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MAY 20-26, 2009 ATLANTA’S WEEKLY SPORTS TALK NEWSPAPER VOL 5 NO 10 02 I SCORE ATLANTA Get In The Game!

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™ STARTING LINEUP IN YOUR PUBLISHER/EDITOR I.J. Rosenberg FACE… MANAGING EDITOR Alex Ewalt ART/CREATIVE DIRECTOR DJ Galbiati VIDEO MANAGER Scott Janovitz BUSINESS MANAGER Marvin Botnick SALES MANAGER Mark Mayo WWW.SCOREATL.COM BEAT WRITERS Josh Bagriansky (Falcons, Dream), 5 Falcons quarterback Michael Vick will be released from prison on Stephen Black (Kennesaw State), Jason Boral (Thrashers), Wednesday, and I.J. Rosenberg believes the controversial QB deserves James Butler (UGA), Dave Cohen ( State), Ricky a second chance and hopes he makes the best of it. Dimon (Tech), Alex Ewalt (Preps), Scott Janovitz ______(Hawks/Recruiting), Fletcher Proctor (Braves) 10 We’ve completed the first two rounds of the high school state STAFF WRITERS Cranston Collier, Joe Deighton, Rajesh Gupta, tournament and Joe Deighton has kept a close eye on all that’s happened thus far. Find out which players have starred through Zander Lentz, Andrew McCarron, Corey Mitchell, Alan Gales, the first two weeks. Brian Penter, John Edwards, Derek Wiley ______CONTRIBUTORS Tad Arapoglou, Dean Zindler, Kevin Dankosky, 12 Christopher White, founder and CEO of the Sports Championship Mitch Evans, Matt Judy, Tony Schiavone, Richard Diamond, Management Group, is taking a new approach to hosting Joe Haines, Brian Katrek, Chris Dimino, Mike Bell, Matt Stewart, football camps; his clinics are as much about developing Fred Kalil, Nick Cellini, Phillip Leopold, Dave Marshall, Greg leadership skills as they are about football. Smith, Steak Shapiro, Mike Cather, Beau Bock, Hal Lamar, Chris ______Cotter, Roy Hickman, Dave Cohen, John Olah, Jeff Woolverton, 17 Beat writer Scott Janovitz considers three weaknesses the Chris Voss, Bob Rathbun, Courtney Capps, Bill Hartman, Chuck team must address before becoming a championship Dowdle, Shannon Alderman, Dan Kamal, Dennis Scott, C.C., contender. How will management use the offseason to seek Hal Lanier, Jeff Batten, Micah Hart, Ben Wright, some help for Al Horford (pictured) and company? Alan Vasquez, Andrew Vedlitz, Brian Jones A SCORE UPDATE: SPECIAL CONTRIBUTORS Mitch Albom, Dave Kindred, Barry Bloom Score Atlanta is partnering with the Georgia High School Association to bring prep baseball fans the official GHSA state championship program for all five classifications. The special edition will be handed ™ SCHOOL out at each championship series and will include full rosters, feature LISTING stories, finals previews and more! CHEROKEE/FORSYTH: Cherokee, Creekview, Etowah, Forsyth Central, North Forsyth, Sequoyah, South Forsyth, West Forsyth, Woodstock COBB: Allatoona, Campbell, Harrison, Kell, Kennesaw Mountain, Lassiter, TEAM PAGES I COLUMNS Marietta, McEachern, N. Cobb, N. Cobb Christian, Pebblebrook, Pope, S. Cobb, Sprayberry, Walton, Wheeler DOG DAYS: The Braves hosted their latest DEKALB: Chamblee, Columbia, Decatur, Druid Hills, Dunwoody, COVER DESIGN BY DJ GALBIATI. COVER PHOTO COURTESY OF SCOTT CUNNINGHAM. Lakeside, Marist, Miller Grove, M.L. King, Paideia, Redan, St. Pius installment of “Bark in the Park” earlier in the X, Southwest DeKalb, Stephenson, Stone Mountain, Tucker month, allowing baseball fans to include their four- FULTON: Alpharetta, Blessed Trinity, Centennial, Chattahoochee, 5 CHEAP SEATS 6 SCORE LIST-DUE UP 7 SPIN-C.C. Douglass, Grady, Lovett, Mays, Milton, North Springs, Northview, legged friends in their favorite pastime at Turner Riverwood, Roswell, Tri-Cities, Westminster, Woodward Academy Field. If you missed the first event, you can bring 8 HS SPORTS REPORT 14 HAWKS-THRASHERS-FALCONS GWINNETT: Berkmar, Brookwood, Buford, C. Gwinnett, Collins Hill, Dacula, Grayson, Greater Atlanta Christian, Meadowcreek, Mill Fido out to The Ted on June 10 for a night game. 15 DAWGS-JACKETS 16 BRAVES-OWLS-PANTHERS Creek, Norcross, North Gwinnett, Parkview, Peachtree Ridge, Register your pet on the Braves’ official website! South Gwinnett, Wesleyan Photo courtesy of Daniel Shirey/Atlanta Braves. 17 DREAM 18 CALENDAR 19 AD INDEX

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Vick has long road back to respectability; Dawgs should end neutral-site series

irst of all, before I get started, I want to it time served after 16 months in a federal whole ordeal. Fortunately for the Falcons, Flet the people of PETA know that I love pen and two years away from the league. they were able to bounce back quickly and dogs and do not in any way condone what And when he does get his chance to have a new superstar quarterback in the

Michael Vick did. suit back up, he shouldn’t have to do so young Matt Ryan. R However, with that said, it’s time to give among a crowd of protestors who remain Still, many people from owner Arthur E the player, who just three years ago was per- vigilant in their crusade against Vick. It Blank on down are not vengeful and would haps the biggest attraction in the NFL, anoth- was PETA that sent a letter to the NFL call- like to see Vick get back on his feet. V

er chance. Vick, in the opinion of this long- ing for the league to require Vick to under- What will be the key is how Vick han- O time sportswriter, has paid his debt to society. go a new brain-scanning procedure already dles his comeback, which needs to be well-

Period. in use at a New Mexico corrections facili- organized and not overplayed. The publici- C Unlike other athletes who have dodged ty, effectively testing Vick for psychopathy ty will be there but Vick and his people conviction and continued playing despite (anti-social personality disorder) before he need to keep on the straight line. No reali- E doing far worse, he was prosecuted to the full extent of the law for dogfighting and, as a H T

result, should be allowed back into the NFL and given a chance to rebuild his career. In fact, few athletes before have ever N been torn down like Vick, who was at one time a $100 million-plus business and an O endorsement machine; now, he is bankrupt with a shattered reputation. They were his Falcons quarterback Michael Vick will mistakes and it was all his doing, but I have a be released from jail on Wednesday feeling that there are going to be those that after spending more than a year behind make Vick’s road back very difficult. bars. Convicted of dogfighting charges About the Vick dilemma, NFL commis- over 12 months ago, the controversial sioner Roger Goodell recently had this to quarterback has missed the last two say: “Michael did an egregious thing. He has NFL seasons but will most likely look to paid a very significant price for that. If he's make a return to the field for the learned from that and is prepared to live a upcoming 2009-10 campaign if league different life, I think the general public is for- commissioner Roger Goodell grants giving on that when people are genuine and him the right to do so. According to I.J. they show remorse and are prepared to live a Rosenberg, Vick has already paid his different life. That's something he has to debt to society and deserves an imme- prove to myself and the general public.’’ diate shot at redemption. The above But to prove himself, Vick has to be photo and cover photo are courtesy of given the opportunity to succeed and, having watched him here in Atlanta all his profes- Scott Cunningham. sional life, that is what concerns me. takes and how much he’s lost. JUST TOO MUCH: LeBron James powered the past the Hawks and into the Eastern I know Vick, have spoken with him on I’ve never thought Vick was a bad person, many occasions and, while what he did was Conference Finals, but Flip Murray (left) and Josh Smith (middle) have much to be proud of after increasing their regular-season win total by 10 games and beating the Miami Heat in the first round of the playoffs. just one brought up on the streets, who, despite terrible, he never once struck me as being a all his success on the field, couldn’t put his Here’s hoping another offseason will bring similar improvements in 2009-10. Photo courtesy of Rob Saye. mean or cold-hearted person. Even Falcons tough past behind him. I also am a strong management will tell you that they liked believer in second chances and hope Vick has Michael, who for the most part was rather become a different person and, someday, returns reserved and kept to himself. But he made CATCH I.J. ON SUNDAYS to the Vick we knew and loved on the field. bad choices, beginning with the people he It’s a comeback I want to write about. chose to hang around. To use a word that can ‘Now that Vick is out of jail, however, he shouldn’t have to start serving anoth- turn all our stomachs, they were thugs, and in AND FINALLY … the end they led to Vick’s downfall. er sentence, such as an NFL suspension. Let’s call it time served after 16 If Georgia is smart, they do not renew Still, his path to making it back should months in a federal pen and two years away from the league.’ the contract to play Florida in Jacksonville not be blocked by an NFL commissioner or after the 2010 season. The solution is sim- an animal rights group. Goodell is known for is allowed to become a children's hero ty shows, no stupid stunts, no holding dogs ple and that is to play it one year in Athens his no-nonsense approach when it comes to again. Be serious here. for PETA commercials. and the next in Gainesville. The Gators have discipline and the league and their owners are In other words, enough is enough. He Vick, who leaves prison this week to move an advantage in Jacksonville, winning 16 of far less tolerant than, say, the NBA, which let has served his sentence and except for his to two months of home confinement and is the last 19 meetings, and it reminds me of one Kobe Bryant fly back and forth between physical athletic ability, there is little left that beginning workouts immediately, needs to go when the Alabama-Auburn game was Lakers games and the hearings in his rape hasn’t already been taken away. to the commissioner—who he lied to the last played every year in Birmingham and the case, though he was eventually found not While you don’t read much about it pub- time they met—fall on his sword, tell Goodell Crimson Tide dominated it; not so since the guilty. In this matter, Goodell didn’t have to licly, there are those in Atlanta pulling for he is a different man and move on. Then, at the game was moved to the campuses. The make a quick decision, as Vick’s quick guilty Vick and hoping he has learned from his mis- age of 28, he needs to focus on his game and Bulldogs are at a disadvantage playing the plea and the court made it for him. takes and will make it back into the league. get back on the field and do what he has always game in Florida every year and it’s time to Now that Vick is out of jail, however, he Some of those people are with the very same done best: thrill the fans. Additionally, Vick even the playing field. shouldn’t have to start serving another sen- team that his actions crushed, a Falcons fran- needs to spend his time off the field getting to Rosenberg can be reached at 404-256- tence, such as an NFL suspension. Let’s call chise that suffered a great amount from the the young people, telling them about his mis- 1572 or [email protected].

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HOTTEST THINGS TO SEE AND DO OVER THE SCORE LIST DUE UP NEXT SEVEN DAYS BY ALEX EWALT BY BRIAN JONES

WHAT NEXT?: Well, the Hawks gave it their best shot against a powerhouse team WEDNESDAY Braves vs. Colorado. 96.1 FM. SportSouth. from Cleveland, but lost in four games. Now, the team will have to make some tough deci- The Braves are fighting for the top spot in the NL East as the month of May 1 sions involving its top players. It should be interesting to watch this offseason. wears on. Can the Bravos pick up a much-needed win over the struggling Colorado Rockies from the West? Game starts at 7 p.m. RUBBER MATCH MADNESS: Both the Orlando-Boston and L.A.-Houston series went 20 to seven games, concluding in two rather anticlimactic contests. The Magic and Atlanta THURSDAY 2 native Dwight Howard ripped the Celtics and the Lakers took care of the Yao-less Rockets. Gwinnett Braves vs. Toledo. 550 AM. After suffering a rough start, the G-Braves have been rocking and rolling KINGS OF THE ROAD: The Braves wrapped up a stellar road trip last week, going in the second month of the season. They start a four-game home series 6-2 against some of their biggest rivals. Now with a winning record and in the thick of the 21 against the Toledo Mud Hens on Thursday with first pitch set for 7 p.m. 3 division race, it’s tough to get a read on this team. Are they a contender or a pretender? FRIDAY BACK AT CAMP: The hunt is officially on again for the , as the team Friday Night Drags. opened up offseason training with the first of several minicamps. It’s great to see the Birds Not getting enough racing in your life? Then come on down to Atlanta Motor 4 back on the field, especially recent draft picks like Peria Jerry and William Moore. Speedway to see amateur drivers compete on the one-eighth mile pit road. 22 There will also be a Show-N-Shine event. Everything will start at 6:30 p.m. KEEPING KOVY?: Thrashers general manager Don Waddell expressed last week the team’s desire to re-sign franchise player Ilya Kovalchuk. For a city starved for some SATURDAY hockey success, we applaud this move. What would Blueland be without King Kovy? Silverbacks Women vs. Hampton Roads. 5 The Silverbacks are back in action and the women’s team is looking to have JOLTIN’ JACKETS AND DIAMOND DAWGS: The Braves aren’t the only team another successful season, as the team reached the conference finals last in Georgia with aspirations of baseball greatness. Though UGA and Georgia Tech have 23 year. They host the Hampton Roads Piranhas at 7:30 p.m. 6 stumbled a bit lately, each team hopes to excel in this week’s conference tourneys. SUNDAY THERE’S MORE: And staying on our baseball kick, the high school postseason is Dale Jarrett Racing School. really heating up. Will defending champions Brookwood, Loganville, Cartersville, Pacelli Do you want to know what it feels like to be a NASCAR driver? You have that 7 and Wesleyan be able to repeat? Find out this week as the quarterfinals get underway. opportunity on Sunday at Atlanta Motor Speedway, where you can race on the 24 track like the pros. The Dale Jarrett Racing School takes place all day. DO-OVER: Falcons quarterback Michael Vick gets out of prison on Wednesday and will reportedly start football-related activities shortly after his release (he’s spending the MONDAY GHSA Baseball State Semifinals. 8 next two months under house arrest). Here’s to hoping No. 7 comes out a different man. The high school sports season is coming to an end and baseball is the ONE FOR THE GIRLS: Rachel Alexandra, jockeyed by Calvin Borel, who rode Kentucky last sport to conclude its season. The quarterfinals conclude on Derby-winner Mine That Bird (No. 2 on Saturday) to victory, became the first filly to win at 25 Wednesday with semifinal games beginning next Friday. 9 Pimlico since 1924. Let’s hope both superhorses give us a show at the Belmont Stakes. TUESDAY Braves at San Francisco. 96.1 FM. SportSouth. WORKHORSE: Last week, Campbellsville Bryan Fuller pulled off one of the The Braves will head out west for the first time in 2009 as they take on the 10 most amazing feats you’ll ever see in sports. Fuller led the Kentucky college to its first San Francisco Giants. Both teams are having solid starts to their seasons, NAIA World Series by pitching 21 shutout —in 26 hours. Talk about a rubber arm. 26 so it should be an interesting series. Game starts at 10:15 p.m.

Howard Thompkins Tom Glavine UGA/Tech Softball Despite the ouster of former head coach Despite arm troubles again early this Both Georgia and Georgia Tech’s soft- Dennis Felton, Georgia big man Howard season, Braves pitcher Tom Glavine ball teams advanced to the Super Thompkins decided that he will stay with was expected to be back this week Regionals last week. For Tech, it was the Bulldogs team. A rising and facing batters in Gwinnett as the first time the Lady Jackets program sophomore, Thompkins will be the best part of his rehab assignment. had advanced to the Round of 16. Both THUMBS UP TO player for first-year coach Mark Fox and will Glavine has not made a start for the teams will begin play in the Supers on provide some much-needed scoring—he big league club yet this season, but Thursday—Tech against Washington STICKING AROUND averaged 12.7 points per game last year. hopefully this is the first step back. and UGA against Ohio State.

UGA/Tech Baseball James Harrison Brett Favre Both programs have struggled down the The Pittsburgh Steeler linebacker and It’s looking more and more likely that the reigning NFL Defensive Player of the stretch, hurting their seeding in their respec- Year shockingly announced his inten- attention-starved Favre will come out of tive conference tournaments and for the tions to skip out on the yearly visit the retirement for the second time, possibly to upcoming NCAA Tournament. The Bulldogs Super Bowl Champions take to the play for the Minnesota Vikings. The only lost 11 of their final 13 conference games, White House. Offputting to Harrison thing that would make watching another THUMBS DOWN TO and the Jackets lost two of three to bottom- was the fact that “[Obama] would’ve comeback worth it is if there was a posi- feeding Duke to end their regular season. invited Arizona if they had won.” Wha? tion battle between him and Michael Vick. ANOTHER COMEBACK

CRUNCHING THE SANITY NUMBERS STENSON SHOCKS AT PLAYERS AT LAST If someone told you that Tiger down all the way to his underwear to Woods was in the final pairing of a golf play a shot out of a water hazard earlier “I’m still the coach of the Hawks. Only you guys seem to worry about Last tournament on a Sunday, tied for this year at Doral. At the 1958 second and trailing the leader by Players, however, Stenson that. Really, I don’t. I never worry Hawks team to win more than five shots, and that one of showed off some mettle of about my job because I think, just one playoff series in a year those players five shots back a different sort. He threw from a coaching standpoint, I try came back to win by four, down a 13-shot swing on you would bet your life third-round leader Alex to do the best that I can do. I make savings that player was Cejka, and his Tiger- mistakes just like all coaches do. 18 Number of times Tiger. That's exactly what esque comeback was But I was paid to come here and since 1958 that the Hawks have won happened two weeks ago at staged in the opposite do a job, and I think our team is one playoff series in a year the Players Championship, of Tiger-esque fashion: but the miracle was pulled by hitting 13 of 14 fair- headed in the right direction.” off not by Tiger, but by … ways and being the only Henrik Stenson? player in the field without a - Hawks coach Mike Woodson 1970 Hawks’ last This is a guy, despite well-docu- bogey on his Sunday scorecard. after second-round loss mented talent, who was—prior to the Dimon can be reached at to Cleveland appearance in the Conference Finals Players—best known for stripping [email protected].

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Kournikova promotes physical fitness; Thrashers to begin summer camps MUCH WORK CHECK THIS OUT! TO DO The Silverbacks men may be sitting The ’ season came out the summer, but there will still to an end in the second round of the be plenty of opportunities to catch playoffs at the hands of LeBron some great soccer in Atlanta. You’ll James and the Cleveland Cavaliers. get your first big chance to do so on They didn’t win a game in the series, Wednesday, June 24, when the but making it to the second round is Mexican and Venezuelan National something they should take pride in. teams do battle in a friendly match The moves and the Atlanta Spirit make this summer will tell us a at the Georgia Dome. Game time is lot about their expectations of this scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Catch all team. They must address the the action for low prices, with tick- guard and backup point guard situa- ets starting at just $25 and running tion. There’s no denying the affect $75 for prime seating! You Falcons Mike Bibby has had on this team season ticket holders will want to offensively, but he’s atrocious on check out the action, too, as you’ll defense. It’s not from a lack of effort; get $5 off the regular ticket price. he’s just incapable of keeping young, quick guards in front of him. If they Make it a day for the entire family decide to keep him, then the other to enjoy by jumping on the Family players are going to have to work Four Pack, which scores you four extra hard defensively to minimize great seats for only $25 apiece! Get the damage when his man blows past HIP TO BE SQUARE: Former tennis star Anna Kournikova made a stop in Atlanta last week to attend the 103rd your tickets right now at www.tick- him. Basically, management is going annual Boys & Girls Clubs of America National Conference, and found some time to play a spirited game of etmaster.com or call the Georgia to have to determine whether the four square with eight local Club members. Kournikova is part of the Cartoon Network’s “GET ANIMATED” pro- Dome box office at 404-878-3000. good outweighs the bad. Bibby’s ask- gram, which aims to promote physical fitness in children. Photo courtesy of Mitch Leff. ing price might make Sund’s decision easy one way or the other. They also have to deal with Marvin Williams HERE’S THE SCOOP ... Written by Scott Janovitz and Zaza Pachulia’s contracts this off- season. It should be an interesting he city of Atlanta, and specifically those sive lineman. At the linebacker position, mate mix of hard work and fun.” Camps are Tin attendance at the 103rd Boys & Girls Rennie Curran of Georgia ranks eighth in available for players of all levels from summer as far as personnel decisions Clubs of America National Conference in the country while Tech safety Morgan novice to advanced, and are designed and are concerned. downtown Atlanta, were graced last week Burnett is the third best in the nation at his run by the pros themselves. The team’s However, the most important thing by the beauty and giving nature of former position. Finally, the coaches at each school camps will take place from June 22-26 and the Hawks need to find this offseason tennis star, now model, Anna Kournikova, got some love as well, as Georgia offensive registration will remain open up until June as the 27-year-old visited with the kids in coordinator Mike Bobo ranked 11th-best in 21. For more information, visit is an identity. We never knew what an effort to promote physical fitness among the country, Georgia Tech defensive coordi- Atlantathrashers.com. kind of team was going to come out of today’s youth. As part of the Cartoon nator Dave Wommack earned the nation’s Sad news surfaced on Friday when it that locker room. One night they’d Network’s “GET ANIMATED” campaign, 23rd ranking in his respective category, and was learned 44-year-old former NBA star come out and walk the ball up the Kournikova is spending the summer touring Bulldog lead man Mark Richt is considered Wayman Tisdale had lost his battle with the nation, challenging kids to rediscover the nation’s ninth-best head coach. cancer. The 6-9 forward from Tulsa was a court, the next night they’d come out active lifestyles and outdoor games. After In a bold, unprecedented and some- three-time All-American during his four and try to run and gun. They are young delivering her message to the children last what offensive move, years as an Oklahoma Sooner and spent 12 and athletic as presently constructed week, the Russian goddess participated in a linebacker and NFL Defensive Player of seasons in the NBA, splitting time between and if the team more or less stays the competitive game of four square, posed for the Year James Harrison rejected President Indiana, Sacramento and Phoenix. Tisdale photos and took a moment to meet those in Obama’s invitation to visit the White averaged over 15 points per game for his same going into next season then its attendance. Finally, the city of Atlanta will House last week, choosing not to partici- career and was an award-winning jazz best bet would be to speed up the officially receive a stop from the separate pate with his team in the Washington bassist after his basketball days were over. tempo. Either way, they need to figure “GET ANIMATED” summer tour June 19- excursion. As a sort of ritual, the President Overshadowed by the playoffs, the out who they are. The Golden State 21. For more information, go to annually invites all champions at the colle- NBA released its All-NBA first, second and www.getanimated.com. giate and professional level from that year third teams last week and there were few Warriors didn’t have much success Rivals.com released its college foot- to the White House, a tradition that recent- surprises among them. The first team this season, but at least they knew who ball power rankings at each position last ly included the 2008 Super Bowl-champi- included Dwight Howard of the Orlando they were. They were going to run and week and football in the State of Georgia on Steelers. Harrison, however, did not see Magic at , Lakers guard Kobe Bryant, gun and take bad shots. was well represented on the lists. Georgia the invitation as quite the honor most Dallas forward Dirk Nowitzki, LeBron Sometimes it worked, Tech Jonathan Dwyer is the would. “This is how I feel: if you want to James of the Cleveland Cavaliers and second-best running back in the country see the Pittsburgh Steelers, invite us when of the Miami Heat. Named sometimes it didn’t, but at according to Rivals.com experts, just we don't win the Super Bowl. As far as I'm to the second team were Chris Paul of New least they had a plan. The behind California speedster Jahvid Best. To concerned, [Obama] would've invited Orleans, Portland’s Brandon Roy, San Hawks need a plan. no one’s surprise, Georgia sophomore Arizona if they had won.” Antonio’s Tim Duncan, Boston’s Paul Read more from wideout A.J. Green earned the fourth spot Pierce, and Houston’s Yao Ming. Finally, on the top wide receivers list. Neither LEARN FROM THE BEST … the third team was comprised of Denver’s C.C. at http://coco- Georgia school was represented among the If you’re looking to improve your Chauncey Billups, San Antonio’s Tony vents.blogspot.com. nation’s top 25 offensive linemen, though hockey skills over the summer, now’s the Parker, of Denver, the C.C. can be reached at Bulldog defensive tackle Geno Atkins is time to consider the Atlanta Thrashers Lakers’ Pau Gasol, and Shaquille O’Neal of [email protected]. considered the country’s 20th-best defen- Hockey Camps, which “provide the ulti- the .

WWW.SCOREATL.COM Chambers continuing to aim for the stars state championship in the shot put is how GROWING TALENT … Aone of the best amateur throwers in U.S. Besides Throw 1 Deep giving her the history ended the Georgia high school portion opportunity to compete against some of the of her career. Kell’s Lauren Chambers won nation’s best, Chambers also thinks the the event last Friday at the state girls champi- coaching she receives there is a big reason onships in Albany, bringing to a close a career for her success. that saw her make four state meets in four “Mike Judge is an awesome coach,” years for the Longhorns. “It’s been a fun four Chambers said of the program’s leader. “I’ve years, but I’m just glad to be done with throw- seen him coach every throwing event and he’s ing for high school because it marks the end good at it. He’s just taking me to a level of of high school and [means] I’m moving on to throwing that I didn’t think I would be at, ever.” bigger and better things,” Chambers said. In the upcoming weeks, Chambers will The state title gave her two career state have several more meets to grow as a throw- championships, as she also won the shot put er under Judge, while also attempting to as a junior in 2008. The 2008 triumph she secure a spot in the 2011 Pan Am Games. sees as being her most memorable moment Chambers will compete in meets such as the while competing as a Georgia high school United States Junior Outdoor Nationals in Eugene, Oregon on June 25-27, in addition to athlete. While her accomplishments at traveling to North Carolina for competition. Kell—which also include a state record in the After her busy summer schedule is complete, shot put—would be the envy of just about Chambers will attend Southern California, every other thrower that has competed in which won the battle with Auburn and Penn Georgia, Chambers is even more dominant State for her services. She will compete in competing for her travel team Throw 1 Deep. the hammer throw and shot put for the That is partly because the national stage is Trojans and look to position herself for her the only place she can showcase one of her ultimate goal for the hammer throw. strong suits as a thrower. “My best event is “My goal is to make the 2012 Olympic hammer throw,” Chambers said. “It’s not con- team and 2016 Olympic team, so I will be tested in high school, but being with Throw 1 working towards that in college,” Chambers Deep you get a chance to throw it.” said. “It’ll be a good, long, hard battle to make In the hammer throw, she holds the [those teams] because there are some very intermediate age group national record and good hammer throwers in the United States.” currently leads the nation and the world for If her high school career is any indication, girls 19 and under. “Getting that record had Chambers will rise to the challenge and contin- been my goal since my freshman year, but it ue her strong performances on a world stage. was kind of surprising to throw that far,” Butler can be reached at Chambers said. [email protected]. THE HIGH SCHOOL PLAYERS OF THE WEEK

CHRIS ROWLEY LAUREN HUTCHINSON SOUTH FORSYTH NORTH COBB The Eagles’ No. 1 pitcher has helped the A two-sport athlete (she also competes team to a quarterfinals berth and a on the cross country team), Hutchinson school record for wins in a season in set a new state meet record in Class 5A ’09. Rowley, who will continue his in the pole vault, clearing the bar at career at West Point next year, shut out 11’7” last Friday at the girls track and Harrison in the first game of the second field championships in Albany. round for a 1-0 win, giving up only three Hutchinson defeated the field by over a hits in the game. A multi-sport athlete, foot and set a personal best with the Rowley also played forward for the vault. Just a junior, she also has compet- Eagles basketball team. ed in the high jump.

WWW.SCOREATL.COM HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS REPORT I09

First-ever boys soccer title punctuates Collins Hill’s championship-laden sports season banner year in Collins Hill athletics was region in soccer as a sophomore but hung up there now, it might Acapped off earlier this month with a first- the cleats as a junior in order to run track. be six or seven ever state championship for the boys soccer Miller returned, and so did a chance to years before I get team. The triumph gave Collins Hill four get revenge on Walton for the previous sea- another opportuni- state titles during the 2008-09 school year. son’s heartbreak. After wins over Dacula, ty.” When asked if In the fall it was the girls cross country Lassiter and Greenbrier in this year’s play- it would be tough team taking center stage. Nothing short of a offs, Collins Hill hosted Walton in the semi- not being able to dynasty, the team raced to a sixth straight state finals with a spot in the state championship try for back-to- championship in Class 5A. But the girls did on the line. Tied 0-0 after both regulation and back titles, not just win a sixth in a row, they positively overtime, penalty kicks were needed to Carpenter replied, dominated. Their top five finishers all fin- decide things. The two teams were perfect “It’s OK. The play- ished in the top 10 of the state meet, including through six rounds of the shootout before ers will get to individual state champion Amanda Winslow. senior goalkeeper Andrew Wallingford defend.” The wrestling team followed suit in the thwarted Walton’s seventh attempt. Senior So, too, will winter, showing signs of becoming a dynasty Juan Giraldo then stepped up and booted the wresters and the in itself with the dual and traditional state home the game-winner for Collins Hill. girls cross country championships. Twelve boys—including six The Eagles went on to edge Centennial 1- runners. But the finalists—placed in the state traditional meet 0 for the 5A championship, courtesy of a success on which as Collins Hill became the first 5A team this Miller goal with 5:12 left in the first half. Collins Hill can decade to successfully defend a state title. Miller scored eight of the team’s nine goals build heading into Completing the trifecta this spring, the during its victorious run through the state tour- an encore for the boys soccer team earned its title in much nament. “It wasn’t until 10 minutes (left) that 2009-10 school different fashion. Heading into coach Stan you feel like you’re probably going to win,” year is not limited Carpenter’s final season at the school, the Carpenter said of the slim one-goal lead. merely to state ANOTHER ONE FOR THE TROPHY CASE: With the first state championship boys had never won a soccer state champi- “Even then, they could tie it up at any moment. championships. The in program history, the Collins Hill boys soccer team added yet another onship. But Carpenter was confident head- You never know in the state tournament.” boys cross country title to the Eagles’ impressive list for the 2008-09 sports season. Photo ing into his last year at Collins Hill, and he Now he knows. In his last chance for a team finished as had a reason to be. The Eagles had reached title at Collins Hill, Carpenter got it. “It means runner-up at the courtesy of Doug Smith/Athletesfoto.com. the 5A state title game in 2008 before los- a lot because it’s the first one,” he explained. state meet and boys ing to Walton on an own-goal in the 78th basketball enjoyed a memorable run to a sur- 67-65 for the championship. It was Norcross’ minute of the game. LOOKING FORWARD … prise Region 7-AAAAA championship. first in-state loss of the entire season. “We were expecting something very If Collins Hill gets a second boys soc- Before getting bounced in the first round of the Next year, Collins Hill won’t be surprising good,” Carpenter said of his team’s mindset cer title, it won’t be with Carpenter at the state tournament, the boys basketball team anyone in any sport. After four state champi- heading into the season. “We have a very helm. He is leaving for Mountain View pulled off two straight stunners en route to the onships, two runner-ups and a slew of state good core group of players, and I knew High School, which opens in the fall. “It’s 7-AAAAA title. The Eagles avenged a pair of tournament appearances, the secret is out. Malcolm Miller was coming back.” Miller, a my neighborhood school, so my kids are regular-season losses to Peachtree Ridge in the Dimon can be reached at signee, was all- going there,” Carpenter said. “If I don’t go semifinals, then shocked powerhouse Norcross [email protected].

Girls state championships, Georgia Olympics cap off ’09 track and field year he girls track and field state champi- onships were extremely tight, as Monroe edged who won a gold medal in the 400-meter dash second in Class A with gold medals in the Tonships were held on May 14-16, and the Towers by five points behind Lakeisha and the silver in both the 1,600 and 3,200. The high jump, long jump and triple jump. His biggest news was Westlake dethroning Jackson’s gold medal in the 100-meter hurdles 1,600-meter relay team picked up the gold and high jump and long jump were each class Collins Hills as Class 5A champs and to win 3A and Greater Atlanta Christian defeat- Julian Vann won gold in the triple jump. records. Burke County’s Johnson won the 3A Southwest DeKalb winning its third consecu- ed Jordan and Decatur by only three points to Kenneth Gilstrap led Miller Grove to long jump, triple jump and 200-meter dash. tive state championship in 4A. win 2A. Claire Goodson, Jessica Tuggle and the 4A state championship, winning the gold The Bears finished fifth. Westlake was led by its gold medal-win- Lauren Kester all won gold medals for GAC. medal in the 100 and 200. His 100 time of Monroe won the 3A championship as Sir ning 400- and 1,600-meter relay teams. The Wesleyan dominated Class A behind 10.37 in heat two set a new 4A state record. Paul Jones won gold in the 110-meter hurdles school also got championship performances gold medals by Holli Wilkins, Erika Ramsey Stephen Hill captured gold in the 300 hur- and 300-meter hurdles. Westminster took the from Zahra Thomas in the 400-meter dash, 2A crown behind record-setting performances and Anne Marie Armstrong. dles and the long jump with a new class by Maalik Reynolds in the high jump and LB Aubrielle Wright in the 800 and Shani record of 25’8.75”. The Wolverines also won Joel in the discus. Reynolds’s gold medal Chandler in the 300-meter hurdles. Collins GEORGIA OLYMPICS … gold with their 400- and 1,600-meter relay jump of 6’11” set a class record as did Joel’s Hill finished second as Amanda Winslow Parkview, Gilstrap, Johnson and Higgs; teams. Alexander finished second in 4A and throw of 177’9”. Henry County’s Jamal won gold in the 1,600 and 3,200 runs. these are the names that were on the minds of Davis Fraker, who threw a class record Patterson set a 2A record in the 300 hurdles Southwest DeKalb was paced by its the crowd that witnessed the Georgia Olympics 177’9” to win gold in the discus, led with a time of 36.82. gold medal-winning 400 relay team that set on May 7-9 at Jefferson High School. McIntosh to a third-place finish. Warren County took the Class A title a new Class 4A record of 46.66, and sprint- Parkview literally ran away with the 5A Raymond Higgs and Damian Johnson as Coby Reynolds won gold in both the er Kia Jackson, who won gold in the 100- boys state championship, outscoring runner- each won three gold medals and tied with the 100- and 200-meter dashes. and 200-meter dashes. up Mill Creek 80 to 39. most individual points of any competitor with Wiley can be reached at The battles for the 3A and 2A champi- The Panthers were led by Ethan Kasson 30.5. Higgs helped Athens Christian finish [email protected].

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State’s top players, teams stepping up their play as postseason wears on he phrase “big players make big plays in three hits on 81 pitches in a complete-game nents to just four hits in an opening 4-1. Trey junior DJ Johnson allowed only three hits and Tbig games” is often used by professional shutout win, 1-0, in the first contest. Bibler Culpepper paced the Devils, going 4-for-6 in one run while striking out 11. The second athletes. No other description could be used allowed one run in the first and the doubleheader. Jacob Johnson put the sec- round was no different, as Johnson struck out to represent the GHSA baseball playoffs so pitched shutout baseball for the rest of the ond game out of reach with a three-run home 14 in an 11-1 victory over Toombs County. far this year. In every class the top players game in the 11-1 series clincher. The long run as the Devils won 6-3. With Cowart and Johnson on the mound, have come to play in a major way. As we get ball has been a War Eagle staple all year long, Blessed Trinity has its hands full with the closer to the Final Four, here are the best per- and the playoffs have been no different. CLASS 3A … Hornets in the third-round series. formances so far in the playoffs. (Note: Andrew Barna hit one out for the only run in Cartersville’s Donavan Tate controls the Results from Tuesday night’s third-round con- the 1-0 game and Curt Parker put game two game with his speed. Never was that more evi- CLASS A … tests were not available at press time.) dent than in the second game of the second The Wesleyan Wolves moved down to away with a grand slam. Class A after winning the 2A title last year, Ronnie Freeman, the senior catcher for round against Elbert County. Tate scored the CLASS 5A … winning run in the game as he made his way and the pressure of repeating has not slowed Brookwood, has led his team all year long, them down so far. Facing a familiar opponent Zach Wheeler, the classification’s pitch- batting .395 with seven home runs and 24 around the base paths without a hit. He reached first on a walk, took second on a in 2007 2A champion Holy Innocents’ was no er of the year, has put East Paulding into the RBIs as of press time. Even though the botched pick-off play, went to third on a passed easy task, however. The first game was high- third round of the playoffs with some fantas- Broncos limped into the playoffs, Freeman’s lighted by 14 from junior Devin tic outings. He struck out 10 batters in a first- ball, and sped home on a sacrifice fly. The pro- play has sparked them to wins in the first jected No. 1 pick in this year’s MLB draft is Stanton in a 3-2 Wesleyan loss. The Wolves round game against Kell. Against Mill Creek two rounds. The catcher hit a game-tying were on the verge of being swept, trailing 5-3 last week, he one-upped himself by pitching a definitely a throwback player and his speed two-run homer against Lassiter to help alone won this one for Cartersville, 4-3. late in the second game. But J.J. Russell came no-hitter. East Paulding is virtually unstop- Brookwood a 6-4 win. through with a dramatic three-run home run pable with Wheeler on the mound. CLASS 2A … to win the game, 6-5. Brett Pugh had a double The top seed, South Forsyth, has ripped CLASS 4A … Cook is once again in the third round of and a home run in the series, which Wesleyan through the playoffs and has been led by Loganville has swept through the first the playoffs, thanks largely to some incredible took after a 10-2 win in the third and deciding some nasty pitching as well. The War Eagles’ two rounds of the playoffs, winning all four of pitching performances this postseason. In the game. The Wolves continue their run against two aces, Chris Rowley and Kevin Bibler, its games. Pitching was the key to the second- first round against Brantley County, junior Schley County in the third round. were nothing short of spectacular in a sweep round sweep of Lakeside-DeKalb, as Clay pitcher Caleb Cowart pitched a no-hitter in a Deighton can be reached at of Harrison last week. Rowley allowed only Garner and Casey Shiver held their oppo- 10-0 first-game win. In the nightcap, fellow [email protected].

Two upstart ’08 teams preparing to continue success in upcoming season core Atlanta reporter Alan Gales checked Defensively, the Patriots pitched three game. The offense beat the defense 26-8 in a offseason. While the loss of five linemen and Sin with the Sandy Creek football program, shutouts last year and held four of their 12 game that was cut short at halftime due to Lutzenkirchen hurts, Mason has been pleased and Brian Penter stopped by the Lassiter opponents to seven points or fewer. Key loss- approaching thunderstorms. Head coach Chip with the guys who have stepped up on offense spring game. Here are their reports: es from that group include two studs along Lindsey’s spread offense looked like it won’t this spring, saying, “[Spring] practice went the line in Brandon Putnam at defensive end miss a beat next year, despite losing its entire great. We have more speed at SANDY CREEK … and James Hervey at tackle. Lacy Coleman, a offensive line and star tight end Philip than we did last year, so that is going to be Sandy Creek head coach Chip Walker 6-foot-5, 220-pound lineman, will help min- Lutzenkirchen (1,004 yards, eight ). hard for teams to stop.” already knows what to expect from junior imize these losses, however, as a run stopper Returning Class 5A Offensive Player of the Year The biggest question mark for the Trojans workhorse Rajion Neal, a Rivals.com three- and pass rusher. The linebacker group will be Hutson Mason (3,705 yards, 30 TDs) looked after spring remains the offensive line, which star running back, and super speedy junior led by hard-hitting junior Michael Spaulding sharp, throwing two passes to soph- lost all five starters, including tackle Camden wide receiver Jarrett Davis. All they seemed and sophomore Avery Walls. omore receiver Charlie Hegedus. The fresh- Wentz, who is N.C. State bound. Spring ball to do last year was make big plays in big The Patriots have plenty of athletic talent faced offensive line did well in protecting their offers an opportunity for new players to step games. The biggest question surrounding the roaming around the defensive backfield. At quarterback, allowing just one sack. up and seniors Brandon Janco and Cedrick Patriots offense this spring has been who will safety, the Patriots are pretty well set. Isaiah On the defensive side of the ball, Rip Staddom have begun to emerge. replace departed quarterback Rio Johnson Johnson, a stud in his own right, has excelled Rowan had four tackles on two possessions, The best news for the Trojans is that the now that he will be suiting up at East at the position and holds offers from over six while senior defensive end Derek Demyanek defense returns six starters from a stout unit Carolina. The race for the starting quarter- Division I programs. Junior transfer Cedric had a tackle for loss. Junior John-Steven last year. The defensive line gets back senior back spot will be a heated battle between two Byrd will be a key addition to the defense and Vaughn had the lone sack of the night. end Demyanek and senior tackle David dual-threat sophomores in Ronnie Bell and will help form one of the state’s best safety In his first year as the Trojans’ head Pederson. The linebacker corps could be the Nate Weston. Walker has yet to name his tandems with Johnson. coach, Lindsey led Lassiter to a 9-3 record best in the county, led by seniors Rowan and starter, as both young guns look to make a Sandy Creek will play its annual spring and its first-ever state playoff win. His offen- Marcus Stokes. The defensive secondary strong push for the starting job. game this Friday. sive attack returns three starters, one of them returns two starters in junior The Patriots finished the 2008 year with being Mason, who will look to break the state Jordan Taylor and senior Brad Penter. an 11-1 record and a second-round playoff LASSITER … passing record, which he fell just five yards Sophomore Niles Clark was one of the play- loss at home to Rome. In that loss, Rome Coming off their best season in school his- short of last year. Mason has received com- ers to have a good spring and is expected to scored 19 points, the most Sandy Creek gave tory, the Lassiter Trojans were back under the mittable offers from Iowa and Georgia start opposite Taylor at corner. Lassiter opens up to any opponent last season. lights on Friday night in their annual spring Southern so far on a list that should grow this its 2009 schedule Aug. 15 at Sprayberry.

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North Gwinnett star offensive lineman will join teammate at Alabama hile more and more prospects are decid- view on Bamaonline.com. “Every time I go sive lineman Garrison Smith, and rounded Yankey, who, despite having received Wing to end their recruitments earlier in down I just feel welcome and I really enjoy Centennial offensive tackle David Yankey. more than 10 offers from top schools around the year, more often than not the recruiting spending time with the coaches and players.” (In case you don’t already know, you can the country, had yet to be offered by an in- headliners wait until the end of the game to By committing to ‘Bama, James became check out The Official Visit every Sunday state institution until last week. Last Thursday, show their hands. That is why it was some- the second North Gwinnett offensive lineman on 790 The Zone from 2-4 p.m.) though, the Georgia Bulldogs finally came what surprising when North Gwinnett offen- in this class to give the Tide his pledge; Anyway, all three recruits had some inter- through, extending a written offer to the 6-5, sive tackle JaWuan James decided to end the Austin Shepherd, a 6-5, 316-pound offensive esting things to say. Marcus Smith is still lean- 275-pound prospect. While Yankey expressed process just over a week ago, giving Nick guard, committed to the Saban-led program ing towards and, though he prefers to play his happiness on our show over receiving the Saban and the University of Alabama his back in March. Shepherd is a three-star quarterback at the next level and will do so if offer, he also seemed very interested in the pledge for the class of 2010. recruit according to Rivals.com, while James Gainesville, Fla., ends up being his final desti- West Coast, saying the culture out there is James, a massive 6-foot-6, 293-pound has earned four stars as well as the top rank- nation, Smith did seem at least somewhat open most like that of his native Australia. In the left tackle prospect, chose the Tide over offers ing among Georgia offensive linemen. end, Georgia will no doubt make a serious run to playing receiver or tight end if that’s what to land Yankey’s services, but keep a close eye from Auburn, Clemson, Georgia, Georgia getting on the field requires. As for Douglass’ Tech, Florida, Oklahoma, Tennessee and on Florida, South Carolina, Duke and DAWGS A CALLIN’ … Smith, who has offers from every big-time Stanford as well. South Carolina, among others. As for why the We had some great guests on our week- program you can name, he is simply happy to You can hear Janovitz on The Official Crimson Tide stood above the rest, James ly 790 The Zone all-recruiting radio show, be such a major part of the recruiting process, Visit, Atlanta’s only all-recruiting radio show, made it quite clear. The Official Visit, yet again last Sunday, calling himself “truly blessed” for having the every Sunday from 2-4 p.m. on 790 The Zone. “The environment at Alabama is just including Hardaway dual-threat quarterback opportunity to hand pick his college of choice. He can be reached at unbelievable,” said James in a recent inter- Marcus Smith, all-country Douglass defen- The real news of the week, however, sur- [email protected].

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SCM Group’s summer football camps train kids to succeed on and off the field ooking for a football summer camp for ers such as Chris Calloway, Dewey McClain, White stressed Lyour teenager or child? Do you want Keith Ponder and Erik McMillan, and high that, besides having a your high-schooler improve his skill set or school and college coaches.” McClain and good time, the number are you just trying to introduce your child Calloway are former Falcons and McMillan one issue for SCM to the sport of football? Sports is a former NFL Rookie of the Year. Group's football camp Championship Management Group's week- After being divided into groups based is the safety of the long summer day camp at Oglethorpe on experience level, campers will jump right kids. Parents must University is one local camp that is creat- into their daily activities. “We'll put them provide a list of ing a buzz in the Atlanta area. To find out through stretching and warm-ups, and after authorized people to more about what SCM Group is offering, I that we'll split up into individual groups with pick up the campers caught up with founder and CEO their coaches and concentrate on position- and show proper ID. Christopher White to discuss his youth specific drills to improve their skills,” White Police officers will be camp as well as his high school session. said. “Coaches will also talk for 15 minutes on hand at each day about being a leader on and off the Oglethorpe to partici- YOUTH CAMP … field, giving your best and sportsmanship. pate in some of the SCM Group’s youth camp will accom- After lunch we'll have a 30-minute life-skill life-skill lessons. modate campers between the ages of 7 and lesson. Every day will wrap with a Safety on the field is 13, and will take place from 8 a.m. to 4:30 guest/motivational speaker. Parents are an important issue as p.m. July 6-10. Though it is a football camp, encouraged to attend these sessions.” well. According to according to White, campers will learn White, every precau- about much more than just the fundamen- HIGH SCHOOL CAMP … tion has been taken tals of the game. The high school camp takes place June in regards to on-field “A big part of our camp is teaching life 15-19 and is for all campers age 14-18. “The activities. “In the skills and valuable lessons that kids can take high school camp will be a little more event someone gets away from football and use in their everyday involved as far as skill-specific training,” hurt, someone will lives, whether at home or in school,” said White said. “We will dedicate two days out of be there immediately NOT JUST PIGSKIN: Through his Sports Championship Management Group, White. “Football will be only a third of the the week for combine training and testing and to tend to their Christopher White (third from left, top row) provides kids of all ages the oppor- overall program at our camps. We will also provide a detailed training plan the campers injuries,” he said. tunity to develop leadership and football skills at the same time. White couldn’t have motivational speakers and surprise spe- can take with them to improve their training.” After each accomplish such a feat, however, without the help of quality coaches like those cial guests stopping by every day. We'll have For the older campers, life-skill lessons week-long session pictured above, including numerous former NFLers. Photo courtesy of Christopher White. a dedicated film and/or speaker for each age- are updated to be more age appropriate. there will be an appropriate life-skill lesson being taught.” Topics may include how to balance school award ceremony Campers of all experience levels are and work, being an athlete in college, alco- which parents are highly encouraged to have learned valuable skills and lessons for welcome to come out, as they will be evalu- hol, drugs, job interviews, and many more. attend. Campers will receive a certificate and on and off of the football field,” White said. ated on the first day and placed into skill- Preparation for college is also covered during a camp picture. Awards will be presented for Cost of the camp is $375 for both the level groups that best meet their needs. the week. “On the first day of camp there top camper and most improved camper, as youth and high school camps, and scholarships “We'll have two coaches per 10 kids, so our will be a national recruiter coming to talk to well as a best attitude award. Food and drinks are available for those who qualify. For more staff-to-camper ratio is really one of the best the campers and their parents about getting will be provided and an autograph and pic- information, visit www.scmgroup-inc.com. in the country,” White said. And the coaches? ready for the whole college scouting ture session will follow. “My goal is that each Edwards can be reached at “Many of our coaches are former NFL play- process,” White said. camper will come away with a smile and will [email protected].

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Hawks have plenty to ponder as summer begins Thrashers compete in World Ice Championships n 2009, the Hawks finally got past the first chise throws outlandish money his way. nother hockey season came to an end a the tournament, but they were also well rep- Iround of the playoffs (first time since the Flip Murray: Murray’s scoring and Afew weeks ago without Thrasher fans resented on the surprise team of the tourna- 1998-99 season), outlasting the Miami Heat energy off the bench have been monumental getting to see their team compete for an ment, Team USA. With three Thrashers on in seven games, but eventually ran into a for the Hawks this season, as the guard has NHL championship. However, for the sec- the American squad, the team moved into the dominant Cleveland squad that was happy to more than filled in for the departed Josh ond year in a row, a few Thrasher players are bronze medal game after a loss to Russia in celebrating a different type of championship the semifinal round. Zach Bogosian, Ron introduce the team to its offseason and only Childress. When Flip gets going, he is in early spring. Hainsey and Colin Stuart each played big needed four games to do so. And, now that extremely difficult to stop and was responsi- In Switzerland last weekend, Ilya roles in the Americans’ loss to the Russians we’re here, it seems like the perfect time to ble for at least a handful of Hawk victories Kovalchuk and the rest of Team Russia the round before, but none of Atlanta’s repre- consider the Hawks and their many free this season. There are other Murrays in the defeated Canada to win their second con- sentatives could find the scoreboard in the agents heading into the summer. So, without league, no doubt, but the Hawks can’t afford secutive World Ice Hockey Championship. game against the Swedes. further ado, here’s my take on what should be to let theirs walk without replacing him with Kovalchuk was held scoreless in the final The US went up 1-0 after a second-period an important offseason for the team and who something comparable. game but led the team in scoring over the goal from Jack Johnson. Sweden responded by I believe the Hawks should welcome back in Zaza Pachulia: There is no question the entire tournament. He finished the tourna- scoring two unanswered goals in the period to 2009 and beyond. center position is one of the team’s weakest ment with five goals and nine assists for a take the 2-1 lead. Joe Pavelski tied the game at Mike Bibby: No matter what the team and Z-Pac is not a starter in this league. He total of 14 points. His five goals were good 2-2 with a goal early in the third period, but it decides, this will probably be its most contro- is, however, one of the better center reserves enough to put him in a tie for fifth for most wasn’t enough as the Swedes managed two goals scored during the tournament, and more goals in the final period, giving them a 4- versial move of the offseason (unless they the NBA has to offer and the importance of his 14 points were the second most scored 2 victory and the bronze medal. decide to trade Josh Smith as I have often sug- his heart, hustle and overall toughness off the by any player. Although no Atlanta player scored in the gested they should), as Bibby has been a key bench cannot be understated. He may not Kovalchuk was also named the final game for the Americans, both Hainsey cog in Atlanta’s recent postseason success. seem like the difference now, but if the Tournament MVP for his heroic effort and Bogosian made a significant impact on The former Arizona Wildcat, however, strug- Hawks are ever to compete for NBA titles, throughout the entire tournament. Kovalchuk the US squad. Hainsey led all players in ice gles defending other guards and getting into they will need passionate role players such as was double-shifted throughout the final time in the final game against Sweden, and the lane on offense, will command money Pachulia in the fold. game by the Russian coach, as Team Russia even earned assistant captain status by the beyond what the Hawks should be willing to Solomon Jones, Othello Hunter, knew it would need its star in order to stay end of the tournament. He scored two goals spend, and is already over 31 years of age. If Thomas Gardner, Mario West: This group with Team Canada. Unlike last season, and recorded four assists over the course of I’m team management, I look to a point represents the team’s—dare I say—inconse- Kovalchuk is one of the few NHL stars with the tournament and averaged the second- guard-heavy draft in order to fill the position. quential free agents. Other than Jones, who Team Russia because of the extended run in most amount of minutes played per game on the postseason by the Washington Capitals, the team. Hainsey’s six points ranked him Marvin Williams: The Hawks will have averaged just three points per game in ‘09, the NHL home of Kovalchuk’s Russian fifth overall on the US team and third among the option of matching any offer out there for none of these guys scored more than a point a teammates Alex Semin and Alex Ovechkin. American defensemen. In his limited time, William, the only restricted free agent in the contest for the Hawks this year. On the brighter With the win, Kovalchuk defeated Bogosian finished with just one for the group. Whether or not they decide to do that side of things, West showed in the playoffs that Thrasher teammate Colby Armstrong, who team, but also finished with a plus-2 rating will almost certainly depend on what other he can provide valuable defensive play while recorded three assists for Canada throughout for the tournament, making him one of only teams are willing to give the fourth-year for- Hunter has impressed some with his strong the tournament. five defensemen to finish with a rating ward. To me, the Hawks have two options: 1) work ethic and ability to improve. greater than plus-1. re-sign Williams and trade Smith, or, 2) Keep Janovitz can be reached at RED, WHITE AND BLUELAND … Boral can be reached at Smith and let Williams walk if another fran- [email protected]. The Thrashers not only had the MVP of [email protected]

First minicamp held; former Force WR signed lthough the season is still several months Bergeron was one of the Force’s more prolif- Aaway, things are back in full swing in ic wideouts during his time with the team, Flowery Branch as the Falcons came together totaling 328 receptions for 4,335 yards and for their first official practice of the offseason 96 touchdowns. Bergeron was also with the on May 9 at the first of several minicamps. Falcons in the preseason of 2006, but was While many veterans, including defen- released during the final phase of cuts. He sive end John Abraham, were held out of spent time on the practice training camp for precautionary measures, squad later in the season. the coaching staff got a chance to evaluate Linebacker Rashad Bobino also caught the young players and also got an early look the coaching staff’s eyes after joining at the position battles that will take place Bergeron and others at mini camp as a tryout beginning this July in training camp. player. The team decided to sign the undraft- “They’ve earned the right to be here ed rookie from Texas. Bobino was an all-Big and be a professional football player, now 12 selection three times as a Longhorn and they need to earn the right to be on a 53-man notched 235 tackles in his career. roster,” Smith said when asked about his The Falcons also released three players, team’s intensity. parting ways with linebacker Derek First-round pick Peria Jerry had the Nicholson, cornerback Ronnie Prude and coaches on the edge of their seats for all the safety Marcus Paschal. wrong reasons when he went down after knocking knees with an offensive lineman, IN THE COMMUNITY … forcing him to leave practice. But Jerry On May 11, wide receiver Brian walked off the practice field under his own Finneran joined his wife Erin to host the inau- power with what was later called a mild gural Breast Friends Celebrity Golf right knee sprain. Tournament. The event took place at the The Falcons will come back together to Hamilton Mill Golf Club in Dacula with the begin Organized Team Activities (OTA’s) on proceeds going to Breast Friends, a non-prof- May 20-June 18. it organization that provides breast cancer patients with an extensive support network. TRANSACTIONS APLENTY … Jerious Norwood, Todd McClure, The minicamp resulted in several moves Michael Koenen and assistant coach Terry for the Falcons, with a couple of new faces Robiskie all showed their support for veter- earning themselves the chance to fight their ans of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars, accom- way to a roster spot this preseason. panying wounded veterans on fishing trips at Troy Bergeron, formerly a wideout for Lake Lanier on May 19. the , was signed by the team Bagriansky can be reached at after being a tryout player in camp. [email protected].

WWW.SCOREATL.COM MAY 20-26, 2009 SCORE ATLANTA I 15

Baseball hoping to recover from recent skid hanks to losing 11 of its last 13 confer- sion is definitely a downer for Bulldog fans Tence games, the Georgia Bulldog base- who were looking forward to seeing ball team is the sixth seed in the SEC improved play from the defensive end posi- Tournament, which starts Wednesday in tion. Houston was the healthiest and most Hoover, Ala. The Bulldogs, who held the dominant end during spring practice, but now conference’s best record less than a month will miss the season opener at Oklahoma ago, will play third-seeded Ole Miss at 2:30 State and the home opener against South p.m. EST. Despite his team’s fall to the sixth Carolina, putting even more pressure on the spot, Georgia head coach David Perno does Bulldogs’ defense. Figgins’ loss makes an not put much stock in the tournament seed- already thin spot on the roster even thinner. ing because of the competiveness of the This means freshmen Arthur Lynch and teams that qualified for the field. “All eight Orson Charles may get even more playing teams can beat you on any given day,” Perno time than what was already expected. Georgia said. “It doesn’t matter where you play them, also revealed that wide receiver Tony so [the seeding] is not that important.” Wilson’s career at Georgia is over. Wilson More importantly, the Bulldogs (35-20, was trying to return from an ankle injury that 15-15) are looking to end their late-season cost him all of last season and is expected to struggles and gain some momentum going be medically disqualified from competing. into the NCAA Tournament. Second-seeded Florida and seventh-seeded Alabama are the AROUND CAMPUS … other two teams on Georgia’s side of the dou- The softball team advanced to the ble elimination bracket, as the Bulldogs hope NCAA Super Regionals, where it will face to recapture the magic that had them ranked Ohio State in a best-of-three series that starts No. 1 in various polls for parts of this year on Thursday. The Bulldogs, who have a and had them in Omaha last year, one game record of 42-10 and are seeded sixth nation- away from winning the College World ally, won all three of their games in the Series. “The main goal, especially after last Chapel Hill Regional, beating host North year, is to go back to Omaha and give our- Carolina twice. … The men’s track and field selves a chance to win the whole thing,” said team finished fifth at the SEC first baseman Rich Poythress. “Nothing is Championships in Gainesville, Fla., last hurt as far as that goal.” weekend. Chris Hill won the javelin. … The women’s tennis team played Duke in the SUSPENDED OPTIMISM … NCAA Final Four on Monday in College The recent suspensions of defensive end Station, Tex. Results were not available at Justin Houston and tight end Bruce Figgins press time. The fourth-seeded men’s tennis for violating team rules have put a slight team (25-4) lost to 12th-seeded Texas 4-2 last damper on the start of Georgia’s 2009 foot- Sunday in the NCAA Tournament quarterfi- ball season. Houston is suspended for the nals, also at College Station. first two games of the season and Figgins is Butler can be reached at suspended the first six. The Houston suspen- [email protected].

Golf, softball cruising through NCAAs eorgia Tech’s golf and softball teams State followed by a 4-1 defeat of Mississippi Gmade smooth progress through the early in the round of 32. With a spot in the quarter- stages of their respective NCAA finals at stake, however, eighth-ranked Tournaments over the weekend. Golf California blanked the No. 9 Yellow Jackets advanced to the NCAA Championship while 5-0. … Men’s basketball head coach Paul softball hosted—and dominated—the Atlanta Hewitt says highly touted recruit Derrick Regional to move on to Super Regionals. Favors will attend summer school and work The Yellow Jackets shot a 7-over 295 at on his game at Georgia Tech this summer, the NCAA Central Golf Regional in Bowling rather than try out for the United States team Green, Ky. A tie for third place was easily that is traveling to the World University good enough to qualify for the final stage of Games in Serbia. In other hoops news, Moe the golf championships, held May 26-30 in Miller underwent a successful second surgery Toledo, Oh. Individually, Cameron Tringale on his broken nose last Tuesday. A previous fired a Sunday 71 to finish in a three-way tie surgery during the season failed to heal the for third with a total of 214 (2-under). injury Miller sustained on Dec. 14. As the No. 7 overall seed in the NCAA Tournament, softball hosted its own Atlanta ACC TOURNAMENT BEGINS … Regional, which also included Iowa, Auburn The baseball team wrapped up its regular and Boston University. Tech never faced season last weekend by losing two of three to Iowa, the second-seeded team in the pod, the host Duke Blue Devils. In their last home- which fell out of contention with two quick stand, however, the Jackets took the series 2- loses to Auburn and BU. The Jackets opened 1 over ACC regular-season champion Florida with a 5-1 win over BU on Friday and State. Georgia Tech (34-15-1, 17-10-1 ACC) reached the regional final with a 4-1 dis- now heads into the conference tournament as patching of Auburn on Saturday. Needing just the No. 4 seed. Tech will begin its postseason one win on Sunday against consolation win- campaign on Wednesday against fifth-seeded ner BU, which needed two straight victories Miami in Durham, N.C. The Jackets are in a in order to spring the upset, the Jackets made round-robin group of four that also includes quick work of the Terriers. A 7-2 triumph in Florida State and No. 8 seed Boston College. Game 1 put Georgia Tech in a Super Regional … The track and field teams recorded 11 against the University of Washington, to be regional qualifying performances at the played this week in Atlanta starting Thursday. Georgia Tech Invitational last Saturday. Sophomore Joanna Wright set a school TENNIS OUT IN SWEET 16 … record in the pole vault and senior Jerome The women’s tennis team was knocked Miller tied his school record in the high jump. out of the NCAA Tournament last Friday, but The Yellow Jackets will now prepare for the not before it reached its fifth consecutive East Regional Championships, which begin Sweet 16. Georgia Tech, which won the 2007 at the end of the month. National Championship, began another Dimon can be reached at NCAA run with a 4-0 victory over Jackson [email protected].

WWW.SCOREATL.COM 16 I SCORE ATLANTA Get In The Game!

Braves find success on divisional road trip Baseball season ends with second-place finish he Braves returned home following a 6-2 up a grand slam in the ninth, accounting for he KSU baseball team ended the season Another solid effort by Jenkins, who pitched Troad trip against several divisional rivals. four of the six runs the D-Backs scored in the Twith a series win at North Florida on eight innings and struck out 10, was erased After taking care of the Marlins, the Braves frame to put the game out of reach. Rain can- May 14-15. The Owls took second place in in the loss. Finally in game three, the Owls ventured into Philadelphia and walked out celled Sunday’s finale, pushing ace Derek the Atlantic Sun regular-season standings prevailed with a 6-5 win. The season is now with a series victory. Then it was on to Citi Lowe’s start to Monday against Colorado. with a conference record of 20-9. The Black over for KSU, which, in its fourth year of Field to face the Mets. After taking game one Lowe was seeking his sixth victory of the sea- and Gold had an overall record of 30-22. Division 1 competition, is ineligible for post- with a win over Johan Santana, game two son, which would put him halfway to 12, a During the series with UNF, Kyle season tournaments. was seemingly in the bag until the mark he has reached in seven straight years. Heckathorn struck out 15 batters in setting a allowed two runs in the eighth and one in the KSU Division 1 record. The junior from OTHER SPRING SPORTS … ninth to force extra innings. Three straight PROBLEM SOLVED … Ringgold pitched nine innings and gave up The men’s track team finished second in walks following a single gave the Mets a In other Braves news, it appears that the four earned runs. However, the game went to the A-Sun with a solid performance at the walk-off walk for the game-winning run. Jeff special glasses Brian McCann now dons extra innings and the Owls won the game in conference championships on May 15-16 at Bennett picked up the loss, but his time in while playing has certainly straightened out the 11th when KSU loaded the bases and UNF. Aymerick Kolokilagi finished first in New York would improve. In the finale, Mike his approach at the plate. McCann has hit scored a run on a fielder’s choice by Josh the shot put just ahead of teammate Casey Gonzalez was able to atone for the previous close to .400 since returning from the dis- Whitaker. The following day, KSU hurler Strickland, who won the javelin throw and the night’s blown save by striking out Carlos abled list for blurred vision and he noted that Chad Jenkins pitched a in discus. The 4x100 and 4x400 relay teams Beltran and Gary Sheffield with the tying he will wear the glasses while batting run on third. Bennett picked up the victory in earning his eighth consecutive A-Sun win came in first in their events as well. Sprinter through the end of the season. McCann does this season. The junior from Canton gave up James Verdi finished first in the 400-meter the rubber game. not wear the glasses while catching. Once home, the Braves welcomed in the just two earned runs in the 8-3 win. dash and second in the 200-meter dash. Also, Arizona Diamondbacks. The hometown team G-BRAVE CALLED UP … During the previous weekend, KSU Gianna Catalano won the 800-meter run. … once again had a 3-2 lead entering the ninth The Braves rotation will be getting a bit played a vital series against A-Sun leader The women’s track team also finished second with Gonzalez coming on to pitch, but he younger next week as GM Frank Wren made Florida Gulf Coast (38-18, 23-7). in the conference meet. Jessica Irizarry won blew another save, allowing a lead-off home the decision to recall Kris Medlin from Unfortunately, the Owls would lose two tight the hammer throw and the javelin. Jill Arthur run to Stephen Drew, brother of former Brave Gwinnett as Jo-Jo Reyes was sent to the games to start the series before winning the came in second in the long jump and triple J.D. Drew. In the bottom half of the ninth bullpen following two bad starts. Medlin was final game 6-5. In Game One, KSU rallied to jump, and sophomore MacKenzie Howe won ,however, the Braves loaded the bases with leading the International League in ERA and tie the game in the bottom of the ninth when both the 5,000-meter run and the 10,000- one out and Yunel Escobar lifted a sac fly had a 5-0 record, including 21 straight score- Jayce Whitmer hit an infield popup that was meter run. Rounding out the first-place fin- deep enough to center to allow Jordan less innings. The 23-year old is expected to dropped by an FGSU player, allowing Tyler ishes for KSU was Chiquita Hawthorne in the Schafer to scamper home with the winning pitch Thursday against Colorado. Medlin was Stubblefield to score from first. The relief discus throw. Both track teams’ seasons are run. In game two of the series, Atlanta was called up instead of phenom Tommy Hanson, pitching of both squads prevailed until the now over, but a select few of the athletes will never competitive. Arizona scored early who leads the IL in strikeouts but has a losing 15th, when the visiting Eagles exploded for compete in the USATF Outdoor against Braves starter Kenshin Kawakami record due to a lack of run support. eight runs and a 15-7 win. Game two was Championships on June 25 in Eugene, Ore. and often against the bullpen; Jeff Bennett Proctor can be reached at more of the same as FGSU scored six runs in Black can be reached at and Buddy Carlyle in particular. Carlyle gave [email protected] the final two innings to erase a 7-5 Owl lead. [email protected].

John, Lorentzen and Mant earn CAA honors; baseball sets school wins record reshman golfer Allen John was recently head coach Cathy Mant was honored as the Wilmington, N.C. The Panthers, the No. 2 qualify while Kinchen earned a spot in the Fnamed the Colonial Athletic Association CAA Coach of the Year for the second straight seed, will open against Northeastern on 800-meter event. Rookie of the Year. John put together an season. Lorentzen joined the Panthers in Wednesday afternoon at 3:30 p.m. (listen Georgia State volleyball has signed impressive run during his first collegiate January and proceeded to record top-25 fin- live on WRAS-FM 88.5). In the other first- Vanessa Nagy of Prescott, Ariz., and Mirjam season at Georgia State, placing higher than ishes in all five events. Most recently, she fin- round matchups, top seed George Mason Pfyl of Schindellegi, Schwyz, Switzerland to any CAA golfer in both scoring average ished as the low Panther at the NCAA Central faces Delaware while No. 3 UNC National Letters of Intent. The duo mark the (72.38) and national ranking (90th). John Regional, earning a share of 20th place at Wilmington plays Old Dominion. After fourth and fifth signings of the spring and finished as a medalist at the 2009 CAA Georgia State’s final event of the year. Mant sweeping Alabama State to close out the reg- both will be eligible to play for the team in Championship by posting 70-65-76-211 (5- received her third CAA Coach of the Year ular season, the Panthers ended up winning a the fall. “We addressed a lot of needs for our under), leading the Panthers to a tie for first honor in four years. This marks her fifth school record 35 games (35-20). Said head team this offseason and I think these two in the team competition. During his rookie career conference coach of the year award, coach Greg Frady, “It has been said many signings will go a long way to helping us campaign, John posted first-, third-, fourth- including two in the Atlantic Sun Conference. times how well this senior class did during improve this fall,” commented head coach and seventh-place finishes. He shot a Mant and Lorentzen’s recognition comes on their time here and I am extremely proud of Mike Webster. … Follow the Panthers online career-low 65 twice, at the CAA the heels of the Panthers’ second CAA the job they have done.” at www.georgiastatesports.com. For basket- Championship and Jerry Pate National Championship in four years, and the fifth ball and football season ticket information Intercollegiate, as well as rounds of 66 and NCAA Regional berth in seven years. AROUND CAMPUS … call 1-866-GA-STATE. 67. He was the lone freshman to receive All- Following their successful runs at the Dave Cohen is in his 26th season as the CAA First Team honors. CONFERENCE TOURNEY TIME … Georgia Tech Invitational last weekend, both “Voice of Georgia State Basketball and Meanwhile, women’s golf freshman Georgia State baseball has earned one Kendra Davis and Tamika Kinchen have Baseball” on WRAS-FM (88.5) and works on Charlotte Lorentzen was named the Colonial of six spots in the CAA baseball tournament. qualified for the NCAA Regionals. Davis the football radio crew at Furman University Athletic Association Rookie of the Year, and It’s being held May 20-23 at Brooks Field in ran an 11.63 in the 100-meter prelims to in Greenville, S.C.

WWW.SCOREATL.COM MAY 20-26, 2009 SCORE ATLANTA I 17

Dream enter preseason training camp to prepare for June 6 opener at Philips

he Atlanta Dream broke camp on May all of last year with a torn ACL. Marynell Meadors signed eight-year veteran all-SEC in each of her four seasons on the T17, thus embarking on their second sea- Returning for the Dream are guards guard Coco Miller. team, logging 16.4 points, 3.9 rebounds and son as a franchise and hoping to improve on Ivory Latta, Izzy Castro Marques, and Miller had spent her entire WNBA three assists per game. last season’s 4-30 campaign. Tamera Young, as well as forwards Erika career with the Washington Mystics, who “I’m glad we finally have a UGA player, There will be plenty of competition for DeSouza and Jennifer Lacy. drafted her ninth in the 2001. She sported and what a great one we got,” said Meadors. playing time, including starting spots, during “I’ve talked to all my teammates and averages of 6.3 points, 2.4 boards and 1.6 “She still has a lot of friends in Athens so she the camp, as a myriad of new faces will take we’re excited to get back on the court,” said assists per game over her career as a Mystic. is really looking forward to getting back to part. Only five players out of the 14 that were Lacy, “and definitely not lose 30 games She appeared in all of Washington’s games Georgia and into an Atlanta Dream uniform.” invited to camp are returnees from last sea- again. Everyone’s coming in and striving to last season, starting six of them. son’s team. Keep an eye on the newcomers, get better, we really believe in the team “Coco is the type of player who helps ALMOST GAMETIME … many of whom will battle for starting spots we’ve brought in.” you win games,” said Meadors “She’s an With the preseason underway, the countdown to Dream basketball has official- Head coach Marynell Meadors extremely hard worker and is very profes- immediately. Six-time WNBA all star ly begun. Atlanta will play one preseason Chamique Holdsclaw makes her return to the agreed. “I think we’ll be totally improved,” sional in her approach to the game. Her ver- game, a 7 p.m. matchup with the league and will be one of those players. She she said recently. satility—being able to play and defend mul- Connecticut Sun on May 27 at Philips Arena. will be joined by No. 1 overall pick Angel tiple positions—is really going to help us.” The season and home opener take place on McCoughtry, free agent signing Michelle FORMER UGA STAR ARRIVES … Miller first made a name for herself June 6 against the Indiana Fever. Snow, dispersal draft selection Sancho Lyttle, With the goal of getting deeper in the locally while playing in Athens for Andy Bagriansky can be reached at and center Chantelle Anderson, who missed backcourt, head coach/general manager Landers and the Georgia Bulldogs. She was [email protected].

WWW.SCOREATL.COM 18 I SCORE ATLANTA Get In The Game!

groups. For information call Duane Davis at 3-12.VolleySkills, VolleyStars, VolleyTraining, and Cheerleading classes for ages 5 and older. For BASKETBALL 678-300-0282 or visit www.gaasports.org. OnCourt Player Development, a year-round information call 770-277-9434. Marist War Eagle Boys Basketball Camp. Ages 7-15 Flag Football. GSL -- Georgia Sports Leagues. comprehensive player development program. For The Little Gym of Snellville. Ongoing. Noncompetitive day sessions, July 6-10 and July 13-17. Evening Georgia’s Largest Flag League. Registration ongo- more information, contact Mary Carnell at 770- gymnastics and motor-skills development classes sessions ages 12-17, July 6-9 and July 13-16. ing. We offer 7-Man, 8-man, Youth and Co-Ed 614-6686 x108 or visit www.ssasports.com. and camps. For ages 10 months-12 years. For Contact Marist head coach Greg McClaire at 770- styles of play around Atlanta. We play ALL year High School Volleyball League. Beginning February 7 information call 770-982-0901 or visit 936-6412 for more information. round. For information please contact @ Suwanee Sports Academy for girls grades 9-12. www.tlgsnellvillega.com. Collegiate Prep Basketball Academy_Boys/Girls (678)799-0159 or email mark@georgiasport This league is designed for athletes who want to get in Camp. June 15-19, 2009 (grades 1-6), 8:00am- sleagues.org.Visit www.georgiasportsleagues.org. the gym but don’t want to commit to club volleyball. RACING 3:00pm; Crabapple First Baptist Church_Premier Georgia Force Home School High School Football For more information, contact Christy Howard at 770- Friday Night Drags and Show-N-Shine. May 22 at Boys Camp July 20-24, 2009 (ages 9-16), Program. If you are a home school student or a 614-6686 x106 or visit www.ssasports.com. Atlanta Motor Speedway. 8:00am-3:00pm; St. Francis Middle School - student that attends a Christian school in the Volleyball Clinic. Ages: 5th-8th Grade Dale Jarrett Racing School. May 23-24 at Atlanta Roswell_Premier Girls Camp July 13-17, 2009 Gwinnett or Hall county region and would like to Date: Sunday May 3rd, 10th, 17th and 31st Motor Speedway. (ages 9-16), 8:00am-3:00pm; Mount Pisgah participate in high school football, please contact http://www.alltournamentplayerspark.com/ Jeff Gordon Racing School. May 29-30 at Atlanta Christian School-Johns Creek_Contact Scott Willis at 770-531-1499 ext 401 or email at Motor Speedway. 678.778.9027 email: [email protected], [email protected] The Georgia Force High School SWIMMING & DIVING SCCA National. May 30-31 at Road Atlanta. website: collegiateprep.com. football program participates in the GFL (Georgia Swimming lessons. Ongoing - Alpharetta City Pool - Top of the Key. Ongoing. Personal basketball lessons Football League) and is accepting players from the Alpharetta, Ga. - 1825 Old Milton Parkway. For OFFICIATING with Olympian Debbie Miller-Palmore, boys and ages of 13-18 years old. We currently offer a JV information call 678-297-6107. Basketball - Duluth basketball association. girls ages 8-18. For information call 770-465- 1502. and Varsity program. For more information, please Gwinnett Aquatics. Ongoing - 2800 Quinberry Drive Ongoing. Looking for youth officials with training Southern Xposure. Ongoing. Cobb County Christian go to our web site at www.forcehighschoolfooball.com. and Bethany Church Road. For ages 5-18. Swim provided. For information call Barry Sullivan at School - Marietta. AAU and YBOA tryouts for 9- Arena Indoor Football. Ongoing. Youth and Adult team and lessons available. For information call 770-623-1750. and-under and 8-and-under teams. For information Leagues. Youth 7 vs. 7; Adult 6 vs. 6. For 770-972-4055. Football - Lanier Football Officials Association. call 404-447-3992 or email [email protected]. information, call 678-714-7454 or e-mail Senior Water-Exercise class. Ongoing - Mountain Park Ongoing. GHSA member accepting applications Peach State Basketball. Ongoing. Basketball skill [email protected]. pool - Lilburn, Ga. Fees: $1 per class. For informa with weekly training meetings. For information call development training for college caliber high school www.atlantasilverbacks.com/indoor. tion call 770-546-4650. 10-10:50 AM. Tom Tipton at 770-967-3197, ext. 239 or visit players throughout the off-season. Players can use Capitol City Officials Association. CCOA is accepting SwimAtlanta Sugarloaf at Kid’s Village. Ongoing. www.lanierofficials.org. these sessions to continue improving all year long. ongoing registration for the upcoming GHSA High Swim team, lessons, lap swimming, master’s pro Metro Atlanta Wrestling Officials Association. Contact Brandon Clay at 404-422-3946 or visit School season in football. We hold weekly training gram, water aerobics and scuba available. For Ongoing. Needs officials. For information call Bud www.peachstatehoops.com for more information. meetings. For more information, contact Irvin information call 678-442-7946. Hennebaul at 770-338-0705 or email Suwanee Sports Academy. Ongoing. Basketball train Seabrook at 404-957-3331 or e-mail [email protected]. ing and development for boy and girls grades K-12. [email protected]. YOUTH REGISTRATION 9RCorp Sports Officials. Ongoing. Provider of sports Rising Stars, Future Stars, Suwanee Basketball SCM Group Camp. High school and youth camp at officials for multiple sports including basketball, League, On Court Player Development, nationally- HOCKEY Oglethorpe University. June 15-19 for high school flag football, & softball. Looking for additional recognized year-round comprehensive player devel Peachtree Booster Club. Ongoing - Pickneyville Roller and July 6-10 for youth ages 7-13 weeklong day officials.For information call Dennis Reagan at 404- opment program. For more information contact Hockey Rink. Fees: $95 for 12-game season, $30 camp. Website is www.scmgroup-inc.com. 213-0588 or email [email protected]. Mike Brown at 678-541-0176 or visit www.ssasports.com. out-of-county fee. For information visit Endorsed by current and former NFL players from Georgia Lacrosse Officials Association. Needs youth Mark Price Shooting Lab. Ongoing: Personalized pro www.pbsports.org. the Atlanta chapter of NFLPA. and High School officials for 2008-2009 season. fessional shooting instruction through one-on-one Soccer-Soccer Alley. Ongoing - 3265 Roswell Road- Training and mentoring provided for free. Great coaching and state-of-the-art technology at SOCCER Atlanta. For information call 404-266-0762 or visit way to earn some extra money and get some fun Suwanee Sports Academy. For more information, Tavani Soccer Day Camps. Boys and girls, Ages 7-15 www.starsoccerclub.com. aerobic exercise. For more information, visit contact Mike Brown at 678-541-0176 or visit one-week sessions, June 22-26, July 7-11, July Tucker Youth Soccer. Ongoing - 2803 Henderson Road www.GALAXREF.com or call Jim Westbrook at www.ssasports.com. 13-17, 9:00am-12:00pm, Duluth (Bunten Road Tucker, Ga. For information call 770-414-0538 or 770-753-9059. SSA’s On Court. Check out Suwanee Sports Park) Fee: $145/week. Elite Camp, boys and girls, visit www.tysa.com. Academy’s On Court, the nation’s premier off-sea ages 10-15, 12:00pm-1:30pm, Fee: additional Track and Field - Peachtree City Flash Youth Track ATLANTA SPORTS COUNCIL son development program at the nation’s premier $65/week. Forsyth(Sharon Springs Park), ages 7- Team registration. Ongoing - Riley Field -Peachtree Chick-Fil-A Bowl. Dec. 31, 2009. Georgia Dome. For basketball training facility right here in Gwinnett 15, June 15-19 or June 22-26, 9:00am-12:00pm. City, Ga. For ages 6-14. For information call tickets, call 404-444-4444. County! For more information, contact Michael All campers receive t-shirt, hand-stitched ball, and 770-631-3552 or email [email protected]. To reach the Atlanta Sports Council call 404-586- Brown at 678-541-0176 or visit www.ssasports.com. personal evaluation. “A” coaching license, GA Gymnastics - Georgia Gymnastics Academy. Ongoing. 8510 or visit www.atlantasportscouncil.com. Open Recreational Basketball. GSL -- Georgia Sports Coach of the Year, Goalie coach available, teams For registration in Lawrenceville call 770-962- Leagues. Georgia’s Best Sports Leagues. welcome. For more information visit 5867; in Suwanee call 770-945-3424. MISC Registration ongoing. We offer “Top Gun,” “B,” www.tavanisoccer.com, e-mail camp@tavanisoc Gym Elite. Ongoing. Registration for ages 2 and older. Senior Horseshoe Pitching League. Ongoing - “C”and Co-Ed styles of play around Atlanta. We cer.com, or call 770-396-8258 Cheerleading for ages 6 and older. For information Gwinnett Senior Center - Bethesda Park. Includes play ALL year round. For more information please Challenged Soccer. Ongoing. For mentally and physi call 770-242-0678. instructional coaching. Games will be played under contact (678)799-0159 or email mark@georgi sports cally disabled youngsters. For information call Ken Youth Soccer Training. Ongoing. Start age 3 and up. NHPA rules. For men and women seniors. Meets leagues.org.Visitwww.georgiasportsleagues.org. Higgins at 770-985-0434. For information, call 678-714-7454 or e-mail Tuesdays. For information call 770-972-2434. 10 AM. Just Skills Of Atlanta. 8-week basketball fundamentals Fair Play Sports Center. Ongoing on Saturdays. Indoor [email protected]. Pool Tournament. Every Monday - Ongoing - program for boys and girls ages 5 to 17 at Bogan soccer for ages 4-7. 30- to 60-minute classes. For www.atlantasilverbacks.com/indoor. Motorheads Bar ‘n’ Grill - Henry County. Cost: No Park in Buford and Lenora Park in Snellville. Spring information call 770-831-3210. Flag Footall. GSL -- Georgia Sports Leagues. cover. For information call 770-898-0008 or visit programs start the week of March 24th, Summer pro Hall of Fame soccer clinics. Ongoing on Fridays - Georgia's Best Sports Leagues. Registration www.motorheadsbarandgrill.com. 7 p.m. grams start the week of June 3rd, Fall programs start Clarkston Community Center. For under-6 through ongoing. We offer Youth Flag Football for ages Pool Tournament. Nightly - Ongoing - Sean Patrick’s the week of August 11th. Please visit www.justskillso under-12 players. Fees: Free. For information call (6-8) and (9-12) year olds for both Boys & Girls. Bar & Grill - Buckhead. Fees: No cover. For infor- fatlanta.com for more information or call 770-296- 404-508-1050 or visit Games are played in the Chamblee, Doraville, mation call 770-650-5723. 8 PM. 2580. Sessions are filling up now for spring, summer www.clarkstoncommunitycenter.org. 5:30-7 PM. Dunwoody area. Next season starts in February. East Cobb Bass Club. Ongoing - Ryan's Family and fall. Ask about our free introduction day to see Competitive Amateur Soccer in Atlanta For more For more information please contact (678)799- Steakhouse - Canton Road - Marietta, Ga. Boaters what Just Skills Of Atlanta is all about. information, visit www.majesticsoccer.com. 0159 or email [email protected]. and nonboaters welcome. Meets the first Visit www.georgiasportsleagues.org Tuesdayof each month. For information call BASEBALL TENNIS Atlanta Junior Golf. Boys and girls, ages 7-18, can 770-364-3036 or email [email protected]. 7 PM. Braves. May 20 vs. Colorado 7 PM. May 21 vs. Technique Clinics. Ongoing - Bitsy Grant Tennis Center. enjoy summer and fall tournaments throughout Cohutta chapter of Trout Unlimited. Ongoing - Colorado 7 PM. May 22 vs. Toronto 7:30 PM. May Tuesdays (serve/volley) and Saturdays Metro Atlanta and Middle and North Georgia (from Delkwood Bar and Grill. Meets the fourth Thursday 23 vs. Toronto 7:30 PM. May 24 vs. Toronto 1:30 (forehand/backhand). Fees: $18. For information Dalton to Macon and from Carrollton to Athens) in of each month. For information call 770-425-5364 PM. May 25 at San Francisco 4:05 PM. May 26 at call 404-790-4772 or email one the nation’s premier junior golf associations. or email [email protected]. 6:30 PM. San Francisco 10:15 PM. May 27 at San Francisco [email protected]. 2 PM on Saturdays, All skill levels are welcome, from beginner to expe GEORGIA BIKES! Membership. Ongoing. The effec- 10:15 PM. May 28 at Arizona 9:40 PM. May 29 at 6:30PM on Tuesdays. rienced players, with more than 8,000 rounds of tiveness of GEORGIA BIKES! is dependent on vol- Arizona 9:40 PM. May 30 at Arizona 4:10 PM. May Tennis camps for kids. Ongoing weekly. Lost Mountain golf available during the summer program alone. unteers, supporters, and members, like you, who 31 at Arizona 4:10 PM. June 2 vs. 7 PM. Tennis Center. For information call 770-528-8525. For more information, log on 770.850.9040. are willing to make a and Club/Small Business: $100. Gwinnett Braves. May 21 vs. Toledo 7 PM. May 22 vs. Corpus Christi Youth Basketball League. Registration Condor Handball Organization. The Condors feature Toledo 7 PM. May 23 vs. Toledo 7 PM. May 24 vs. LACROSSE is now underway for our 29th season! Boys and girls current Men’s National Team members and past Toledo 2 PM. May 25 vs. Indianapolis 6 PM. Mat 26 vs. Lacrosse. Ongoing. Registration for 1st-8th grades. For ages 5 through 14, any skill level, are welcome. Cost: National Team members and Olympians as well as the Indianapolis 7 PM. May 27 vs. Indianapolis 7 PM. May information call 404-216-5870, email $90 per child/$85 for siblings. Fee includes uniforms, greatest American to ever play the sport, Darrick Heath. 28 vs. Indianapolis 2 PM. May 29 at Syracuse 7 PM. [email protected] or visit field trips, skills clinics, 9 games and more! Register We have weekly leagues and training opportunities for May 30 at Syracuse 7 PM. May 31 at Syracuse 5 PM. www.bagatawaylacrosse.com. while space is still available Saturdays October 11 & men, women, and youth. For more information, contact June 1 at Syracuse 7 PM. June 2 at Rochester 7:05 PM. PlayLaxGwinnett. Ongoing. Players, coaches, referees 18, 2008, 10 AM to 12 PM. Location: Corpus Christi Jeb Bell at [email protected]. Prospect Watch. Ongoing - Buckhead. Baseball pitch- needed for play at Gwinnett Sports Center. For Church Sports Arena, 600 Mountain View Drive, Performance Training Inc. at Suwanee Sport ing and hitting lessons by a former college and information call Chris Chico at or 678-429-0094 or Stone Mountain, GA 30083. For info, call 770-469- Academy. Ongoing. Offers speed, agility, and quick mino league coach. For information call 404-869- email [email protected]. 0395, email [email protected], or visit the league’s ness training for athletes across multiple sports. 7966 or visit www.eteamz.com/tryouts. Double Stixx Lacrosse. Ongoing - Leagues, Travel website (www.ccybl.net). For moreinformation, contact Dustin Wolf at 770- Adult Baseball League Metro Atlanta. Ongoing. MSBL Teams and Tournaments for youth, high school and 614-6686 x121 or visit www.ssasports.com. 18+, 28+, 38+, and 48+. Sunday League con adult’s boys and girls. More information about the SOFTBALL Suwanee Sports Academy. Pre-K Athletics for 2, 3 tact info is 770.785.2588, e-mail best lacrosse programs in Georgia can AYSA Spring Season. Ongoing - North Park - Cogburn and and 4 year-olds introduces the basic skills needed [email protected]. MSBL 18+ Saturday be found at www.doublestixxlacrosse.com or by Bethany - Alpharetta. Fees: If Alpharetta Residential to play basketball, soccer, and t-ball. Also, there is League contact info is 770-436-8114, e-mail contacting Chris Smith at chris@dou Property Tax IS NOT PAID at the primary residence of a unique after school program that provides [email protected]. MSBL 18+ blestixxlacrosse.com or 404-550-5322. the player, then the Non-City Resident Fee must be students with a weekly sports curriculum along Midweek Wood bat league contact info is 770-436- paid. After Jan. 13, $10 late fee is charged. with the after school classroom setting. For more 8114, e-mail [email protected]. MSBL 18+ RUNNING Senior Softball League. Ongoing - Best Friend Park, information, call 770-614-6686 or visit Fall League contact info is 770-436-8114, e-mail Celebrate America 5K/10K. May 25. Alpharetta, Jimmy Carter Blvd., Norcross, GA. All Skill levels www.ssaports.com. [email protected]. For more information 7:30 AM. 678-795-0115 welcomed. Men age 45+ and women age 40+. Club Sport. Club Sport opens registration for summer about our Atlanta Adult Baseball League, please Memorial Day 5K Night Race. May 25 Bainbridge, Open practice on Saturdays and games on leagues on May 1st with league play beginning in visit our website at www.AtlantaMSBL.com. 7:00 PM. 229-248-2230. Tuesdays, Wednesdays, or Thursdays. For infor June. Club Sport is Atlanta's recreational sports TNT Sports. Ongoing. Baseball pitching and hitting les Dacula Memorial Day 5K/Mile. May 25 Dacula, mation call Gary Mastrodonato at 770-266-7042 and social group with over 10,000 participants sons by Rob Blair, former college coach, Snellville. 8:00 AM. 770-513-1725 each year on 1200 teams in 120 leagues. Each To set up a free pitching or hitting analysis call or visit www.atlantaseniorsoftball.com. season Club Sport offers leagues in flag football, 678-344-5876. CAMPS Open Recreational Softball. GSL -- Georgia Sports softball, soccer, sand and indoor volleyball, basket Jack City Baseball. Ongoing. Baseball pitching and hit- Nike Basketball Camps. Camps located in Snellville, Leagues. Georgia’s Best SportsLeagues.Registration ball and more. Club Sport is where Atlanta comes ting. Instruction with former pro Keith Whitner. 18-y Roswell, Kennesaw, Oxford and 0894-4297 to find ongoing. We offer "Men's" and "Co-Ed" styles of play to play! For more information about Club Sport, looking for high school players. The new location is out which dates suit your campers best. in Doraville/Dunwoody area. Monday, Wednesday & upcoming events, photos or interviews with the inside Velocity Sports in North Gwinnett. For more Georgia Tech MaChelle Joseph Basketball Camp. Sunday league play available. Next season stars in owner, please contact Rich Alvarez at 678-994- information call 770-633-0948 or visit jackcity.net. Ages range from 7-17. Day camps, overnight February. We play ALL year round. For more infor 0793 ext. 818 or visit www.usclubsport.com. camps and team camps available. Visit www.ram mation please contact (678)799-0159 or email Stout Irish Sports Pub Events and Specials. Monday: FOOTBALL blinwreck.com or call 404-894-4297 to find out [email protected]. Visit www.geor Dart League and Free Pool from 11 p.m.-close; Topps Matt Ryan Youth Football Clinic. Features which dates suit your campers best. giasport sleagues.org. Tuesday: Texas Hold 'em; Wednesday: Trivia Night instruction by Matt Ryan, Justin Blalock and Sam Harlem Legends. The Harlem Legends have scheduled Capitol City Officials Association. CCOA is accepting and Free Pool from 11pm-close; Thursday: Baker of the Atlanta Falcons. Boys and girls ages their 2008 Shoot for the Stars Basketball & ongoing registration for the upcoming GHSA High College Night with DJ All Night; Friday: Happy 7-14, non-contact. June 6. 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Physical Fitness Camps. The "Shoot for the Stars School season in fast-pitchsoftball. We hold week Hour Food Specials; Saturday: Game Day all day Youth Basketball Camps and Clinics" are a unique ly training meetings. For more information, contact long on Stout's big screen plasma TVs; Sunday: at Centennial High School. Visit www.mattryanclin Irvin Seabrook at 404-957-3331 or e-mail Game Day all day long on Stout's big screen ic.com or call 513-793-CAMP for more information. form of learning experiences geared towards young plasma TVs. Miller High Life Beers are always $1. Georgia Mustangs Football Private Workouts. basket ball players of all skill levels. There are two [email protected]. Gwinnett County camps this year. Please visit our K-Club Classic – D1 Fastpitch Softball. February 20-22. Beer Club:Guests join for $120 and receive a Ongoing. 2008 Southeastern Division Champs. Kennesaw State, Memphis, Buffalo, Miami, Drexel prestigious Stout Club Mug engraved with their AAA Minor League Football team. Oglethorpe website (www.harlemlegends.com) or call 404- 837-6719 for additional camps. and Iowa are schedule to participate. Entry fee name on it.Each visit over the course of the year, University. Visit www.gamustangsfootball.com for $300. All Tournament Players Park, 3910 Canton members enjoy their first beer of choice on the more information. Hwy Marietta, GA 30066. Register at www.alltour- house. For more, call 404.869.1151 or email SCM Group Camp. High school and youth camp at VOLLEYBALL namentplayerspark.com or (678) 384-6500. www.stoutirish pub.com. Oglethorpe University. June 15-19 for high school AirVorne’s Outdoor Volleyball Camp for Kids. Grass Atlanta Sports Hall of Fame. June 6 at Emory & Sand Volleyball Camp. June 1st-5th, 9:00am- Conference Center. The new inductees are: and July 6-10 for youth ages 7-13 weeklong day 1:00pm. Ages: 10-18, boys & girls, Brookhaven GYMNASTICS Olympic Medalist, Edith McGuire Duvall; NBA camp. Website is www.scmgroup-inc.com. Park and Piedmont Park. Coaching by Atlanta’s Gymnastics Classes at Gymnastics AcademyofAtlanta. Great, Walt "Clyde" Frazier; Legendary Georgia Endorsed by current and former NFL players from most competitive players, skills evaluations, lunch, Ongoing - 3126 Cobb Parkway Kennesaw, Ga. For Tech Football Coach, John Heisman; High School the Atlanta chapter of NFLPA. and a Friday tournament. $275. To register or for information call 770-975-8337 or visit Coaching Pioneer, Calvin "Monk" Jones; Georgia Collins Hill Athletic Association. Ongoing. Accepting more info e-mail [email protected]. www.gymnasticsacademyofatlanta.com. Tech Two Time All-American, Roger Kaiser; and applications for qualified coaches in all age groups. Gwinnett Sports Center. Registration ongoing. For Gymnastics Classes at Gwinnett Gymnastics Center the Braves Broadcast team of Skip Caray and Pete For information email Craig Deneau at information call Jerry Robison at 678-491-0203 Ongoing - 927 Killian Hill Road Lilburn, Ga. Van Wieren. Tickets to the event are $100. [email protected] or visit www.gscfun.com. For information call 770-921-5630. Individuals can make a reservation by calling Bev Grayson Athletic Association. Ongoing. Football Suwanee Sports Academy. Ongoing. Volleyball Atlanta School of Gymnastics in Lawrenceville. Bennett at 770-394-3359. Find more information coaches needed for eighth grade and all age training and development for boys and girls grades Ongoing. Classes for tots through teens. at www.AtlantaSportsHallofFame.org.

WWW.SCOREATL.COM MAY 20-26, 2009 SCORE ATLANTA I 19

Hawks looking to improve during offseason SAID ON THE AIR n the first round of the 2009 NBA Playoffs, pen, however, Smith must take it upon him- “The Braves’ Chipper Jones won Ithe Atlanta Hawks outlasted the Miami self to develop a much more polished and a batting title last season, will be Heat in a seven-game series, moving on to focused skill set. As mentioned above, the second round for the first time since the Horford is this team’s future at the power for- a first-ballot Hall of Famer and 1998-99 season. The excitement over such ward spot and, even now, Smith has very few will retire likely as one of the five progress wouldn’t last long, however, as skills that suggest he should be playing that best third basemen of all time.” Atlanta ran into a LeBron James-led buzz spot; he has failed to cultivate a developed saw in the form of the Cleveland Cavaliers in post-up game and struggles defending bigger - ESPN baseball analyst Tim the second round, falling in four straight fours one-on-one. Kurkjian on Chipper Jones and the games, all by double figures. And while the The Answer: I contend that Smith’s most revival of the third base position Hawks’ first-round success should no doubt natural position is at small forward, though his be considered an accomplishment, even with lack of an outside shooting touch has con- SCORE ATLANTA their second-round speed bump in mind, in vinced most people otherwise. There is no ADVERTISING INDEX the end, every team’s long-term goal is to win doubt Smith’s horrid shooting percentage KEEPIN’ AN EYE ON 790 The Zone ...... 1, 8 a championship. With that objective in mind, beyond the paint makes him a liability at the I have taken a close look below at three spe- three, but rather than moving him to a place he Aqua Blue...... 17 cific needs the Hawks must address before doesn’t truly belong (power forward), Smith Hawks beat writer Sekou Smith Atlanta Dream ...... 15, 17 becoming championship-worthy. must spend the necessary time it takes to addressed the team’s offseason obliga- Atlanta Hall of Fame...... 9 develop a jump shot, much the same way tions last week and had this to say about CENTER … other poor-shooting perimeter players, like Josh Smith: “Take a page out of the book AVP...... 2 The Skinny: The center position is per- Eric Snow, have. The other option, of course, of New Orleans Hornets forward David BP Sports ...... 10 haps the most obvious Hawk need and the is to leave Marvin Williams at the three and West and come back with a money 16- BrandsMart ...... 1, Back Page problem here is twofold. First, the team lacks trade J-Smoove—while he has value—for footer … I place as much of the respon- a legitimate center and, as a result, is too either a quality point guard or center. sibility for that happening on Smith as I Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta ..11 small to match up with the league’s best do his employers.” Yet, while we com- Cigar Merchant...... 17 teams on both ends of the floor. More impor- POINT GUARD … pletely agree that Smith must develop a Club Sports...... 3 tantly, however, Atlanta’s lack of a true five The Skinny: There is no doubt Mike consistent jumper, we think it is crazy to has forced it to play promising power for- Bibby has played a monumental role in the suggest that doing so is anyone’s respon- GEICO ...... 1 ward Al Horford out of position, effectively team’s resurgence and playoff success over sibility other than his own. Georgia State ...... 16 negating the many contributions he could the last two years, but the former Arizona We officially were in agreement with make at the four spot while curbing the Wildcat is set to be a free agent this summer. Hooters...... 4 Mark Bradley when he wrote last week young big man’s development as an offensive He will command a lot of money on the mar- Instant Imprints ...... 17 that the Hawks should draft VCU point post presence. Big Al showed little improve- ket and is already over 31 years of age. His Man’s Best Friend ...... 12 ment offensively between years one and two 3-point shot has been deadly in the past, but guard Eric Maynor. Bradley goes on, how- and his potential offensive post production at Joe Johnson is a more than capable outside ever, to suggest that Atlanta must find a Matt Ryan Football Camp...... 17 the power forward spot could go a long way shooter and Marvin Williams has also added new offensive strategy and that Joe North River Tavern ...... 7 in making the Hawks a far more efficient this dimension to his game, making Bibby’s Johnson must step back a bit. And while Play It Again Sammy ...... 14 offensive unit in half-court sets. shooting prowess not nearly as valuable, as we agree with Bradley on the new strate- The Answer: The team will have little his inability to penetrate is an offensive hin- gy, it isn’t up to Johnson to retreat but Rhodes Bakery ...... 14 to spend this summer on the free-agent trail, drance in the half-court game. rather the Hawks to find him some help. Ron Veal Football Camp ...... 19 but may have just enough to compete in the The Answer: The Hawks must get SCM Group...... 5, 13 Marcin Gortat sweepstakes. While most fans younger at the point guard position and must haven’t yet heard of Gortat, blame that on find a guy capable of doing everything Bibby MEDIA TGS...... 14 center Dwight Howard, who doesn’t, namely, getting in the lane and to the HALL OF FAME Trivia Zone ...... 19 takes nearly all of the Polish big man’s min- hoop while playing solid defense on opposing Worthmore Jewelers ...... 12 utes. Still, when he gets his time, Gortat is a point guards. There are no point guards on the Last week, ESPN.com college foot- true difference-maker with one of the best free-agent market that fit this billing, which is ball analyst Chris Low released his TO ADVERTISE IN SCORE ATLANTA: nicknames in sports; the Polish Hammer where trading Josh Smith and the NBA Draft post-spring power rankings for the SEC. ranked fourth in the league this season in come into play. If the team elects to keep J- Georgia fans may be a bit disappointed 404.256.1572 rebounds per 48 minutes and 11th in blocks Smoove in the fold, it will look towards the to hear that Low picked the Bulldogs to per 48 minutes. draft, where guys like VCU’s Eric Maynor, finish fifth in the conference, behind UNC’s Ty Lawson, Syracuse’s Johnny Flynn Florida, Ole Miss, Alabama and LSU, in J-SMOOVE … and UCLA’s Darren Collison may be available that order. “The running game needs The Skinny: If the Hawks are ever real- when the Hawks are on the clock. some work, and A.J. Green needs some ly going to contend for titles, they must find Copyright 2009 Score Atlanta Publishing, LLC. All rights reserved. Janovitz can be reached at help at receiver,” writes Low. “It does- Score Atlanta is published every week on Wednesdays. Views expressed a better role for Josh Smith. For that to hap- [email protected]. in Score Atlanta are not necessarily the opinion of Score Atlanta, its staff n't help any that defensive end Justin or advertisers. Score Atlanta does not knowingly accept false or mislead- Houston is suspended for the first two ing editorial content or advertising nor is Score Atlanta responsible for the CHECK OUT THE HIGH SCHOOL SCOREBOARD content or claims of any advertising or editorial in this publication. No games of the season.” content (articles, photographs, graphics) in Score Atlanta may be used AT SCOREATL.COM for reproduction without written permission from the publisher.

Tuesday: Bradley's American Cafe Marietta (770) 321-0108 Friday: North River Tavern Montana’s Bar & Grill Ameribistro 30 Atlanta (770) 552-8784 Marietta (770) 998-1314 Smyrna (770) 437-0272 The Grove Restaurant & Bar Alpharetta (678) 366-8928 Decatur (404) 321-4420 Sunday: CENT Dark Horse Tavern Montana’s Bar & Grill StarTime Entertainment VA-Highlands (404)873-3607 Marietta (770) 998-1314 Roswell (770) 993-5411 J.R. Crickets Alpharetta (678) 366-8928 WINGS Smyrna (678) 305-0225 Jeffrey’s Thursday: North River Tavern SportsBar & Grill Frankie’s at the Prado Atlanta (770) 552-8784 WWW.THETRIVIAZONE.COM at J.R. Crickets in Alpharetta(770) 346-0807 S. Springs (404)843-9444 Smyrna every Ribs, ETC., North River Tavern Buckhead (404) 843-8200 Atlanta (770) 552-8784 Wednesday night Frankie’s at the Prado StarTime Entertainment Round up your friends for a night of FUN, FACTS, S. Springs (404)843-9444 Roswell (770) 993-5411 (Dine-In Only) Neighbor’s Pub and FREEBIES! Join Trivia Zone Team each week VA-Highlands (404)872-5440 Buffalo’s Café for your chance to WIN! Wednesday: Jonesboro (770) 998-1314 Call your favorite location for start time and details! Beef O'Brady's WoW Café and Wingery Suwanee (770) 886-8221 Athens (706) 543-5510

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