WOMEN’S HOOPS: HEALTHY ALEX SCRUGGS EMERGES

Jalen Johnson, a graduate transfer and FEBRUARY 2021 GODEACS.COM newcomer to the Wake Forest men’s program, has embraced building something positive on the court while contributing in other ways to make a difference off the court so happy they can dance again

Bill and Susan Fagg of Thomasville, N.C.

ST BAPTI RE ST O H F E E A K L T

A COVID-19 H

W care for life PROTECTED

Bill and Susan Fagg danced through life until his hip pain ended the fun. For years, Bill avoided what he feared would be extensive surgery. As the pain worsened, he talked to a friend, an orthopaedic surgeon.

He suggested the nationally renowned bone and joint care at Wake Forest Baptist Health, where Bill was identified as a great candidate for anterior hip replacement — just the kind of less invasive option he was looking for.

Getting both hips replaced over three months relieved the pain, leaving Bill and Susan so happy they can dance again.

JOINT PAIN RELIEF | HIP & KNEE REPLACEMENTS 888-716-WAKE | WakeHealth.edu/Orthopaedics ACCEPTING MOST MAJOR INSURANCE PROVIDERS. VOL. 30 // ISSUE 5 (USPS 014-373)

EDITOR Jim Buice

PHOTOGRAPHERS WFU Athletics and others as noted.

WRITERS Marc Pruitt, Bob Sutton, Sam Walker

Design & Layout Summit Athletic Media www.summitathletics.com

Advertising Learfield IMG College Jeff Salisbury, Rob Aycock, Neil Bishop

For information on advertising, please call (336) 758-7230

CONTENTS // FEBRUARY 2021

BIG DAY: Wide receiver Jaquarii Roberson celebrates after scoring one of his three touchdowns in the Duke’s Mayo Bowl in Charlotte as the Wake Forest football team reached a bowl game for the fifth straight year. The redshirt junior had Gold Rush is published eight touchdown catches on his first three targets and finished with 131 yards receiving in the game, where the Deacons lost to times a year in August, Wisconsin 42-28. Roberson finished the season with four consecutive 100-yard receiving games. October, November, December, February, March, May and June by Learfield IMG College in conjunction with Wake Forest Athletics. Periodicals postage FROM THE AD DEACONS IN THE PROS paid at Winston-Salem, NC 4 30 27102 and at additional mailing offices. The price of an annual subscription is $20. Members of 24 100% COTTEN 31 COMPLIANCE CORNER the Deacon Club receive a one- year subscription as part of their membership. Persons wishing to subscribe to Gold Rush should send a check or money order (credit cards not accepted) to: // 6

Learfield IMG College THE RIGHT FIT 540 N. Trade St. Jalen Johnson joined the Wake Forest men’s Winston-Salem, NC 27101 basketball program after a winding path, but in many ways this is perhaps where he has belonged All material produced in this publication is the property of all along. and Learfield IMG College and shall not be reproduced in whole or in part without permission.

Please send all address changes to: Deacon Club, Attn: Gold Rush, 499 Deacon Blvd., Winston-Salem, NC 27105 // 14 The appearance of advertising in this publication does not BATTLING BACK constitute an endorsement After battling a hip injury in her freshman season, of the advertiser and/or the Alex Scruggs, using both her toughness and a advertiser’s product or service softer side, has emerged as a key player for the by Wake Forest or Learfield IMG College. The use of the women’s basketball team. name of the University or any of its identifying marks in advertisements must be approved by WFU and IMG.

// 20 ON THE COVER After graduating from Tennessee, ON TARGET Jalen Johnson was aware of what Under the direction of head coach Jeff Wyshner, Steve Forbes built at East Tennessee the Wake Forest women’s tennis program has State and wanted to join the new developed into a winner and a constant presence coach and be a part of the Deacon in NCAA tournaments. men’s basketball program as a graduate transfer.

FEBRUARY 2021 3 FROMPAGE HEADERTHE A.D. // JOHN CURRIE

Excitement builds for spring sports

Happy New Year Demon Deacon Nation!

Since I last wrote to you, we have welcomed back the entire student body to our beautiful Reynolda campus and the spring semester is underway! Thanks to President Hatch's leadership and the hard work of Wake Forest faculty and staff, we are set up JOHN to have another healthy and safe CURRIE semester of adapted virtual and in- person learning. DIRECTOR OF ATHLETICS Additionally, we are extremely excited for all our spring sports to get underway as they have not competed as teams since the spring 2020 seasons were canceled at the onset of the pandemic last March. Coach Tom Walter and the Diamond Deacs are set for an exciting spring season, which begins in late February. Senior Bobby Seymour and junior Ryan Cusick landed on Perfect Game's 2021 Preseason All-American list that marked the the first of many preseason accolades for our veteran ballclub. With Chris Lanzilli, Shane Muntz, Michael Turconi and the rest of our juniors and seniors, it will be an exciting spring at Senior first baseman Bobby Seymour (above) landed on Perfect Game’s David Couch Ballpark. 2021 Preseason All-American list along with pitcher Ryan Cusick. They Demon Deacon track & field is are part of a veteran ballclub preparing for a promising spring season. coming off its top cross country finish at the ACC Championship the spring ranked No. 16 in the to page 14 to learn more about her since 2001 and our women’s country, which is its highest basketball journey. distance-medley-relay team ranking to start the month of The final feature of this issue, on won a title at the ACC Indoor January since 2003. Coach Jeff page 6, details the path graduate Championship before the onset of Wyshner details how he has built transfer Jalen Johnson has taken the pandemic. this program and shares stories to Wake Forest. Bob Sutton Men’s and women’s begin about our top-four returners from spoke with the Durham, N.C. the spring season with both last year in this excellent feature by native about playing high school squads ranked in the top 10 and Sam Walker. basketball with Brandon Childress tabbed to finish first in the ACC! Coach Tony Bresky and our and finishing his collegiate career Individually, Coach Jerry Haas’ men’s tennis student-athletes enter in Winston-Salem. men will be led by senior Eric Bae this spring ranked No. 12 in the I trust that these stories, along and junior Alex Fitzpatrick. Not to country led by four individuals with many other columns and be outdone, Coach Kim Lewellen’s ranked in the top 125. Overall, the profiles in the issue, will make you top-ranked squad will be powered Demon Deacons return all of their as excited as I am about what lies by senior Emilia Migliaccio and contributors from their 2020 squad. ahead for Wake Forest Athletics. ACC preseason Player of the Year Also in this issue, Marc Rachel Kuehn. Pruitt sat down with sophomore Go Deacs! Wake Forest women’s tennis, Alexandra Scruggs about the which is featured with an exclusive leadership role she has taken for John Currie spotlight on page 20, enters Wake women’s basketball. Turn Director of Athletics

4 GOLD RUSH MAGAZINE The official security partner of wake forest athletics innovative security solutions

for your for your home business

partner with a security provider trusted by consumers across the country! 866-751-0333 www.security-central.com/security MEN'S BASKETBALL // JALEN JOHNSON

6 GOLD RUSH MAGAZINE FULL CIRCLE GRADUATE TRANSFER JALEN JOHNSON FINALLY LANDS AT WAKE FOREST AND MAKES AN IMPACT IN DIFFERENT WAYS IN HELPING ESTABLISH THE FOUNDATION OF A BUILDING PROGRAM By Bob Sutton

eing involved is something that Johnson’s connections to the Wake Forest program tend to be aplenty. He played in high school for Wesleyan Christian Academy Jalen Johnson has taken seriously alongside Brandon Childress, whose four-year career with the Demon on and off the basketball court. Deacons ended last March. His younger brother played in youth levels B with Carter Whitt, who became a teammate when joining the Wake As a newcomer to the Wake Forest men’s basketball program, Forest team in December as an early-entry freshman guard. that helped him create an identity Make no mistake, Johnson’s athletic among so many things that look background is well-founded by his different these days. parents. Mom Nikki Berry was on the This was nothing new to Johnson, IN NUMEROUS WAYS, University of North Carolina track and who joined the Demon Deacons on a field team. His father, Brian Johnson, rather winding path that followed the MAYBE THIS IS WHERE was a sprinter for East Carolina. hiring of head coach Steve Forbes. “I’ve got some pretty blessed genes,” In numerous ways, maybe this is JOHNSON HAS BELONGED he said. “They helped me understand where Johnson has belonged all along. it’s not going to be easy. Just knowing He’s finding a certain appeal to being ALL ALONG. HE’S you have that support system.” part of setting the foundation in his era He lives in Durham, then went to of the program. FINDING A CERTAIN high school in High Point, attending “The opportunity to try to build Wesleyan Christian Academy and something new with a new coach,” APPEAL TO BEING playing for former Maryland standout he said. . A certain independence This union between Johnson and the PART OF SETTING THE developed for the younger Johnson as Demon Deacons was several years in he left home to stay with a host family the making. FOUNDATION IN HIS during those school weeks. “Wake Forest was actually my first offer,” Those at Wesleyan Christian he said. “It comes full circle. It’s crazy.” ERA OF THE PROGRAM. Academy found it easy to admire

FEBRUARY 2021 7 MEN'S BASKETBALL // JALEN JOHNSON

Johnson, who was among a core of notable Division I-level Johnson’s artistic abilities were being groomed and his knack basketball recruits to pass through during a period of for fitting in – joining a singing group, for instance – expanded a few years. Johnson stood out in ways that stretched his popularity. beyond basketball. “Just a wonderful young man. A lot more than just a basketball player,” one administrator said. “He liked to be involved.” JOHNSON’S CREATIVE TALENTS WERE PUT TO USE WHEN HE DEVELOPED THE DESIGN FOR THE TEAM’S WARM-UP T-SHIRTS TO BRING MORE ATTENTION TO ISSUES THAT ARE VALUED BY HIS TEAMMATES AND COACHES.

8 GOLD RUSH MAGAZINE JALEN JOHNSON Height: 6-6 Position: Guard Class: Graduate transfer Major: Pursuing certificate in His next stop was Tennessee, sustainability (Master’s program). At That’s when Forbes was hired where he played on a nationally Tennessee, he majored in communication to direct the Demon Deacons. ranked Volunteers team. That studies. Johnson, intrigued by the coach included a matchup against Hometown: Durham, N.C. and the idea of playing closer to the Demon Deacons – on the home, embraced the chance to same day that the Wake Forest High School: Wesleyan Christian Academy in High Point, N.C. be part of this. football team was winning the “I really like Coach Forbes 2018 Birmingham Bowl. and his style of play, and I About to be a Tennessee graduate, he explored options to continue think that really gelled with me,” he said. playing . He embraced what Forbes had built at East Admittedly, Johnson held attachments to many things in Tennessee State, deciding to join the Buccaneers – before another Knoxville. Now he’s fully cognizant that there’s a shorter period of shift occurred about a week later last spring. time to make inroads as a player while with the Demon Deacons.

FEBRUARY 2021 9 MEN'S BASKETBALL // JALEN JOHNSON

So he was anxious to get started with those pursuits. subjects. As social issues emerged during the summer, the Yet before moving to Winston-Salem, there was time spent with Demon Deacons were intent on doing their part in bringing family in Durham during weeks of relative inactivity trying to wait awareness to those topics. out the pandemic. That’s when Cash entered his life. Johnson’s creative talents were put to use when he developed Johnson went to Knightdale the design for the team’s and adopted the American Bully warm-up T-shirts to bring puppy. “I feel like everybody got more attention to issues that dogs during quarantine,” he said. PERHAPS JOHNSON’S are valued by his teammates Then came less comforting CONTRIBUTIONS IN SEVERAL and coaches. AREAS COME AS NO SURPRISE. WHEN HE JOINED THE DEMON DEACONS, FORBES SUGGESTED THE PLAYER WOULD BE A GOOD FIT BECAUSE OF HIS MATURITY.

10 GOLD RUSH MAGAZINE

MEN'S BASKETBALL // JALEN JOHNSON

DURING SOME OF THE CHALLENGING TIMES FOR THE YOUNG TEAM, JOHNSON SAID HE HOPES TO BE A POSITIVE INFLUENCE. HE HAS BEEN THROUGH THE UPS AND DOWNS OF SEVERAL “They brought the idea around “Just trying to get more that we wanted to do something,” SEASONS WITH TEAMS ON artwork out there,” he said. he said of the movement to bring Perhaps Johnson’s awareness to social justice and THE COLLEGE’S TOP LEVEL. contributions in several areas equality topics. “It’s important come as no surprise. When he to educate each other on these joined the Demon Deacons, issues. … bring that to the attention of the communities. I was Forbes suggested the player would be a good fit because of definitely wanting to do that.” his maturity. Johnson said his design work is one of his off-court passions, so “He understands what success looks like, and I expect him to he awaits the next opportunity to showcase his knack for that. provide leadership to our team on and off the court,” Forbes said.

12 GOLD RUSH MAGAZINE State game in the opener – before the Demon Deacons paused activities and were without games for a month as the team dealt with coronavirus issues. The launching of the Atlantic Coast Conference schedule started with a series of hard-luck results before Wake Forest broke through for its first ACC victory over Pitt – with Johnson playing an important role. Of course, with coronavirus protocols and limitations on fans in attendance, that has reduced the chances for Johnson’s loved ones to see him in action. He was pleased that his mother could attend a January home game vs. Louisville at Joel Coliseum, though his grandparents had yet to see him play in person. “COVID has impacted everything,” he said. During some of the challenging times for the young team, Johnson said he hopes to be a positive influence. He has been through the ups and downs of several seasons with teams on the college’s top level. So when the 23-year-old talks about the Demon Deacons being on the verge of a breakthrough, it comes with considerable background. He said the team has accepted the concept that there’s a climb ahead that’s worth taking. “I definitely feel old, like a fossil out there,” Johnson said. “I definitely try to add tidbits of information.”

Proud Supporter

Morgan Stanley is proud to support Wake Forest University Athletics .

Christopher Leak Family Wealth Advisor Vice President Financial Advisor 100 N. Main Street/121 Church Winston-Salem, NC 27101 +1 336 721-9203 [email protected] fa.morganstanley.com/theyatesleakgroup NMLS #1252924

“He is a gifted offensive player and will be an excellent addition to our university community.” A view of the bigger picture tends to trend with Johnson’s other interests. His studies at Wake Forest involve addressing environmental concerns to help produce a cleaner and greener planet. That makes it an extension of his connection to the outdoors and soothing activities such as fishing. Yet his platform includes basketball. © 2019 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC. SUP020 CRC 2639150 08/19 CS 9370361 09/18 The Wake Forest season began with a couple of victories – with significant contributions from Johnson in the Delaware

FEBRUARY 2021 13 WOMEN'S BASKETBALL // ALEXANDRIA SCRUGGS HANGING TOUGH SOPHOMORE ALEXANDRIA SCRUGGS FOUGHT THROUGH A HIP INJURY LAST SEASON TO PROVE HER METTLE, AND SHE HAS ALSO SHOWN A NURTURING SIDE AS ONE OF THE WOMEN’S BASKETBALL TEAM LEADERS

By Marc Pruitt

ven the toughest of players can “We were playing against UNCG, and I made a and just landed wrong,” Scruggs said. “I came up with the ball, but I have a soft side. couldn’t get off the court. I was just sitting there dribbling on my E They can also still feel the butterflies before every game. knees. Luckily, Coach called a timeout.” All those traits help sum up Alexandria “Alex” Scruggs, a Scruggs opted not to have surgery and underwent vigorous sophomore on the women’s basketball team. physical therapy several times a week and managed to learn how to After fighting through a nagging hip injury throughout her freshman play through the pain. season, Scruggs came back healthy and ready to roll as a sophomore. “Everything in my hip was just kind of irritated, and the more I “I think the best part so far this season is that I don’t have to play did things on it, the more stuff seemed to happen to make it hurt,” on one leg anymore,” Scruggs said. “I learned to play through a lot Scruggs said. “It would start throbbing like a heartbeat all down of pain last season.” my leg if I landed wrong on it, or stepped in one direction too fast, Scruggs injured her left hip during preseason workouts. She or tried to fight through screens. I just learned how to play with it never missed a practice, however, and she played in all 32 games, even though I did feel a step slow. But anytime I moved the wrong averaging 5.5 points and 25.6 minutes per game while starting 27. way, the pain would just shoot down my leg.” Scruggs, a 5-10 guard, said that the pain would flare up Scruggs’ toughness was one attribute that head coach Jennifer occasionally and brought her to her knees — literally – one Hoover noticed about her when Scruggs first came on the particular time. Deacons’ radar.

14 GOLD RUSH MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2021 15 WOMEN'S BASKETBALL // ALEXANDRIA SCRUGGS

16 GOLD RUSH MAGAZINE ALEXANDRIA “MY DAD JUST LOVED SCRUGGS BASKETBALL, AND I STARTED Height: 5-10 Position: Guard PLAYING COMPETITIVELY Class: Sophomore IN FOURTH GRADE. I PLAYED Hometown: Fayetteville, N.C. High School: Trinity Christian, E.E. Smith SOFTBALL UNTIL MY MOM HIT ME Memorable moment: “Driving and scoring against Miami in my first ACC game last IN THE HEAD ONE DAY WITH IT. I year. I drove right and finished with my left hand with Beatrice (Mompremier, WAS INVOLVED IN KARATE FOR who now plays in the WNBA) guarding me. She was one of the best players in A LITTLE WHILE BUT NEVER GOT the league.” INTO IT. I WAS SERIOUS ABOUT “She comes from a military family and is very disciplined,” Hoover GYMNASTICS UNTIL ONE WEEKEND said. “Seeing what she went through last year proved to us how tough she is. She didn’t want to miss any games because she didn’t want to I JUST LOOKED AROUND AND SAW let her teammates down. And sometimes you could see that she was playing through the pain. She’s got all the tools and plays a physical THAT I WAS SO MUCH BIGGER style of basketball. She’s probably our best post-feeder and has become even more aggressive and assertive this year.” THAN THE OTHER GIRLS AND Hoover also appreciates Scruggs’ softer side — at least away from the court. THOUGHT, ‘MAYBE THIS ISN’T FOR “She’s the kid the rest of the team goes to when they need to talk to someone, or the one they ask to take them to the store when they ME ANYMORE, AND I SHOULD BE need to go,” Hoover said. “She cares about her teammates and has really looked after the freshmen this season to make sure they are DOING SOMETHING ELSE.’” comfortable. She’s just a super-caring individual.” Scruggs said she has always been nurturing. ALEXANDRIA SCRUGGS “That’s just who I am,” she said. “My whole life I’ve been a nurturer at heart. I just want to do my part to see that everyone has a good time. We are lucky to be able to play basketball, and we want to keep it fun on and off the court.” Basketball runs in the Scruggs family. Alex’s father, William, played college basketball. Her uncle, John Bagley, spent 11 seasons in the NBA. Scruggs said that her first memory of basketball came one day when she went out to the driveway with her dad and just started throwing the ball toward the goal. “My dad just loved basketball, and I started playing competitively in fourth grade,” Scruggs said. “I played softball until my mom hit me in the head one day with it. I was involved in karate for a little while but never got into it. I was serious about gymnastics until one weekend I just looked around and saw that I was so much bigger than the other girls and thought, ‘maybe this isn’t for me anymore, and I should be doing something else.’” That’s when she got serious about concentrating on basketball. She started playing varsity basketball in seventh grade for Trinity Christian School in Fayetteville, and as an eighth grader, she scored 48 points and helped lead her team to the state championship. She started to get noticed by college programs and ultimately decided on Wake Forest because of the size of the campus, proximity to home and the strong academics and athletic program. “I really clicked with the coaching staff,” Scruggs said. “What’s funny is that I didn’t really know what getting an offer meant since no one in my family had every really gotten one before. But playing for an ACC program that was close to home was really exciting for me. And I’m a nerd. The academics here are strong, and that appealed to me as well.”

FEBRUARY 2021 17 WOMEN'S BASKETBALL // ALEXANDRIA SCRUGGS

SCRUGGS IS INTERESTED IN BECOMING A PHYSICAL THERAPIST OR A PHYSICIAN’S ASSISTANT ONCE BASKETBALL IS OVER FOR HER.

Having no issues with her hip this season, Scruggs started the now. The nerves go away as soon as that referee blows the whistle first 10 games and has been filling up the stat sheet – ranking fifth for the jump ball. That’s when I know I need to focus on the next on the team in scoring (8.1 ppg), third in rebounds (4.5), third in play. My whole goal is be a better player than I was the day before.” total assists (15) and second in steals (12), all while averaging 29 Scruggs is interested in becoming a physical therapist or a minutes per game. physician’s assistant once basketball is over for her. Not bad for a player who admitted to still feeling the butterflies “I’m going to let basketball take me as far as it can,” Scruggs said. before every game. “Hopefully, that means an ACC Championship and even an NCAA “It’s a good kind of nervous though,” Scruggs said with a laugh. Championship before I graduate. Basketball has been very good to “I just get to a place where I start thinking too much about what’s me and has opened a lot of doors. And I’m very glad it has led me in front of me. I’ve learned to live in the moment and live in the to Wake Forest.”

18 GOLD RUSH MAGAZINE Are you interested in changing careers or just getting started on your career journey?

Career Quest offers FREE webinars from professionals in industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, skilled trades, and hospitality — just to name a few. Join a discussion where you’ll learn what businesses have to offer and get an opportunity to participate in a live Q and A session.

To view the list of upcoming webinars, visit CareersByGoodwill.org/Career-Quest.

CAREER Find the Field that Fits QUEST BY GOODWILL

FEBRUARY 2021 19 WOMEN'S TENNIS // JEFF WYSHNER BUILDING A WINNER

HEAD COACH JEFF WYSHNER DEVELOPS PROGRAM THAT HAS MADE NCAA TOURNAMENT APPEARANCES A HABIT

By Sam Walker

eff Wyshner was named the head Wyshner’s teams posted just 12 combined wins in his first three years, but in the 2013-14 season, his team equaled that with 12 women’s tennis coach at Wake Forest in victories. Then the next season, Wake Forest started an ongoing run of winning seasons that remains intact entering this year. J 2010, and although it took a little time “It took a full three years before we had four recruiting classes and got to build the program into a consistent winner, back to the NCAAs, which is kind of our first goal as a program – to be good enough to make the NCAAs,” Wyshner said. “That is about top the Deacons have now had winning seasons 42 in the country based on the at-large bids. It’s been really exciting the since the 2014-15 season. last few years, and last year was our best since about 2007 or so.

20 GOLD RUSH MAGAZINE “I think we were well on our way to hosting the first two rounds “In the fall of 2013, we had the eighth-best recruiting class in the of the NCAA Tournament. We were ranked 16th, and based on country, and then we had a group in the fall of 2015 that was the what we had in front of us, I think there was a good chance we seventh-best recruiting class in the country. When we put those would have finished better than that (before the coronavirus two groups together starting with the spring of 2016, we’ve been pandemic shut down the season). That was disappointing, but that’s pretty consistent and competing on a national level ever since.” why we are so happy to be getting on the court now and playing this Over the past three seasons, the Deacons have won 20-plus semester.” matches twice while consistently being ranked inside of the top 25. Wyshner said that there were a couple of key recruiting classes Wake returns its top four singles players while welcoming a top-15 that ignited the upward trend. ranked freshman class, according to Tennis Recruiting Network.

FEBRUARY 2021 21 WOMEN'S TENNIS // JEFF WYSHNER

JEFF WYSHNER “We’ve emphasized the Hometown: Canaan, Conn. Tournament. Wake Forest culture we want, which is a Education: Yale, 1992 - B.A. in Economics was ranked as high as No. 9 in strong camaraderie within and Mathematics; Columbia, 1996 - M.A. the country and finished the the group and to get everyone in Educational Administration; Columbia year with its highest final ITA on the team to know they are Law School, 2000 - J.D. ranking in the Wyshner era playing for each other and at No. 16. Last year was the have that family atmosphere,” Record at Wake Forest: 125-127 (10 first time in several years that Wyshner said. “Tennis players seasons) Wake had two All-Americans spend their developmental NCAA Tournament Appearances: 4 (2016, in Eliza Omirou and doubles years playing individually, 2017, 2018, 2019) partner MC Meredith. One of so the opportunity to play the highlights of the 2019-20 Years at Wake Forest: 11 team tennis is something we campaign was the Deacons emphasize. College tennis is capturing the Blue-Gray really the only place where National Tennis Classic, you can get that. Our individual player development relies heavily defeating No. 5 Princeton in the final. on our associate head coach, Andy Roland. Our players do a lot of “We had lost in the final of the Blue-Gray two years in a row, so one of individual work with him. He came with me from Akron. our team goals was to get back and win that final,” Wyshner said. “It turns “For us, we want to find players that will continue to get better. So out we had to play probably our toughest opponent, but we played a we focus on players who have room to grow and have a passion for great match that day, and we were ranked 11th in the country after that. getting better and want to play after college. We have two players “We thought it was a building point that would launch us into a who graduated in 2019 and were part of that class of 2015 – Emma successful ACC schedule that was cut short. We actually had the Davis and Anna Ulyashchenko. They have been able to get out there toughest part of the ACC schedule in the two weeks we played. We and play the pro circuit and have some success, and that’s exciting were looking forward to the home part and a little bit easier part of to see. When we get a commitment to the time they graduate is our ACC schedule. But this year they have moved the ACC schedule typically about a five-year period, so there’s a lot of growth there if up a week and spread it out a bit more due to the pandemic.” you can find people who are dedicated and passionate.” The Deacons have been almost unbeatable on their home courts Before the 2019-20 season was shortened due to COVID-19, in the last two seasons, including a 13-1 record in 2018-19 and the Deacons were on their way to their fifth consecutive NCAA advancing to the second round of the NCAA Tournament.

BEFORE THE 2019-20 SEASON WAS SHORTENED DUE TO COVID-19, THE DEACONS WERE ON THEIR WAY TO THEIR FIFTH CONSECUTIVE NCAA TOURNAMENT. WAKE FOREST WAS RANKED AS HIGH AS NO. 9 IN THE COUNTRY AND FINISHED THE YEAR WITH ITS HIGHEST FINAL ITA RANKING IN THE WYSHNER ERA AT NO. 16.

22 GOLD RUSH MAGAZINE “The success at home sneaked up on us a bit, and in the two schedule at the top of the singles lineup. Omirou, who played most losses we played a No. 1 team in the country and a top-10 team, of last season at No. 2, begins with an initial ranking of No. 98. and we were extremely close in those matches,” Wyshner said. “We “We are facing some challenges in the first months of this year,” are definitely comfortable on our courts. It’s easier to stay in your Wyshner said. “Eliza and Saby Nihalani are players from overseas own bed and have your set routine than being on the road. We’ve and having trouble getting back. We will be starting the season had a very loyal group that supports us and have helped carry us without them, and Carolyn has an injury and will be out until through some of those matches at home against tough teams.” about mid-February. We have some good junior leadership. Anna The team is starting the year ranked No. 16 after the ITA Brylin and Peyton Pesavento have been great. rankings were released in January. It’s the Deacons’ highest initial “In early season practices, I’ve been impressed with how much ranking since they started the year at No. 15 in 2003. better we are as players than we were 12 months ago. We also have Carolyn Campana and Eliza Omirou were ranked in the initial a strong freshman class in Brooke Killingsworth, Mia Ahmad and singles and doubles rankings. Campana was ranked at No. 21 after Casie Wooten, who have all looked great from the day they stepped a successful sophomore season. She played nearly the entire spring on campus.”

CAROLYN CAMPANA AND ELIZA OMIROU WERE RANKED IN THE INITIAL SINGLES AND DOUBLES RANKINGS. CAMPANA WAS RANKED AT NO. 21 AFTER A SUCCESSFUL SOPHOMORE SEASON. SHE PLAYED NEARLY THE ENTIRE SPRING SCHEDULE AT THE TOP OF THE SINGLES LINEUP. OMIROU, WHO PLAYED MOST OF LAST SEASON AT NO. 2, BEGINS WITH AN INITIAL RANKING OF NO. 98.

Carolyn Campana

FEBRUARY 2021 23 100% COTTEN // STAN COTTEN

Close Shave

This is one of those columns where begging off a Thursday NOW, ABOUT SATURDAY NIGHT. WHICH deadline until Sunday afternoon has really paid off, because as late ONE YOU MIGHT ASK? THE ONE WHERE as Saturday afternoon I had no idea what I was going to write about. THE DEMON DEACONS AND COACH STAN And then Saturday night happened. COTTEN I had entertained writing about STEVE FORBES THUNDERED FROM . The first games are VOICE OF THE DEMON right around the corner, and Tom BEHIND AND WON THEIR FIRST DEACONS Walter’s Deacons have enough returning firepower both at the ACC BASKETBALL GAME IN A 76-75 plate and on the mound to have already garnered national attention. THRILLER OVER PITTSBURGH. THE But hopefully the Diamond Deacs will be playing deep into the spring. ONE THAT SAW FORBES GET HIS There’s plenty of time to write about them another day. HOUSE ROLLED. I had also contemplated circling back with Dave Clawson and explore where football is and where team and get a quality win at home After one in the first it’s going after navigating the before getting back out on the road. half, UNLV transfer Antonio pandemic and playing in a school Heading into the game with joined the party in the second record fifth straight bowl game, the Panthers, Wake had started half and at one point dropped but after Saturday night that can this strange ACC season 0-6, the three consecutive bombs as the wait, too. And there is also the fast- first Wake Forest team to do so Demon Deacons erased what, at approaching spring practice. since Dave Odom’s 1990 team in one juncture, flipping what had I also want to write about what Wake’s initial season inside the been a 12-point deficit to lead by all it takes to put together a radio Joel Coliseum. I don’t know what 10. Antonio would finish with 15 broadcast, more specifically what a it was like in Coach Odom’s locker points and hit four three-point great crew I have and have had over room back in 1990. That was long shots in seven attempts. the years here in Winston-Salem. enough to even be before my time. But the Deacs had been here I’ve been honored to get an award I do know what it was like inside before, sort of. Just prior to or two over the last several years, Coach Forbes’ locker room the the game with Pitt, Wake had including just recently, and I want night of Jan. 23. I saw the video, the dropped in 13 threes against to make sure everyone on the crew smiles, the shouting, the dousing of North Carolina, and Isaiah gets to take a bow. They deserve it, the coach who had led his team to Mucius and Daivien Williamson and I’m going to ‘give it to them!’ an important win. One that shows had combined for 54 points Now, about Saturday night. a team playing at less than full against the Tar Heels in Chapel Which one you might ask? The strength that grit and togetherness Hill. The Deacons had played one where the Demon Deacons can make a difference. well enough to win on most and Coach Steve Forbes thundered Especially if two players combine nights, but they never wrested from behind and won their first for 12 made three’s in 17 attempts, the lead from Carolina down ACC basketball game in a 76-75 which is exactly what Ismael the stretch. Never did get the thriller over Pittsburgh. The one Massoud and Jonah Antonio did advantage that could possibly that saw Forbes get his house to keep Wake’s series record at had forced the Heels to blink. rolled. Hey, the quad wasn’t an home against Pitt perfect at 4-0. But on this particular Saturday option during the pandemic. The Massoud had the game of his young night, the opponent blinked just one that had a lot of the league’s Wake career missing only four of enough to allow the Deacs, once press giving Wake some love for 14 shots, going 8 of 10 beyond the they got a lead, to hang on and win overcoming quite a bit over the arc and finishing with a career-best in the end on a defensive stop and previous weeks to beat a very solid 31 points. a as the final buzzer sounded.

24 GOLD RUSH MAGAZINE COACH FORBES ADMITTED IN OUR PREGAME

A win most could see coming. INTERVIEW THAT HE HAD SHAVED FOR THE FIRST And when it finally got here, it felt good. TIME BEFORE TALKING TO ME. HE ALSO NOTED But let’s get down to what really went down here. Last time in this space THAT I HAD A HAT ON (HEY, IT’S PRERECORDED I showed you a little about how the sausage is being made on our virtual, FROM MY HOUSE) – MY FAVORITE SAG HARBOR remote broadcasts this athletic year. But here’s what really went on behind BASEBALL CAP THAT I HAD WORN NEW YEAR’S the curtain prior to the Wake-Pitt game that no doubt led to the win. EVE BEFORE THE WIN OVER CATAWBA. NOW, I’M Coach Forbes admitted in our pregame interview that he had NOT SUPERSTITIOUS –I’M JUST SAYING. shaved for the first time before talking to me. He also noted that I had a hat on (hey, it’s prerecorded win over Catawba. Now, I’m not for the pregame interview, I wear from my house) – my favorite Sag superstitious – I’m just saying. my Sag Harbor cap and Massoud Harbor baseball cap that I had I’m willing to tell you this, drops 31? worn New Year’s Eve before the though. Each time coach shaves My money is on the Deacs.

Downtown Winston-Salem 125 S. Main Street 336.714.2800

WE CAN WRAP ANYTHING,

EVEN A HEADSET.

GO DEACS!

PHOTO: JAYLYNN NASH / WAKE FOREST ATHLETICS

M A T T H E W S M O B I L E M E D I A For group and event bookings Contact Daria Via at [email protected] CONTACT: [email protected]

FEBRUARY 2021 25 INSIDE THE DEACON CLUB

Finding new ways to stay connected

I’ll admit it. Who among us wouldn’t want to play a role on There are times that, from the stands (or, more the “team behind the teams,” in helping inject often than not this year, from my couch at home in some positive energy into these programs? front of the TV), I find myself contorting my body Now is the time each of us can step up and to make sure we get the roll necessary to ensure be the hero for the program(s) of our choice by the shot goes through the net. During close games, investing in a sport-specific Excellence Fund to I am often holding my breath, trying to figure out provide competitive advantages for our student- what I can do or say that might give us the edge. athletes in their pursuit of championships. I appreciate the ACC Network, now more than Investments made into Excellence Funds allow ever, as it allows me to cheer on so many more our programs to make strategic investments in BARRY Demon Deacon contests than previous years. I have targeted initiatives like equipment and technology, FAIRCLOTH remained connected to our teams with the Virtual or the continued education of student-athletes. SENIOR Season Ticket, providing unique content that is One of the great examples of a championship- ASSOCIATE valuable both now, and in the future. These tools shifting investment is in women’s golf fifth-year ATHLETIC DIRECTOR, give me more opportunities to cheer on the Deacs senior Siyun Liu. During the 2018-19 season, DEVELOPMENT – and also make me wonder what else we can do to Excellence Fund giving allowed the golf program to provide our teams with an edge. invest in new putting technology within the Dianne Well, the good news is there is a way for you to Dailey Learning Center. This specific purchase directly impact our Demon Deacons! transformed Siyun’s putting abilities to among As we sprint into 2021 and collectively seek to the best on the team, taking two strokes off her “Raise the Standard,” Wake Forest Athletics boasts scoring average and catapulting her to the team- four teams that entered their spring seasons with low score at the 2019 NCAA Championship. a top-10 national ranking and legitimate ACC and The story doesn’t end there. national title aspirations. Another three programs After COVID-19 shortened Siyun’s senior year in are building on top-25 appearances, while football 2019-20, Excellence Fund contributions provided readies for a spring season to prep for a record Coach Kim Lewellen with the flexibility to offer her sixth-straight bowl appearance. On the basketball a scholarship to return for this season as the NCAA court, Coach Jen Hoover’s squad continues to gave all spring student-athletes an additional year build its postseason resume, and Steve Forbes is of eligibility due to the pandemic. This opportunity building the foundation of a bright future for our has provided Siyun both an opportunity to earn her men’s basketball program. master’s degree from Wake Forest and to represent the Demon Deacons for one final season in a pursuit of a national title. Cheering on the Deacs is not a passive activity. Each of us play a role in furthering the development of student-athletes in the classroom, during competition, and in their professional careers. Investment in Excellence Funds is a fantastic way to make a meaningful impact in the program(s) most special to you. I look forward to relishing our spring victories together with each of you, and looking back on this moment in May and June – championship trophies in hand – and remembering that this is where it all started. Thank you for all you do to make Wake Forest a better place.

Go Deacs! Barry

Even though fans can’t pack the stands in these days because of the continuing coronavirus pandemic, there are other ways to cheer on the Deacs.

26 GOLD RUSH MAGAZINE DEACON CLUB PAGE// FINANCIAL HEADER UPDATE

DEACON CLUB MEMBERS CONTINUE TO STEP UP Heading into 2021, Wake Forest Athletics is poised to “Raise the Standard” and catapult forward into the spring competitive season. Deacon Club members have displayed unprecedented generosity over the first six months of the fiscal year, truly stepping up as the “team behind the teams” and laying the foundation for a world-class student-athlete experience. Total gifts received have more than doubled over the same period last year, driven primarily through increases in capital investments and gifts to sport-specific Excellence Funds. As of 12/31/2020 FY20 FY21 % Change Deacon Club Annual Fund $2,270,811.86 $1,954,498.36 -14% Restricted $2,065,569.73 $3,882,140.42 88% Capital Projects $5,629,369.96 $16,327,565.72 190% Endowment $1,242,035.66 $1,687,545.22 36% TOTAL $11,207,787.21 $23,851,749.72 113%

Excellence Fund contributions not only provide donors with an opportunity to direct their gifts to a specific sport or program, but they also create an opportunity to make strategic investments in targeted areas that provide competitive advantages for Wake Forest student-athletes. Below is a snapshot of year-to-date giving for the Excellence Funds.

FY20 Gifts YTD FY21 Gifts YTD FY21 Pledges Due FY21 Total Cheerleading $3,100.00 $2,050.00 $0.00 $2,050.00 Dance $1,235.00 $19,720.00 $0.00 $19,720.00 Baseball $95,646.10 $93,737.53 $43,501.00 $137,238.53 Field Hockey $52,361.00 $42,007.00 $54,262.00 $96,269.00 Football $1,233,835.00 $211,319.45 $91,298.89 $302,618.34 Men's Basketball $3,110.00 $115,042.02 $86,300.00 $201,342.02 Men's Golf $93,659.76 $163,805.00 $68,605.53 $232,410.53 Men's Soccer $141,485.00 $139,256.34 $124,877.90 $264,134.24 Men's Tennis $56,995.00 $4,050.00 $4,875.00 $8,925.00 Men's Track $19,350.00 $34,100.00 $18,250.00 $52,350.00 Volleyball $12,100.00 $36,650.00 $2,150.00 $38,800.00 Women's Basketball $12,710.00 $17,125.00 $950.00 $18,075.00 Women's Golf $89,523.57 $48,015.02 $23,000.02 $71,015.04 Women's Soccer $40,335.00 $38,060.00 $359,875.00 $397,935.00 Women's Tennis $33,072.00 $44,156.35 $30,666.67 $74,823.02 Women's Track $31,000.00 $19,561.73 $20,000.00 $39,561.73 AD Discretionary $154.68 $1,628,500.00 $0.00 $1,628,500.00 Nutrition $30,122.50 $30,500.00 $9,550.00 $40,050.00 Sports Performance and Healthcare $0.00 $0.00 $15,000.00 $15,000.00 Student-Athlete Career Development $4,000.00 $9,584.70 $40,839.28 $50,423.98 Sustain the Deacs $4,349.50 $651,612.66 $17,810.00 $669,422.66 TOTAL $1,958,144.11 $3,348,852.80 $1,011,811.29 $4,360,664.09

Thanks to the support of the Wake Forest Community, Wake Forest Athletics has been able to continue fulfilling our promise of a World Class Student-Athlete Experience during one of the most challenging years our country has faced. There are still challenges ahead, but we look towards 2021 with much optimism and excitement. If you are interested in making a gift to the Deacon Club Annual Fund, one or more Excellence Funds, a capital project, or would like to learn more about endowing a scholarship or talk to someone about setting up an estate gift, please contact the Deacon Club at (336) 758-5626.

FEBRUARY 2021 27 DONORINSIDE THEPROFILE DEACON // REBECCA CLUB WILSON MACSOVITS

Macsovits family photo

After playing on first women’s soccer team, Macsovits loves giving back to help program

orn and raised in Memphis, investments in summer school that Macsovits visited Wake Forest Tenn., Rebecca Wilson allow student-athletes the opportunity looking for a school that offered great Macsovits didn’t choose to further their degree and provide for academics, smaller class sizes and a Wake Forest University additional training time. This past year, home-like environment, and quickly becauseB of soccer – when she arrived as the program was able to take advantage encountered a diversity of thought and a freshman, the women’s soccer program of incredible advancements in sports spirit that countered the norms she was still two years away from fruition. science and performance technology accepted growing up in Tennessee. But playing on the inaugural team to provide student-athletes with a “I was a homebody and nervous about in 1994, coupled with a diverse set of competitive advantage. being away from home,” Macsovits said. experiences, has led to an indelible “I’d been giving to Wake, but the more “My first semester was rough, but after spirit of giving back to the program – I thought about it — I have a special place that, Wake was home. I found myself at first through the Deacon Club Annual in my heart for Wake Forest in general, Wake Forest. To be surrounded by so Fund and, more recently, through sport- but especially for the women’s soccer many differing types of people. I grew specific investments into the women’s program,” Macsovits said. “I wanted to up in the conservative South, and I’m in soccer program. do something to help some women get to school now with Northerners with more Through these philanthropic Wake Forest and play. I want them to have liberal points of view. It was so eye- contributions from Macsovits and the same experiences I had. I want to help opening, in the most positive of ways. others, the women’s soccer program in some small way, hope to encourage “I feel like I’m a different person today has grown exponentially since 1994. others to contribute and to honor those because of Wake Forest. It’s part of Recent contributions have funded pioneers that helped start this program.” the reason I give back, because I’m so

28 GOLD RUSH MAGAZINE grateful for the experience I had. It was on to become authors. Parker is known but the core that I knew and remember is definitely the place I was supposed to be.” for ‘Strong Is the New Pretty’ and ‘Play much the same, in a good way.” Having played soccer all her life, Like a Girl’ while Macsovits has written Although he didn’t take over the Macsovits enjoyed playing club soccer ‘Guion The Lion’ and ‘Guion the Lion — a program until 1997, Wake Forest under coach John Hackworth her first Colorful World.’ coach Tony da Luz has built a strong two years on campus. “Her message is very similar,” Parker relationship with Macsovits. “At the end of my sophomore year, we said. “Her book is different, but our “His leadership of the program in general learned Wake was going to form a team messages and our platforms are exactly has been incredible, seeing what he’s been and (first Wake Forest women’s soccer the same. It’s about acceptance and able to do over all these years,” she said. coach) Chris (Turner) was going to hold seeing the good in people. It’s neat to see “I’m grateful that Wake found him, that tryouts.” where we started and how we ended up he’s stuck around and has proven to be an So as Macsovits began her junior year very similarly. amazing leader for the program. at Wake Forest, she juggled sorority life, “She’s one of the nicest, kindest, most “I had such a great experience with the rigorous academics and being a part of a humble people I’ve ever met. She’s a school. Because I was in a sorority and fledgling NCAA women’s soccer program. great ambassador for what Wake Forest in a sport, I feel like I had such a really “I was very excited,” she said. “Team is. She’s doing good in the world and wonderful and beautiful experience at sports, in general, are a passion of doesn’t brag about anything. Wake because I was able to experience mine. I believe team sports are really “Rebecca was like the cool older sister so much. For me to be able to give back, important to a person's growth. It’s who knew everything. She was a calming I’m super blessed to be able to do so. If a family. When we had a formal team voice on and off the field. She was I can give somebody some semblance with real training every day – it was an somebody I always looked to for advice. of that experience I had, I want to make incredible experience. She was a great shoulder to lean on.” it happen.” “I didn’t realize at the time what a Now living in Colorado, Macsovits That giving resonates throughout the blessing it was for me to be at Wake during is the chief brand officer of Kemmons Wake Forest women’s soccer program, that time – that I got the opportunity to Wilson Companies. Her community and is appreciated by da Luz. play on the inaugural team for Wake. It involvement includes serving as Chair “Our alumni are so invested in our was such an incredible experience to of the Board for the Denver Zoo and school, our community and our athletic be a part of that first year. I don’t think I Finance Chair for the Kemmons Wilson department, because they take so much appreciated as much then as I do today. It Family Foundation. She also serves as pride in their time here,” he said. “Rebecca was an honor to be a part of it.” a member of Constellation, a charitable is a prime example. She didn’t play for The program celebrated the 20th year group focused on early childhood me, but she’s still so committed to the anniversary of the 1994 team in 2014, education, and organizes for the Step Up program. She follows us and supports us, with more than 30 alumni participating. Walk for Down Syndrome. ever since she’s left. These types of sport- “It left an impression on me,” Beyond her financial contributions, specific donations have been an absolute Macsovits said. “In these past six years, Macsovits currently serves on the difference maker these last few years. I’ve reconnected with many of my Athletic Advisory Council. “Rebecca has come through for us. teammates. Going back for that reunion “Pre-COVID, I was coming back twice a It allows us to be able to plan for the and reliving the memories was great.” year for those meetings,” she said. “I love future. For summer school, we know we Both Macsovits and Kate Parker being on campus. It’s fun. It’s fun to re- have her commitment. We appreciate are alumni from the 1994 Wake Forest explore Winston-Salem. The periphery of her, everything she does and how she women’s soccer team who have gone Wake Forest has grown and expanded, represents us.”

Keep up with the Deacon Club on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram! For the latest news and information from the Deacon Club and to connect with other members, be sure to find us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram! @WFUDeaconClub Facebook.com/DeaconClub @WFUDeaconClub | @DeacOnTheRun DEACON CLUB @BarryFaircloth

FEBRUARY 2021 29 DEACONS IN THE PROS

BASEBALL C.J. Harris China Guangzhou LL Darius Leonard Argentina Sportivo America COACHES/SCOUTS Jamaal Levy Argentina Bahia Basket Ross Atkins MLB Toronto Blue Jays General Manager Nikita Mescheriakov Russia Spartak SP Neil Avent MLB Oakland A’s Area Scout TJ Barra MLB Sr. Baseball Data Quality Analyst Codi Miller-McIntyre Slovenia Cedevita Olimpija Dave Bush MLB Boston Red Sox Pitching Coach Dinos Mitoglou Greece Panathinaikos Michael Holmes MLB Amateur Scouting Director Troy Rike Philippines AMA Bill Masse MLB Miami Marlins Special Assignment Scout Devin Thomas Argentina Penarol Matt Price MLB Kansas City Royals Area Scouting Supervisor Terrence Thompson Georgia Kutaisi Mike Rikard MLB Boston Red Sox Vice President of Amateur Scouting Eric Schmitt MLB Yankees Director of Player Development Ty Walker Canada Windsor Andre Washington Bahrain Al-Hala MAJOR LEAGUES David Weaver Japan Kumamoto Minor League Ranks Johnny Aiello Toronto Blue Jays (A) Mitchell Wilbekin Turkey Konyaspor Carter Bach Tampa Bay Rays (Rookie) Coron Williams Mexico Dorados Ben Breazeale Free Agent L.D. Williams Egypt Sporting Will Craig Pittsburgh Pirates Keyshawn Woods Netherlands Rotterdam Parker Dunshee (AAA) Stuart Fairchild Cincinnati Reds (AA) Aaron Fossas Cincinnati Reds (AA) WOMEN’S BASKETBALL Patrick Frick Seattle Mariners (Short Season A) Dearica Hamby WNBA Las Vegas Aces and Italy Connor Johnstone Atlanta Braves (AA) Chelsea Douglas Romania Phoenix Constanta Garrett Kelly Chicago Cubs (High A) Amber Campbell Ireland Ambassador UCC Glanmire Cork Morgan McSweeney Baltimore Orioles (A) Nate Mondou Oakland Athletics (AA) Elisa Penna Italy Venezia Colin Peluse Oakland Athletics (Short Season A) Alex Sharp WNBL Perth Lynx D.J. Poteet Detroit Tigers Griffin Roberts St. Louis Cardinals (High A) FOOTBALL Jared Shuster Atlanta Braves Alex Bachman NFL WR NY Giants Donnie Sellers Toronto Blue Jays (High A) Gavin Sheets Chicago White Sox (AA) Essang Bassey NFL DB Denver Bruce Steel Kansas City Royals (A) Jessie Bates III NFL S Cincinnati Mac Williamson Free Agent Jake Benzinger NFL OL Free Agent Greg Dortch NFL WR/KR Free Agent WOMEN’S GOLF Duke Ejiofor NFL DE Houston Jennifer Kupcho LPGA Nate Gilliam NFL OL LA Chargers Natalie Sheary Symetra Sierra Sims Symetra Phil Haynes NFL OL Seattle Cheyenne Woods LPGA Amari Henderson NFL DB Jacksonville Justin Herron NFL OL New England MEN’S SOCCER Kendall Hinton NFL WR Free Agent Luis Argudo Inter Miami Kevin Johnson NFL CB Cleveland Jon Bakero Phoenix Rising FC Marquel Lee NFL LB Free Agent Corben Bone Louisville City FC Joe Looney NFL OL Dallas Joey DeZart Orlando City SC Brad Dunwell Oklahoma City Energy FC Justin Strnad NFL LB Denver Chris Duvall Portland Timbers (trial) Scotty Washington NFL WR Cincinnati Omir Fernandez Kyle Wilber NFL LB Oakland Sam Fink Saint Louis FC John Wolford NFL QB LA Rams Akira Fitzgerald Richmond Kickers Michael Gamble Loudoun United FC COACHES/STAFF Logan Gdula Charleston Battery Chad Alexander NFL NY Jets Dir Player Personnel Ian Harkes Dundee United (Scotland) Jack Harrison Manchester City/Leeds United Joe Kenn NFL Carolina Strength Coach Jacori Hayes Minnesota United FC John Spanos NFL Chargers Executive VP of Football Operations Alistair Johnston Nashville SC James MacPherson NFL Chargers Scout Bruno Lapa Birmingham Legion FC Brad Idzik NFL Seahawks Assistant WR coach Collin Martin Loyal SC Teryl Austin NFL Steelers Secondary coach Mark McKenzie Ike Opara Minnesota United FC Chip Vaughn NFL NY Jets Defensive assistant Sean Okoli Pinzgau Saalfelden (Australia) Calvin Pace Jr. NFL NY Jets Scouting intern Hayden Partain San Antonio FC Kevin Politz MEN’S GOLF Sam Raben Sporting II PGA Jalen Robinson Free Agent Brandon Servania FC Dallas Webb Simpson PGA Ema Twumasi FC Dallas/Austin Bold FC Billy Andrade Champions Champions COACHES/MLS FRONT OFFICE James Riley MLS Director of Player Relations Gary Hallberg Champions Kurt Schmid Inter Miami (Head Scout) Len Mattiace Champions Zack Schilawski North Carolina FC U23s (Assistant Coach) Kyle Reifers Stephen Keel MLS Social Media Manager Will Zalatoris Korn Ferry Tour Ryan Martin London Head Coach Lee Detmer G PRO John Hackworth Louisville FC Head Coach Mike McGinty NCFC Assistant Coach Kelvin Jones Academy Director FIELD HOCKEY Lauren Crandall USA National Team (Retired Fall 2016) WOMEN’S SOCCER Michelle Kasold USA National Team (Retired Spring 2017) Aubrey Bledsoe (NWSL) Melissa Gonzalez (Coach) USA National Team (Captain, Retired Summer 2018) Bayley Feist Washington Spirit (NWSL) Ally Haran (NWSL) Katie Stengel Houston Dash (NWSL) MEN’S TENNIS Sarah Teegarden Lille Olympique Sporting Club (Ligue 1 – France) Noah Rubin ATP Maddie Huster Kvarnsvedens IK (Swedish Premier League) Petros Chrysochos ITF Futures Skander Mansouri ITF Futures MEN’S BASKETBALL Borna Gojo ITF Futures Al-Farouq Aminu NBA Orlando Magic John Collins NBA Atlanta Hawks James Johnson NBA Minnesota Timberwolves WOMEN’S TENNIS Chris Paul NBA Emma Davis WTA Ishmael Smith NBA Washington Wizards Jeff Teague NBA Atlanta Hawks NASCAR PIT CREWS Jaylen Hoard NBA/G-League Portland Doral Moore NBA G-League Delaware Blue Coats Kevin Harris (football) No. 19 Joe Gibbs Racing (Daniel Suarez) Austin Arians Germany Schalke Spencer Bishop (football) No. 15 Premium Motorsports (Ross Chastain) Bryant Crawford Lithuania Juventus Dion Williams Motor Racing Network analyst 30 GOLD RUSH MAGAZINE COMPLIANCE CORNERPAGE // MILTON HEADER ROY

MILTON ROY NAME, IMAGE, ASSISTANT AD LIKENESS AWAITS As you may be aware, there is pending STRIDE features three different NCAA legislation that is likely to add new components focused on brand management, opportunities for student-athletes to education and compliance. As student- utilize their Name, Image and Likeness athletes prepare to utilize their NIL to (NIL) to both build their personal brand and take advantage of potential commercial take advantage of potential commercial opportunities, Athletics is focused on those opportunities that may arise from NIL. aforementioned ideals to help its student- As part of our commitment to providing athletes and staff be innovative with an a World Class Student-Athlete Experience, approach to this pending legislation. our staff announced last fall the creation As always, we encourage all our Alumni, of "STRIDE," an innovative program Donors and Friends of Wake Forest exclusively for Demon Deacons that will Athletics to contact me at [email protected] educate and empower them to build and should there be any questions related to amplify your personal brand. NCAA rules.

PROUD TO BE A DEMON DEACON! Women’s Golf ACC & East Regional Championship Teams 1994 & 1995

TORI BOYSEN Broker / REALTOR® 336-345-3499

[email protected]

A member of the franchise system of BHH Affiliates, LLC.

FEBRUARY 2021 31 We help customers grow.

PHILOSOPHY Our philosophy is to help our customers grow. By doing so, we grow, as well. Experience has taught us that the most important determinant for growth is investment in technology and people. So with an eye focused on the future, we invest heavily into our staff and into new technologies. Over100 years WHY CHOOSE HISTORY of high quality printing 1. Established in 1909, we have a rich MidAtlantic? history in the printing industry. 2. We are a family owned and operated company in our 3rd generation We help of management. 3. In 1990 we expanded our presence and grew into the Washington DC & Charlotte areas. customers 4. With more than 100 years of experience, we have learned a lot—and even managed to win some awards. We grow. have grown from a small letter shop to a Top 400 Leading Printing Company. PHILOSOPHY Our philosophy is to help our customers grow. Virginia • Washington DC • Greensboro • Charlotte • Wilmington By doing so, we grow, as well. Experience has taught us that the most important determinant for growth [email protected] ph. 888.231.3175 www.mapl.net is investment in technology and people. So with an eye focused on the future, we invest heavily into our staff and into new technologies. WHY CHOOSE HISTORY Check us out on social media! 1. Established in 1909, we have a rich MidAtlantic? history in the printing industry. 2. We are a family owned and operated company in our 3rd generation of management. We help 3. In 1990 we expanded our presence and grew into the Washington DC & Charlotte areas. t MidAtlantic Printers, we produce a variety customers 4. With more than 100 years of experience, A of products ranging from booklets, we have learned a lot—and even brochures, business cards, envelopes, flyers, grow. managed to win some awards. We pocket folders, post cards and more. have grown from a small letter shop to a PHILOSOPHY Top 400 Leading Printing Company. Our philosophy is to help our customers grow. By doing so, we grow, as well. Experience has taught FuLFILLMENT We have made a commitment to executing us that the most important determinant for growth is investment in technology and people. So with an speed, accuracy, and integrity in every step of eye focused on the future, we invest heavily into our Virginia • Washington DC • Greensboro • Charlotte • Wilmington staff and into new technologies. the prepress process to ensure you have the WHY CHOOSE [email protected] phe. 8COMMERCE88.231.3175 wwwHISTORY.mapl.net highest quality products. 1. Established in 1909, we have a rich MidAtlantic? history in the printing industry. 2. We are a family owned and operated Our mission is to grow, by providing world-class company in our 3rd generation PRINTING of management. quality and service to our customers through 3. In 1990 we expanded our presence and grew Check us out on social media! into the Washington DC & Charlotte areas.advanced technology, teamwork, and meeting 4. With more than 100 years of experience, we have learned a lot—and even each of their unique needs. Contact us today, to MAILING managed to win some awards. We have grown from a small letter shop to a Top 400 Leading Printing Company. find out how our services can help you GROW!

Virginia • Washington DC • Greensboro • Charlotte • Wilmington [email protected] ph. 888.231.3175 www.mapl.net (434) 369-6633 Virginia • Washington DC • Greensboro • Charlotte • Wilmington Check us out on social media!