South Charlotte Sports Report “HOMETOWN TEAMS ... HOMETOWN KIDS” Volume 7, Issue 7 www.southcharlottesports.com July 26, 2012 - FREE NORA MCCULLAGH SWIMS HER WAY TO GREAT SUCCESS
Written by Amanda Wynn, University of South Carolina “Making it to the trials is definitely something to won the 50-yard freestyle and also swam on the 200 be proud of,” Nora said. “I took so many memories and 400 freestyle relay teams the achieved state away from going to Omaha. It was great getting to championships. Both teams broke state records. Af- share the experience with my other teammates and ter such success, Nora earned All-American status coaches that helped me get to that point, and just for high school swimming. being able to see people’s Olympic dreams come With three more years of high school swimming true in person. I got chills every night during finals left, the sky is the limit for Nora. Her decision to watching races. It felt like I was watching a show work hard will only take her to more success in the with all the lighting and excitement going around at pool. Even with the lofty goals, Nora promises to the finals!” never let the fun escape the sport. Nora enjoyed being a part of such a large team “For the next three years in high school my goal and eventually cheering at the finals for SwimMAC is to just have fun and just keep working hard and teammates who made the team. If Nora can con- improving.” tinue her path to success, it will be another set of The participation in the Olympic Trials have cer- teenage girls possibly cheering her name in four or tainly provided the inspiration for Nora to continue eight years at the Olympic Trials. to success. So how did this fantastic swimmer make it this “After seeing and competing with swimmers from Photo Credit: Kate Weaver far in only 15 years? all over the US it definitely inspired me to strive to After starting at the age of seven at a small swim maybe one day make the team but at this point I’m club in Northern Michigan, Nora has devoted her- just focusing on the now and what it will take to get self to the sport that she loves. Nora and her fam- me there.” ily moved to Charlotte in 2009 and she continued With the high hopes in hand, Nora will continue her growth in the pool with SwimMAC. Nora was to work hard not only at swimming, but in the class- named to their national team and she works very room as well. She is a straight-A student and hopes hard to perform on a national level. The schedule is to be a Scholastic All-American next year. She has very demanding and requires more time than most learned to balance her responsibilities by not stress- sports in the area. ing about swimming or school too much, “just the At the age of fifteen, not many teenagers can say “We train 7 - 8 times a week during the school right amount to take me where I want to go!” that they have had the chance to compete in the year and 9 times a week in the summer. We do dry The South Charlotte Sports Report congratulates USA Olympic Trials. Most can only close their eyes land training about 3 times a week in addition to our Nora McCullagh on her recent success and we wish and dream of the opportunity. Charlotte Catholic swim workouts.” her nothing but the very best going forward. By sophomore swimmer Nora McCullagh was fortunate All of the training has certainly helped her be- combining success in the pool with an impressive enough to see this dream come true right in front of come a nationally recognized teenage swimmer. academic resume, Nora will always be a success in her eyes a few weeks ago in Omaha, NE. Some of her best times include 26.3 seconds in the life! The daughter of Mark and Mary McCullagh trav- 50-meter freestyle, 56.9 seconds in the 100-meter eled to Omaha with her team at SwimMAC for the freestyle and a 2:00.6 in the 200-yard backstroke. chance to compete for a spot on the USA Olympic After wrapping up her first season as a Charlotte team. Nora competed in the 50 and 100 freestyle Catholic Cougar, Nora played a great role in the events against swimmers from all over the country. team’s success this year. The girl’s team won its 11th She trained very hard for this rare opportunity and straight state championship with eight individual @SCSportsReport enjoyed every minute of it; it was an experience she state championships and six new state records. The will never forget. Although she did not swim any per- Cougars won in all but four of the events at the meet; sonal bests, she is still happy with her performance. coming in second in the ones they did not win. Nora
Looking for players for your team or league? Support the growth of youth sports Market your business or service to the families Let all of our readers know! of South Charlotte and Northern Union County Advertise in the Advertise with very affordable rates South Charlotte Sports Report from the South Charlotte Sports Report 704-906-5466 or [email protected] 704-906-5466 or [email protected] Page Volume 7, Issue 7 South Charlotte Panthers 2014 Team Takes 2nd in Perfect Game 16U National Championship
240 of the top 16U travel teams in the nation arrived at the East Cobb Baseball Complex outside Atlanta on Friday July 13, 2012 to do battle in the Perfect Game 16U WWBA Wood Bat National Championship. This prestigious week-long event is held once a year and attracts the best baseball talent in the nation, as well as scouts from most major Division 1 colleges located on the East Coast. Travel teams representing 21 states attended the event and the tournament is so large that over 40 local Atlanta high school and recreational ball fields are utilized in addition to the East Cobb complex.
After 874 games of baseball and numerous rain and schedule delays over the 7 days, two teams survived to arrive at the championship game at Georgia Tech stadium; the South Charlotte Panthers 2014 team with a record of 11-0 and Team Georgia with a record of 9-1-1. The Panthers had to win three games in less than 12 hours just to get through to the semi-finals. The Panthers then faced off against pre-tournament favorite and #2 seed Florida Travel Ball (FTB) in the semi-final contest. The Panthers scored early and steadily added to the lead to take a 6-2 advantage into the seventh inning and held on to record a final 6-3 win. However, in their 12th game of the week and 6th in 48 hours the Panther bats were silenced and the Panthers gave up a fateful unearned run in the top of the 7th inning. They failed to score in the last half of the seventh, despite putting the tying run on base, to take a 1-0 loss in the championship game.
The Panthers recorded very impressive statistics during the event, despite not grabbing the crown. They finished pool play with a 7-0 record and entered the 32 team single elimination playoff round as the #3 overall seed having allowed only 5 runs. They finished with the best overall record of any team in the tournament (11-1) and recorded the lowest runs allowed of any team (1.0 allowed per game) and outscored their opponents 83-12 (best run differential of any team in the tournament). The Panthers relied on the fundamentals of baseball; strong pitching, good defense and timely hitting to put their championship run together and each member of the team stepped up and contributed when needed.
Outstanding individual performances in the tournament included: Ryder Ryan 18-33 (.545) 5-Doubles; 2-HR; 9 RBIs and a win on the mound in the semi-finals. Harris Yett 9-19 (.473) 3-Doubles; 5 RBIs. Alex Destino 15-35 (.429) 5-Doubles; 6 RBIs. Two Wins on the mound with 15 K in 7 IP. Josh Crump 10-26 (.385) 7 RBIs; 4 Sacrifices; 9 Walks. Andrew Loepprich Win and Save. 10 IP; 0 R; 3 H; 7 K. Walk off Grand Slam HR. Corey Sikes 2 Saves 10 IP; 1 R; 6 H; 11 K. Doug Norman 2 Wins 9 IP; 3 R; 6 H; 6 K.
In addition, eight Panthers were named to the All-Tournament Team - Ryder Ryan; Josh Crump; Bradley Brown; Alex Destino; Bailey Ober; Corey Sikes; Doug Norman and Andrew Loepprich. The 2014 team was formed in the fall of 2011 and has accumulated an impressive 58 - 8 record so far with several regional championships under their belt. The team consists of nineteen class of 2014 rising Juniors from Greater Charlotte area high schools: 0 JOSH CRUMP Northwestern HS OF 1 NICK OWENS Charlotte Christian MIF 3 DANIEL CALABRETTA Weddington HS MIF 8 TOMMY DEJUNEAS Providence HS IF/OF/P 10 LOGAN BEEHLER Ardrey Kell HS P/1B 11 MAX GARNER Ardrey Kell HS C/IF/OF 12 FOSTER MACHICOTE Ardrey Kell HS OF/P 13 ALEX DESTINO N. Buncombe HS LHP/OF 15 RYDER RYAN North Meck HS 3B/C/P 17 GRANT WENTZEL Lake Norman HS IF/OF/P 19 RYAN ROSS Mt. Pleasant HS P/1B 21 DOUG NORMAN Ardrey Kell HS IF/P 23 HARRIS YETT South Meck HS C/1B 24 BRANDON CASAS Hough HS P/1B 27 ANDREW LOEPPRICH Charlotte Country Day P/OF 31 COREY SIKES Piedmont HS P/OF 33 JACOB HENDERSON Marvin Ridge HS OF 35 COLTON LAWS Carson HS RHP/1B 45 BRADLEY BROWN Richmond Sr. HS C/1B The South Charlotte Panthers (SCP) organization was formed by Don Hutchins in 1998 and recruits some of the top baseball talent in the Greater Charlotte area to compete on the national level in PerfectGame, USA Baseball and other regional showcase events. The SCP teams (2014 and 2013) are based and practice in the South Charlotte area. The goal is to secure a college baseball scholarship for each player who wants to continue to play baseball beyond high school. The South Charlotte Panthers organization is not only focused on building better baseball players, but also on building better young men as well. Coach Hutchins sets strict requirements on academics and character in order for players to enter and remain in the program. SCP alumni include hundreds of current and former top D1 baseball players as well as current and former professional players.
Keep an eye out for these young men over the next few years as we are sure you are going to be hearing about them as they progress from high school on to col- leges throughout the ACC, SEC, C-USA, Big South, etc. And you never know, maybe even on to “The Show” for some of them. Volume 7, Issue 7 Page
STUDENT-ATHLETES OF THE WEEK CHRISTIAN CRENSHAW RAGAN BROOME Ardrey Kell High School senior baseball player, Christian Ragan Broome, a rising sophomore at Weddington High Crenshaw, has been named this week’s Architech Sports School has been named this week’s Architech Sports and Physical Therapy Student Athlete of the Week. The and Physical Therapy Student Athlete of the Week. The son of Dave and Diane Crenshaw plays outfield for the daughter of Doug Broome and Susan Bodnar and step- Knights. Christian has enjoyed a successful career at Ar- daughter of Leigh Ann Broome plays second base and drey Kell both on the field and inside the classroom. shortstop for the Weddington High School softball team. With three years remaining in high school, Ragan looks Christian has been playing baseball since he was four forward to continuing to excel in the sport she loves. years old and travel ball since he was eight. After being named captain of the junior varsity team his sophomore Ragan began playing softball at age four and has loved it year, Christian earned a spot on the varsity team this past ever since. She currently plays travel softball for the 16U year. He has had a perfect fielding percentage during his NC Outlaws. Ragan also played in the Powerade State time playing at Ardrey Kell. This summer, Christian has Games and earned all-conference honors as a freshman. stayed busy playing showcase baseball for Coach Mike In addition, Ragan was named to compete in the 4th An- Gardiner’s Stealth team and training to be as strong as nual Battle of the Border All Star Showcase Games this possible for his senior year with the Knights. past June. She has thoroughly enjoyed her time playing at Weddington and was very proud of how well her team Along with being such a devoted baseball player, Chris- Photo Credit: Jenny Lloyd did in the playoffs this past year. Even after devoting so tian maintains an impressive 3.9 grade point average and much of her time to softball, Ragan still maintains a 3.5 is also a member of the National Honor Society. He works grade point average. hard to keep a balance between baseball and school and has learned how to succeed in both. Congratulations to Congratulations Ragan Broome on being named the Christian Crenshaw on being named the Architech Sports Architech Sports and Physical Therapy Student Athlete and Physical Therapy Student Athlete of the Week! of the Week
ARCHITECH SPORTS AND PHYSICAL THERAPY Blakeney Office: 8918 Blakeney Professional Drive Suite 120 | Charlotte, NC 28277 | Ph. 704-900-8960 Indian Trail Office: 1001 Van Buren Avenue Suite 3 | Indian Trail, NC 28079 | Ph. 704-628-6053 www.architechsports.com Physical Therapy for Athletes and Weekend Warriors * Sports Performance * Soccer Speed and Agility Baseball Pitching Arm Care Evaluations * Female Jumpmetrics Training * Coaches Care Programs All programs in conjunction with Morrison Family YMCA
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If you are interested in learning more about our THUNDER baseball family, please email [email protected] Page SOUTH CHARLOTTE SPORTS REPORT Volume 7, Issue 7 BEYOND THE GAME WITH MICHAEL YARUSSI Cuthbertson High School class of 2012 When did you first hear from Belmont Abbey and what led you to member, Michael Yarussi, has overcome choose them? many obstacles to find success on the soc- “I first heard from Belmont Abbey when they invited me to attend a recruit- cer field and in the classroom. In October ing weekend. I loved being on the campus and their biology program led me of 2011, Michael was involved in a scary to choose them. The Head Coach John Keating led me to choose their soccer accident while riding a school bus on a program because of the morals and expectations he sets for his team. As John field trip. He has fought hard to battle Keating quotes.” back from the concussion suffered in the accident and two other concussions that “We want professors, Abbey fans and alumni, opposition players, fans and followed, to continue his wonderful soccer coaches to be blown away by our demeanor and habits on and off the field. career. The son of Mike and Chris Yarussi We want to win (and suffer losses) with the kind of class that gets atten- will continue his education and soccer tion. At the heart of classiness, are two related virtues: respect and humility. career at Belmont Abbey College this fall. From the way we study for classes, conduct ourselves in dormitories, react to Let’s go Beyond The Game with Michael bad refereeing, train and compete to the condition in which we leave locker Yarussi to learn more about his journey to rooms, we want to ooze class. Classiness is a starting point for holiness, and success. there is NOTHING MORE ATTRACTIVE than holiness. (John Keating, non- legend) “ Can you tell our readers all about your high school athletic career? What are your college goals? “I began my high school athletic career “I plan to study Biology and Pre-Medicine in college. My goal is to graduate playing junior varsity soccer at Marvin from Belmont Abbey and be accepted into medical school.” Ridge High School. I was then rezoned to Cuthbertson High School and began playing varsity soccer for Nelson Garner. While playing for Nelson I received What is your top memory from Cuthbertson soccer? All Conference and All Region my junior and senior year. I also served as “My top memory from Cuthbertson soccer is the feeling I would get before captain my senior year. Nelson expected nothing but superior character, at- every home game. Beginning with Nelson Garner’s pre-game speech in titude, and work-ethic. These expectations solidified who I wanted to be.” the locker room, walking onto the field , warming up, and hearing the first whistle to start the game. Being a part of such an amazing school and soccer What position do you play and what are your responsibilities at that program was an unforgettable experience. “ position? “I play a central defensive position. When playing this position you are re- How did you perform in the classroom? sponsible for the defenders next to you as well as the defensive midfielders in “I performed well in the classroom. I took three AP courses with B averages front of you. My position on the field is very important and I must make sure as well as many Honors courses. Throughout my high school career, I took the positioning of everyone around me is flawless. Leadership is key. “ part in many clubs including; Beta Club, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Mu Alpha Theta, Key Club, FCCLA, and Leadership.” Let’s go back to October 2011, tell me what you can about the acci- dent and how you fought back from the injuries? “I was returning home from a very long bus ride from Raleigh, NC for a National FCCLA trip for school. Like everyone else on the bus, the bus driver was very tired and caught the lip of the road. The driver over-corrected as the bus spun out of control, spinning and rolling into a nearby ditch. Luckily nobody was seriously injured. I managed to come out of the accident with my first concussion which took me two weeks to recover from. I just made it back in time to play in the playoffs for my high school team which unfortunately ended at the third round.”
I understand you also suffered a couple of other concussions follow- ing the bus accident? “After my first concussion, two more followed occurring on the pitch. These were a little harder to recover from and took an enormous amount of pa- tience and self-discipline. I recovered in time to play my senior year of high school. A concussion will affect you both physically and mentally. I was only allowed to attend half days of school and with three AP classes and honors classes it was extremely challenging to keep up, but I was able to finish school with a 3.7095 GPA.”
Pruitt Keener Insurance Services, Inc. 8832 Blakeney Professional Dr. Suite 203 Charlotte, NC 28277 704-759-1300 www.pruittkeener.com Volume 7, Issue 7 SOUTH CHARLOTTE SPORTS REPORT Page MYERS PARK TRINITY LITTLE LEAGUE ALL-STARS FIND SUCCESS The Myers Park 10-11-year-old all-star team captured the District 3 Champion- ship with a 10-0, 4-inning victory over Weddington Nationals on Wade Field at Myers Park. The team blew through district play in four games. The pitching staff allowed no earned runs and the defense was stellar all week. The championship game was high- lighted by a 2-hit shutout thrown by Henry Merchant, an incredible 3rd-inning end- ing play from the hole by Patrick Alvarez and a double play by Khristian Ellington at 3rd base that set up the final strikeout. When a team scores 51 runs in four games, obviously the bats are red hot, which was the case for Myers Park. The boys wasted no time, jumping out to a 7-0 lead in the 1st inning of game 1 over TOC champ Weddington American. That game ended 10-0 on a game-winning sac fly by Pres Cavenaugh in the 4th that drove in Ben Heaton. Game 2 was a 22-1, 4-inning affair over Dilworth that included 2 home runs by Raul Beltran, 4 doubles by Ellington and home runs by Alvarez and Hayden MalCarolina- Cougars Travel Baseball Team - 11U Tryouts chesky. Alvarez hit another home run in Game 3’s 9-1 win over Weddington National. He didn’t stop in the championship game, hitting a home run and 2 doubles. Mal- Carolina Cougars chesky also homered again, and Merchant had 2 hits and the complete game victory.Carolina Cougars 11U travel baseball team will be having open This makes three banners by the Little League Class of 2013. The age group won Travel Baseball Team - 11U Tryouts TOC banners at ages 9 and 10, and they now have the District Tournament bannertryouts for the Fall (2012) and Spring (2013) Season on the they wanted so badly. With those three banners, they are the most decorated class in Myers Park Trinity history. Carolina Cougarsfollowing 11U travel days: baseball team will The team moved forward to the state championship (their third in the past five years) in Morganton this past week. After winning their first game, they were elimi- be having open tryouts for the Fall (2012) and nated two rounds later. The South Charlotte Sports Report sends out our congratula- Spring (2013) Seasonth on the following days: th tions to this outstanding group of boys. Saturday, August 4 and Sunday, August 5 If you are interested in learning more about our team, please emailSaturday, us: [email protected] August 4th and Sunday, August 5th If you are interested in learning more about our team, please email us: [email protected]
Current openings for student athletes ages 11-18
The Myers Park Trinity Little League 11-year-old All-Star team, District 3 Champs.
(L-R) Ben Heaton, Alexander Donald, Raul Beltran, Pres Cavenaugh, Patrick Alvarez, McRae Gage, Drew Robelen, Khristian Ellington, Thomas Fetter, Henry Merchant, Hayden Malchesky. Coaches (L-R) Josh Thomas, Jason Wishnefsky (Mgr), Nick Londy. Schools and Athletic Associations: Are you looking for a dependable, customer service based photo partner for your Team Photo Days?
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Call Tripp Roakes at 704-906-5466 or email [email protected] to learn more about our program. Page SOUTH CHARLOTTE SPORTS REPORT Volume 7, Issue 7 Volume 7, Issue 7 SOUTH CHARLOTTE SPORTS REPORT Page
Athletes All hAve One thing in COmmOn
They Can PreTTy MuCh eaT Like horses. Okay, so maybe they have more than one thing in common—like a drive for excellence, to deliver their best, all the time. Hey, looks like we have a lot in common with them! And we understand that appeasing big appetites should be done with big, family style portions made with delicious recipes, served up in a place that can accommodate and entertain just about any group or function.
teAm Of the Week The 7th grade Charlotte Jets AAU Basketball Team has been enjoying a suc- SOUTH PARK YOUTH ASSOCIATION cessful season by winning four tournaments so far this year. The Jets narrowly missed winning their 5th tournament by one point in a championship game 12U ALL STAR TEAM earlier this season. The team has won 10 out of their last 11 games. The South Park Youth Association 12U All Star Team recently won the North Carolina Dixie Youth Majors State Championship, their 3rd state title. The team First Row: (L-R) Corey Davis, Caswell Wyatt, Jamius Stevenson. will now attend their second Dixie Youth World Series in Bartow, FL. In addition to Second Row: (L-R) Antario DuBose, Bates Jones, Jake Sheridan, Jordan numerous district championships, this same group of boys were named as the Greater Evans Charlotte Hot Stove League Youth Team of the Year in 2011. Congratulations to the Third Row: (L-R) Coach Steve Davis, Damarus Stone, James Ormond, South Park Youth Association 12U All Star Team for being named the Buca Di Beppo Team of the Week. and Coach Steve Sheridan.
Bottom Row: (L-R) Reilly Koren, Colin Wholey, Kyle Wood, Justin Murray, Sean Caldwell, Sean Rogan, Spencer Kraizel The WCWAA 9U All Star team won the Little League 9U State Championship. Top Row: (L-R) Ron Caldwell (Manager), Darrell Murray (Coach), Hank The team went undefeated in the Tournament of Champions as well as the State Borda, Jake Peter, Grayson Hickert, Baylor Molnar, John Tournament. Miralia, Bill Borda (Coach) Front Row: (L-R) Matt Tisdell, John Gouin, Will Ledford, Connor Charity >ÊÌÊLÊÞÕÀÊiÛiÌÊÌ`>Þ]Ê>`Ê>ÃÊ>LÕÌÊÕÀÊÕLi>Ì>LiÊ}ÀÕ«Ê«>V>}iÃ°Ê Back Row: (L-R) Ethan Zulueta, Connor Higgins, Carson Fitzgerald, Pineville Gerald Carsillo, Jason Traub, Brandon Hudson, John £ä£xÊ ," Ê* Ê*, 79ÊUÊÇä{°x{Ó°x£{È bucadibeppo.com Riden, Connor Seward Coaches: Eric Riden (left) Art Fitzgerald (right) Page SOUTH CHARLOTTE SPORTS REPORT Volume 7, Issue 7 SWIMMER SPOTLIGHT ON EMMA TOMASZEWSKI YOUTH BASEBALL & SOFTBALL SIGN-UPS
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Charlotte Catholic High School Class of 2012 graduate, Emma Tomasze- wski, recently completed a fantastic swimming career for the Cougars. The 18-year-old daughter of Ron and Lisa Tomaszewski is slated to swim Ages 4-18 years old for Stony Brook University in the Fall. Let’s place the swimmer spotlight on Emma to learn more. REGISTER ONLINE AT: SouthCharlotteRec.com What brought you to the sport and what do you most enjoy about it? “I always enjoyed being in the water when I was young, leading me to T-Ball swim lessons and later to this team. Now what I enjoy most is the time I get with the friends I have made and with myself when my head is under Rookie Machine Pitch the water.” What is your favorite stroke? Machine Pitch “Freestyle, it is my best as long as the event is a 200 or longer.”
Who inspires you, and why? Minors “My mom, because whenever I get down on myself for not preforming my best… she agrees but always has the right things to say to inspire me to do better the next time, she really helps to push me to be the best that I Majors can.”
What is the most important thing a coach has ever taught you? Babe Ruth “Keep my head down and just swim my own race.”
What is your proudest accomplishment in and out of the pool? 13-14, 15-16, 17-18 & “IN – Prior to graduation I would have said the four state championship teams I was part of at Charlotte Catholic. But being able to swim as an NCAA Division 1 collegiate athlete is now probably my proudest accom- Softball U8 Modified Coach Pitch, plishment. Out of the pool I have helped to rescue hundreds of dogs dur- ing my high school years through volunteer work at a local dog rescue.” U10, U12 & U15U16 Do you have any words of advice for someone just beginning to swim competitively? “It takes true commitment and dedication to excel in swimming and you will always get out what you put in so work hard because it’ll pay off.” To Register or for More Information, Please Visit: Where do you think you will be in 5 years? “Hopefully I will be in graduate school working to earn a degree in Vet- www.southcharlotterec.com erinary Medicine.” For Any Questions Please Contact: Do you have any other hobbies or are you involved in any other
6626341 [email protected] activities? “In addition to swimming I am a member of my high school marching band, of which I was president this past year. I also volunteer much of We appreciate the support of our community! my time at a local dog rescue as well as an equine rescue.” To help us grow and promote the student-athlete concept, What is your favorite subject in school? “Mathematics, It was always the subject I was able to grasp the quickest please advertise with us! and I enjoy the concept of solving a problem and finding and answer.” [email protected] Volume 7, Issue 7 Page Wired for Excellence Award Recognizing Academic and Athletic Excellence MAX LAHN Sarah Post ProvidenceOr aut am Day duismodit School aliquat 8th grader, ad ea facincilla Max Lahn, faci haseros been ad dolorem named ad the molorercilis Quimby and nis Collinsdolore Or- thodonticstis dionsen “Wired iamcon for ut Excellence” lorem do consectem Award Winner. enis eugait Max nibh is exeraestothe 13 year er oldse conulputet, son of Jonathan and Jennifervelessi Lahnonsen and iamco. he plays baseball and basketball for the Chargers teams. Max also plays travel baseball for the East Coast Swingmen Black Team. Aliquisl dunt enim quatue tissecte diat, velesenisit, velesto eugait velismod do dunt nim Maxverit says lortie his ex favorite esto odipisit memory prat ondelisl the et baseball nibh et, fieldconse is mincilisl winning del the dipsustrud NC Dixie ex Youthex endipit State Tour- namentaugiamcon and hitting henim adhis magnisci first home tat. Gaitrun wisat Cooperstown accum vulla feum Dreams nim quatemPark. ipsumsanMax also is vel very irit proud of beingvullaore named feugiat to luptat. play inUt thenulland 4th rerilitAnnual at, coremBattle doloreof the Bordererostio oditAll Starautem Showcase illa facipit Games. num On thedolore baseball eum field, aliquisi Maxeugait plays adigna second faccum base, dolore outfield duismod and olessedpitcher diatumsfor his team. andrem Hevolorper finished his seasonsit vent with praesto a batting dolestrud average euguero over .400.et, conse core dui te verosto odolestrud magna faccum nulputat, qui blam velessequam quis dolore tionse magna consect etueros nulla conulla Insidefeuisis the sequat. classroom, Ut nullutpat, Max works vercinibh hard exercip to maintain sustrud his dionsed place exeriustrudon the Honor eui exRoll enim and his favor- venibh esequis duisl et, commy nonullaore facilis nulput wis nulla faci tatetumsan hent iure ite class this past year was math. Congratulations to Max Lahn for being named the Quimby consed delisci liquisc illummo lorper in vullam zzrilisl ea faccumsan ut irit la facidunt ipisim and Collins Orthodontics “Wired for Excellence” Award Winner. velesse quatinci. autem illa facipit num dolore eum aliquisi eugait adigna faccum dolore duismod olessed diatums andrem volorper sit vent praesto dolestrud euguero et, conse Wouldcore youdui telike verosto to nominate odolestrud an elementarymagna faccum or nulputat,middle school qui blam student velessequam for The quis Quimby dolore andtionse Collins magna Orthodontics consect etueros. Wired For Excellence Award? Send your nominations to [email protected]
Winning Smiles 8125 Ardrey Kell Road Charlotte NC 28277 704-443-0006 PACKERSwww.quimbyandcollins.com
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Youth Tackle Football
ROCsports, the sports ministry at Carmel Baptist Church, is now registering for the South Charlotte Packers youth tackle football teams.
The Packers, part of the Piedmont Youth Football League, sponsors teams in 3 age groups:
7-9 (Preps - 140 lbs weight limit)
10-11 (JV - 160 lbs weight limit)
12-13 (Varsity - 200 lbs weight limit)
We are also seeking some coaches as well.
For more details and to register today, go to www.rocsports.org
Questions can be addressed to Bill Smith at (704) 815-1175. Page 10 SOUTH CHARLOTTE SPORTS REPORT Volume 7, Issue 7 BEYOND THE GAME WITH DEREK SMITH Derek Smith, a rising senior at Marvin Matthews Softball Assoc. Ridge High School, has managed to do something not many people have the ability of doing as a high school student athlete. Derek excels at not just one sport at Marvin Ridge; he excels at Girls Fast Pitch Softball two. He has played both football and baseball for the past three years and has still done well academically. He works hard to maintain a balance of ev- Fall 2012 Sign-ups erything he does and looks forward to his senior year at Marvin Ridge. Derek recently committed to play baseball at Army. He will join the incoming class *MSA is a softball association of cadets following his senior season at Marvin Ridge High School. operating exclusively for girls Let’s go Beyond the Game with Derek Smith to learn more of his athletic success. ages 4-16. What are your top three athletic accomplishments? “I have been the Varsity Shortstop at Marvin Ridge since my freshman year. I was Freshmen of the year in football and, All- *MSA is a member of the Conference & Defensive Player of the Year in baseball.”
Tell me about your baseball career? Char-Meck Girls Softball Association. “I played for WCWAA and won two state championships in Little League, then I played middle school baseball for Marvin Ridge Middle, next I played for Marvin Ridge High School starting my *Assessments held on freshmen year at shortstop. Following my sophomore year of high school, I played for South Charlotte Panthers” Saturday, August 4, 2012 How excited are you about the opportunity to serve your country and play baseball at West Point? “Being recruited by ARMY and having the opportunity to serve at Matthews Elementary my country, attain a degree from West Point and play Division 1 Baseball is like a dream come true. I would like to thank all that **Financial Assistance Available** helped in this process starting with my high school Mark Men- nitt for playing me all four years at the varsity level, the local baseball centers in the area for their support and references and specially my travel ball coach/manager Don Hutchins of the South Charlotte Panthers who showcased me around the entire Register NOW online at southeast over the past 2 years. Our travel ball team is ranked nationally and is among the elite both on and off the field, without his support this opportunity may not have presented itself.” www.matthewssoftball.org
What are your plans for the Summer? Next year? “I plan on playing the rest of the summer with the South Char- lotte Panthers while playing football starting at Wide Receiver and Free Safety for Marvin Ridge. Next summer I will play for the Union County Legion team and continue to work on base- ball.”
How well do you perform in the classroom? “I made the A/B Honor Roll last year and I am in the Fellowship of Christian Athletes.”
How have you learned to balance your success both on the field and off the field? “Time management and prioritizing. It’s hard being a dual sport athlete and a good student but I have great teachers and coaches that help me maintain my grades and my sports.”
“CharlottePreps.tviswithouta doubtthearea’sdefinitive websiteforhighschoolfootball videosandgamenightscoring updatesinMecklenburgCounty.” MichaelFelder,inthebleachers.net
Join us this fall for great Charlotte prep football content and updates. Send us your idea for a video feature of your high school. (email [email protected])
@CharlottePreps Charlotte Preps TV Volume 7, Issue 7 Page 11
FALL 2012 REC SOCCER REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN
• Programs for ages 3 – 18 years old • Technical Training Clinics Mon, Tue & Wed • CSA REC CUP U8 – U12 Teams • U8 Rec Select Teams • Full time CSA Staff on field • Training & weekly lesson plans provided to Coaches
Registration deadline August 19th
We are the 4th largest recreational program in North Carolina and growing! Come see what everyone is talking about.
To register or for more information:
www.charlottesocceracademy.com
Questions, please contact Abby: [email protected] Page 12 SOUTH CHARLOTTE SPORTS REPORT Volume 7, Issue 7 BEYOND THE GAME WITH SARAH THORNBURG
Written by Amanda Wynn, University of South Carolina
Varsity as we won two more Conference Cham- son once again and hopefully to a 5 peat win in the pionships. Those were enhanced by the fact that Conference Tournament Championship.” I was playing with some girls who have been my teammates since I was eight and that three of us How do you perform academically? started playing for Coach Bove for the 10U Char- “I have a 4.0 weighted GPA taking honors and AP lotte Blaze.” classes. I am on the Senior Class Council this year and was on Junior Class Council last year. I’m also What have been some of your greatest ac- in the National Honor Society and have been a complishments as a player? part of Spanish Club at AK.” “Some of my greatest accomplishments as a player would be when I was the only one who got moved How have you learned to balance softball up to Varsity my freshman year. Another accom- and schoolwork? plishment of mine is that I learned how to be a “I go to softball practice everyday right after switch hitter and now lead my team off from the school for three hours, by the time I get home left side but I’m still able to turn around and hit I don’t have much time left in my day. I have righty when necessary.” learned that I should quickly get on my schoolwork and I am able to manage it extremely well, I tend What are you looking forward to most about to make better grades when I am busy and don’t your senior year on the team? have time to put off my work.” “I look forward to leading the team to a great sea- GRAND SLAM BASEBALL IS HERE
The Grand Slam ATHLETICS are here and we are hosting our Fall tryout at MARA PARK on Aug 4th @ 11:00am - 2:00pm. Ardrey Kell softball player, Sarah Thornburg, has been a big part of the Knights’ success for the This tryout will be for our 11U team. past three years. As a member of one of the best All ballplayers ages 10-11 are welcome to tryout. high school softball teams in the area, Sarah has Tryout fee is $10.00. grown as a player and made many great memo- ries over the years as well. The daughter of Ken Tryouts will be conducted by position only. and Kay Thornburg will begin her senior year in Every ballplayer will submit a primary and the fall and is looking forward to what her last season has in store. secondary position which he plays. For sign up forms please e-mail or call Coach Garcia Let’s go Beyond the Game with Sarah Thornburg to learn more about her success as a player. [email protected] or call 704-993-7140
What has been one of your favorite memories playing at Ardrey Kell? MARA PARK IS LOCATED @ “My favorite memory playing at AK would have 1200 South Trade Street to be my Freshman year when we beat Butler in NC the Conference Tournament up at UNCC after Matthews nc 28105 they had already beat us twice in the regular season.”
What have you learned during your past three years on the team? “The past three years on the team I have learned from Coach Bove to never give up, we have had several comebacks. After start- ing off this past season with more losses than wins we came together as a team and won ten straight games making it to the third round of state playoffs.”
Can you tell our readers about your softball career to date? “I began playing softball when I was six years old for Park Sharon. When I was eight, I started travel ball for the Charlotte Blaze 8U team. I continued to play for the Charlotte Blaze up until fall of my sophomore year. I played middle school ball in 7th and 8th grade for the Community House Cavaliers and we were conference champs both years. As a freshman I moved to Varsity for the conference tournament and state playoffs. My sophomore and junior year I started on Volume 7, Issue 7 SOUTH CHARLOTTE SPORTS REPORT Page 13
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The Carolina Select Lacrosse U11 Team competed at halftime of a recent Equipment Charlotte Hounds Professional Lacrosse Game. Team members included: Coach PJ Bonfilio, Matthew D’Allaird, Jonny We Pay Cash for Your Used Gear! Luther,Jay Blewett, Will Shipley, James Shipley,Nick Newlin, Peter Bonfilio, Carson Cross, Sean Brown, Jared Papke, Mason Weaver, Nathan Fasanaro, Landon Fasanaro, Spencer Williams, Ryan Goldstein, Jack Fitch, Carter Blessing, Tucker Duplesis, Finn Gleason, Ryan Tezzi, Baseball . Lacrosse . Football
Not pictured: Aiden Brosterhous, Coach Matt Gates, Coach Jackson Marshall Exercise/Fitness . Golf . Hockey ATTENTION! SEND US YOUR TEAM NEWS, 704-540-6339 TEAM PHOTOS AND STUDENT-ATHLETE STORY IDEAS! 8332 PINEVILLE-MATTHEWS ROAD [email protected] Page 14 SOUTH CHARLOTTE SPORTS REPORT Volume 7, Issue 7 SOUTH CHARLOTTE ATHLETES: WHERE ARE THEY NOW? In continuing with a six year summer tradition, The South Charlotte Sports Report takes a look at former South Charlotte Student-Athletes and how they are performing in college. To share the news of your son or daughter, please email [email protected]
Amanda Clark (Marvin Ridge) – Coastal Caro- Chris Overman (Myers Park) NC State Baseball: Brad Collins (Weddington) Gardner Webb Base- lina Soccer: Amanda appeared in five games Chris appeared in 28 games as a senior and record- ball: Brad started 56 games for the Bulldogs this making two starts as she battled injuries much of ed 6 saves with a 2.91 earned run average. spring. He batted .279 with 5 HR’s and 29 RBI’s. the season ... Was in the Chanticleers’ opening day starting lineup at midfielder ... Played a season- Abbey Leitner (Myers Park) NC State Cheerlead- Ryan Hodge (Butler) Gardner Webb Baseball: high 34 minutes against Cincinnati in the College of ing: Abbey is a member of the Large Co-ed Cheer Ryan led the team with a .315 batting average this Charleston Tournament squad at NC State. The Wolfpack has been recog- spring. He recorded 23 RBI’s and scored 46 runs. nized as one of the top cheer teams in the country. Alyssa Clark (Marvin Ridge) Coastal Carolina Prince Shembo (Ardrey Kell) Notre Dame Soccer: Earned second team All-Big South honors Rachel Frick (Providence) – NC State Volleyball: University Football: Prince is an outside linebacker for her efforts along the Chanticleer backline ... Rachel will enter into her sophomore season as a for the Fighting Irish. He was second in depth chart Recorded one goal and a team leading three assists member of the NC State Volleyball Team. his freshman year with 15 tackles and 4.5 sacks. to tally five points from her outside back position ... His sophomore year, he has position switch, and Appeared in all 19 games for the Chanticleers mak- Bailey Woodling (Providence) NC State Swim- recorded 31 tackles with 2 sacks. He is expected to ing 15 starts ming: Bailey competed in the backstroke, butterfly, start in his junior year as an outsider linebacker. and sprint freestyle events during the season for the Haley Kapheim (Weddington) UNC-Wilmington Wolfpack. Cross Country: Haley is one of the top runners for the Seahawks Cross Country Team, She competed LUKE BARD in every event for the team this past year with three top-20 finishes. Charlotte Christian School graduate Luke Bard was the 42nd selection in the 2012 Major League Baseball First- Blake Parsley (Ardrey Kell) Wingate Baseball: Year Player Draft last month. The Georgia Tech student Blake appeared in 16 games for the Bulldogs as a was drafted by the Minnesota Twins in the supplemental pitcher. He recorded a 1.69 earned run average for first round. the team. Luke was putting up fantastic numbers for the ACC Cham- Jordan Newsome (Weddington) Wingate Base- pions before suffering an arm injury and missing the second ball: Jordan appeared in 10 games for the Bulldogs half of his junior season.. The right handed pitcher had as a pitcher. He recorded 16 strikeouts in those made 11 appearances and three starts before the injury, with appearances. 0.99 ERA, 26 strikeouts and six walks in 27 1/3 innings. He was 1-0 with a pair of saves. Sarah Burnick (Providence Day) Wingate Bas- ketball: Sarah appeared in 15 games for the Lady In his career at Georgia Tech Luke pitched to a 3.47 ERA, Bulldog’s this season. She averaged nearly 3 points a 3-2 record and 12 saves in 55 appearances (103 2/3 in- per game for the team. nings). His career ERA ranks 20th all-time at Tech, while his 12 saves rank tied for ninth. Keon Williams (Providence) Gardner Webb Football: Keon played in 10 games and recorded 35 Luke was an Academic All-ACC pick in 2011 was drafted out tackles for the Bulldogs last fall. of Charlotte Christian in the 16th round by Boston in 2009.
LADY BLUES SOFTBALL TRYOUTS
The Lady Blues Martin 16U team will be holding tryouts on August 11th and 12th from 1-3 pm at Weddington Middle School. Interested players (97’s and 98’s) should plan to attend both sessions. The Lady Blues are one of the best known and most respected organizations in the country and will provide a quality, supportive environment for young ladies to pursue their dream of academic excellence and playing college softball. Since the fall of 2003, all Lady Blues high school seniors that had a desire to play softball at the next level, have signed or committed to play at a college or university. In total, 85 Lady Blues players have earned the opportunity to play at a college or university. For information on tryouts or the Lady Blues please contact Head Coach Adam Martin at [email protected]. Volume 7, Issue 7 SOUTH CHARLOTTE SPORTS REPORT Page 15
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JORDON ACCETTA PITCHES FOR SUCCESS Written by Amanda Wynn, University of South Carolina Charlotte Catholic rising senior, the field and off the field. “I weigh out what is more important at the time and Jordon Accetta, is a great example of a I make sure to have a good work ethic to make sure I get everything done.” He successful student athlete in the South knows that it takes hard work to succeed at both and he is hoping that all of his Charlotte area. The son of Kurt and Wen- hard work pays off. Jordon has hopes of playing baseball in college. With a 3.3 dy Accetta will begin his senior year in grade point average and taking honors and advanced courses, he has a great the fall and continue playing baseball for chance of making this dream a reality. the Cougars. As pitcher and outfielder, Jordon has worked hard as a member of the team for the past three years. After playing baseball for so long, he has ac- complished a lot and learned what it takes to succeed. Jordon has played on numerous travel baseball teams, includ- ing the Charlotte As- tros, Charlotte Riptides, Charlotte Bearcats, On- Deck O’s, and CBC. He currently plays for SBA Canes Black. In 2006, he was named MVP in the USSSA World Series. Another one of Jordon’s greatest accomplishments was being named to the World Wood Bat all tournament pitching team. Both of these are memories he will never forget. During his time at Charlotte Catholic, Jordon has shown that he is a hard working player. In the last game he pitched of the season, he threw 84 pitches with 54 strikes and five strikeouts. He also showed leadership on the field by leading the pitching workouts during practice. Jordon has learned to successfully balance his work both on Page 16 Volume 7, Issue 7
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