THE COMPETITIVE

EDGEALL AREA SPORTS MAGAZINE

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T N e x N H a D r k a S n a S E 333 THE COMPETITIVE EDGE MAGAZINE THE COMPETITIVE EDGE MAGAZINE 4 FIELD HOUSE FROM THE graduations without missingabeat. through staffsand in coaching changes successful. Manyteamsvery worked I think the regionwas said and done was petition early in the progression. After all post seasonplay butranintostiffcom also. All the big fourschools made it to It was a big season for big four volleyball way through theplay-off maze. by Coach Matt McClure are working their proved each week and the troops lead town ofAtlanta. The Rabbits have im Another welcomed success came in the indicate that. were and the doing results this season tell that they were confident in what they drills andbattlingtheheat. You could group of young men throughgoing the son practices I saw a enthusiastic very some of hispreseadistrict. Observing on the high very prospects of winning to be successfulthis going year. He was Leopards were his that confidence some Steve Wells one night he was showing only Liberty-Eylau. Talking to Coach Pleasant Grove have bowed outleaving this time Arkansas TexasHigh, High and teams make the play-offs this year. At It four was our big awesome tosee all of seasons are now. workouts seemed to last as long as the for ever. As a matter of fact the two a day football, it seemed like the season lasted I can remember when I was coaching so much. I think it’s because I am old!! A LETTER FROMTHEEDITOR A LETTER joints are aching stand whymy I can nowunder blown by so fast skin seasonhas Magic. The pig here at Sports play-offing shirts are already print believe that we Well it’s hard to - - - - - py Turkey Day andenjoy your timeoff. ries as much a I enjoy writing them. Hap ship. I hope you enjoy reading the sto know that you appreciate their sponsor the ofourprojectsponsors and let them zine and please take the time to visit with of theCompetitive Edgesupport Maga to the field Thank of sports. you for your dards and are contributing in a large way include athletes that have stan set high and the request from area residents to I pleased am to very have the feedback ny hewasworkingforatthattime. because of his position with the compa a Canadian resident but was unable to had an invitation to join the Olympics as graduated from TexasSchool. He High that wasaworldclass person boxer that tact him aboutaninterview. I also have a mention his name for I have yet to con year Iwillnot school. I graduatedhigh played in a World Series back in 1971, the son that lives three blocks from methat I was surprised to havesports. a per were successful very in the world of interestingvery tolookupthosethat interesting peopletobringyou. It is scene. I havesas sports some pretty TexasNortheast and Southwest Arkan former players that contributed to the to cover and to unearth the winter sports inthe next issue we will begin Starting boys track andfield! track andfield runnerupinthe Trinity Christian WinsStateinthegirls ON THECOVER Roger Sheppard ------www.thecompetitiveedgemagazine.com EDGE Edge Magazine. will become propertyof TheCompetitive digital submissions orcorrespondences holding fees orothersimilar charges. All uscripts and will not be responsible for unsolicited art work, photography or man TCEM isnotresponsible for thereturnof prohibited. in partwithoutpermissionare lishing LLC. Reproductions in whole or published monthly bySportsMagicPub The CompetitiveEdgeMagazine(TCEM) is 8523 SouthLakeDrive,Texarkana, TX roger@thecompetitiveedgemagazine. Sports MagicPublishingLLC. Texarkana, TX75501(903) 832-1975 Sports MagicLLC.8523SouthLake EAST TEXASMARKETDIRECTOR The CompetitiveEdgeMagazine THE COMPETITIVE THE ADVERTISING &MARKETING [email protected] STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS CONTRIBUTING WRITERS DIRECTOR OFEDITORIAL GRAPHIC DESIGNERS 8523 SouthLakeDrive CREATIVE DIRECTOR EAST TEXASEDITOR Texarkana, TX75501 All RightsReserved Debbie Sheppard SUBSCRIPTIONS SUBSCRIPTIONS Lindsey Pilgreen Lindsey Pilgreen Jonathan Bryant Jonathan Bryant Roger Sheppard Roger Sheppard Roger Sheppard Roger Sheppard Roger Sheppard Kristin Spencer Gregg Pilgreen Robert Rankin ADVERTISING Erin Treadway 903-832-1975 Matt Graves WEBSITE: EDITOR 75501 Drive com - -

6 MAGAZINE COMPETITIVE EDGE COMPETITIVE THE

TRINITYCROSS COUNTRY By Roger Sheppard letes goals which establishes a benchmark of where they are and where they would like to be at the conclusion of the sea- son. He also said, “I teach my athletes how to be competitive by teaching them the sport. I am an avid runner my self and I lead by example by getting out on the road and putting in the miles. I got to tell you that being consistent in developing your runners is still helpful for them to become competitive. And I show them how that can be.” Jeff also works with the mental aspects of being a cross country runner by designing mottoes that give lasting results.

The team motto this season was “Extraordinary efforts for extraordinary results.” Along with statements like this you find in-depth training from a physical standpoint. Coach Haynes is 7 also a skilled professional sports trainer. He has studied phi- lology and how the body works as far as nutrition and energy THE relate. He also has developed what he called “micro cycle and macro cycle training programs” and claims that the kids have COMPETITIVE EDGE been a model season for him. With this known I think the key component to Coach Haynes is structure. He has structured a program taken from his own competitiveness and adapted it to the Trinity Warrior program.

Coach Haynes creates an atmosphere that helps establish a scene of purpose. He said, “It is useless to get into a race with- Competitiveness is the most powerful weapon you can have out any goal at all. Moreover, it is very much boring to come in your team’s arsenal. A big part of a coaches responsibility into a race just for the sake of running. The purpose of com- is to teach the athletes what it means to compete and to help petitiveness is not to just be able to win races, but also to be a

bring out the Competitor inside them. As the most important better runner and a better person. You must have the heart to MAGAZINE things in life, of course, this is much easier said then done. It is inspire your athletes to do their job. At times, it needs a great hard enough to get athletes to fully comprehend what exactly deal of inspiration and motivation for a runner to keep a high it means to compete, let alone teach them to do it consistently. level of energy in a competition. Energy is self-confidence, and The Competitive Edge Magazine would like to share with you a self-confidence is competitiveness. One way or the other, they coach that has lived up to the consistency of building winning significantly influence each other. teams by winning the state championship title twelve times in the last seven and one half years, with six runner-ups in the Another thing Coach Haynes has created is a selective training same time frame. In a very up front interview I pressed coach menu. He designates each practice with a certain technique. Jeff Haynes to give me the secrets that has lead to the most He divides his practices into aerobic runs, a tempo run, pro- successful championship record anywhere. His commits gressive run, speed work, or a recovery day run. With these were riveting as he took us through what he considered his different techniques he can train his team to understand the success plan. Jeff’s first statement was that he gives the ath- importance of the type of training they are attempting on that

TRINITYCROSS COUNTRY By Roger Sheppard 8 THE COMPETITIVE EDGE MAGAZINE need a lot of supplements but for those that may short change them change for thosethatmaybut of supplements a lot need short if youthat have youand diet, agood are it, youwith consistent shouldn’t approachbelief is Hestated,“Mypersonal supplements. nutritional to Searchingcompetitivethat for Haynesask Coach I then edge his about said, “Icouldn’t bemore pleasedwiththeresults thatwehave achieved.” results showthevalue He for them. ofwhathehasdesigned certainly one.”June on ning haveHis runners the and letter the to plan the followed areworkouts our and season isplanned whole from setout begin the to the final day which is the day of competition. Coach Haynes said, “Our cycles.his athleteson training Differentprograms dayeach for lead up to a dayon by day basis.WhatthisreallyHaynesCoach is that means is have and on what isgoing of whatishappening abetterunderstanding arevigorousduring formed athletes know the that This means training. that byproducts the out flushing for are days recovery The off. goofing youIf es. didn’tyou on theywas going what think know might werejust mayrunners jokestelling and laughing be astheythrough jog distanc the utilizedis being technique what training the recovery becauseduring day day.that on accomplished understand to observing for It isimportant recoverymile four be exactly what needsto know members all the run overallan in program. training For theyif example area do to instructed day.morethe athletes can become Withthisunderstanding structured sport ofcross country.sport the in the Arkansasstatechamps ed Warriors ofTrinity were againaward readsee where thepaperand the pleasedto Iwasvery do. to going it harddeny whathisteamwas to of hiskidsjust makehis knowledge and confidence His 2014. in again state championship the win to going HaynesCoach wereteam his and that I wasconvinced In conclusion of thekidsIcoach.” He said, “Iamjustas competitive asany him. with to argue hard it find years four youlast thirty the on back I preachwhat practice looking and Theymyself. a runner am seeme many is convincesthatI said, “what agree He it right. he was doing that half yearsone seem to most would last seventhe in six runner-ups and twelvehis and statechampionships was it the resultsthat concluded ofhis laugh the After “NO.” said, or aparent disagreeingwith hisapproach. Helooked and atmefunny Haynesask Coach I then ifheeveranyone had guessing him second their performance. youdelivera closenessand also build afeelingyouthat truly care about it insureevery thateachand player getstheproper fuel fortheirbodies, aboveconsider would beyond and duty.of call normal the does Notonly theyjust before best possiblefood the allget race day.big the This I breakfastfor in team his whole brings normally he makenutrition to sure still stresses Haynesit. BecauseCoach believes in thepowerofproper inyourdrink carbonated hand.” it anywaydo not do Mostofthem but he staymeet to away fromanyonecatch sodas. Hesaid,“Ibetternot a with system.”the poison sugars that the stressed He state the week of the on source.food stayto kids Iaskthe away and foods junk fried the form the kids.Istresspush themon not I do properfrom nutrition a natural therethat think I do down. advantages issome but supplements using in bohydrates andglycogensupplies thathave and broken beendepleted yourin food get beforebody is overwindow sixty minute that car with afterahardrefuelto need Youout. work shortly themachine need to selvesbeliever Iamabig help. could on diet,supplements thatyou - - - - - 99 THE COMPETITIVE EDGE MAGAZINE

a hurry can expect up Looking style. I think at the stats you game. a very exciting United Bowl ask the community of the Live The directors for their support go in attending the game. The proceeds that helping many groups of Texarkana to the United Way in need. are is the most in the season since 2009. The Storm finished total of game per yards 403.2 averaging season regular the the air and per game through 226.6 yards led by offense, another 176.5 on the ground. would be balanced in their Both coaches indicated that they in structures of offensive attack. Using a variety offensive - - on the other hand is coming off an 18-15 win over rival East rival over win 18-15 an off coming is hand other the on wins American and Classic its seven Central in the Great son-ending 45-17 home loss to Fort Hays State and has lost its last two games since putting together a six-game the middle of season. Southeastern through winning streak points per game and allowing 25.5, while averaging 429.7 yard per game on offense with 219.9 yards per the air and 209.8 on the ground. UCM game is coming off a sea in NCAA Division II. The Mules finished the regular season averaging 34.5 and $4 for general admission students. and $4 for general admission students. The trip will mark the fifth postseason berth in Southeast and the second since transitioning to history, program er’s Bowl hosted at Razorback Stadium in Texarkana, Arkansas Stadium in Texarkana, Bowl hosted at Razorback are on December 6. Game time is 12:00 Noon. Tickets at $10 for general admission adults for the event available University University Savage Storm from Durant, Oklahoma of Central Missouri Mules. Both teams have The University facing United Live in the Texarkana accepted a invitation to play The Texarkan area will be hosting it’s second Live United second Live will be hosting it’s area The Texarkan bowl game featuring the Southeastern Oklahoma State

NEW BASEBALL COACH FOR A&M TEXARKANA A press conference was held today at Texas A&M University-Texarkana to announce the hiring of the university’s first collegiate baseball coach and assistant athletic director, Steve Jones, Athletic Di- rector Michale Galvan welcomed everyone to the press conference and discussed the importance of adding baseball to the growing list of sports at A&M Texarkana. “Baseball is the obvious choice to add next in our lien,” says Athletic Director Galvan. 11 “The Texarkana community has a strong youth and high school baseball following, and having it THE here at the university adds to the level of excite- ment.” COMPETITIVE EDGE

Dr Emily Cutrer, president of Texas A&M Univer- sity-Texarkana, stated “We are very excited about the addition of Coach Jones to Eagle athletics,” added Dr. Cutrer. “He brings the values, experi- ence, and enthusiasm we need to get baseball off to a great start at A&M-Texarkana. Texarkana is such a great baseball town, we hope the commu-

nity will enjoy coming to the games in spring 2016; MAGAZINE we know our students will welcome this addition to campus life.”

Coach Jones is very well respected both national- ly and in New Mexico, just finishing his 17th sea- son at Now Mexico Highlands University with an overall record of 550 and 395. His team averaged over 30 wins per season in those 17 seasons, with 12 straight winning seasons, as well as qualify- ing for the NCAA Regionals six times, competing in the NCAA Regionals in 4 of the last 6 seasons, and hosting the NCAA Central Regional in 2010. They also qualified for the RMAC tournament in 15 out of 17 seasons, winning the RMAC Confer- ence Tournament three times, and participated in the RMAC conference tournament championship game six times. “My teams have consistently fin- ished in the top five in the nation in several NCAA offensive categories. In 2007, we led the nation in four different offensive categories,” said Coach Jones.

Coach Jones has already hit the ground running in making baseball a reality at TAMUT. 12 THE COMPETITIVE EDGE MAGAZINE It will take time, require sacrifice, be worth it, along with along it, worth be sacrifice, require time, take will It with Commitment” “What ever it takes, NO EXCUSES”, ments like andPride.”Courage, “Wildcats Heart, “Prepare tional banners that fromhung the top ofthe walls. State alive in the roomperfectly andblended with the motiva was flooring and equipment new fresh of smell The as. weight room at Bloomburg HighSchoolinBloomburg, Tex This poemcame to mindtheinstantI walked intothenew goes like this have used it in speeches at many occasions. Thepoem several days I achieved the ability to recite the poem and ran across by a poem Lou Holtz. called “The Builder” After I was reading in a magazine several a story years ago andI THAT PRIDEBUILT THE HOUSE And Isaidto theforeman, “Are thesemenskilled, “Which oneoftheseroles amIwillingto play? And Ithoughtto myself asIwentonmyway, The kindyou’d hire ifyou neededto build?” And helaughedandsaid,“Ohnoindeed.” With aheave andahomightyyell, They swungabeamandsidewallfell. I sawagroup ofmeninmyhometown. What ittakes abuildertenyears to do.” Or amItheonethatbuildswithcare? For, “most commonlabor’s allIneed. As Ifoolishlymake myway around? They were tearingabuildingdown. In hopethatmyteamwillbebetter For wecan destroy inaday or two Am Itheonethat’s tearingdown just becauseIwasthere?” - - - alway plays large in the world of athletics. You must first Youmust athletics. of world the in large plays alway strong,you are strong. The mental aspect of a person will weak one. I have also realized that when you think you are the better.body Astrongmuscle isalways better than a trusted in coaching youngathletes was the stronger the pressedthat I always withtheset up. Thephilosophy into thisprojecthad gone and planning im and was very Texarkana) in the middle 70’s, I realized howmuchwork many more. Being aformerhealthclubowner(Nautilusof and shouldberecognized asaCompetitive Edge. is always there. This is what the peom was written about a small community isthepassionandappreciation that man they all looked up to and respected. One thing about as well as school personnelcame the together tohonor of Mr. Bricker byhis nametoit. adding The community honor the in dedicated was floor gymnasium the ciation aspect of communitybusiness. Toery showtheir appre pillar of the community and was involved with almost ev in 1961 and endedin 1983. He was consideredstarted a respected by all the came in contact with him. His service pal and superintendent for many years well and was very er. MrBricker was a Bloomburgschool coach,princi high of thecelebration was Mr.to honor Another part Bill Brick use ittobuildchampions. what they had constructed and how they were going to facility by Brian Stroman. excited Hewas very to showus had infront ofme. We were training lead to this wonderful just that. I left the schoolready toconquerwhat ever I did that attitude fire catch a exhibited all They staff. ing bybeholden the superintendent ofschoolsandthe coach impressedI wasalsovery withtheexcitement what was great. believe in your abilities before you can actually become ------13 THE COMPETITIVE EDGE MAGAZINE THE COMPETITIVE EDGE MAGAZINE

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STAND OUT! STAND with 16 THE COMPETITIVE EDGE MAGAZINE h Ege wud o h NC hminhp ht er o te first the for year that Championship NFC the go would Eagles The 1988. since championship East NFC first their them earning 2001, in seasons. Jeremiah and the Eagles defense ranked second inthe NFL He also was elected to two straight Pro Bowls in the and 2001 2000 fumbles. forced four and interceptions five sacks, nine tackles, 361 the team in tackles. In four seasons with the Eagles, he had collected and over the next there seasons, heled middle linebackerbecame the starting six tackles. he Inhissecondseason, recorded and year first his up back as round of the 1998 NFL Draft. He served by the PhiladelphiaEaglesin third Austin State University and was drafted played collegefootballat StephenF. the District MVP as a senior. Jeremiah time all district honoree and was named letterman in football. He was a three- High SchoolinHooks,Texas and was a Brown.bert Jeremiah attendedHooks Jeremiah Trotter and number74ofWil 17th. Thecelebrationtheretirementincluded of jerseys number40of playersOctober Springs gameon theHugh Stadiumduring at Hornet The Hooks Hornets celebrated the return of two of their most notable RETIREMENT HOOKS JERSEY right foryou. is protection what decide you help to review free a for today Call life. your with up keep should insurance your road, the on teenager a have now or car, new a bought and baby a had you’ve Whether Let mehelpyougettheprotectionneed. Insurance Co. Insurance subjecttoavailability andqualifications.AllstateFireCasualtyInsurance Co.Northbrook,Illinois©2009Allstate ag Life chang ent canhelpy k T 34 (90 Jef esler@allstat e x 15 Ne f K ark 3) 831-3866 esler ana w Bost es. e. on R c Y om d. our insur ou sta - y instep anc e .

84282 uate of Hooks High School andreceiveduate of HooksHigh afootballscholar ing the Eagles play and enjoying watching Jeremiah make neers which became his last team. I can remember watch 2007 he signed a one year deal with the Tampa Bay Bucca when theEaglesreleasedin 2005and2006 him again.In a one-yearing contract. Hewas elected to thePro Bowl Jeremiah returnedseason sign totheEaglesfor2004 Redskins in2004. years recorded overtackles 200 and1.5 sacks. Heleft the the WashingtonRedskins onApril19,2002andinjust two the loss, Trotter became a fee agent. Jeremiah signed with time since 1980, but lost to the St. Louis Rams. Following Hornet headcoachGlenGoins. Jeremiah are and Wilbert shown with their former Hooks dition oftheCompetitive Edge. for hissuccess and hisad NFL. I also congratulate Wilbert played Wilbert bothguardBowl (XXXVIII) andcenter in the Patriotsa memberoftheSuperBowlchampion of Super his careerPatriots with theNowEngland in 2003.Hewas finished and season 2002 ington Redskins for the then moved totheWash NFL Europe League. He the Frankfurt Galaxy of the he playedson. In2001 for Chargers inthe1999sea debuted for the San Diego was undrafted in 1999 but He games with31starts. career, Brown played in41 ors. Duringhiscollegiate All-Conference USA hon and earned second-team all eleven gamesat guard season in1998,started ship to attended Houston University. in his senior Wilbert Brown. was a 1995 grad Wilbert jerseying 74 wasWilburt number Another celebrated player wear to behisfans. for making his home town proud totheNFLand his contribution Congratulations to Jeremiah for game offootball. itive Edge inhisapproach tothe contained the Compet certainly ing. He was an inspirationand for thegamewas quite entertain a tackle orsack. Hisenthusiasm ------17 THE COMPETITIVE EDGE MAGAZINE Federally insured by NCUA Take the Stress out 8 x 1.5 Magazine Ad 8 x 1.5 Magazine Ad a Mil-Way Holiday Loan! Holiday a Mil-Way Visit Mil-way.com to learn more. Visit Mil-way.com of Holiday Shopping with Texarkana, AR 870-772-0661 | Texarkana, TX 903-832-2004 | Ashdown, AR 870-898-3742 TX 903-832-2004 | Ashdown, AR 870-772-0661 | Texarkana, Texarkana, ACLinjuries 18 AN ACL INJURY ONCE WAS A DEATH SEN- TENCE TO AN ATHLETE’S CAREER. IT IS NO LONGER A CAREER ENDING INJURY BUT IT WILL MAGAZINE KILL A SEASON.

I think back to the days when I was in school (I claim that wasn’t very long ago but my Russ Nelson wife begs to differ) I really don’t recall there being as many ACL injuries as we see COMPETITIVE EDGE COMPETITIVE today. I have seen teams with multiple athletes sustaining THE ACL tears in one season. In this day and age, if a football or basketball team makes a season with- out an athlete tearing an ACL it has been a good year. One could assume that imaging is picking up tears that may have been missed years ago. Maybe greater number of athletes participating adds to the greater odds of injury. Maybe the numbers are about the same, however, increased publicity causes you to hear more about each injury and makes it seem as if there are more. I hope to give you some information concerning ACL injuries and hopefully how to prevent them. There are 4 ligaments that hold the knee together. On the medial and lateral aspect of the knee you have the medial and lateral collateral ligaments respectively. If one of these ligaments are injured it typically does not require surgery. Time and limited activity is the best treatment for these in- juries. Inside the knee, beneath the kneecap, are the anterior and posterior cruciate ligaments. The word cruciate in Latin means cross. These two ligament cross each other as the name implies. Anterior means in front and posterior means be- hind. So, the anterior cruciate ligament is in front and the posterior is behind it. Once torn, the an- terior and posterior cruciate ligaments will require surgery to repair. There are instances where peo- ple decide not to have surgery for an ACL or PCL tear. There have been instances where athletes have competed at a very high level with an ACL or PCL tear. So if this is the case why would a person THE ACL TEAR IS NOT AN EQUAL injuries OPPORTUNITY INJURY. 19 THE

have surgery to repair the injury? If it is a torn learn to land correctly while improving strength COMPETITIVE EDGE PCL most of the time the orthopedic surgeon and endurance in hopes of preventing a future will not recommend it being repaired because injury. Recent studies have also indicated that people function so well without the PCL. A per- core strength is also important in preventing son below the age of 25 with an ACL tear will ACL injuries. It is my hope that by incorporat- almost always have surgery to repair the ACL. ing an ounce of this prevention you will be able If someone has a torn ACL and is active over to prevent any future ACL tears. I hope this many years they will develop arthritic changes information is helpful. See ya Russ in the knee that may require a total knee re- placement at a young age. This is the reason why even an athlete functioning at a high lev- MAGAZINE el will have an ACL reconstruction. Someone needs to call the ACLU about the ACL. The ACL tear is not an equal opportunity injury. Women are more likely to tear an ACL than their male counterparts. Women playing basketball are 3 to 4 times more likely to tear an ACL than males and in one study I read it stated that women running an obstacle course as part of military training were almost 11 times more likely to tear the ACL. Contrary to popular thought most ACL tears are non-contact injuries. Approximately 76% of ACL tears occur when an athlete cuts turns or pivots without being touched by anoth- er athlete. This is good news in a way because if the injuries are non-contact there can be ways to reduce the risk by training the athlete differ- ently. The first way to prevent an ACL tear is to improve the athlete’s balance. Start with single leg standing, progress to single leg standing on an unstable surface such as foam and then progress this further by throwing a ball against a wall while standing on one leg on an unsta- ble surface. Learning how to land is also very important. The jump training involves landing with your center of gravity over the knees and with the knees bent. The more extended the knee is when landing the more likely you are to tear the ACL. A proper balance between quad- riceps and hamstring strength is also import- ant in preventing ACL injuries. When my kids were younger we would play on a trampoline. I would tell the kids to hop on one leg and we would see who could go the longest. The kids just thought we were playing a game but what I was really wanting to do was to make them 20 THE COMPETITIVE EDGE MAGAZINE 21 THE COMPETITIVE EDGE MAGAZINE ------all that she ac that all complished in sports three the played. she that in coach child of a a was I said, “Basically Taylor do. to much else wasn’t school and there small a had you players few so were there Also because ends meet. to participate to make in everything the to contributed also of exposure process The court.practice spend on the amount of time Be advantages servesmany kid gym coaches ing a average. than better be needed to skills the to on repetitions. depend largely skills Hand, eye ing and encouragement you get at home also contributes to get at ing and encouragement you balance participate.to A rounded desire the and attitude the But to beat. of encouragement and physical training is hard wili the is importantmost the of being great aspect probably where This is to be great. to do takes what it ness and desire excels. Taylor Crowder has amassed over over amassed has Crowder OBU at wins hundred eight to play Taylor and he expects starting minutes as a freshman happen very of which doesn’t ten at that level. with conversation a Having dad her that learned I Taylor coach basketball boys the was was her what it I ask Avery. at in made her want to excel that train The get. you better the action the replete you more The Arkansas but was very concerned about the six hour drive that veryhour drive but was six Arkansas concerned about the With games. the attend to parents on her burden a would put decided consideration she this Uni Baptist to attend Ouachita scholar ride full on a versity legendarythe for ship playing Coach Garycoach Crowder. ------like to introduce to introduce like lady young to a you a small hailing from town NortheastTexas This Avery. called lady deserves young “Competitive label the Every now and then Every mention of a the will athletic young screen your cross un zoomed has that far as radar the der con is notorietyas an ex but has cerned storyceptional in the sportswould I world. -

from division 1 colleges leaving her with big life decisions to big life with her leaving colleges division 1 from a offered was Taylor going she was to play. about where make in Jonesboro University State Arkansas scholarship to attend During her sophomore year Taylor’s notoriety and game stats notoriety and Taylor’s year sophomore During her scouts impressing was to score Her ability began to advance. rare to see a true freshman playing on a squad mainly made up made squad mainly on a playing freshman true a to see rare moved then She of juniors. couple a be and may seniors of all was It Tempo. Up called Texarkana in AAU team another to began to excel. that Taylor after this move ty four points per game her senior four points per game her ty being se also participatedin AAU girls basketball Taylor year. veryis It freshman. a squad as “Elite” Heat the Texas by lected for Coach Woody Young and her Young for Coach Woody twenty jumped to scoring average twen to and then game points per game her firstyear and then moved thirteenup to per points average her played she junior year Her game. best was basketball. She played played She basketball. was best her first two years for Coach Sean pointsper ten averaged She Glenn. as a senior captured the offensive MVP of the district and was MVP of the district the offensive as a senior captured All-State. named Texas her sport and probably third Taylor’s and spent her first year in highs school as a junior varsity play varsity junior a as school highs in year first her spent and for Brian Morris. softball for four years also played Taylor er. but freshman squad a as also began on the Junior Varsity She state of Texas to be awarded All-State in three different sports. sports. different three in All-State awarded be to of Texas state Averyto and moved until she volleyball played had never Taylor team on Coach Robert Kelsoe’s She enrolled as a freshman. softball. She is currently a freshman at Ouachita Baptist Uni Baptist Ouachita at a freshman softball. She is currently Bowles Taylor is name Her Arkadelphia, Arkansas. in versity in the Averyonly athlete at the was she senior year and in her Edge” for her efforts and success in volleyball, basketball, and basketball, effortsher for volleyball, in and success Edge”

BOWLES TAYLOR 22 born by receiving the name “Logan.” Logan was named after Logan Maile Lei Tom who at the age 19, became the

MAGAZINE youngest woman ever to be selected for an Amer- ican Olympic volleyball team. You can Google Logan Tom and understand why Lindsey wanted her daughter named after her.

With Logan’s story I will attempt to address some PAIN & very important ideas and principals in the early training of an athlete. Just like Logan’s name it COMPETITIVE EDGE COMPETITIVE must start early within the minds of the parents who become a very important teachers in the pro- THE PLEASURE cess. The true “athlete” has more to the mixture than just physical ability. I have seen many a phys- There are many things that will moti- sitioned into the parent role I can just ical specimen destroyed by the actions of the par- vate you to react in life but I can just sit back and enjoy the games without ents and the lack of teaching of important life prin- about boil it down to two things, pain worrying about the other things that cipals. I have also seen many a mother and dad and pleasure. The pain part never re- went along with being an athlete’s overdo the training, causing the kid to ultimately ally bothered me until I hit the age of parent, like teaching discipline and “hate” the sport and withdraw. Logan has always fifty five. I kept hearing men and wom- athletic principal and integrating that shown interest in competition because of the ex- en in their sixties make the remark with an equal dose of academics and posure her parents brought to her life. Lindsey and that getting old was not for sissies. classroom study. Gregg were both excellent upper-level softball and Well now that I have reached that pla- volleyball players. They spent lots of time travel- teau I can certainly understand what The fun part of running a magazine ing to tournaments and to league games setting that remark is all about. The pleasure also affords me the ability to select examples for their children. Logan’s little brother part changes from decade to decade the story subjects and to even write Knox is a skilled basketball, baseball and soccer where by finally settling on watch- about them myself. This month will player. It is quite remarkable that these kids inter- ing my grandkids begin their life of not be a surprise to you in that I am est is better served by a trip to Toyota Stadium in competition. Football, baseball, bas- featuring my only grand daughter Lo- Frisco, Texas to watch a soccer game or to Texas ketball, soccer and many other small gan Pilgreen. Logan is Lindsey and Ranger stadium to take in a baseball game. Their side games have brought about a Gregg Pilgreen’s beautiful daughter interest in sports did not develop from luck or pleasure that is very hard to describe. that could be called Lindsey’s MINI chance, it developed through exposure and experi- Remembering the maturing of my two ME. Because of strong genetics Lo- ence. Genetics furnishes the physical skill needed daughters Lindsey, and Kristin, I can gan has been blessed with a tremen- and the attitude of the parents delivers the drive still remember the excitement and dous amount of hand eye coordina- and desire to participate and excel. the pure pleasure of watching them tion and skill supplied by both mother grow into their athletic skills. Hav- and father. Gregg played college Logan spends lots of time sharpening her skills by ing four years that separated them I baseball at Henderson State Univer- practicing at home in the back yard. Her parents was blessed with eight years of high sity and Lindsey played volleyball at have convinced her that spending money on ath- school and eight years of college Louisiana Tech University. Logan’s letic training equipment and college sports camps volleyball. Now that they have tran- career began even before she was would have a much greater payday than a trip to 23 THE COMPETITIVE EDGE MAGAZINE Panama City Beach or a ride on a cruise ship. Therefore One very important aspect of life that Logan believes in you will find batting cages, soccer goals, and pitching ma- is the “no quit attitude.” Logan lives by the principal that chines in Logan’s backyard instead of canceled boarding was written by the late Vince Lombardi, “Winning isn’t ev- passes in the trash can. Now I am not saying that Logan erything but wanting to win is.” Lately Logan has been doesn’t get to go on vacations or fun trips. I am also not traveling with a soccer team playing tournaments as a goal advocating that you shouldn’t take these vacations or do keeper. She is coached by Dustin Holly, head soccer coach fun things. I am simply saying that the focus is primarily at Texas High School. Gregg, Lindsey and Logan feel very on training to become a better athlete and not a cruise di- fortunate to have a coach the caliber of Coach Holly and rector. What is interesting is that when her parents take the his willingness to work with the younger players. It is also family on vacation you will usually find them sitting in the a fact that having a coach like Dustin is a gift to the soccer stands at some ballpark watching a game. It is just what society here in Texarkana. His attitude and interest work they love to do. This also begins to build a common inter- hand and hand with the development of the soccer com- est between the parents and kids leading to questions that munity and adds much value to the spirit of all he comes often allow them to agree on what made the winners win in contact with. and losers to lose. This attitude is captured and continues to pay dividends throughout a life time of both the parent In conclusion, after all the years of watching athletes per- and the child. form and develop, there is no doubt that there is value in the association of one or both parents. A young athlete needs I can remember watching Logan play third base in softball the support and the guidance of the parents way before the and trying to hit the ball. Watching the frustration and coaches are introduced. You can also take these ideas of struggles show up and then to witness the satisfaction dedication and hard work to start a business or any other of catching and throwing out a base runner or hitting the endeavor you should decide to choose. I challenge you to ball past the outfielders was very satisfying to me. Then watch the progression of Logan Pilgreen in what ever sport watching the development of an average team transform she desires to participate in and to make your judgment of into a championship team became very pleasing to these how things work out for her. As her grandfather I am confi- old eyes. There is nothing better than seeing the fruits of dent that Logan will be successful in anything she chooses one’s labor come to a successful conclusion. Keeping a to do. I am also confident that her parents will follow and kid’s interest away from things that are destructive is also a be actively involved in Logan’s entire sports career. I know desired thing. There is nothing more attractive than seeing Debbie and I ran two automobiles into the ground following quality time being spent to instruct a young person to be a our two kids. better player and a better citizen. With the world getting in- creasingly tough to navigate one must begin early to make a strong impression on a young persons life. It is sad to say that many parents spend more time arguing and fighting in front of their kids that teaching and instructing. 24 THE COMPETITIVE EDGE MAGAZINE NATURAL ALTERNATIVES FOR FLUTREATMENT very seldomdotheyvery getsickfrom theinfluenza virus. addsuchagoodflavor.amazing thatthejuicesfrom thebonesandcartilage Thesepeoplemake stapleoftheirdiet,and itavery whileIwasonatropicalI personallyhadthechicken vacation soupwithbonesandcartilage lastyear anditwasquitetasty. It’s and bronchitis. the durationoffluby improving infections your immunesystem.Itwouldalsobegoodforotherrespiratory suchasemphysema inthatitshortens N-Acetyl Cysteinecomesfrom theaminoacidCysteine.Itdoesaboutsamethingascarnosineandelderberry an autoimmunedisease. been shownindifferent studiestodecrease your sickness timeby around 50%.Thisshouldnotbetaken ifpregnant orifyou have goodatspeedingupyour healingtimeifconsumedatthefirstonsetofflu.Ithas (aplant)inasyrupformisalsovery Elderberry magnesium, phosphorus,etc. outandtheremainingmer for12-24hrs.Thenstraineverything broth isfullofcarnosineandotherhealthynutrientssuchcalcium, one pre-cooked, eatwhatyou wantfrom andlittlebitofthemeatthat’s thechicken, placethebones,cartilage, leftinapotandsim by boosting nosine hasbeenshowninstudiestofighttheflu your immunesystem.It’s easytocookachicken orsimplybuy very Mama’s goodoldfashionchicken soup,whichhascarnosine,aprotein buildingblockthatisnaturallyproduced by your body. Car first present. occurring, butthey have beenproven tosignificantlyspeedup your recovery, especiallyIftaken immediatelywhenflusymptomsare Let meshowyou 3ofthesenatural treatments reducing thetimeofillnessforflu.Keep inmindthatthey donotprevent theflufrom Think aboutthe$$$$$profit here forsuggestingsomethingthathasnot even beenproven to workatall. it’s useless.Alsoconsiderthefactthatonly32millionyearly doseswere administered 20years agocompared to132milliontoday. wantsyou tobelieve.PHARMA Manystudieshave shownthatflushotshelpabout1%ofthepeople,andrightfullyso,somethink (Blaylock Wellness andmanyothers,showthrough various Report) studiesthatthesefluvaccines are notnearlyaseffective asBIG Many studies,includingthosefrom JohnHopkinsscientistDr. Peter DoshiwiththeBritishMedicalJournal,Dr. RussellBlaylock with your Physician. MORE NATURAL APPROACH nosideeffects. Ifanydoubtsthough,always ofattacking theinfluenzavirus,whichhasvirtually check dering ifthistreatment isthecorrect courseto take. Becauseofthepossibleserioussideeffects ofthisvaccine, IAGREE WITH THE With allofthecontroversies floatingaround abouttheefficacyofflu vaccine andpotentialsideeffects, manypeopleare won any illness. fluenza virus.Asalways, millionsofpeoplewillflocktovarious medicalfacilitiestoreceive theirannualflushotinhopesofavoiding other sickpeopleaswegotovarious highschool,college,andpro athleticevents. Theseplaceswillbeabreeding ground forthein medicines thatdecrease thehealingtime.Thistimeofyear, mostofushave beenorwillbeexposedtoinclementweatherand As weallknow, fluseasonisuponusandthere isNOabsolutemedicalcure fortheflu,even thoughthere are someprescription La VidaESBUENOHOY LIFE ISGOODTODAY!!!! OMA - - - - 25 THE COMPETITIVE EDGE MAGAZINE 7720

903-276- PHOTOGRAPHY ERIN TREADWAY v NATURAL ALTERNATIVES NATURAL FLU TREATMENT FOR I don’t know whether it’s just worked out that way or what, but I had big challenges at Pleasant Grove, New Boston and here (Fouke) too,” he said. I guess you could say I build programs, although I didn’t get into coaching to do that. You try to get the kids to have a positive attitude, work ethic and not be intimidat- ed by who you’re playing. You coach them to get after people. I’ve been around some great kids and I’ve had some good ath- letes, too. When you put that together with a strong work ethic RICK you can win anywhere.” Barker’s coaching philosophy goes back to his high school play- BARKER ing days at Wray, Colo. 26 By Johnny Green “When I take a job, I go in to work. That’s the way I was brought up,” he said. “That’s the way I was coached when I was play- RICK BARKER DIDN’T ing. I think I know how to get the most out of kids and how to treat them. A kid has to want to play for you, and I don’t think NECESSARILY GET some coaches today realize that. They have to want to play for

MAGAZINE pride, and you have to instill that in them by practicing what you INTO THE COACHING preach. We try to do that.”

PROFESSION TO REBUILD Coaching seemed a natural fit for Barker, a multi-sport athlete in HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL high school. “I wrestled in high school. It’s a very competitive sport and was PROGRAMS. IT JUST SEEMS really big where I was from,” he said. “I also played football and ran track and was competitive all the time. I wanted to coach, THAT WAY. and it kind of fell into place after college.” COMPETITIVE EDGE COMPETITIVE

Barker played linebacker at Kansas Wesleyan, an NAIA school in

THE UNDER BARKER’S Celina, Kans. While there, he married his high school sweetheart, TUTELAGE PLEASANT Karen Mader, and, upon graduation, they followed his college coach to Orange, Texas. Barker’s coaching career began at Lit- GROVE AND NEW BOSTON tle Cypress-Mauriceville, where a decade later future Texas High coaches Barry Norton, Scott Surratt, Jason Harris and Jeff Har- MADE 180-DEGREE rell would also serve as assistants. TURNS FROM PERENNIAL “It was always a dream to play in the NFL, and I had a chance to play some semi-pro football in San Antonio, but I didn’t do it,” LOSERS TO WINNERS Barker said. “I decided to coach, and went straight out of college to Texas with my college coach when he got the head coaching ON THE GRIDIRON, AND job at Little Cypress.” IT APPEARS FOUKE IS His career began in junior high football and track, and after two years he was promoted to the varsity staff. He remained in HEADED IN THE SAME Orange nine years before joining legendary high school coach Lucky Gamble at Iowa Park, serving as defensive coordinator for DIRECTION IN HIS three seasons. SECOND YEAR AS HEAD Then came the call that would eventually give Barker the chance to earn the reputation he carries today. COACH. “Rodney Russell was a coordinator at Little Cypress when I left, and became the head coach the spring I was leaving for Iowa THE 55-YEAR-OLD Park,” Barker said. “I helped him that spring, and when he got the BARKER’S SECRET FOR Pleasant Grove job he asked me to go with him, and I did.” That was in 1994, and two years later Barker accepted his first SUCCESS IS STRICTLY head coaching position when Russell departed.

OLD-SCHOOL. “When I came in with Coach Russell, I think we kind of changed 27 THE COMPETITIVE EDGE MAGAZINE - the state semifinals for the first time in history. he to,” no reason was there lot; a change wouldn’t they knew “I cluding current Oregon State redshirt freshman Damien Haskins, Damien freshman redshirt State Oregon cluding current and 52 touchdowns his senior year. who ran for 3,207 yards That also turned out to be the finalyear for Barker at New Bos ton, which won its first 12 games before losing to Daingerfield in the regional finals. Despite thereturn of a number ofkey players in 2013, Barker all to win it the Lions favorites who would make the head football and accept in Texas made the decision to retire Ark. coaching position in Fouke, in and coaches players the ask can tough You a decision. was “It for best was did what thought I “I said. Barker left,” I day the there tough, definitely was It road. the down looking family, my and me might and it opportunitybut the on paper, me to sense made the seize had to I years. couple of more in a been there not have what I told the kids.” chance, and that’s the 2013 Lions, that under his successor surprise Barker didn’t It reaching wins, 13 with record school the broke Thomas, Jamey - - - - - tion, producing record-setting running backs year after year, in year, after running year backs record-setting tion, producing open offenses became the norm, Barker stayed with the I-forma the with stayed norm, Barker the became open offenses And they did it the conventional way. While pass-happy, wide- While pass-happy, way. conventional the did it And they ta and Liberty-Eylau. Then we dropped to 2A and got that much 2A and got that to dropped Then we and Liberty-Eylau. ta better.” 3A district back then, and we beat a lot of good teams like Atlan like of good teams lot a beat then, and we back 3A district season we went 6-4,” Barker said. “We had some big wins, includ had some “We said. Barker 6-4,” went we season ing beating Atlanta for one of the Itfirst was times aever. tough “They “They didn’t win a game the year before I got there, and that first chosen to lead the Lions back to prosperity. decided it was time to move on, although not very far. New Bos on, although not very far. time to move was decided it one the was and Barker times, on hard had fallen program ton’s After 11 years—nine as head coach—at Pleasant Grove, Barker Barker Grove, Pleasant head coach—at as years—nine 11 After more talented than we were.” more who really listened. I thought we beat a lot of teams that were were that of teams lot a beat thought we I listened. who really years in that stretch for the competition we were playing. We held We playing. were we competition for the stretch in that years and kids work our own and made some big runs with some hard the attitude and work ethic at PG,” he said. “They hadn’t won a lot won a hadn’t “They said. he PG,” at ethic and work attitude the goodhad some bought in, and we really kids but the of games, 28 THE COMPETITIVE EDGE MAGAZINE as I’m healthy I’ll keep going. “We’re a youngteam and growing as wego,” hesaid.“As long this group willgetmore timetolearnunderBarker. good are odds But season. the of half first the through leavingent pool, Barker with a youngteam that’s struggled Last spring’s graduation tooka heavy toll onFouke’s tal aboutthatgame.”forth and oursuperintendent(ForrestRobert Milkey) goback and intendent andhisbrother Tommy theheadcoachat Prescott. hired Poole at Pleasant Robert Grove and nowhe’s the super “I don’t think they had ever beat Prescott before,” Barker said. “I Highlight oftheseasonwasbeatingPrescott. est, wehadsomereally goodplayers.” more I saw more talent than at the records showed.To be hon seen the kids until I got over here, but when I was aroundthem ter. Youthings right and becompetitive. todo I hadn’t justtry Barker said. matter “No where I’ve been, it really doesn’t mat “I tried to come in with the same attitude I’ve always had,” son. Barker’sin playoffs sea the first made and 7-4 went Panthers Fouke has never been knownforits football program, butthe kids pumpedup.” had agreat band everywhere we’ve been, andthat gets the he said. “That’s of this whole thing,a little pride. We’ve all part “Buddy’s done a great job ofrestoring interest in bandhere,” the sameatFouke. hasnotescapedBarker. Hiseffort built anaward-winningband program at Texas is trying High, The Texas factordoesn’t endwithathletics. Deese, who Buddy Middle SchoolcoachRonHolley, isalsoonthestaff. line and defensive ends, while Zach Holley, sonofTexas High Former DeKalb standout CodyPowell coaches the offensive backs and linebackers and will also be head basketball coach. retiree, longtime PG assistant Steve Morris, coaches quarter the defensive line and receivers, while even another Texas the Panther stafflast year as headbaseballcoach,works with Rice. whoplayedGrayson Requarth, forBarker at PG, joined and Barker with end doesn’t influence Texas Northeast The andoffensivethe secondary line.” to being just the A.D. when I got there. Now he helps me with said. “He had coached the year before (at Fouke) but hadgone interestsof common and became reallyfriends,” good Barker to knowJimwhenI “I got was at Pleasant Grove. We had a lot ther footballprogram. back. Last year Rice called on his old friendto head the Pan as to accept the jobas athletic director at Fouke a few years ship with then-Hooks coach Jim Rice, who also retired in Tex During his time at Pleasant Grove, Barker struck up a friend me atFouke. I’ve really enjoyed itsofar.” were never any regrets at all, and they’vebut nice to nothing said. “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. But I never looked back. There ------29 THE COMPETITIVE EDGE MAGAZINE AVERY VOLLEYBALL 30 FOR MANY YEARS I HAVE PICKED UP THE TEXARKANA GAZETTE AND GLANCED THROUGH THE SPORTS PAGES NOTICING

MAGAZINE ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS A LITTLE TOWN ON HIGHWAY 82 JUST A FEW MILES WEST OF DEKALB GETTING A LOT OF PRESS.

What is really neat about this town is the involvement of a young man that I witnessed becoming interested in COMPETITIVE EDGE COMPETITIVE the game of volleyball back when my wife was coaching at Texas High. Coach Debbie Sheppard at the time was THE the volleyball coach at Texas High School and during summer camps she would accommodate this young coach allowing him to observe her practices and scrim- mages and getting to know the game in general. Robert Kelsoe had played some sand volleyball but had never coached volleyball. It was inspiring watching him close- ly observe the drills and the rotations on offence and de- fense during the progression of the practice. You could tell that his interest in the practices were more than just what a spectator would be interested in. He appeared ations like your kids had been in. They never to be on a mission to conquer the fact that he had no attended camps or watched super competitive coaching experience and was doing everything he could volleyball games. This kind of excitement did to become more knowledgeable as a volleyball coach. not exist in the little town of Avery so there was Something he was not aware of at the time was that nothing to make comparisons to. They listened Coach Debbie Sheppard had never played volleyball in and observed and walked away with a new and high school or college but had picked it up the very same exciting concept of what they wanted to accom- way he was trying to. Robert’s passion and the need to plish. They wanted to be great in volleyball and be astute in a sport is what encouraged me to feature challenge for the state title. him in the Competitive Edge Magazine. Looking back at his successes at Avery is what makes him worthy of Coach Kelsoe said. “My high school coach, who this exposure. I can only hope that some young inspir- had taken the principal position, ask me to apply ing coach will read this article and realize that you to can for the coaching job and mentioned that volley- start from practically nothing and become a coach to be ball was available. I told him I would do what ever reckoned with in todays world of organized sports. necessary to land a coaching job, so I was hired. I began working for seventeen thousand, seven As the conversation began Coach Kelsoe mentioned hundred dollars per year as a teacher, coach. I that his interest soared while helping with camps and was never concerned about the amount of mon- scrimmages at Texas High. He also mentioned that ey I made because I wanted to coach athletes.” Coach Debbie Sheppard’s daughters Lindsey and When looking at great coaches you will find that Kristin were who gave his kids encouragement and to be very common. They always coach for the inspiration. He said, “Our kids had never been in situ- love of the sport and the love of working with young adult minds. After Coach Kelsoe spent some time getting his administra- What Coach Kelsoe began to realize was began to discover what all was out there tion certificate and moved into a princi- that if you are going to compete in high as far as camps, tournaments and club pals position at the high school. He then school volleyball in the state of Texas teams he began to organize his list of realized that the only kids he was seeing you were going to have to understand wants and needs. He quickly realized in the principals office were the prob- that playing club and facing superior tal- the value in exposing his kids to quality lem kids that needed discipline of some ent is necessary. The road to the Texas play and soon began to research the club sort. He was not comfortable being the state championships run through the big circuit. For anyone that has attended a disciplinarian because he was use to the towns like Dallas and Houston where major club volley- nature of the lots of dollars are being spent to train ball tournament athlete want- their kids to play the game. You may be you can under- ing to excel able to win the district or even the area stand what coach and follow the rounds but to succeed in the regionals Kelsoe was want- rules. With his and the state finals you were going to 31 ing. Walking in oldest daugh- face stiff club participation with par- THE the front door of a ter entering ents that are forking up eight thousand

major convention pre-athletics in dollars per kid. Another very important COMPETITIVE EDGE center with forty the sixth grade thing you have to understand is that col- volleyball sport he decided to lege schedules run during the same time courts set up and get back into as the high schools. With volleyball be- listening to the coaching. He ing secondary to the other major sports whistles controlling forty games is mind had been coaching the junior high girls there is little money available for extra boggling. Teams warming up and par- in both basketball and volleyball while coaches to spend on recruiting trips. ents and friends cheering for their teams working as principal. Well you know The only exposure you may get is at a inside that massive building is very im- what happens when you as a coach club tournament where you find dozens pressive. Coach Kelsoe said, “Just get- have a daughter that loves volleyball..... of college coaches. Coach Kelsoe said, ting my kids exposed to that wonderful You coach volleyball. Robert did some “It wasn’t really about his players play- MAGAZINE picture is what elevated the desire and research on the club volleyball concept ing after high school at the college level, the excitement. With that as the founda- and found that you could start your own they just wanted to make it to the state tion we began to realize what dedication club for fifty dollars. They acquired a tournament.” This group of kids made and hard work was necessary to com- charter and formed a club it to the regionals pete at that level. team and began playing three straight in tournaments across the years, making the I hear people say all the time, “Why is state of Texas. With great finals the first year. that team always winning or how are kids and great parents to Their second year they in the playoffs each and every year. support the club Avery which Robert con- It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure began to compete on the sidered their best it out. Find a coach passionate about higher level in the Lone chance to make it his position and willing to put the qual- Star volleyball circuit. With to the state, failed ity time into the sport with kids that are no history or records of to play their best motivated to win and wallah, YOU HAVE wins they would be seed- and got beat early A TEAM IN CONTENTION EACH AND EV- ed with different levels of in the tournament. ERY YEAR. Being exposed to many great teams. After winning sev- He said, “you know athletes on a team makes kids realized eral matches in pool play to be able to go all that it doesn’t have to be just one great questions began to surface the way you have player. They saw that they all could be about where Club Avery to be good, lucky, great and contribute to the team. was from. What began to and sometimes the happen was that parents that were pay- other team must have a bad night. When In 1996 Coach Kelsoe decided to quit ing upwards of eight thousand dollars teams are fairly equal, all these elements coaching volleyball and became the to be associated with a club team were come into play at any level. boys basketball coach. He had always being beaten by a team that was paying desired to coach basketball because of fifty dollars to be a member. The ques- Summing up the visit with Coach Kelsoe his playing experience at Avery. After tion that was most often ask was “Where I ask him what his competitive edge was a few years of coaching basketball he in the heck is Avery! in a school the size of Avery and he said, 32 THE COMPETITIVE EDGE MAGAZINE tionship will allow tionship term coaching rela advantage of a long kids andhaving the the in thesixthgrade. Hesaid,“Knowing grade. Hebeganwithhiskidsstarting the athlete’s life ortenth untiltheninth larger schools probably wont show up in early kids in very their career. Coaches in “The advantage I have here isthat I get the the advantage of the trust factor on his correct position.” Coach Kelsoe also has forthe athlete right the find We school. because of the limitations of the small todeveloptry akidwith universal skills that match. I don’t them inaposition to put sets and try their skill observe larger schools.Ialso to competewith the attitude necessary skills and the mental me to develop the - and noonewanted to set it out.” Robert so good. Everyone wanted playing time some minordustupswas when we were ents or fans he said, “The onlytime we had asked if he ever had any problems with par the kids hecoaches. Hesaid,“Sometime mental need todowhat is rightwith all of best interest He alsohas a funda at heart. feelinga comforting that he hasthekids that he is from offers Avery his parents and the fact side. His lengthofservice can do.” When what all you some dictates size and speed be. Genetics, as one can to beasgood need that circle need acircle, I But whenI into a square. make a circle you just can’t - - to play forhim. I had twomorelove kidsI would forthem man hasall the success in theworldandif delightful to experience. I this hope good coaching profession was obviousvery and soe. His enthusiasm and passionfor the I really enjoyed thevisit with Coach Kel or ontheopposingside. why I usually set far away from the crowd noise inthestands. Thataccountedfor the that one, though, had to listen to that with having two girls playing forher. I was My wife same thing experienced the very is playing is because you are the coach.” ing remarks like, “theonlyreason your kid of having hischildplaying forhim. Ignor also had to deal with the typical situation - - 33 THE COMPETITIVE EDGE MAGAZINE - - Federally insured by NCUA Alans dedication and wiliness to train and valuable. Using lots of situational training valuable. sessions and like taping into the veterans Ables and Jeff RobertsonBobby to head up seminars on rules and other aspects of the profession paid large dividend during The regular the actual games. Arkansas Chapter did not rely on training, they and put just up former football players picked them on the field. The Texarkana Chapter was unique because of the two state thing. This chapter on meets a regular basis and really designed a straggly of how to be a championship referee. Because of the twin city there are two sets of rules, NCAA rules in Texas and Federated Rules in Arkansas, can be working on the Arkansas side on you side Friday. night and on the Texas Thursday up and it can mean get the rules mixed You the difference in the game. Alan said, “We had a meeting before game to discuss every and the differences in the rules and Texas Arkansas.” Alan also stated, “I really feel the association of peo that I got by lucky ple I landed with. Getting a basic start with training and rules interpretations really put me on the right foot.” Judd as he told him about how they trained trained Judd he told as him about how they guys to referee. He then invited him to a and the rest is chapter meeting in Texarkna history. I ask Alan why some officials are is “It replied, he and others than better much Vance people like Having train.” simple...We and Bill Judd set the standard for shaping a person into a great football referee is in ------Take the Stress out 8 x 1.5 Magazine Ad 8 x 1.5 Magazine Ad a Mil-Way Holiday Loan! a Mil-Way Visit Mil-way.com to learn more. Visit Mil-way.com of Holiday Shopping with by Roger Sheppard by Texarkana, AR 870-772-0661 | Texarkana, TX 903-832-2004 | Ashdown, AR 870-898-3742 TX 903-832-2004 | Ashdown, AR 870-772-0661 | Texarkana, Texarkana,

tional athlete. He had hopes of playing col tional athlete. had He hopes of playing lege football but due to a shoulder injury late in his senior year, those dreams were that he was going to miss Alan soon realized lost. being on the field and began to listen to Bill Judd who’s dad was Vance Judd who was the dad was Vance Judd who’s committee member of the Arkan executive thirtyover for footballofficials of chapter sas football he Knowing how Alan loved years.” thought it would be a natural for him to get back close to the game. Alan graduated from Hope High School where he was an excep as a football referee in the high school ranks into the col and had began to work his way when a freak accident stopped his lege level progression. I Alan ask how he got started in being a football official and he said, “My married was sister to a guy named Bill wife’s months Competitive Edge Magazine is one Magazine is Edge months Competitive and that will explodes with competitiveness certainly about it. He is the main man tell you Credit Union and has been the man at Mil-Way His name is Alan Brown. for lots of years. in this area for many years Alan has worked inspired person has received a “calling” or a a “calling” inspired person has received I guess mandate of life from an higher power. what I am trying to describe the is interview that Robert Rankin and I had with a man that very quickly convinced me that he had under gone The man I am featuringjust that. in this It is said that uniqueness can come from just about anywhere creating things that was thought possible. There are also those never in divine intervention or a “call that believe ing.” You find this at the pulpit where a God

ALAN BROWN 34 THE COMPETITIVE EDGE MAGAZINE would then analyzethen would makeand game the of video the selections theyconferences where The camps games. ee spring workthe prospective for theyand tryouts referees to refer go would then hold would Conferences The slots. six fill to trying people sixty about were There a tryout. UCA for to 2000 wasinvited Alan proveto run.In because ofhisinability tobeagamechanger would Thisaccident heel. his to fracture a major suffered he when Conference South Gulf the in was He Conference. South came an official for the Great American Conference and the Gulf be ranks. Alan college with the him for doors other open learn their crew.their only way Heknew thatthe of a member to become of a part be to proveto was worthy he that them to was trying Alan Asarookie teams. their youngto for add to talent inspiring veterans Thesethree Barnett. man were always lookout the on BakerJoe crews as wellEarl of those one had Odam Her and Travis consistent. were twocrews were very that there School Back dayin the I was playing when at HooksHigh football our spouses makes toaccommodate ourownambitions. that sacrifices the overlook ofter males as We marriage. in a aside andcanleadtoanimosityhardship gets pushed one’sof sometime others of feelings the Including ambitions. ways. is always It charge taking act when a criticalbalancing many in him supported and official level college a being of gles Shelby.his wife with Luckilystrug his inter understood she his relationship he hadsetalso rantherisk goal of damaging the to obtain Alans struggles In manage. could he experience daysas much getting wee football pee scrimmages and working Thursdays,Fridays working Satur schools and outlying to trips many made Alan GAMES”. “WORK to was games football ating that the only way you were going to get better at the art of offici He also stated dollars. twenty get and game grade a ninth and game grade eighth an game, A grade seventh a game, B grade a seventyclude bucks.” in This would twenty makeand games work three and at Texasup High “Our show crew would said, Alan expences. on their even even break don’tprobably officials football school high where moneymaking NFL are the and in the SEC, Big 12, Theguys there. it hasnever been because problem money, you have a the for officiating are you “If said, Alan why? question, simple the Alan ask then I Conference whereBobby Ableshadthenmoved ontheBig12. Robertson were three that were chosen to work in the Gulf South Jeff and Ables Bobby Brown, Alan conferences. and divisions advancethen and 2 games to workdivision chance larger the to a theywho offered of will be Newrefs move to wanted forward. ------working there because I went to school there. The SECand because Iwenttoschoolthere. there working would excludeexcludedbe Iwould situation. that myself from from “I remarked, he attended, you that college a or playing was a familymember with suchaswhere a game al connections excludedperson be had he would he if that game a calling from and if you don’t to perform their liking, you are gone.” When ask the collegelevel you arereviewed bycamera angles two orthree you When to domyjob. ifIamgoing up inthat rapped getinto doesn’treally game the don’tI because matter haveget to time don’tI is that is playing. carewhose Don’t!really I of results The people to explain to have we thing difficult most The that. just youbut game have perfect work yourto desire that do to tail off Yougame. work aperfect and try to work a to going not are desire the has officiates that “Everyone remarked, he and level any at field the took he when goal personal his about Alan ask I their teamwastoimpressthemwithhisworkethicanddesire. weather thisyear. it. deserve Heandhis staffcertainly Livethe of edition Bowl. We United alsoareprayinggreat for luck inhisendeavors good all the to Texarkana to bring another Competitive The his life. out Edge Brown wish Alan Magazine successful through why Alanhasbeen it iseasytounderstand acompetitiveand alwaysto nature just seem people Some carry successful. be doubt will no he that impression the with was left I press conference at arecent generates he enthusiasm the ing have Watchgoal. the accomplishing in gains major some made this competitiveof possibility the together piece eventto and play.season post for chosen began others many with along Alan bywas inspired havingneverprobably would schools that be to havein Texarkana.here game bowl amajor game Thisbowl some whatbyhis ambitions developinga dream promoting and injury. could heal overcome he his if ficiating redirected has He gaveAlan of to return would he that impression strong the me respected. and is stillsought Hisinput twice aweekatlocalrestaurants. have officials the that meetings Wednesday the attending him find can you remains, still E.J. committed how show To tocol. to dressyouafraid was not if youdown pro following were not and yourperfect be to everything Hewanted starched. uniform games. at their official ball a foot being from school the attended clude anyonethat also ex Big 12rules shoes shined and shoes shined appearance. yourHe wanted your on the rulesand on Hewas game. strict the every of phase a stickleron ing him as praised be Earl JoeBaker. He friend to his good givequick to credit was Alan chief a crew of duties the ask about When ------

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36 Academic Competition MAGAZINE NEW BOSTON, TX - Every Friday night paper for us to reference as we com- from September through October in mence to talk. One being the UIL Ac- every small town in America, there is a ademic Coaches and Events for 2014- glow on the horizon that townspeople 2015, and the other is a list of years gather around like a moth to a flame. where the Lions have been crowned Whether it be the grand football stadi- the District Academic UIL Champion. um that sits in the middle of 18 acres Twelve of the last thirteen years, they or the bleachers that surround the have placed first in District and that track and field just to the south of the streak now is at eight years in a row. COMPETITIVE EDGE COMPETITIVE high school campus, when the lights District realignment, classification come on, the seats are filled with fans shifts, and the constant change of con- THE that live to support their hometown testants every year have not affected teams. Yet there is another sort of their accomplishments. Elkins relies competition where coaches and com- heavily on the teachers, on her coach- By Tim Graham petitors alike toil away in es and on the Principals on obscurity, and no matter campus to promote the UIL how much success their program. She has a pre- program has had in the sentation that they show to past, citizens are largely the students at the onset of unaware and are not like- every academic year, and ly to drive across town to her current and former par- see the foes meet. Yet ticipants play a large role in this is the sport where recruiting new competitors Sharon Elkins, New Bos- as well. Looking around ton’s District Academ- her office is does not take ic UIL Coordinator, has long to see that she has a found her niche. sincere desire to help stu- dents become more than Walking from the front entrance of the what they aspire to be themselves. high school to the library, students Over her right shoulder in a prominent pass by glass cases adorned with all position on top of her cabinets, is the of the football, volleyball, basketball, 2008 UIL State Championship Team baseball, softball, powerlifting and Award for Journalism. Former stu- track memorabilia awarded from days dents Mika Allison, Katdie Norton and long since gone. They have been rear- Kayla Williams won that award for New ranged over the years, but those same Boston when Elkins was their coach. cases were there when I walked the There is a bond that develops between halls as a senior at New Boston ISD. coaches and players no matter the Making my way to the library and her sport. Road trip experiences, contest office, we sit down for the interview outcomes and disappointing losses and I realize instantly that she has only work to strengthen that bond. come prepared. She has two pieces of There are already 26 contests sched- 37 THE COMPETITIVE EDGE MAGAZINE - - - the front entrance of the school, I pass by those same trophy trophy those same school,pass by of the I entrance front the posted pictures some to upwards wander eyes and my cases the for in way on the them missed I behind them. wall on the pic are They into full view. come have but now they interview, posed are Champions. Academic UIL They of the State tures accomplishments their coaches, and their medals their with student body of the photoprinted in captions below the for all kind of em that a school to place For to see. and for visitors have they no wonder that Achievement, phasis on Academic to would like We for so many years. consistently succeeded in best the all students and her coaches her Elkins, Mrs. wish their extend to attempt they as Year 2014-2105 Academic the in a row. to nine years win streak home the State Championship, it was a testament to the rest Championship, the rest to the State home a testament it was school of the could of what happen on not only football the field, but in the classroomas well. As we wrap up the inter of recognition not more is why there I wonder to myself view, accomplishments. The articlestudents and their these and would surely Magazine Edge Competitive in the exposure the to students some motivate even and maybe cause, help her to back walk trymy On competition. academic hand at their - - at a state level. When the 2011 Mathematics Team of Casey of Casey Team 2011 Mathematics When the level. state a at and Robert Nehrkorn Nowlin brought Ryan Neal, Taylor Cox, caring and driven to push students further than they would go further push students to they than and driven caring of college scholar has seen her fair share on own. She their when students succeed years the throughout ships awarded I am encouraged that there are still people like Mrs. Elkins in Mrs. people like still are there encouraged that am I Energetic, leaders. future our teach that school system the Smallwood was his coach, and his competition focused on competition his and coach, his was Smallwood oral reading. expressive in performance through “literature Rylant Cynthia by Jerk’ Soda ‘The the of interpretation Troy’s was phenomenal”. Troy Garrick, the most recent State Champion from New Champion from State the most recent Garrick, Troy Boston, placed first in district and first at Britton Deedra regionyear. last categorythe Interpretation Oral of as well in meet somewhere in the district. meet somewhere uled for this academic year, and that translates into sacri into translates and that year, for this academic uled ficing weekends andsurrendering free time for coaches and a involves spring in the weekend every Almost alike. players 38 THE COMPETITIVE EDGE MAGAZINE THEY WILL COME BUILD AND IT artificial turf field would allow for the intramural department field wouldallow fortheintramural department turf artificial the overall institutionnotjustthe student-athletes. Having an soccer field andhowitwouldbenefit turf of buildinganartificial expenditures oftheuniversity andhave them seethebenefits Step onewastohave abuyinfrom thosewhocontrolled the student body. and provide andthriving traditionsto beestablishedforahungry it wouldenhancethebranding ofanalready emerging institution President ofTAMUT, ofathleticsandhow knewtheimportance enhance theoverall studentlife experience.Dr. EmilyCutrer, letic complextobelocatedoncampusandthewould from SoutheastNewMexico.Inthisvisionwasanentire ath to anyone elsewhowaswillingtolistenan Athletic Director nicated tothecampuscommunity, administration,students and campus onSeptember9,2013,avisionwaspaintedandcommu andworld-wide receivedthe country invitations.Uponarrival on exactly onthemailinglist,however student-athletesfrom allover was concerned,thespiritsoflongtimebaseballplayers wasnot will come”. AsfaratTexas A&MUniversity-Texarkana (TAMUT) test totheHollywoodscriptofbuildinganathleticfieldand“the For thosewhohave seenthemovie, FieldofDreams, onecanat - - y - of knowledge andmade sure allgrades,soil content,rock and a future soccerfield.Mrs. Wood provided anenormousamount sure allcontents metsafety standards forapadto bebuiltfor on board and agreed tohave testsdone onthesoilandmake grade. Lowandbehold,Kayla Wood from MTG Engineers,came neededto be broughtgraded, andtonsofdirt into bringitupto of brush,standingwater, and the terrainneededtobecleared, in relation toitssize and future utilization.Thesitewasfull location eastoftheUniversity toraiseeyebrows Centerstarted April 2013andMay wasbeingmoved 2013.Asdirt oncampusa tion tothenextandthatiswhatoccurred within themonthsof beingshuffled is constantconstructionanddirt from oneloca The signofacampuswhichisemerging andinits infancy stage an athleticfieldthatarea wasmarked offthelist. thought however duetothesize andtheamenitiesthatgo with near University Boulevard uponenteringcampuswasthe initial a locationbasedontopographyandspace.Thearea located Once thebuyinoccurred, steptwopresented itself withfinding space fortheseactivitiesislimitedandcouldnotbescheduled. whereas withtheexistinglayout oftheuniversity, openandclear to schedulekickball,soccer, Frisbee, andflagfootball events - THE COMPETITIVE EDGE MAGAZINE - - to provide a sturdy base a sturdy to provide is once the rock where out and a black spread substance like gravel along in was brought with a fine sand base all material and spread once they the rock over it the rock start to roll will begin to interlock sur a sturdy and provide face for the artificial turf Once all rock over. to lay and material was rolled inspected then the turf loads, dumped, spread loads, dumped, spread tractor and shovel by is and the thought here The construction of an athletic facility can be a long drawn out and the outcome can be better or it can last 46 days process who a few were there to TAMUT than expected. Upon arrival place at such a, athletics could take doubted intercollegiate with the assistance of a spectacular institution, however “small”, of individuals the vision that was painted is now a reality. group Sara Power, Wood, to James Scogin, Kayla A special thank you my for making and Jason Bell with Symmetry Turf Jeff Pierce first 13 months on the job a memorable one. installers arrived from Portland, Oregon on a Thursday night and on a Thursday Portland, Oregon from installers arrived by Monday afternoon and Friday roll on out the first began to roll machine and morning the rubber infill was placed in a top-dress morning the grooming Tuesday the field and on all over spread on the turf scraping the infill and letting machine begin to drive it fall in between the stalks of the turf and allowing each one to all over afternoon the sand was spread stand up. On Tuesday the same pro machine went through the field and the grooming all over fabric softener Final step was to spray cess as before. field and what was left was a facility that is second to none. Next was the decision to provide lighting for the field and which and which the field for lighting provide to was the decision Next a which has vendor a preferred I contacted to use. company partnership of Intercollegiate Association the National with NAIA, our athletic body of Athletics, is the governing which Sports24 our site within Lighting visited Techline programs. for options and provided a design contact and drew hours of my wanted to We and type of lighting. standards of size us as far as the set by requirements met the minimum all lighting sure make NAIA events tournaments and to host future NCAA in order and decision was made to move Once the the year. throughout days. within three and installed delivered the lights were forward of the four holes and standing of each That included drilling some in from electricity had to be brought pole. In this process was found near the residence a source place on campus and was box to the field and a power trenched halls and lines were placed near the North end of the facility. feet near the four was dug approximately Drainage for the field and west sides of the field and a drainage sidewalk on the east A 30 milliliter liner and backfilled. pipe was placed in the trench by the truck in rock was brought field and the was placed over - - - the material all over. the material all over. like dust in the air for three days as trucks dumped the lime all as trucks dumped the lime days dust in the air for three like went to work spreading crews the pad and the construction over was poured for the sidewalks the lime stabilization of the dirt was poured amount of white chalk was a tremendous took place and there dump or work all areas of the projected field. Once all concrete all concrete field. Once of the projected dump or work all areas nearest the road where all construction access was granted to where the road nearest onto the pad and to drive trucks, tractors, and rollers allow rock around the field, an access point to the field had to be created the field, an access point to the field had to be around all-weather board will not rot or give way with moisture or the with moisture way or give will not rot all-weather board placed As the forms were natural elements weather has to offer. board to go up against the inside of the sidewalk to glue and board nail the ends of the turf to allow support for each edge. The the perimeter of the field which would allow an all weathered the perimeter of the field which would allow an all weathered Step four had forms for a four foot sidewalk to be poured around around Step four had forms for a four foot sidewalk to be poured the soccer ball. and sand mix. The rubber infill was the 70% and the sand was roll for yet true a stable, firm, to provide a 30% and it has proven stadiums. With soccer, one wants more of a true role and less of of a true role one wants more stadiums. With soccer, a bounce of the ball so we went with a 70/30 rate of rubber infill versus baseball and football baseball versus infill and see what was the rate on soccer fields preferred we had to gather data on the to give it a more natural color it a more to give of grass appearance. Then with ivory color stalk mixed with ivory mixed color stalk color green with the standard was a 2.0 inch mono filament slit film , or mono-filament etc. slit film , or mono-filament etc. upon What was finally agreed on what type of turf was in our inch, inch, 2.5 2.0 interest, best country to receive feedback feedback country to receive numerous calls to colleagues numerous the and coaches throughout Included with step three was Included with step three to the naked eye. eye. to the naked down to about .5 grade and allowed a runoff towards the ends of and allowed a runoff towards down to about .5 grade on the field but not noticeable a slight crown is the field, so there had to be quite a bit taken off the middle of the pad to bring it off the middle taken had to be quite a bit occurred within 48 hours of communication with the chosen ven the of communication with hours 48 within occurred and there taken all grades were mobilization occurred Once dor. chosen that met all the requirements specified and mobilization specified and mobilization the requirements chosen that met all dor from 45 days to 60 days depending on weather and delays depending on weather and delays 60 days to 45 days dor from was was completed a vendor the bid process in materials. Once ent their products and gauge a time line of when this could be and gauge a time line of when ent their products ven each fluctuated with of the project completed. The duration specifications that were required and meet with vendors to pres and meet with required were specifications that were designed and the surface began to take shape with all of shape and the surface designed to take began were of finding all the consisted three grades. Step the appropriate As the pad was being constructed the dimensions of the field the dimensions was being constructed As the pad safety standards. standards. safety provided insight to what was needed and the parameters in parameters and the was needed to what insight provided and TAMUT to all Environmental with reference which to follow Power, Environment Health and Safety Officer for TAMUT. Sara TAMUT. for Officer Safety Health and Environment Power, gravel size, liner and drainage all met required codes. Enter Sara Enter Sara codes. required all met and drainage liner size, gravel 40