides with official recruitment to travel to see us play in the south. North Carolina has eleven colleges of the student-athlete. in Division I, II and III that play lacrosse, while South Carolina only I hope this outline will offer a bit of insight into the timeline of communication and recruiting. Keep has two. Georgia, Florida and Tennessee all have one each. In contrast, in mind, this is only a rough timetable and is centered around the typical recruited athlete. Top Blue Chip Massachusetts has thirty college lacrosse teams, Pennsylvania has thir- athletes sometimes verbally commit to a college with the promise of a scholarship as early as their Junior ty five and New York leads the nation with a staggering seventy two. summer. Now that you’ve taken a look through the typical college recruiting schedule, you can better under- While it seems that the odds are undeniably against us who play la- stand what that thrilling phone call really means. Ignoring the fact that it is completely irrational for a coach crosse in South Charlotte, there is still plenty of opportunity to be seen. to call all twelve hundred initial prospects in his database, you can be comfortable knowing that a personal Local programs such as Team Charlotte and Team Carolina lacrosse phone call is a very positive sign when figuring out where you stand in a coach’s mind. Nine times out of provide a medium for the top players in the city and state to travel to ten, those who make it onto the phone call list are in the top tier of prospects for the program. This is not to the best recruiting tournaments each Summer and Fall. For all sports say, however, that the athlete has “made it” and has a spot on the team. There is still much to be done in the in general, when it comes down to it, if you are academically and ath- recruiting process at this point. The athlete must be able to produce the grades and test scores appropriate letically qualified to play in college, and you are active in the recruiting to be accepted to the college. The athlete will take an unofficial or official visit to the college, where his or her process and in “selling” yourself, you will get your chance. first impression could improve or damage their standing with the coaching staff. The coaches may develop So join a travel team and contact the coaches of your preferred col- new opinions on the athlete if they see a particularly bad game, or a particularly good game. As they say…it’s leges. When you walk out onto that humid field in suburban Baltimore, not over ‘til it’s over. or West Chester, or Gettysburg, all you can do is play your heart out. While the recruiting process can certainly be long, stressful and full of anticipation, it is an exciting and Leave it all on the field and maybe, just maybe, you’ll impress those few memorable part of a student-athlete’s high school experience and I urge you to enjoy every minute of it. I’ll critical looking men sitting in their fold out chairs with their clipboards end with another cliché that simply fits here…work hard on the field and in the classroom and you will be and logo hats. successful. Page  South Charlotte Sports Report Volume 3, Issue 6 10835 Independence Point Pkwy 1453 Cherry Rd Matthews NC 28105 Rock Hill, SC 29732 Phone: 704-815-4263 Phone: 803-366-3316 Hours Of Operation: 12239 North Community House Rd Hours of Operation: M-F: 9-6 M-F: 10-6 Suite 101 Sat: 9-4 redwhiteblue Sat: 9-5 Charlotte , NC 28277 Closed Sunday Closed Sunday Phone: 704-910-1766 Hours of Operation: M-F: 10-6 Sat: 9-5 Closed Sunday Premier Soccer is Charlotte‘s #1 soccer specialty store located in the Ballantyne In The Game Athletics has two area locations servicing the general sporting area off of Johnston Rd in Torningdon Market next to Earth Fare. We carry goods markets. We can provide you with uniforms, footwear and equipment major soccer brands-VIRGINIA Adidas, • NORTH Nike, Puma, CAROLINA Umbro, • DELAWAREKwik Goal and more. for Football, Basketball, Baseball, Softball, Soccer, Lacrosse, track and field,

Mention this ad and receive 10% off any one time purchase at Premier Soccer. wrestling, cheerleading, spirit wear for schools, teams, leagues, etc. (Photo Credit: Greg Arthur, SCSR Action Photos) Action SCSR Arthur, Greg Credit: (Photo

The Adidas Cup Soccer Tournament was held this past weekend in South Charlotte. To view more than 3,000 photos from the event, please visit www.scsractionphotos.com SPORTS POSTERS!

Contact South Charlotte Sports Report to TCP08017.Charlotte Your Call Ad.1 1 2/26/08 11:55:18 AM schedule our team of professional photographers COACHES, TEAM MOMS, DAD’S to visit your team this fall. PLEASE SEND US YOUR GAME WE OFFER GREAT ACTION PHOTOS, STORIES, STATS AND PHOTOS TEAM PHOTOS AND SPORTS POSTERS! [email protected] SCSRACTIONPHOTOS.COM 704-906-5466 Volume 3, Issue 6 South Charlotte Sports Report Page 

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Pineville - 10514 Park Road, Charlotte, NC 28210 (704) 316-2375 *Located across from the hospital Blakeney - 5815 Blakeney Park Drive, Suite 200A, Charlotte, NC 28277 (704) 316-2505 * Located at intesection of Rea and Ardrey Kell Roads For additional information: www.PresbyterianUrgentCare.com We do all of the shopping, chopping, MACHICOTE hassle free... slicing and dicing and even clean up! Continued from front page You assemble the entrees in our store ...home cooking and take home to freeze and Joe Machicote and his two boys are proud to announce that Rona enjoy at your convenience. returned home for Christmas of 2007 after 10 months of hospitaliza- ...every night Too busy? Let us assemble for you OR tion on life support systems and intense rehab. She works hard and grab n’ go from our fully stocked freezer! struggles every day to get life back to “normal.” Taking rehab three times per week, Rona can now walk again for short distances and is happy to return home. Her goal was to watch Austin pitch for Ardrey FREE M e a l Kell as a sophomore since she missed his entire freshman year. She was Order 7 Meals. Pay For 6! given an even more special treat when Austin closed his sophomore Not valid with other offers or prior orders. year going 9 and 1 on the mound for the Ardrey Kell Junior Varsity Offer expires 10/1/08. Discount code SCSR60801. team. Rona attended every game, as well as Foster’s games played with the Charlotte Megastars as he achieved success on the mound and at FREE A s s e m b l y the plate as he led the team with a season high .446 batting average. Order 6 And Save $20 assembly fee! Not to be outdone by her athletic sons, Rona recorded her own ath- Not valid with other offers or prior orders. letic achievement by walking the “Miracle Mile” in the local Guillain Offer expires 10/1/08. Discount code SCSRFA60831. Barre Walk on the Saturday before Mother’s Day. The boys believe they get their competitive nature and will to succeed from their Mom. This summer has seen continued improvement for Rona and her Is your family always on the run? family. While life may never be the same as it was before February Tired of fast food? 2007, the family is very appreciative and proud of how far Rona has Craving nutritious home-cooked meals? come. Do you love to eat but hate to cook? The Machicote family would like to sincerely thank the community Want to have family dinners but don’t have time? Prepare Dinner in Ours. Enjoy It In Yours. response after the first article published. “Our friends became our fam- The Fountains ily and helped us through a very difficult time,” said Joe Machicote, Switchin’ Kitchens 8025 Ardrey Kell Road, Suite 102 Austin and Foster’s Dad. “I’ve never seen a community come together Charlotte so powerfully for one family, and we owe our ability to keep it together 704-844-2002 is your answer! during this time to them...especially my mom, Mae, our baseball fami- www.switchinkitchens.com lies and The South Charlotte Sports Report for raising awareness.” The South Charlotte Sports Report salutes Rona Machicote and her CALL NOW ABOUT OUR BACK-TO-SCHOOL ADVERTISING SPECIALS! brave family for never giving up! 704-906-5466 Page  South Charlotte Sports Report BEYOND THE GAMEVolume 3, Issue 6 WITH JARED BIRNBERG Favorite thing about playing at MARA: “I like it because all my friend’s play there”

Favorite baseball player: SPORTS INJURY “Chipper Jones. I like Chipper because he is a good player. I was born in Atlanta. The Braves are my favorite baseball team.” CLINIC Favorite jersey number: “# 8 because it’s lucky to me.”

SATURDAY MORNINGS Most famous person I’ ve ever met: “I met Steve Smith at in Matthews. He signed Aug. 23 – Nov. 15, 2008 Jared is a fourth grader at a picture for me and I had my picture taken 10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Matthews Elementary. The with him.” son of Todd and Donna Birnberg enjoys playing Favorite class at school: baseball and soccer. This “Math, I am good at it and I like numbers.” Be treated by the same physicians who care for the: summer Jared’s All-Star Baseball team at MARA won When I grow up: the State Championship. “I want to be a pro baseball player for the Carolina Panthers Johnson C. Smith Braves.” Charlotte Knights UNC Charlotte Charlotte Eagles Wingate University Volume 2, Issue 18 South Charlotte Sports ReportDavidson College Winthrop University Page  CAROLINAS BASEBALL CENTER HITS A CBC SUMMER CAMPS All CharlotteLittle Sluggers Mecklenburg Camps Ages Area 4-7 Public & HOME RUN IN YEAR ONE June 23- 27 PrivateJuly 14-18High Schools As Carolinas Baseball Center closes in on the date of their first anniversary, May 1st, August 4-8 excitement is in the air. The 23,000 square foot indoor baseball center co-founded by Indoor Camp Ages 14-18 former Major League Baseball Player Jeff Schaefer and Darrin Benincase has become June 16-20 home for many of the top baseball and softball players in the area. With a commitment 1915 Randolph Road | Charlotte, NC to professional level instruction, many area players have benefited from regular training Outside Baseball Camps Ages 8-13 (Greg Arthur, SCSR Action Photos) sessions with MLB and minor league players. From recreation league players to major July 14-18 Tega Cay Recreation Association July 21-25 Indian Trail Athletic Association league all-stars, CBC is dedicated to helping players on every level of the game. July 28-August 1 Park Sharon Athletic Association Many of the top collegiate, travel and showcase baseball clubs have chosen CBCOC for Sports Medicine 704-323-2776 their training. Teams include; The South Charlotte Panthers, Stealth, The South Char- REGISTER ONLINE AT CBCBASEBALL.NET Spencer Shuey (#33) leads South Meck to season opening win over Charlotte lotte Cougars, Winthrop University and the Carolina Hurricanes to name a few. Catholic. To view more photos of the South Meck vs Catholic game, please visit During the off-season, several major league players and top minor league players www.scsractionphotos.com worked out in the facility. Ray Durham, Ty Wiggington, John Ennis, Joe Borchard, The Carolina’s Premier Ross Gload, and Tony Womack were regular visitors to the batting cages and pitching Indoor Baseball Training Facility mounds inside CBC. Local stars David Mailman and Brandon Williams also trained at CBC over the winter. CBC has also hosted many exciting events over the last year, including the First An- nual Greater Charlotte Area Hot Stove League Dinner. In early January CBC held a high school skills camp for 150 of the top players in the area. Over 30 college coaches and 10 pro scouts attended the event. Coaches clinics presented by Billy Ripken, The Charlotte Knights and CBC have all been held inside the facility. For Jeff Schaefer, the last season has been a dream come true. A former major league player known for his work ethic and fundamentals, Jeff had a strong desire to open a first class facility that would deliver professional instruction to area ball players. “The last year has been everything we had hoped it would be and more,” Jeff said. “Where you can learn to play like a pro.” “We have continued to grow each month and maintain our focus on providing the high- est level of instruction in the city.” • Indoor Batting Cages/ Pitching Mounds In looking towards the future, Jeff becomes very excited. “The future looks brighter than we anticipated. I know we have a good product and • Full Size Astro-Turf Infield we have a lot of exciting plans for the upcoming year. We want to invite all the baseball • MLB Instructors and softball players in the area to come in and take a look at CBC and meet our staff.” • Strength Conditioning, Speed and Agility The South Park Youth Association Girls’ 15-U Girls’ Fast Pitch Softball Carolinas Baseball Center is located at 325 Westinghouse Blvd. Please visit www. team marched through both the regular and post-seasons undefeated— cbcbaseball.net to meet the staff of CBC and to learn more information on upcoming Instruction winning the Char-Meck Championship along the way! Head Coach Vikki programs and summer camps. • SPARQ Certified Instructors Van Dam exclaimed, “The girls never let up, and every win seemed to • 25,000 Square Foot Facility produce a new hero. Truly a testament to team play and their will to have fun and win.” 325 Westinghouse Blvd. Back Row: Head Coach Vikki Van Dam, Anna Kate Ramsey, Keyonna Charlotte, NC 28273 Benjamin, Hannah Barnett, Brittany Kalmbach, Melanie Runkle, Han- 704-499-9040 nah Barnett, Kent McKinney Front Row: Lawren Rideaux, Amanda Myers, Adele Clifford, Carson www.cbcbaseball.net Hedberg, Sarah McKinney

Get Velocity Trained and become the athlete you $100-$500 always wanted to be! REWARD Call Today For A HEY KIDS AND PARENTS! FREE TRIAL SESSION Vaild for new customers only. THE SOUTH CHARLOTTE SPORTS REPORT WILL PAY 10345 Nations Ford Road UP TO A $500 REWARD FOR Suite C YOUR HELP IN BRINGING Charlotte, NC 28226 A NEW COMPANY TO OUR FAMILY OF ADVERTISERS. (704) 588-1770 EMAIL US FOR DETAILS www.velocitysp.com/charlotte ON HOW TO CLAIM YOUR REWARD!! [email protected] Volume 3, Issue 6 South Charlotte Sports Report Page  CELTIC TEAM WINS Matthews Rugby Club Summer Coed 3 vs 3 SOCCER CHAMPIONSHIP Touch League Season Summary CELTIC competitive 99 3v3 team of the Carlisle 3v3 Academy and club members of CUFC took matters into their own hands at the recent Southeastern Regional Matthews Rugby Club Vipers (MRC Vipers) 3v3 tournament in Evans, GA. The Celtic team completed the two-day tournament wrapped up their fifth summer of youth touch with 27 goals and only allowing 3 against. The Celtic team defeated the Palmetto rugby on Saturday, August 16. Since 2004, Heat team of Columbia, SC 1-0 in the final to revenge a 4-3 defeat in the final of MRC has been offering touch rugby in the the Statesville, NC tournament in July by the same Palmetto Heat. south Charlotte region for children ages 6 – 14. This summer, MRC expanded its summer The final game came down to a goal scored by Nicholas Guido in the last minute of touch program to include ages 15 – 18. “Touch play to give the Celtic team the regional championship. The redemption was even rugby is a fun and safe way for boys and girls sweeter as this same Celtic team was knocked out of the championship bracket last to learn this great sport,” says Adam Angulo, year without losing a game. Goal differential was the culprit. This year the young commissioner of Matthews Rugby Club. lads ensured this would not happen again. The Celtic team provided a showcase Every summer, MRC begins their sum- of the how the kids are being developed at Carlisle Soccer and CUFC. Ball control, mer rugby program from mid-June though defense first, and have fun while playing the game was evident as you watch every mid-August. In 5 years, they’ve grown from a child perform. couple dozen children to almost 100 boys and girls. It’s a volunteer youth sports program so The Celtic team will be heading to the World 3v3 Championships at the Wide they’ve been able to keep the total registration World of Sports located in Orlando, FL, January, 2009. The team is coached by and participation cost to under $100 per play- Sean Carlisle and Vinny Guido. er. Coaches vary from experienced National Division 1 rugby players to parents of players U-15 fly-half veteran Alex Maughan setting new to rugby that have fallen in love with this up a pass for his center. team focused sport. The Under-11 matches were amazing to watch. All the children had a chance to play multiple positions and made their coaches and parents proud. To see these youngsters progress from their first practice of how to run, pass and kick a rugby ball to the final match of scoring quality tries (similar to the America Football version of a touch down) was im- pressive. These children are the future of this growing sport in North Carolina and the USA. The Under-15 matches were competitive and thrilling to watch. At this level, the quality of rugby is superb. Even those children new to rugby, pick up the sport quickly and enjoy the spirit of competition. Many of these players also go on to play for the MRC Vipers tackle squad that competes in the Carolina Youth Rugby Association spring season. The Under-19 matches were as good as it gets in youth rugby. These players worked hard this summer and demonstrated leadership and teamwork. They also competed in a U-19 tackle scrimmage in August and played a great match The Celtic Team is made up of (from left to right of the Picture): against an experienced and talented opponent, the Weddington Lions. Several Melvin Covert, Nicholas Guido, Jensen Graham, Gabriel Martinez, Karl-Heinz of these players will go on to play for MRC’s inaugural Under-19 tackle squad in Reichert, Coach Vinny Guido, Not shown (Sean Carlisle) the upcoming Carolina Youth Rugby Association spring season.

NOT ALL ANGUS IS EQUAL. Certified Angus Beef® is the BEST of the Best. Only 8% of Beef qualifiesTM. Page  CHARLOTTE South Charlotte Sports MEGASTARS Report Volume 3, Issue 6 Written by Joe Machicote

them achieving or coming close to national titles. ALL of the cio, Anthony Palma, John Dancy, Bryce Estes, Patrick Brad- Megastars teams are nationally ranked. Here are some of shaw and Jarius Hamilton. the highlights: Coach Beamon is excited about watching his core group of players continue to develop as well as adding a few more key 8U Megastars players for the upcoming season. As the team begins prepa- ration for the 2009 10u season, Coach Beamon states that his players are committed to the hard work it takes to have an even more successful season next year. In 2009 this team has already been invited to participate in the prestigious Coo- perstown Dreams Park 10u tournament. They also have set a goal to return to the Elite 24 World Series at Disney.

The Executive Director of the Charlotte Megastars, Jeff 10u Megastars McNeely, leans back in his chair as he speaks in admiration of the “Megastar Nation”, made up of boys baseball teams ages 8 through 18. “This was a great weekend for the Megastars!” he proclaims proudly as his eyes smile in the opposite arc to his big toothy smile. McNeely is a big fellow, very muscular, and his presence can’t be missed when he enters a room. He puts his hands behind his head, fingers clasped and interlocked, and I can’t help but notice that his biceps look like two huge distinct mountains on either side of his head. A retired pro- fessional baseball player for the Boston Red Sox, The Charlotte Megastars Baseball Club continues to pro- McNeely has made quite the name for himself in the duce Elite Travel Teams, even at the 8-year old level. On July Charlotte area with his Megastars. “Our colors are black and 14, 2008, the 8u Charlotte Megastars entered the 8u Machine red because those are my high school colors”, he says with a Pitch World Series with the expectation of representing the glimpse of nostalgia. Megastars Club, community, and family at the highest level. A native Charlottean, McNeely is a graduate of Monroe Those expectations turned into a 5 (wins) and 0 (losses) re- High School where he played baseball and began his baseball cord, and the 2008 8u Machine Pitch World Series Champi- career. He was a 3+ All conference, All county player. Jeff at- onship. tended Spartanburg Methodist College and became a JUCO The team currently has a record of 41 (wins) and 11 (loss- The 10U Charlotte MegaStars have had two very impres- All American, All Region X, All Conference Player. He also es). They have entered 12 tournaments; they won 6, finished sive years in travel baseball since forming, compiling a record was the Stolen Base Record Leader. After college, Jeff played 2nd four times, and finished 3rd two times. The 8u Megastars of 73-31 for the past two years. The Stars went 38-14 as 9 year for the Boston Red Sox organization as a 2nd round pick. are currently ranked nationally, #1 (USSSA Points) and #3 old’s in 2007 with 4 titles and 5 runner ups, and as 10 year He became a Carolina League Batting Champion, Carolina (USSSA Power Rating), in addition, they are ranked in the olds in 2008, had a record of 35-17 with 5 titles and 3 runner League All star, International League All Star AAA and Minor State of North Carolina, #1 (USSSA Points) and #1 (USSSA ups. League Stolen Base Leader, AAA. After going to ”the Show” Power Rating). The 10U MegaStars also recently played in the USSSA for the Boston Red Sox, he achieved a .296 Major League Bat- The strength of the team is its players. The players start- Elite 24 World Series at Walt Disney World’s Wide World of ting Average before retiring. Jeff also served as an Associate ed practicing last December to prepare for the Spring/Sum- Sports in Orlando, Fl. competing against the top 10 year old Scout for the LA Dodgers. mer Season. All of their hard work had paid off on the field. teams in the country. Soon after retirement, McNeely returned to Charlotte and They have proven that hard work can and will produce Elite The 11U team for 2009 is looking forward to building on opened a batting center called “The Batting Zone” in 2004 for Teams. this success and will be playing in the premiere tournaments his Charlotte Megastars. He recently closed the facility after The 8u Team is Coached by Anthony Greene (Head throughout the Southeast in hopes of returning to Orlando to four years in business in order to focus more on the lower Coach), Tom Donathan (Assistant Coach), and Gary Poplin play among the best in 2009. This group will also be playing level development of ages 8-14 and Elite 16 U and 18 U pro- (Assistant Coach). The players are: Cameron Greene, Jason in Cooperstown NY at The Field of Dreams as 12 year olds in grams. “We are in the process of exploring an outside baseball Odem, Mathew Lucus, Mickey Stewart, Dante McCree, Trey 2010. complex in the area. It will allow teams in the area a chance to Donathan, Matthew Moser, Woodson Alexander, Logan Mul- The 10U MegaStars wish to thank all of their sponsors play locally and showcase their talent closer to home”. lis, Brandon Poplin, Noah Ritcher, and Josh Swarts. below and appreciate their support which allow the players In the meantime, their current new home is Grand Slam Each player has contributed to the success of the team to reach for the STARS!! USA located in Matthews, NC. Closing the Batting Zone also in multiple ways. There are several stats that sum-up this helps McNeely focus on the real business at hand; Creating team’s success for 2008; one of the most important is: runs 11u Megastars Mega-star baseball players…and he has, to the tune of over allowed per game (5.26) verses runs scored per game (5.41) The 11u Charlotte Megastars team was the first 9u team 85 of them who have been signed to college and universi- with a positive run difference of (0.15). During the 2008 8u in the Megastars program, joining the club in the spring of ties for their talents on the field. The outlook for 2009 and Machine Pitch World Series, the team allowed only (2.8) runs 2005. The team formed as the Charlotte Niners in the fall beyond sees nothing but growth of the Megastar Nation as per game. In addition, there were some terrific individual of 2004, comprised mostly from players from a local South McNeely continues to live out his dream. performances this season; one in particular was Cameron Charlotte recreational organization. Harold Hampton has The objective of the Megastar Program is to maximize Greene’s performance in the 2008 8u Machine Pitch World coached the team since its inception. The team has changed the potential of every player within the organization. For Series, where he received the Most Valuable Player award. shape over the years as new talent was added to the roster. those players that possess the skill level and the desire, the Those who have been with the team since its early days are Megastar organization actively assists in the selection pro- 9u Megastars Reece Hampton, Clay Hunt, Tanner Mann-Fix and Austin cess for middle school and high school, and the college re- The Charlotte Megastars 9u recently completed a suc- Leonard. The remaining current roster includes Max Wotell, cruiting process. McNeely has developed a tremendous net- cessful season that included 31wins, a second place finish Jackson Kowar, Alden McKeller, Trevor Rhyne, Jarrett Nor- work of college coaches and recruiting directors throughout in the Super NIT, a second place finish in the USSSA North man, Jordan Huntley and Austin Lingle. Frank Kowar and the Southeast to aid in this effort. Team brochures, letters, Carolina State Championship and a berth to the USSSA Elite Chip Lingle assist Coach Hampton. website, tournament exposure, and active calling are utilized 24 World Series in Orlando Florida. The team finished 2008 The 11u Megastars first gained national prominence in by the Megastar program to ensure maximum opportunity ranked #3 in North Carolina (USSSA points) and #14 nation- their 9u season in 2005 by placing third in the USSSA 9u at the next level for each player. The Megastar program has ally (USSSA points). Open World Series. They placed in the top half of the USSSA worked and assisted over 85 players in achieving their goal of The 9u team is coached by Nicholas Beamon (Head 10u Elite-24 last season, qualifying for that prominent event playing Division I, II, or III college baseball. Coach), Tony Womack (Assistant Coach) and Tony Palma by winning the Tennessee Super NIT tournament. They have (Assistant Coach). The players are: Anthony Comer, Jacob played many elite invitational tournaments over the past two PROVEN SUCCESS Delli Colli, Garrett Henry, Matthew Stevens, Brooks King, years throughout the Southeast. This past season the Megastars boasted better than a .600 Jared Mathewson, Jonah Beamon, Al Womack, Callen Nuc- Continued to next page winning percentage across all of their teams with several of Volume 3, Issue 6 South Charlotte Sports Report Page 

The 11u Megastar coaches focus intensely on fundamen- semifinals before losing to a team from Texas. This resulted Speiss led team in home runs with 4. Myers Park Joe Hager tals and mechanics – hitting, throwing, fielding and pitching. in their current ranking of #3 in the nation behind teams led all hitter with a .369 average followed by Dykota Speiss Coach Hampton constantly reminds his players how impor- from California and Texas. .304. This year’s players were: Byron Haag (Marvin Ridge tant the little things are in the game of baseball. “When you The 12U Megastars completed this season playing in 20 HS), Alex Baker (Ardrey Kell HS), Truett Langdon (Charlotte compete at this level, you have to win the little battles in the tournaments that resulted in 75 wins and 27 losses. Most Country Day HS), Tyler Alberts (West Forsyth HS), Matt Bar- game”, says Hampton. He appreciates a well-executed bunt note-worthy is the fact that they finished in the top 3-spots rier (Mt Pleasant HS), Brent George (Myers Park HS), Dako- as much as a home run. Practices are well planned and in- in 17 tournaments. ta Spiess (Patten HS), Tyler Smith (Marvin Ridge HS), Chase tense, with no standing around. They expect their players to Continuing with the core group of players: Arnold, Carbone (Providence Day HS), Jonathan Shelton (Glenn practice as hard as they play. This past year they really be- Greene, Loepprich, and Machicote, this team will continue HS), Olen Little (East Mecklenburg HS), Joseph Hager (My- gan to focus on situational play on both offense and defense. to reach for National prominence. They will play in several ers Park HS), Chad Walton (Charlotte Country Day HS), Aus- Their hope is this will prepare them well to play at the next national tournaments in the 2009 season. Additionally, the tin Machicote (Ardrey Kell HS), Ben Currie (West Forsythe level. team was ranked 9th in the nation in the Official National HS), Matt Walser (Marvin Ridge HS), Justin Ide (Charlotte This season the 11u team successfully defended their Ranking by TravelballSelect.com. Country Day School) USSSA North Carolina State title, having won it as 10-year- olds last season. They finished the season with a record of 13 U Megastars 17u Megastars 61- 25. They capped the season in grand fashion by finishing Coached by Derek Mercedes and Nick Adams finished the The Charlotte Megastars 09 finished the summer 17-11. second in the Triple Crown Summer National tournament, regular season 21-10 and finished 4th in the USSSA Nation- They participated in several Impact, Diamond Devils, Dy- in Myrtle Beach; losing 6-5 in the championship game to a als in Myrtle Beach going 5-2. The Megastars roster includes namic Canes showcase events: ASU, Virginia Tech, Wake Texas team. Kirk Morgan, Andrew Hendel, Logan Koch, Cameron Un- Forest, USC-Upstate, USC, UNCC, Pfeiffer, Belmont Abbey, Coach Hampton is looking forward to moving up to 12u derwood, Earl Oliver, Drake Zupcic, Andrew Maclatchie, Mi- and Perfect Game USA in Marietta GA. The roster included in the fall. He has a great group of kids and parents, which chael Dimaggio, Trent King, Carter Hill, Dillon Rusgo, Jared Scott Glover (Charlotte Christian), Cory Smith (Providence), make coaching a real treat. They plan to play at Cooperstown Hamilton, Nick Salisbury. Andrew Maclatchie led all hitters William Head (Asheville), Matt Youtsey (South Meck), Tyler Dreams Park, and several other national tournaments this in home runs, and RBI’s Andrew Hendel, Trent King, Carter White (Chase), Seth Boyce (Marvin Ridge), Jonathan Hamlet upcoming season, including a goal of making another visit to Hill, Nick Salisbury, Dillon Rusgo, and Earl Oliver anchored (Chase), Zico Pasut (Ardrey Kell), Jonathan Cauthen (South the USSSA Elite-24. the pitching staff. Pointe), Scott Shipman (Marvin Ridge), Ross Whitley (Lake Norman), Jordan Fuller (Providence), Nick Lomascolo (Lake 12U Megastars 14 U Megastars Norman), Michael Herman (Piedmont), John Richter (South Coached by Dione Clark and Ritchie Mitchell finished Pointe), Keith Prowse (Hopewell), Andy Clifford (Charlotte the regular season 24-12 and 8th in the AAU National in Christian), Tyler Woods (South Meck). Scott Glover recent- Sarasota going 5-3. The Megastars roster includes Brandon ly made a verbal commitment to High Point and Jonathan Rawe, Tyler Holloway, Kyle Duke,Chris Pearlman, Jalen Hamlet to Spartanburg Methodist College. Many of the play- Fuller, Coble Wright, Brian Duncan, Wood Myers, Justin ers have received lots of attention with their play over the Myers, Jared Kehigas, Justin Pleasants, Keaton Haack, summer and will sign early in November. Justin Reece, Taylor Lane. Wood Myers and Brandon Rawe paced the hitters at the plate. Chris Pearlman, Kyle Duke, 18u Megastars and Coble Wright anchored the pitching staff.

15 U Megastars Coached by John Tuscan and Matt Butler finished the reg- ular season 15-12. Coach Tuscan was in charge of getting the players prepared for showcase baseball. This allowed play- ers to play against older competition with selected players from various areas. The players selected competed at USC- The 12u Charlotte Megastars team was created in 2004 Upstate, Virginia Tech, Winthrop, Lenior Rhyne College. The from a local South Charlotte recreational organization. The roster includes Austin Hicks, Hunter Hattrich, Tyler Chad- team was formed by Anthony Greene and Bobby Arnold. wick, Nick Marcinkiewicz, Alex Perullo, Nick Forst, William Coach Greene had a vision to develop a nationally competi- Frazier, Palmer Coleman, Matt Pearson, Ryan Hodge, Lee tive team with local players. Chase Arnold (2007 Greater Harrison,Nolan O’Mery. Hunter Hattrich and Nolan O’Mery Charlotte Area Hot Stove Youth Baseball Player of the Year), led all hitters. William Frazier and Alex Perullo anchored the Jordan Greene, Andrew Loepprich, and Foster Machicote pitching staff. have been members of the team since its formation. Coach Greene knew it would be difficult competing na- 16u Megastars The Charlotte Megastars Graduating ‘08 team played a tionally with only local players but was committed to devel- limited schedule due to numerous players wanting to stay oping and coaching these kids into a National power. Their sharp but not get burned out over the summer. Former Mon- developmental process focused on teaching the fundamen- treat College teammates (Mark Hudson) and (Willie Jones) tals on a daily basis. Having a core group of kids proficient coached a talented group of seniors. In our 08 class 15 in the fundamentals also allowed each player to develop and players received an athletic scholarship to various schools: strengthen their individual skills. Through the years the Greg Lawson (Catawba), Ryan Jenkins (Florence Darling- core group along with other numerous talented players has ton Tech), DJ Phillips (Wingate), Ian Sidebottom (Wilkes), brought this team into national prominence. Brantley Hattrich (Bryan), Brent Watkins (Surry), James This past season was the team’s most successful to date. Cerbie (Davidson), Chris Rawlings (Barton), Caleb Shelton Starting in August of 2007 they established their goals for the (NC A&T), Will Helms (ASU), Tony Hearrell (Mars Hill), 2008 season. These goals included winning in the Cooper- Nate Cudney (Belmont Abbey), Michael Bernikow (Indian stown Dreams Park tournament and to qualify and win the River), Joe Church (Marshall), Nathan Lee (Surry). USSSA Elite 24 World Series in Orlando, FL. This tourna- ment is a qualifying tournament for the top 24 teams in the nation. While the team did not reach their ultimate goals, If you are interested in learning they came very close. more about the Charlotte Megastars In Cooperstown, they went undefeated in pool play and The Charlotte Megastars 2010 finished the summer play- Baseball Programs and Teams, you advanced all the way to the semifinals before losing by one ing .700 baseball. The team, made up of high school juniors run. Collectively, the team had an amazing 27 home runs for and rising juniors faired extremely well with a team stacked can email us at megastarbaseball@ the week, resulting in a ranking of #3 out of 95 teams. Their in talent. The 16 U team finished 17-10 . Ardrey Kell players aol.com, or visit our website at performance in the USSSA Elite 24 World Series was even Alex Baker and Austin Machicote led the pitching staff with more impressive. Again, they advanced all the way to the 2.90 and 3.10 ERA in over 30 innings. Patton HS star Dykota www.charlottemegastars.com. Page 10 South Charlotte Sports Report Volume 3, Issue 6

BEYOND THE GAME WITH ZACK GABRIEL BLAZING THEIR WAY TO SUCCESS Tell us about your “I think I played around soccer team? 80-90 games total for the 3 By Jen Rosene, Ardrey Kell High School “ I play for The South Char- sports.” lotte Soccer Association U14 Gold Team. I play left de- Do you enjoy staying so fender. My team is playing busy in sports and does it in the Premier division this help or hurt your school fall and we hope to be pro- work? moted to Region III Premier “I really enjoy playing in the spring.” sports. I believe it helps me with my school work What is your greatest ac- because I had to learn good complishment in soccer? time management skills to

(Photo Credit: Greg Arthur, SCSR Action Photos) Action SCSR Arthur, Greg Credit: (Photo “Winning the US Club Soccer get all my homework done The 8U, 10U Black, 12U Red, 12U Black and 14U Red teams gather at The Mighty Casey tournament this June in Rock Hill. national championship last and go to practices.” Zack Gabriel is a multi- summer.” talented athlete known Since the founding of The Charlotte Blaze softball in 2003, the organization has You are also a good base- strived to reach the top of their game. Over the years the organization has grown tremen- for his hard work. He is At what age did you start ball player, what do you dously, competing in almost every age group and making a name for themselves as one an eighth grader at Holy playing soccer and did it like most about baseball? of the premier fastpitch softball organizations in the area. Playing the toughest teams Trinity Catholic Middle come natural to you? “I like catching fly balls in and entering into the most challenging tournaments is what has made this program a School and enjoys play- “I started playing soccer the outfield and getting hits.” great success story in the past, and this year has been no exception. ing baseball, basketball when I was 4. I think it did Within the past season, The Charlotte Blaze organization as a whole has accom- and soccer. He is quick come natural to me, but I’ve Goals for 5 years from plished remarkable success. The 8U Charlotte Blaze team placed second in the WFC to pick Soccer as his fa- had to work hard to continue now, where do you want Myrtle Beach World Series. In the World Series hosted here in Charlotte the 10U Char- vorite among the three. to improve.” to be? lotte Blaze Black took 6th place, The 10U Charlotte Blaze Red took 3rd place and the 12U Zack is the son of Karen “I would like to continue to Charlotte Blaze Black took 2nd place in their respective age groups and brackets. The 12U Charlotte Blaze Red traveled to Columbus , Ohio for their World Series and took Gabriel and Michael How many soccer, base- play sports in high school, ball, basketball games and then hopefully be good 7th place out of 74 teams. Gabriel. Even with all of this success under their belt, the Charlotte Blaze organization ex- would you guess that you enough to play one sport in pects to be even stronger next year. With recent tryouts, and teams moving up within played in the last year? college.” their age brackets, the Blaze teams are expected to be very competitive in the upcoming season. “We expect our teams to compete with the best and stand out in their respective age brackets” said Coach Bob Bove, founder of the Charlotte Blaze organization. Plans for the 2009 season include building the program by adding more teams to the organiza- tion in the 14U and 16U age brackets. The Charlotte Blaze organization has truly been a step forward for fastpitch softball in the Charlotte area. By attracting some of the best talent from an eight county region , ON DECK the Blaze teams will continue to make a name for themselves in the years to come. The South Charlotte Sports Report congratulates T he Charlotte Blaze on their tremendous BASEBALL / SOFTBALL success this past year and wishes them luck in their upcoming fall season. TRAINING ACADEMY

CALL FOR INDIVIDUAL AND TEAM TRAINING LESSONS 10229 Rodney Boulevard Pineville, NC 28134 The South Park Youth Association Coach Pitch 7’s won the North Carolina Dixie Youth Baseball District 4 Championship this past summer. Coach Rob Davis gushed, “This newly minted group of 704–889-2287 All-Stars came together more and more with each game they played. Most importantly, new friend- ships were formed that will last for years to come.” [email protected] Back Row, Coaches: Mike Robbe, head coach Rob Davis, Steve Newmark, not pictured: Peter Harrison Middle Row: (L-R) Adam Robbe, Will Blank, John Miralia, Michael Downing, and www.ondeckbaseball.net Scott Newmark Front Row: (L-R) Jesse Hinshaw, Aydin Davis, Julian Strause, Jackson Sicard, Peter Deering, and Jordan Kustas...... not pictured: Zyad Lohavichan Volume 3, Issue 6 South Charlotte Sports Report Page 11

BEYOND THE GAME WITH BRANDON LOREN

Parents: Bob and Julie Loren “I would play for Clemson for many reasons. I used to go to a baseball camp there and loved it. The campus is great and it’s How did your summer of baseball go? close so it would be great going there.” “I played baseball for the On Deck O’s this summer. We played in a lot of tournaments in places all around the southeast like Do you have a favorite jersey # to wear? in East Cobb, GA and in Charleston, SC. I had a pretty good “My favorite jersey # is 13. I’ve always loved the number but summer. I was one of our top pitchers on the team and made a I can’t really explain why. I guess it’s because its different. It’s big stride in hitting. I also played outfield.” supposed to be unlucky but it’s always been lucky to me.”

How was your first year at Marvin Ridge? What is your greatest accomplishment in sports? “My first year at Marvin Ridge was great. Not only did I have “I would have to say that my greatest accomplishment was fun at school with all my friends but I also made good grades; I winning the football championship at Weddington Middle

Jen Patterson, SCSR Action Photos was also pretty successful on my Junior Varsity baseball team.” School three years in a row. It was awesome because we were the first to do it and we were a great team. I played corner- Fifteen year old Brandon Loren is a tenth grade What are your fall sports plans? back.” baseball player at Marvin Ridge High School. “I will continue playing in tournaments over the fall with On After a strong season on the junior varsity squad Deck and preparing for the upcoming school season.” How do you do in school? as a ninth grader, Brandon is working hard to “I do very well in school. I’m on the A honor roll and take a lot contribute to the future success of the Mavericks If you could play baseball for any college, which one of honors classes.” baseball program. would you choose and why?

SPONSOR THE STUDENT-ATHLETES OF THE WEEK FEATURE. CALL 704-906-5466 SOUTH CHARLOTTE SPORTS REPORT STUDENT-ATHLETES OF THE WEEK

SAM JURIS STEPHANIE WOOD

Rich Bolen, SCSR Action Photos

Age: 16 Age: 15 School: Providence High School School: Ardrey Kell High School Grade: 10th Grade: 10th Parents: Paul and Lisa Juris Parents: Richard and Carol Wood Words people use to describe me: Funny, Smart, Laid back, Friendly, Deep Words people use to describe me: Fun, friendly, tall and athletic Hobbies: Reading, Laxing, Hanging out with friends Hobbies: Hanging out with friends, softball, listening to my iPod, I am most proud of: Making the Varsity Lacrosse Team as a Freshman going to the beach. If I could donate $100,000 : $25,000 each to A Child’s Place, Make a Wish, I am most proud of: Qualifying and competing in the 2008 ASA ‘A’ Nationals Save Darfur and AIDS Foundation If I could donate $100,000 : St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital If I could travel anywhere: Italy (again) If I could travel anywhere: Paris Best Advice I was ever given: Don’t ever think you’re good enough Best Advice I was ever given: Trust your gut instinct Favorite Store: Barnes and Noble Favorite Store: American Eagle Favorite Restaurant: Il Ristoranti Fagioli in Florence, Italy Favorite Restaurant: Qdoba Favorite Music: Classic Rock Favorite Music: Kenny Chesney Favorite Subject: American History Favorite Subject: English Favorite Jersey #: 21 Favorite Jersey #: 8

Athletic Accomplishments: Sam is one of the top 10th grade lacrosse players in the area. With Athletic Accomplishments: With hard work, Stephanie earned a position on the Ardrey Kell var- hard work, he earned a starting position as a 9th grader on the ultra-competitive Lacrosse Team at sity softball team as a freshman and started at 1st base and outfield. During the school season she hit Providence. He was awarded with the Unsung Hero Award. Over the next three years, Sam will be her first grand slam. During the summer and fall seasons Stephanie plays travel ball for the Carolina counted on to provide strength to the Panthers Lacrosse team, Cardinals . The Cardinals qualified and competed in the ASA Nationals in Midland, Texas.

When Sam was in the 5th grade in California, he earned a position on the local high school lacrosse With a new head softball coach at Ardrey Kell High School, Bob Bove, the Knights will look to compete team! for the conference title next spring. The play of Stephanie Wood will be vital to the Knights chances of success. Academic Accomplishments: Sam is a solid student and earned a 3.8 grade point average his freshman year at Providence. Academic Accomplishments: Stephanie earned a 4.25 grade point average throughout her fresh- man year and participated in the DECA Club.

To nominate a Student-Athlete, please visit our website, www.southcharlottesportsreport.com Each Athlete of the Week will receive a complimentary one month scholarship to Velocity Sports Performance for their achievement. Page 12 South Charlotte Sports Report Volume 3, Issue 6

Moving at the Speed of Life

TEAM OF THE WEEK SOUTH CHARLOTTE SOCCER ASSOCIATION ’95 WHITE

The newly formed South Charlotte Soccer Association (SCSA) 95 Make Sure You’re Fit For Life White (U-13) girls soccer team just won their first tournament. They had only two team practices and had never played with their coach until the first game of the tournament.

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Fall SPRING/ Spring Sports REGISTRATIONWinter Sports BABEBaseball RUTH BASEBALL REGISTRATIONBasketball SoftballLeaguesBaseball for Ages - Softball 13/14Cheerleading & 15/16 - Soccer Soccer Wrestling Register Online at www.ParkSharonSports.com ONLINEVisit REGISTRATION us at www.parksharonsports.com OPEN !!! Emma Cooley, Bailey Cort, Olivia Huff, Susannah Huth, Katherine Korne- Questions? EmailThrough [email protected] February 28, 2008 gay, Kathleen Maher, Meghan Nash, Ansley Nemirow, Giovanna Prieto, www.ParkSharonSports.com Madeline Rodgers, Ellen Sampson, Alex Stubblefield, Cailin Tracey, Rachael Tarravechia, Brenna Welsh, Chauncey Williams, Amy Newton On-Site Registration at Quail Hollow Middle School Congratulations to The South Charlotte Soccer Association February 16 95 White girls soccer team for being named the Play It Again From 10:00 am – 2:00 pm Sports Team of the Week! 8332-205 Pineville-Matthews Road For additional information, visit our website OR Charlotte, NC 28226 email [email protected] 704-540-6339 [email protected]

To nominate your team, please visit Play It Again Sports. Every member of the winning team will receive a $10.00 gift certificate and the Team/Coach will receive a $25 gift certificate. Page 12 South Charlotte Sports Report Volume 2, Issue 22

Volume 3, Issue 6 Congratulations South Charlotte Sports Report to the Carolina Riptide Grey Page12 13AA COVENANT BAPTIST CHURCH INTERESTED IN A JOINT VENTURE 10% OFF 11724 ELM LANE 704-542-7273 WITH THE Double Coupon after 5pm Mondays and Wednesdays. Sunday SOUTH Bible Study: 9:30 am Bi-Lo To Hwy Worship: 10:45 am Tyler CHARLOTTE Woods 51 Elm Lane Wednesday—Awana 6:30 To Pineville SPORTS REPORT? Bible Study 7:00 d R Target h t The South Charlotte a Dr. James Ballard, Interim Pastor e Stonecrest H To Tony Pangle, Worship Pastor y Hwy Sports Report is e n 51 e k Grounded and Growing interested in working a TENNABRAE SERVICE l B Rea Rd MARCH 21—7:00 PM with organizations and individuals on area Summer Camp Registrations I-485 Begin March 18—Call for info. Pkwy Commons Ballantyne youth sporting events www.welcometocovenant.com and camps. Interested in co-branding your event? Have an idea or a program you would like to work hand in hand with the South Charlotte Sports Report? If so, contact us at Tripp@ term. It was created by Frank Diesa and Spencer Stecher. The idea behind the program wassouthcharlottesports.com. to take average players and make them better. Frank Diesa said “It’s about helping kids play to their full potential!”We are always open to new ideas and programs USSSA teams, one 13 AA USSSA team, one 13 AAA USSSA team, and one 14 AA USSSA team.to market “I’m not and trying develop. to de- velop 13-year-old superstars, I’m trying to build these kids for high school,” saidwww.whslax.org Stecher, whoHave is an idea,assistant but notcoach the at Ardrey Kell High School. He has been in the business of making better players http://sitekreator.com/whslax.org for 17 years. “Iftime, a kid resources loves the or game and is committed to getting better, then I will break my back getting him there!” Stecher commented.knowledge to make it happen? cause it’s an affordable program, sponsors inner city kids, and is lots of fun. “It’s not uncommon to see new faces at our practices!” said Otto Fricker. The Riptide lets kids from recreational baseball and elsewhereEmail practice us or with call them. Diesa said “That’s just Stech; any kid who wants to learn is always welcome at our practices, that’sTripp the@ 704-906-5466 way he is!” The program even had a couple of kids who never played baseball before play for their fi rst time this season. The Riptide also focuses on fathers becoming better coaches. “If you are a parent at one of our practices don’t be surprised if Stech pulls you on the fi eld and puts you to work!” said Diesa. All Riptide teams are coached by parents with assistance from Stecher and Coach AJ Wright, also an assistant coach at Ardrey Kell High School. “Our parents are the fi nest part of this program; they’re just down right amazing people!” said Stecher.

The Riptide would like to thank its sponsors, Mr. Bill Sullivan success without your contributions. Thank you.

Riptide offers indoor winter hitting and pitching instruction f 2008 try-outs and evaluationsDYNAMIC start in March PERFORMANCE2008. If you are interested in theSPORTS Riptide program contact Coach Stecher at [email protected] exist to help YOU or reach by phone your at 704-281-8336. potential on and off the field.

Become a Dynamic Player this Spring! Sign-up today at www.DynamicPS.net Or call Dynamic President, Mike Stricker at 704-737-7631 For the Smile of a Lifetime! Dynamic Home School Sports Academy Ages 8 - 14 @ CalvaryDr. Keith Church Fields/Gym T. Sellers (Rea Rd. in South Charlotte) Wednesdays 12:45pm – 2:15pm *Space6406 is limited, Carmel sessions startRoad in March, #309 sign-up today! *Cost is $20/session or $110 for a full 8 week academy Charlotte, NC 28226 Dynamic Football Kicking and Punt Training Join the best kickers in Charlotte704.542.9995 at an upcoming Dynamic Kicking/Punting Combine in March to get ranked regionally. Go to www.DynamicPS.net if you think you have the potentialwww.sellersorthodontics.com to kick a game-winning field goal for your high school team someday. Page 14 South Charlotte Sports Report Volume 3, Issue 6

Total Champion By Rhonda Winstead Brown Gold Medal Athletes Total Champion Since the Olympic ethos has all of us soaring and focused on the greatest athletes the world has to offer, I can’t help but ponder the qualities that make a world class athlete. The world has watched Michael Phelps in awe as he has shattered world records, winning eight Dominate Your Opponent! gold medals, and qualifying him as the world’s fastest swimmer and greatest Olympian ever. The incomparable Phelps was asked in an interview his thoughts on the makings of a gifted athlete? In answering, he mentioned others such as Federer, Nadal , Jordan , and Tiger, and what • Mental Toughness they all had in common. It comes down to a bit of perfectionism, unwavering goal-driven behavior, genuine love of your sport, and the ability to perform under the most pressure-packed situations . • Superior Strategy These are but a few traits of world class athletes. Athletes deal with stress, pressure to win, and rigorous training schedules in ways as varied as the sports in which they compete. Some listen to music for inspiration, others meditate. Some rely • Focused Fitness on self-talk. Some embrace guided imagery and visualization techniques prior to competition. Undoubtedly, different approaches work for different personalities. Regardless, one common thread is that they all train hard and relentlessly -- and it is because of this that it is not always the Total Champion offers mental toughness most gifted athlete who prevails. It is not talent that makes the ultimate difference in world class competition -- every athlete seethes with talent at this level. consultations and tennis lessons to help you Talent is just the price of admission. Other factors provide the winning edge, just as they do at other levels. realize your full tennis potential. Discipline. Dedication. Focus. Work ethic. Rhonda Brown also provides group seminars to Humility. Sure, you’ll find some prodigy kid in a local league who can whip everyone in his class on talent tennis teams. See our website for complete details alone, and this is the curse of the too-blessed. The confident walk becomes a swaggering strut. Win- ning too easily can create a sense of entitlement that is not fulfilled as one climbs the ladder into the on all of Total Champion’s services! more rarefied atmosphere of elite competition. The strut becomes an invitation to others to knock you off your pedestal and a crowd-pleaser when it happens. A talent-driven flash in the pan may burn brightly ever so briefly, but will that athlete still have goals and desires to realize his potential for years to come? Although Phelps surely has nothing more to prove, he affirms that his life’s work is not yet com- www.totalchampion.com plete. He wants to compete in London four years from now, because he wants even more of a chal- lenge for himself by trying new events. Take another elite athlete, in a sport dear to us all -- Andre Agassi. Agassi was ranked #1 in the world in 1995, but sank to #122 just two years later. He rededicated himself to the game in 1998. He improved his fitness, and he strung together an amazing run of title wins. He soared to #6 in the world, the highest jump in rankings in a single calendar year by any player. Then, in 1999 he made history, matching the achievement of only four other men: He won the singles Grand Slam. Agassi did not drop from the top ten again until he retired in 2006 at age 36. Most professional players are long retired at that age. He may have begun his career as a rebel in=2 0this gentleman’s sport, but Agassi became one of the most respected players on the circuit in the final years of his career, and that was largely due to his incredible work ethic and courage. And his class. And humil- ity. Jimmy Connors was one of the most passionate tennis players of all time, ranked #1 in the world in 1978. He came back famously in 1991 at age 39. Jimmy Connors loved tennis as much as any professional and his desire to dare to step back into the arena facing off young stars such as Michael Chang, Aaron Krickstein, Patrick McEnroe and Jim Courier was utterly stunning to most tennis fans. Yet Connors’s passion for the game compelled him to do just that, and it was his talent and his ethic that carried him that year in the U.S. Open. His physical tools had declined but his talent, expe- rience, and his passion energized him to reach the semifinals at the U.S. Open in front of a raucously supportive New York crowd, before falling to Courier. Not unrelated is that the one-time bad-sport bad-boy had become a20crowd favorite. He did this by earning the respect rather than demanding it as his birthright. The name Michael Jordan is synonymous with greatness. And yet, like all of us, he suffered his share of early setbacks. The coach of his Wilmington high school basketball team cut him his sophomore year. He re- acted with motivation, not discouragement. He eventually made the team and led them to a high school championship. Afterwards Jordan earned a scholarship to play for Dean Smith at UNC. Now, who after getting cut from the high school team would ever dream they’d be recruited to play for one of the finest programs in the country just a few years later? Or make the Olympic team? Or be drafted in the Top-3 in the NBA? Or now hailed as the greatest basketball player to have played the game? Talent, yes, but humility as well. And class. And the courage to pursue his dream of playing professional baseball in the midst of a successful basketball career, and with the humility to play in the minors. Without elaboration, this man was disciplined and goal-driven and it was a major part of his suc- cess. All of the athletes mentioned share those characteristics. They are learned, they are attainable, Call (704)712- 2817 and they are ready for you to embrace. You can start today. or email Rhonda @totalchampion.com for info on mental toughness/strategy services. Volume 3, Issue 6 South Charlotte Sports Report Page 15 SOUTH CHARLOTTE SPORTS REPORT SUPER SEVEN FOOTBALL POLL August 27, 2008

Rank Last Week School Record

1. 1 Charlotte Latin 0-0 Can the Hawks stay on top? There are a couple of teams below that have their sights set on first. 1A 1A Butler 0-0 If Butler can take care of business early on, this can be a special season for the Bulldogs. 3. 3 South Meck 1-0 The only reason South Meck didn’t take first is that Butler and Latin haven’t played a game yet. These Sabres are a heck of a football team 4. 5 Charlotte Christian 1-0 All cylinders are firing for the Knights. Ty Linton leads the way in game one. 5. 4 Charlotte Catholic 0-1 The Cougars will rebound from opening loss. This is a very good football team that opened up with another The South Park Coach Pitch 8’s won both the District 4 Champion- very good team. ship AND the North Carolina State Championship of Dixie Youth 6. NR Marvin Ridge 0-0 The Mavericks move into the Super Seven based on the Baseball this past summer in Wrightsville Beach, NC. Their defense losses of last week’s # 6 and # 7 teams. earned them national acclaim, as they went undefeated in their 7 7. 6 Ardrey Kell 0-1 The Knights were blown out by Mallard Creek. They games of the State tournament—winning by a combined score of 76- have too much talent to not win 6-7 games this season. 12. Head Coach Ron Caldwell said, “These kids practiced long and hard as far back as last winter, and it paid off with great times on The Super Seven Poll is updated every Sunday and off of the field.” Over two years, this allstar team went a com- at www.southcharlottesports.com bined 16-0 in district and state play. Back Row: Bill Borda (Coach), Darrell Murray (Coach), Vic Esclamado (Coach), Ron Caldwell (Manager) Middle Row: Justin Murray, Spencer Kraizel, Josh Esclamado, J.P. Corser, Grayson Hickert, Baylor Molnar, Hank Borda GET ‘EM WHILE THEY’RE HOT!! Front Row: Kyle Wood, Colin Wholey, Michael Graci, Evan Nalibotsky, Sean Caldwell, Jake Comisar CALL OR EMAIL NOW FOR OUR BACK TO SCHOOL AD SPECIALS!!! Volume 3, Issue 6 South Charlotte Sports Report Page 23 704-906-5466 [email protected]

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SPORTS POSTERS! Contact South Charlotte Sports Report to schedule our team of professional photographers to visit your team this fall. WE OFFER GREAT ACTION PHOTOS, TEAM PHOTOS AND SPORTS POSTERS! SCSRACTIONPHOTOS.COM 704-906-5466 Page 16 South Charlotte Sports Report Volume 3, Issue 6 Your smile is what people see first and remember most. If your smile is less than you want, orthodontics may be the answer. A dazzling smile is also the sign of a healthy smile. Teeth in correct alignment are easier to clean and clean teeth are more resistant to decay and less susceptible to gum disease. We recognize that every patient has different needs, and we pride ourselves in the courteous service we deliver to each person who walks through our doors. Whether you’re a child or an adult, our knowledgeable doctors and staff are committed to helping you achieve the smile you deserve - a healthy, beautiful one.

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