Chatham • Gretna • Dan River • Tunstall • GWHS • Hargrave

24 - Football Preview friday night lights Score Big This Season! With A Car or Truck From MEADOWS AUTO CENTER DIAGNOSTIC SERVICE for Foreign & Domestic Autos ✓ Check Engine Light ✓ ABS Service & Repair ✓ Cooling System Flush ✓ Transmission Flush ✓ Brakes & Tires ✓ State Inspections Come see our great ✓ Complete Automotive Service ✓ Pick-up & Delivery Available selection of late model used ✓ Genuine AC DELCO Parts cars, trucks and 4x4’s! ✓ Nationwide Warranty 5859 East Gretna Road • GRETNA, VA Toll Free: 866-585-5235 • (434) 656-2140 Directions from Gretna: Turn on 40 East at the trafﬁ c light, go 5 1/2 miles, 0.6 miles past Tucker Rd. Approximately 10 minutes from stoplight Business Hours: Monday - Friday 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. • Saturday 8 a.m. - Noon VADEALER #29405 Chatham • Gretna • Dan River • Tunstall • GWHS • Hargrave 2016 | A special supplement to www.meadows.mechanicnet.com Sydney Sports Shelton/Star-Tribune STAR-TRIBUNE 2 - Football Preview Football Preview - 23 trey edmunds finding Go Team Go! life in college park Western Auto Good Luck Main Street • Gretna PROPANE, FUEL OIL, GASOLINE, DIESEL to his liking 434-432-0251 (434) 656-1411 This Season! davenportenergy.com By EDDY LLOYD Star-Tribune Sports Editor

Edmunds. The name is known all across Southside Virginia from Danville to Blacksburg, but as Trey Edmunds is finding out, it might carry more weight in College Park, Maryland, than any Good Luck This Season! other place on the map. “If I had a nickel for every time I run into someone who knew him or knew of him, I’d be a mighty rich man by now,” Trey said with a chuckle. The him is Ferrell Edmunds, Trey’s father. Diesel Engine & The head football coach at Dan River High School, and the father of three college football players (Terrell and Tremaine are starters at Virginia Tech), Ferrell’s identity is sometimes lost because of the success of his sons, but in College Park they remember. �� Equipment Repair Trey, a Virginia Tech graduate with one year of football eligibility remaining, decided late last �� fall that it would be in his best interest to pursue his final year of football in a different venue. 175 Macken Ln. • Blairs That venue ended up being the University of Maryland, where his Dad starred for the Terps in �� the mid-80s. 434-836-6711 “Sometimes people will come up and ask me, ‘Are you Ferrell Edmunds’ son?’,” Trey said. “I am blessed to be in a situation to follow in his footsteps. I hope and pray I can make it to the professional ranks like he did, but I have to make my own path. I don’t minimize anything he did, but it has to be my own journey.” It is not surprising that people remember the elder Edmunds in that neck of the woods. A third team All-American in 1987, Edmunds had 35 catches for Maryland, which tied the record State Farm Insurance for catches by a tight end for the Terps. From Maryland, Edmunds was selected by the Miami Dolphins in the NFL Draft and in 1989 with the Dolphins, Edmunds was selected as the top tight end for the entire league. He played in the Pro Bowl in 1989 and 1990. TODD BREAUX But for the Edmunds family, from Nana (Felicia’s mother Mary Morris) to Ferrell and his wife Felicia, the legacy left to the Edmunds’ sons goes much farther than the 100-yard gridiron. 13995 US Hwy. 29 • Suite 700 “Whether the message comes from my Nana or my parents, the message is always the same. Photo Courtesy of Maryland Athletics Your Local Choice For Fresh Foods Chatham, VA 24531 Academics comes before athletics,” said Trey. & Low Prices! “I graduated from Virginia Tech last December, but my parents are still always interested Trey Edmunds (9) takes a handoff during in the classes I am taking and if I am doing my homework,” said Trey, “and I am in graduate workouts with the Maryland offense. Shelton St., Gretna, VA • 434-656-1755 Phone: (434) 432-5461 school,” he laughed. “I appreciate so much what they have done for me. I’m not sure where I would be without them.” Trey said the stress on academics has been part of the Edmunds household for as long as to me to stay focused and avoid outside distractions to keep you out of trouble.” he can remember. “We would always take a vacation in the summer, but my mother would buy Tremaine, who will be starting at linebacker as a true sophomore, said his parents have advised each of us a summer workbook,” said Trey. “It had lessons in math, English, literature and other him about expectations. “They just told me to tune out the expectations and just do the best I can “I can accept failure, everyone fails at something. subjects and we had to finish pages in our workbook before we were allowed to play. We also do,” Tremaine said. had to read a book from cover to cover every summer.” As with his brothers, Tremaine is held to a high standard by the Edmunds family. “Be a leader. But I cannot accept not trying.” - Michael Jordan Trey said the bottom line was that without academics, there would be no sports. Don’t follow what other people do,” Tremaine said his family advised. The idea of valuing an education has already passed on from the parents to the sons, at least Although Trey broke up the Edmunds party in Blacksburg, his decision to head to the big city life one of them. During Media Day at Virginia Tech, Terrell talked about the things he would miss hasn’t affected the relationship of the brothers at all. “Leaving my brothers behind was a difficult with Trey in Maryland. “Trey was always checking on me, making sure I was keeping up with decision, but they understand I had to take a different route,” said Trey. “We’re in constant com- Let’s make this a fun and safe season! my classes, doing my homework,” Terrell said. “He is my second biggest role model.” munication. We haven’t missed a beat.” Terrell said the torch has now been passed to him and how he takes care of Tremaine. “I try Trey admits the brothers all operate with the same goal in mind; to make a career in the NFL like Vice Mayor Alonzo Jones to look out for Tremaine the way Trey looked out for me,” said Terrell. their father. “We are all working for the same thing,” said Trey. The lessons taught in the Edmunds’ household didn’t stop with academics as Terrell and So while the party in Blacksburg is just a pleasant memory, the brothers Edmunds are hoping to 434.250.3231 • [email protected] Tremaine expressed thoughts on the lessons of life that were relayed from their parents. “My one day put the band back together at a NFL city near you. Dad and Trey told me the ins and outs of everything,” said Terrell. “My parents always stressed 22 - Football Preview Football Preview - 3 danville scores touchdown with helmet purchase

By EDDY LLOYD to a helmet. The Speedfl ex was one of 26 adult helmets that Fain said the entire football Star-Tribune Sports Editor have been evaluated by Virginia Tech. Virginia Tech states that coaching staff, trainer Tim although no helmet is concussion proof, helmets with a higher Torborg and himself Danville Public Schools has taken a major step in promoting number of stars provide a reduction in concussion risk com- are excited about the safety for football players playing in the Danville system. pared to helmets with less stars. safety features of The system has purchased the Riddell Speedfl ex helmet to Stefan Duma of the Virginia Tech helmet testing lab said this the new helmet. be worn by all players on the middle school, junior varsity, and about the Riddell Speedfl ex helmet. “The Speedfl ex is one of According varsity football teams. According to Jonathan Fain, athletic di- the very best helmets on the market today. It is the fi rst to the Virginia rector for high schools and middle schools, the decision was a employ a new fl exible shell strategy that can be seen with its Tech Helmet collaborative one agreed upon by stakeholders in the school unique front design.” Study, the division. Riddell representative Lou Kocacevic came to Danville in helmet retails from According to Virginia Tech Helmet Ratings, the Riddell May to personally size each player for a perfect helmet fi t. for $399. Wewant to Speedfl ex was rated a fi ve-star helmet, the highest rating given hear tech’s foster Huntin’, Fishin’, you! excited about Campin’, 4-Wheelin’ the edmunds By EDDY LLOYD Star-Tribune Sports Editor

BLACKSBURG - Virginia Tech defensive starters Terrell and Tremaine Ed- or Muddin’? munds are receiving heaps of praise going into the 2016 football season and Blue that praise is coming from the highest source. Long-time Virginia Tech defensive coordinator Bud Foster spoke very highly Be a part of of the two former Dan River players during the pre-season Media Day at Virginia Tech. “I am really excited about those guys,” said Foster. “In most cases, the sec- Womack Publishing’s Collar ond and third brothers are usually the most highly recruited of the brothers. In the Edmunds case, they still came here. I think it goes back to our staff and how newest monthly magazine we treat the players.” Foster then got into specifi cs about the brothers. “Terrell has been outstand- ing,” Foster said. “We felt like we needed a speed guy and a playmaker at our by submitting your news, rover spot. That is a critical spot for us, and I think he has really developed into that role.” photographs, or Foster said he likes Terrell’s development. “I like what he is about. He is physical and he is a good tackler,” said Foster. “He is probably our most improved and consistent player.” upcoming events, etc. Terrell said he was honored to be considered the most improved player by News Foster. “It means a lot coming from Coach Bud,” said Terrell. Dave Knachel/VT Sports Tremaine, a true sophomore, starting at outside linebacker, has a ways to go according to Foster, but has great potential. “Tremaine is still learning to play Edmunds brothers Send your news and photos to Southern - Style the position and play the position at a high level, but he has those skill sets,” [email protected] said Foster. “Is he where he needs to be right now? No, but he is a willing kid. Tremaine Edmunds (49) and brother Terrell at its Best! He proves that to us every day. He is very coachable and he will take what you Edmunds (22) have been named as starters on the coach and try to implement it on the fi eld.” Foster compared Tremaine to former or message us on Facebook! Tech standout Xavier Adibi. Virginia Tech defense this fall. Both prepped at Dan Tremaine said one of the issues he has had thus far is thinking too much on the fi eld. “Coach Foster said I need to key my reads and not think so much out River High School under the direction of their father Call 434-432-2791 for info! there,” said Tremaine. “He wants me to play fast.” and head coach Ferrell Edmunds. 4 - Football Preview Football Preview - 21

Hwy. 29S Danville LP: 793-5811 varsity Blairs Gretna: 656-2250 (434) 836-3500 Fuel Oil • Gasoline football 1755 Calohan Rd. LP Gas • Kerosene • Diesel Rustburg Danville, Virginia schedule (434) 821-3344 ABERCROMBIE (434) 792-8022 chatham dan river gretna Crossroads 9/2/16 7:00PM Buckingham County A 8/26/16 7:00PM Magna Vista H 8/26/16 7:00PM Randolf Henry H 9/9/16 7:00PM James River (Buchanan) A 9/2/16 7:00PM Bartlett Yancey A 9/2/16 7:00PM Tunstall A Automotive 9/16/16 7:00PM Tunstall H 9/9/16 7:00PM Tunstall A 9/9/16 7:00PM Brookville H 6224 Kentuck Rd. • Danville 9/23/16 7:00PM Gretna A 9/16/16 7:00PM Martinsville H 9/16/16 7:00PM Heritage A 434-822-8322 Full Service Pharmacy 9/30/16 7:00PM Dan River H 9/23/16 7:00PM Nelson County H 9/23/16 7:00PM Chatham H 10/7/16 7:00PM Altavista A 9/30/16 7:00PM Chatham A 9/30/16 7:00PM Appomattox A Convenient Location at Good Luck 10/14/16 7:00PM Nelson County H 10/7/16 7:00PM Appomattox County H 10/7/16 7:00PM William Campbell H 21 Main St., Chatham • (434) 432-2094 This Season! 10/21/16 7:00PM Bluestone A 10/14/16 7:00PM William Campbell A 10/21/16 7:00PM Dan River A 10/28/16 7:00PM Appomattox County A 10/21/16 7:00PM Gretna H 10/28/16 7:00PM Altavista H 11/4/16 7:00PM William Campbell H 11/4/16 7:00PM Altavista A 11/4/16 7:00PM Nelson County A Supporting our Do Droplocal Inteams as 10161 Martinsville Hwy. •they Danville strive (434) 685-2062for excellence. tunstall hargrave george GOODMike LUCK Mondul THIS SEASON! 8/26/16 7:00PM Rustburg A washington Danville City Sheriff 9/2/16 7:00PM Gretna H 9/2/2016 7:00 St. Anne's Belﬁ eld School A 8/26/16 7:00PM Athens Drive H 9/9/16 7:00PM Dan River H 9/10/2016 2:00 Blue Ridge School A 9/2/16 7:00PM Vance A 9/16/16 7:00PM Chatham A 9/17/2016 12:00 Covenant School H 9/9/16 7:00PM EC Glass A 9/23/16 6:00PM Patrick County H 9/23/2016 7:00 Randolph Macon Academy H 9/23/16 7:00PM Franklin City H 9/30/16 6:00PM George Washington A 10/1/2016 2:00 Massanutten Military Academy A J&J Auto Sales 9/30/16 7:00PM Tunstall H 10/14/16 7:00PM Halifax County A 10/8/2016 2:00 Virginia Episcopal School A 10/7/16 7:00PM Patrick A 10/21/16 7:00PM Martinsville A 10/21/2016 7:00 Fishburne Military School H 10/14/16 7:00PM Martinsville H 225 Peoples Supply Rd. 10/28/16 7:00PM Magna Vista A 10/28/2016 7:00 Christ Church School H 10/21/16 7:00PM Bassett H 11/4/16 7:00PM Bassett H 11/4/2016 North Cross School A Gretna, VA 10/28/16 7:00PM Halifax A 11/4/16 7:00PM Magna Vista A Good Luck This Season! (434) 656-1589 20 - Football Preview Football Preview - 5

434-656-GUNS(4867) 434-656-3500 www. PointBlankSportingGoods.com Sporting goodS 30173 Highway 29 North “A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, Gretna, VA 24557 the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed,” [email protected]

Specializing in Non-Surgical

Back Pain and Sydney Shelton/Special to the Star-Tribune Joint Pain Hargrave Varsity Football 2016 Front Row: Jordan Riggs, Trey Barnes, Jourden Galloway, Abraham Frazier, Adin Kines, Harrison Slay, Trey Lee, Hayden Bressoud, Ryan Lowe, and Naheed John. Second 949 Piney Forest Road • Danville, VA 24540 Row: Connor Rogers, Darrell Smith, Austin Bennett, Paul Englander, Brian Williams, Chancellor Moore, Elyas Harris, Adam Saliu, and Cody Laviolette. Third Row: Coach Robert Management Wickbolt, Coach Lawerence Robinson, and Coach Brandon Owen, Pierce Dolan, Josh Dolan, Youssef Labib, Xylon Walker, Kyle Refferty, Rory Gamble, Jackson Stewart, Coach 434.857.5644 www.godocsmed.com Scot Roach, and Head Coach Ben Paris. What’s Black and White and READ all over?? STAR-TRIBUNETHE source for local sports scores, more athletic tigers look to rebound highlights, & photos By SYDNEY SHELTON this year. We were able to return a lot of guys, which means we that’s the type of defense we are,” said Coach Paris “We shuffl e Star-Tribune Sports will worry less about fundamentals, and concentrate on execu- through our D-line.” Elyas Harris and Rory Gamble will also tion.” help the Tigers on the defensive line. Coming back from a tough 1-9 season in 2015 due to mul- For the quarterback position Hargrave will have Danville’s Linebackers will include Laviolette, Galloway, Lee, Jordan, tiple injuries, the Hargrave football team is hoping to make a Darrel Smith. “He is a pure athlete. He was our backup quarter- and Pierce Dolan. comeback. Returning most of their players, Head Coach Ben back last year and was able to step up and do a good job.” Paul Defensive backs start with returner Connor Rogers, who has Paris hopes to keep everyone healthy and have a better sea- Englander is young, but has began to pick up on the offense been doing great on the fi eld thus far. Adam Saliu has been do- son. Hargrave is a part of the Division 2 VISAA Independent and the terminology of the game and could also help the Tigers ing well and John will come in to play free safety. School Association. at this position. Special teams will include Jordan who will take care of the Stepping up this season will be Martinsville native Riggs Jor- Running backs include “Wrecking Ball” Galloway and kicking and is looked to excel. Galloway will be the Tiger’s long dan. Coach Paris looks for him to play a vital part this season “Speedy” Austin Bennett, which will help in this position by giv- snapper. The Tigers are still working on who is going to return from all angles of the fi eld. Jordan is coming back from a bro- ing the other teams a good change of pace to play against. the kicks but most likely it will be Smith, Bennett, or Austin Wil- ken forearm which occurred in the fi rst game of the season last Cody Laviolette and Trey Barnes will also contribute. liams. STAR-TRIBUNE year. This year he will be playing wide receiver, running back, Connor Rogers will return as a wide receiver and he will be If the team can stay healthy they are looking at a promising outside linebacker, and kicker. joined by Naheed John, Brian Williams, Jordan, and Adam Sa- season. The fi rst three games are the toughest games of the Austin Bennett and Jourden Galloway will also be leading liu. season. These games are at St. Anne’s, at Blue Ridge, and SPORTS the Tigers. Bennett is a sophomore and is looked to have some Lowe, Slay, and Lee started all 10 games last year and they then at home against Covenant on the 17th. “We will be tested Check www.ChathamStarTribune.com good carries. A bowling ball type running back, Galloway, will are ready to pick up right where they left off on the offensive right away but after that we have a lot of games that we will be getting good, hard yards this year. line. Rory Gamble didn’t play much last year but is looking to compete in.” added Coach Paris. for the latest sports coverage Ryan Lowe, Harrison Slay, and Trey Lee are all returning to play more this year and be a contributor. Hayden Bressoud has The local Tigers will include Darrell Smith and Josh Dolan both sides of the line this year and they came to fi nish what they also shown good work. from Danville, Connor Rogers from Chatham, Riggs Jordan started last year. The linemen cross over to the defensive line as well. “We from Martinsville, and Adam Saliu from Java. Coach Ben Paris said, “We have a lot better quality athletes play a strong attack, we pin our ears back and try to run hard, 6 - Football Preview Football Preview - 19 Potts said the attack will change some from last season. we ran and that is the first time that it happened in a while.” and the kids like to play the county teams but as far as matching “We got a little more speed on varsity this year and we’re trying Tunstall will face Rustburg, Gretna, and Dan River in their first up, we don’t look too far ahead.” to hit the edges a little more,” said Potts. “Hopefully our passing three weeks of the season, games all lost last season. After opening at Rustburg, Tunstall will face Gretna in its first game can take a big step forward. We had a good 7 on 7 season “The only game we are worried about is Rustburg,” said Potts. home game on September 2. and in our first scrimmage game, we threw for more yards than “We’re not looking ahead, but of course you’ve got rivalry games

Tunstall Varsity Cheerleaders 2016 Front Row (L-R): Lindsay Marshall, Aiyana Layne, Anna Leigh Hawkins, Caribbea Sheets, and Mya Godwin. Row 2: Tori Davis, Raigan Shackelford, Brandi Beckelheimer, and Emily Moore. Row 3: Cayla Fuqua, Lacey Kirby, Eddy Lloyd/Star-Tribune Maddi Howell, Carlie Moser, and Holly Sattefield. Chatham Varsity Football 2016 Not pictured: Coach Olivia McCraw. Front Row : Hunter Furr, Peyton Astin, Parker Martin, Aaron Martin, Taylor Moore, Kamden Lewis, Preston Turner, and Stevie Johnson; Row 2: Ethan Reynolds, Joseph Davis, Photo by Eddy Lloyd/Star-Tribune Zae Edmunds, Peyton McCoy, Ty Wingfield, Tony Whittle, and Chase Trent; Row 3: Sam Faison, Brae Adkins, Harper Jones, Colton Walker, Seth Bernard, Bradley Giles, and Caden Spaulding; Row 4: Trevor Crowder, Bryan Lawrence, Damarcus Irvin, Jacob Willis, Dylan Russell, and Jimmy Doss; Row 5: Nick Mitchell, Nick Williams, Chance Pirdy, and Jacob Pickeral; Row 6: Coach Matt Allen, Coach Neil Clarridge, Coach Larry Robertson, Coach Seth Gunter, Manager James Nuckols, and Coach Tommy Scolpini; Not Pictured : Coach Chase Hall and Sam Hyler. allen: new sheriff in town for cavaliers By NEIL CLARRIDGE all three phases of the game. Dylan Russell will anchor both Dylan “Jethro” Russell is big, strong, and deceptively fast. He Star-Tribune Sports the offensive and defensive lines. The offense will run through is the head of the spear at the point of attack. quarterback Peyton Astin. The following players will compete to Juniors Chatham’s Matt Allen is a first-year head coach for the Cava- fill the rest of the vacancies. Sam Faison is a linebacker. He will play offensive positions lier football program. Allen is from Buckingham County where Seniors as he is needed. Sam is agile, mobile, and hostile when on the he served as an assistant for venerable coach Craig Gill. Allen Stevie Johnson will be so busy on Friday nights that he will football field. brings great energy and intensity to the program. His leadership probably have to sell popcorn at halftime. He will play running Harper Jones is a smart player who plays the game with great style puts a premium on accountability. The goal for the 2016 back, wing, and quarterback on offense. He will play linebacker intelligence. He has a knack for finding the ball on defense. He campaign is to create a team in perpetual pursuit of excellence. and safety on defense. His athletic attributes demand that he has a comprehensive knowledge of the offensive scheme. Last year’s team had 22 seniors who graduated in May. Paul play on most of the special teams too. Peyton Astin is the quarterback. The team will depend on As- Grekos retired from football after serving honorably as Cha- Demarcus “Swervin’” Irvin will primarily play interior defensive tin to run the offense. tham’s head coach for six years. Grekos, a positive personality line. He is the type of player that requires a double team to con- Parker Martin brings a linebacker’s mentality to the defensive who is an excellent role model, worked with Chatham’s football trol his movements. Irvin’s physical condition will determine how backfield. He is one of the fastest players on the team. programs for many years prior to becoming head coach. much playing time he receives. Nick “Snap” Mitchell will play on both the offensive and defen- The combined attrition left many vacancies to fill this year. Seth Bernard will play defensive end and offensive tackle. sive lines. Moving large objects is a snap for Mitchell. Allen will function as the team’s defensive coordinator. Seth Bernard shows great promise, and is putting in the work neces- Tony Whittle will play linebacker on defense. When he is not Eddy Lloyd/Star-Tribune Gunter, who studied football while working with coach Buddy sary to become a good football player. pugging or scraping, he will cover the flat in pass coverage. The Brown, is the team’s offensive coordinator. Chatham will run a Bryan Lawrence is ballast defined. His value to the team de- defense is depending on Whittle to make the stops that count. Tunstall JV Football 2016 4-3 defense, and a modified spread offense. pends on how well he can throw his weight around. Jacob “Tennessee” Willis is a lineman. Tennessee has the Front row: Tyler Kerns, Jalen Troy, Hunter Long, Antonio Price, Tyler Moss, Aaron Cook, Ethan Broyles, Marquise Wimbush and Hunter Cassada. Row 2: Aron Zahradka, Donovan Stevie Johnson, Aaron Martin, Parker Martin, Dylan Russell, Aaron Martin is a player who will be busy Friday nights. He dogged determination to succeed in most any endeavor. Dickerson, Chandler Minter, Eli Akl, Curtis Warner, Nathan Henley, Braxton High, Seth Alverson, and Ryan Bartley. Row 3: Will Gatewood, Cody Crews, Derek Dallas, Myles Waller, and Peyton Astin will be counted on to fill crucial positions on is a linebacker, but he will play several offensive positions, and Preston Turner is a receiver and a defensive end. A large Reilly Bray, Peyton McBride, Jesse Fox, and Nathan Rigney. Row 4: Brandon Jamison, Ridge Mills, Nykis Waller, Aaron Patterson, and Michael Thomas. Row 5: Coaches – the field. Johnson, Martin, and Martin will play pivotal roles in contribute to special teams too. framed athlete with good speed, Turner can dominate any posi- Dominique Fitzgerald, Charles Fulcher, Head Coach Bradley Fussell, and Jerry Dallas. 18 - Football Preview Football Preview - 7

tion he plays. the ball. monds has limitless potential. Sophomores Trevor Crowder will play offensive and defensive line. He is Brae Adkins is a beast. He is capable of being dominant at Hunter Furr is a receiver. He will play primarily on the perim- quickly adapting to the speed at which high school football is any position on the front lines. eter. He is a talented pass catcher, and a proficient stalk blocker. played. Nick Williams will play offensive and defensive line. He is very Sam Hyler will probably play center. His athletic ability and in- Kamden Lewis can play practically anything. He will serve athletic for his size. Intensity will define the role that he plays for telligence make it possible for him to compete at the varsity level. where his considerable talents will best suit the needs of the pro- his team this season. Caden Spaulding will play offensive and defensive line. He is gram. Bradley Giles will play linebacker, defensive line, and offensive steadfast in his persistent pursuit of proficiency. Chase Trent is a versatile skill player. He will probably play line. Giles has a wild and wonderful attitude about football. Joseph Davis is a runner. His running ability is capable of running back or wing on offense. He may play outside linebacker Ethan Reynolds will play quarterback, wing, and defensive propelling Chatham’s offense into the Promised Land. or defensive back on the other side of the ball. back. He is the type of player that coaches like to coach. Taylor Moore will play receiver and defensive back. Moore is Jimmy Doss will play offensive and defensive line. Jimmy is Peyton McCoy will play wide receiver. He must master the art most valuable to the team when he is focused on doing his job. quickly learning about physics, leverage, and inertia. of the stalk block in order to have a positive impact at the varsity Colton Walker is an offensive and defensive lineman. His re- Chance Pirdy is a linebacker. He has a great attitude and a level. lentless work ethic makes him a promising prospect on either relentless work ethic. Jacob Pickeral is primarily a special teams’ player on the var- side of the ball. Freshmen sity level. Ty Wingfield will play running back and defensive line. Wing- Zae Edmunds is a wide receiver. His attitude more than his field has the potential to be a dominant force on both sides of aptitude will determine the altitude of his football career. Ed- Chatham Varsity Cheerleaders 2016 Front Row: Captains Jennia Candy and Bryanna Fox. Row 2: Grace Porter, Harley Jamie McBride/Special to the Star-Tribune Gauldin, Megan Porter, Talarra Stone, Kenia Tunstall Varsity Football 2016 Bennett, Abbygail Sims, Morgan Yeatts, Front row: Reagan Dillon, Trevor Lovelace, Ben Donahue, Chase Poe, Josh Wells, Ray Vincent, and Myles Pyrtle. Row 2: Cutler Crider, Luke Buckner, Andrew Snead, Malik Irvin, Robyn Minter and Taliyah Thompson. Row 3: Michael Pyrtle, Hunter Beck, Clay Hardy and Christian McLaughlin. Row 3: Alex Warner, Tony Johnson, Tyler Webster, Jonathan Tyler, Tyler Deane, Carlton Jackson and Khalil Angela Dillard, Rionna Luck, Kendall Sheets, Hunt. Row 4: McKinley Payne, Fletcher Hardy, Eddie Booth, Aaron Carter-Noble, Elijah Morton, Dekotah Curtis, Ehren Sieg, and Matt Fulcher. Row 5: Nick Vest, Jacob Snead, Brian Stroud, Carmen Pruitt, Jacklyn Booher, Tanner Bray, Dakota Mills, Aric Gardner, Jalen Moore, and Sage McBride. Row 6: Antonio Lopez, Donica Hunt, Tony Totten, Dyaln Haley, Jalan Troy, Grayson Hardy, Zach Webster, Elizabeth Durham and Chelsey Galvin. and Tony Grant. Row 7: Coaches – Mark Scarce, Jerry Dallas, Dominique Fitzgerald, Charles Fulcher, Brad Fussell, Head Coach Dave Potts, Mike Estes, Randy Hunsicker, Ed Photo by Eddy Lloyd/Star-Tribune Sherlock, Strength Coach Olivia McCraw, and videographer Ryan Gillie. potts hopeful for successful trojan season Chatham JV By BRIAN CENDEJAS ful. Luke Buckner will return as the starting quarterback for a sec- Star-Tribune Sports “We tried to do more circuit training to get their heart rates up,” ond straight year. Malik Irvin, Tyler Webster, and Johnathan Tyler Football 2016 said Potts. “We’re working on the cardio while we’re doing the will all see playing time in the slot at different times. Entering in his second season as head coach of the Tunstall strength training and the agility training,” Potts added. Their offensive line will feature Dakota Mills, Sage McBride, Front Row (L-R): Jerome White, Steven Taylor, Trojans, David Potts has only one goal in mind: improving from Potts also mentioned that the turnout for conditioning has and Matt Fulcher as they lead a new group of linemen. First year Kamden Lewis, Jacob Dalton, Josiah Hanks, Daniel last year. been the best in recent years in terms of numbers. Overall, 17 senior Ben Donahue will start at the split. Moschler, and Ethan Reynolds. 2nd Row: Peyton Potts, who took over the reins from former head coach Buddy players had graduated from last year’s squad, eight of them be- The Trojans will showcase an almost entirely new defense. McCoy, Xavier Johnson, CJ Meyers, Nathaniel Brown, led the Trojans to a 2-8 record last year with both wins ing starters on offense and defense. Two of the defensive returners are Clay Hardy and Trevor Reynolds, Chase Trent, and Michael Gunnell. 3rd coming from Martinsville and Patrick County. Key losses include Josh Wilson and DeMarcus Wimbush, who Lovelace, who will play in the backfield as well as other positions. Row: Brae Adkins, Colby Martin, Colton Walker, “Last year was very difficult,” said Potts. “We were thin on tal- both will further their playing career at Bluefield College. David Chase Poe will return to safety, as Fletcher Hardy will move from Trevor Crowder, Jamie Blane and Bret Stallings. ent and we were besieged by injuries, so our team got thinner Dean, Will Ashworth, and TeAun Carter were also key players a defensive end to being a linebacker. 4th Row: Jimmy Doss, Caleb Oakes, Nick Williams, and it showed in the fourth quarter in most of our ballgames. We lost to graduation, but Potts said that he is optimistic about this For special teams, Reagan Dillon will move up from junior var- Chance Pirdy, and Jacob Pickeral. 5th Row: Coach have been trying to improve our quality of depth and our condi- year. sity as he will be taking over the kicking duties. tioning so the fourth quarter is an advantage not a disadvantage.” “We’re younger and inexperienced but I believe that we have “He has a huge leg,” said Potts. “Hopefully the kicking game Larry Robertson, Manager James Nuckols, and Last season also saw tired players who were frequently sub- gotten faster and hopefully a little hungrier. I hope we can get will take a step forward and I’m hoping we are better on special Head Coach Tommy Scolpini. Not Pictured: Quintrel stituted through the majority of the game. Potts said that this was more guys on the field that can do the job that needs to be done,” teams as far as coverages and returns. We weren’t good in any Leach, Sam Hyler, and Brandon Pritchett. something he needed to change quickly in order to be success- said Potts. phases of the game in special teams.” Photo by Eddy Lloyd/Star-Tribune 8 - Football Preview Football Preview - 17 Dodson Distributing Company 336 Airport Drive, Chatham, VA Danville 13950 US Highway 29 - Chatham, VA 434-793- 9490 434-432-8192

Sydney Shelton/Star-Tribune Sports Supporting our Dan River Varsity Football 2016 local teams as Row 1 (L-R): Cameron Hunt, Devin Brooks, E.J. Vaden, Jaquon Durant, Jaylan Fitzgerald, Raven Cardwell, Joey Hill, Devin Stone, and Brian “Tra” Womack; SCOTT Row 2 (L-R): Thomas Wells, Reggie Venable, Zemar Anderson, McKenzie Edmunds, Cole Watlington, Wade Thomas, Tyree Barton, Elijah Motley, and B.J. Edmondson; they strive Where Row 3 (L-R): Duane Brooks, Daniel Dickerson, Noah Karnes, Domanique Watson, Tyreek Chaney, Jackson Aherron, DaShawn Robertson, and Hunter Slaughter; Row 4 (L-R): Bryson Tillman, Adam Hughes, D.J. Moser, Tavin Fitzgerald, Chandler Gammon, Zair Custis, DeAndre Edmonds, Travoris Pointer, and Juan Maldonado; for excellence. “Every day Is Row 5 (L-R): Santiago Rios, John Emory Keller, Stephney Tucker (manager), Brevin Stone (manager), Tamar Reynolds (manager), Andrew Shelton, and Brian Smoot; Funeral Home Row 6 (L-R): Coaches: Steve Waller, Justin Hunt, Lee Martin, head coach Ferrell Edmunds, Dennis Saunders, Ray Richie, Maurice Reynolds, and Martin Pounds (statistician); 147 S. Main St., Chatham • 432-2511 Game day!” Not Pictured: A.C. Biagioni, coach Brian Womack, and coach Micah Knight. Mike Mondul ServingDanville The AreaCity SinceSheriff 1898 speedy wildcats want better ending in 2016 WINGS.BEER.SPORTS. By MARTIN POUNDS Additionally, Dan River is a more disciplined squad as they seem age rushing. Running backs BJ Edmondson and Noah Karnes and Star-Tribune Sports more about team success instead of individual accolades. Finally, fullbacks Tyreek Chaney all move up to the varsity level and will the Wildcats are deeper than last year’s squad at most positions look to contribute to the rushing game. Sophomore Elijah Motley 3415 Riverside Dr. Q: Briefl y discuss your thoughts on last season. What was with just over 40 players on varsity. joins the team after only playing basketball this season and could your regular season record and how did you do in the play- be used as a running back or receiver. Danville, VA offs? Q: Who are the key returners from the 2015 team? Receivers: Devin Stone is a game-changer at wide receiver, A: Despite making their fi fth straight playoff appearance, many A: Coach Ferrell Edmunds has 16 starters (eight each on of- as evident in his 45-yard touchdown reception against GW where of the Dan River players were disappointed in how their season fense and defense) returning on all sides of the ball. DR’s key he broke tackles and fought to score. Additionally, Wade Thomas, ended. Dan River was 7-4 overall and 6-3 in the regular season, returners include seniors Zemar Anderson (TE/DE/LB), Jaquon Raven Cardwell, Jaylan Fitzgerald, and Joey Hill make up part of 434.797.9464 but three of the four defeats were to state champions Magna Vista Durant (RB/DB), Cameron Hunt (RB/LB), Devin Brooks (QB/OLB/ a solid receiving corps. Zemar Anderson will start at tight end, with and Appomattox County (twice). The Wildcats made the playoffs FB), Dashawn Robertson (OL/DL), Devin Stone (WR/S) and junior Andrew Shelton and Fitzgerald backing him up and be used when as the eighth-seed after they won the fi rst annual Adams-Martin lineman Jackson Aherron (OL/DL). DR goes into their two-tight end formation. Trophy presented by the Star-Tribune as the Pittsylvania County Offensive line: With an infl ux of linemen moving up from the JV football champions. In the playoffs, they took down fi rst-round Q: Describe your offensive system for the upcoming season. team, the Wildcats has enough players to fi eld two decent lines. opponent Central-Wise in Ringgold. But, their season end in the A: Dennis Saunders takes over as offensive coordinator and Junior Jackson Aherron is the Wildcats’ most versatile and veteran second Round at Appomattox as the Raiders won 28-7 en route to quarterbacks coach this year after numerous years as JV head offensive lineman, as the junior can play center,Financing guard, and tackle available completing a perfect 15-0 record and the 2A state championship. coach. Lee Martin will coach the running backs and receivers, for Coach Hunt. Hunter Slaughter will start at center, with Aherron while Justin Hunt joins the staff as offensive line coach. The Wild- and Chandler Gammon at guards, DJ Moser, DeAndre Edmonds, Comfort Cooling Q: How many players did you lose from last season and who cats’ main offenses will be a Multiple I-Formation look as well as and Tavin Fitzgerald are battling for the two starting spots at tackle. are the key losses for your team? some spread offense. Juan Maldonado, Travoris Pointer, Adam Hughes, Zair Custis, and Heating & Air Conditioning A: The bad news for Dan River is that they lost 20 players to Quarterbacks: Senior Devin Brooks will get the initial start at Chatham transfer Sam Qazi round out a deep Wildcats offensive graduation; the good news is that a little less than half of them were quarterback after backing up Reynolds last season. Brooks is a line. full-time starters. Key losses to the Wildcats were quarterback Jojo dual threat QB, but he will have some competition at the position Orangevans.com Reynolds, lineman Brandon Hollowell, tight end Logan Harvey, de- as sophomore Thomas Wells could eventually be the best passing Q: Describe your defensive system for the upcoming season. fensive end Kaseem Harris, linebackers Dillon Waller and Austin quarterback that the Wildcats have had in years. A: Brian Womack will serve as defensive coordinator, with Steve Cosner, and kicker Andrew Lewis. Running backs: Seniors Cameron Hunt and Jaquon Durant are Waller and Maurice Reynolds assisting with defensive linemen and 434-791-2051 two veteran backs that the Wildcats are counting on to kick start linebackers. Dan River will mainly play a 4-4 defense with various Service and sell most brands Q: How does the 2016 team compare thus far to last year’s their rushing game. Tra’ Womack will also get some carries, while look, but they will also go to 4-3 or 3-4 looks to address spread team? fullback Duane Brooks will provide great blocking and short-yard- offenses. For all Your Heating and cooling any Time - any Day of the Week A: The 2016 Wildcats are overall a bit faster than the 2015 team. 16 - Football Preview Football Preview - 9 Defensive line: All-State defensive end Zemar Anderson (who lines a strong group of DBs. Stone, Jaquon Durant, and Tyree Bar- Q. How do you see your team matching up with other teams will also play some linebacker) and All-Region lineman Dashawn ton, along with JV callups Reggie Venable and Jaylan Fitzgerald in your region? Robertson will anchor the defensive front at end and tackle respec- will start in the secondary. Raven Cardwell, McKenzie Edmunds, A: With their speed, athleticism, and strength, the Wildcats can tively. Daniel Dickerson, Bryson Tillman, EJ Vaden, and DJ Moser Joey Hill, and Wade Thomas can also play in the Wildcat second- match up with anyone in 2A and everyone on their schedule. Ac- will see time at defensive line, while AC Biagioni, Tavin Fitzgerald, ary when needed. cording to one poll, Dan River is projected to finish second in the Domanique Watson, and Sam Qazi will add size at tackle. Dogwood District behind the Raiders. But, the seniors are shooting Linebackers: Brian Womack, Noah Karnes, and Duane Brooks Q: Discuss your special teams with emphasis on kickers, kick for the ultimate goal, their first ever state football title. The Wildcats will start at linebacker, with Anderson joining the crew when they returners, punters and long snappers. opened their regular season as they hosted back-to-back 3A state go to 3-4. Tyreek Chaney and Elijah Motley will also see action A: Micah Knight returns to coach the Special Teams unit. John champion Magna Vista on August 26. at middle linebacker, while Brian “Deuce” Smoot, Joshua Royal, Emory Keller will handle the kicking and punting duties for the Wild- and Cole Watlington are three reserve outside linebackers that cats as he has vastly improved his range and accuracy in both Q: If you were to draw up a blueprint for success for this team, have great hustle and aren’t afraid to hit, thusly they will see time areas; Santiago Rios will backup Keller at kicker. Juniors Jackson what would it look like? on kickoff team. Junior Cole Watlington will transition from playing Aherron and Hunter Slaughter will handle the long-snapping du- A: Establish the running attack early to dictate the game tempo, defensive end to outside linebacker. GW transfer Latavio King will ties. DR will use their track speed in the return game as Durant, utilize the Wildcats’ speedy and athletic backs and receivers in the also strength the middle linebacker group once he’s gotten enough Stone, Hunt, and Womack were members of the state runner-up passing game, have the defense to pressure opponents into mis- practice time under his belt. 4x100m relay team. They will be back returning kickoffs and punts, takes, not giving up big plays on special teams, and being more Defensive Backs: All-Region defensive back Devin Stone head- as well as playing on the kickoff team. consistent at all phases of the game.

Eddy Lloyd/Star-Tribune ‘Let’s go Cincy!’ Wayne and Lib Ashworth of Lanier’s Mill Road in Danville are honoring their grandson, Caleb Sydney Shelton/Special to the Star-Tribune Ashworth, with a tribute to his college football team, the Cincinnati Bearcats. Ashworth, a product of Tunstall High School and the son of Paul and Kim Ashworth, is a redshirt freshman defensive end Dan River for the ‘Cats. His coach and recruiter is Chatham native Robert Prunty. Caleb’s brothers Josh and Eli Varsity Cheer helped their grandfather with the Bearcat rocks. Pictured, from left, sitting: Breniyah Henderson and Janaya Jones; AUTHORIZED DEALER: squatting: Alona Myers, Jada Crowder, and Keyondra Reynolds; standing: Teniya Turner, Mama MamaAmaia Jones, La’davonia Apple, J.A.Plumbing, Electrical, Holmes Air Conditioning & Heating Makayla White, and Kiara Fitzgerald. Your Local Source For Plumbing • Electrical • Air Conditioning • Heating Rosa’s Reduce Your Out of Town Service Call & Mileage Charges Rosa’s Jack Holmes, Owner 41 Years Experience, VA Licensed (434) 432-4100 Power out? Certified Technicians Pump & Well Service • Water Softening Your Local dealer Water Treatment Systems 201 McBride Ln. • Gretna • 434-656-3411 Copper Pipe Replacement 100 HeatingVaden & Air Conditioning Dr., Gretna • 434-656-3411 100434.432.4100 Vaden Dr., Gretna • 434-656-3411 Portable and Standby Generators • NeverFeelPowerless.com OLD DOMINION RUBEN'S TOO INSURANCE AGENCY Sydney Shelton/Star-Tribune Sports 2449 Franklin Tpke., Danville Gordon “Gil” Ragland III, Owner/Agent 2016 Dan River JV Football Team Formerly102 School Gretna Ins. St. Agency • Suites • 105B A&B Henry •St. Gretna• Gretna, VA Row 1 (L-R): Tracey Glass, Jalen Scales, Zavihian Durant, Zachary Casida, Landon Tate, Luke White, Malcolm Groom, Ethan Lewis, Jordan Richardson, and LaMondrae Coles; 434-656-6501 Row 2 (L-R): B.J. Averett, Jzimer Edmunds, Nathianial Watson, Matthew Rigney, Jeremiah Rigney, Cole Andrews, Brylan Kelly, Daquan Skinner, Lance Hilton, and Dakota Trammell; 836-8302 [email protected] Row 3 (L-R): NyJuan Pritchett, DaTaevion Robertson, Jayzon Glass, Kevin Hinton, Daquan Davis, Patrick Barker, Reggie Walker, Austin Deel, Austin Saunders, and Ryan Iraheta; Row 4 (L-R): Asst, Coach Keith Barksdale, Asst, Coach Anthony Brooks, Head Coach Ryan Scolpini, and Asst. Coach Thomas Pounds; Not Pictured: Asst, Coach Martin Pounds. 10 - Football Preview Football Preview - 15 CHERRYSTONE BLAIRS VETERINARY HOSPITAL Self Service Hours: Mon-Fri 8-7, Sat. 8-12, Sun. 8-10 Grocery 14390 US Hwy. 29N • Chatham, VA 6461 W. Gretna Rd. (434) 432-4410 • Fax: 434-432-4428 Gretna, VA [email protected] (434) 656-2556 GW Varsity Cheerleaders SouthSideouthSide SupportingLarge our 2016 Sitting L to R: Camden Green, local teams as Madeline Daniel, Kate Newell, and animaLnimaL CLiniCLiniC Shabrien Aberett. they strive Kneeling L to R: Avionne Allen, Jazmine Rodgero, and Alana Thomas. for excellence. Standing: Abby Rojas, Destanee Terry, SEMONES AUTOMOTIVE, INC. Jada Jones, Elizabeth Payne, Macy Jones, 5517 US HWY 29 - Blairs - 434-836-1503 Lauren Jones, Emma Byrnes, Ismaeli Carter, P.O. Box 398 • Blairs • 434-836-1503 Taylor Murphy, and Samantha Mills. www.semonesauto.com - [email protected] Mike Mondul Photo by Sydney Shelton/Star-Tribune Sports www.semonesauto.com • [email protected] Danville City Sheriff

Supporting our �� local teams as they strive �� for excellence. �� Mike Mondul �� Danville City Sheriff

S&B GRETNA TIRE CO. 510 N. Main St. • Gretna, VA Motor Co. 434-656-2244 Since 1945 Sydney Shelton/Star-Tribune Sports 2331 RiversideSince 1945 Dr. • Danville, VA 2331 Riverside434-793-1511 Dr. • Danville, VA GW Varsity Football 2016 Sam Burton Dennia Burton Front Row (l-r) Daren Hairston, Quenton Elam, Matthew Mease, Da’Shawn Wallace, Exzayviar Davis, Will Byrnes, Darius Davis, Sam Branch, Weber Harris, Kuashaun Forest, Eddie 434-793-1511 Willard, Jailon Brown, and Henry Barley. Row 2: Barry Walters, Isaiah McLaughlin, Curtis Waller, Justin Ephraim, Sameir Logan, Dequan Long, Jonathan Medley, Corbin Murray, Jaylon Williams, Naszier Swift, Jeremiah Witcher, Carolos Poole and Carl Poole. Row 3: Isaiah Davis, Devontae Ballard, Will Jackson, George Payne, Jaden Poole, Kenarius Waller, Levi Smith, Zy Gunter, Austin Jones, Jahsiah Beard, Daijuantez Giggetts, and Devontae Grasty. Row 4: Trainer Tim Torborg, Jerry Horng, Javain Henderson, Shamond Hairston, Davontae Walton, Issac Whitfield, Devin Horton, Marques Barksdale, Cornelius Wilkes, and Head Coach Nick Anderson. Row 5: Coaches – Chesley Graves, Steve Stamps, Burl Study Smart and enjoy 3HYY`»Z)VK`:OVW Whitfield, Elliot Davis, Jay Perdue, Hunter Carnes, Jim McCauley, Boyd Pearson, Myron Haskins, and Edward High. /V\Y;V^PUN the Big Game! *VTWSL[L)VK` anderson looking for young eagles to impact season 9LWHPY:LY]PJL 422 North Main Street • Gretna, VA 24557 By CARY WRIGHT Smith and Glass combined for 41 receptions for 701 yards The defensive front four has Darius Davis (6-1, 215 jr.) at Go Dan River Wildcats!! Star-Tribune Sports and eight touchdowns, but Anderson likes what he sees from defensive end along with Jayden Poole (6-2, 215 sr.). George Larry Dalton, Owner wide outs Henry Barley (6-0, 180 sr.), and Dashawn Wallace Payne (6-0, 230 jr.) and Devonte Ballard (6-0, 250 jr). Cell: 434-770-0536 • Home: 434-656-3506 GW head Coach Nick Anderson is excited about his young (6-0, 176 jr.). “They are not so speedy, but they are so strong,” The linebacking corps is up by Barley and senior Will Byrnes Warmly, Joe batch of new Eagles. said Anderson. In an offense that will look to go fifty-fifty runs (6-0, 165). Joining the duo will be a pair of sophomores, Poole Last year Anderson’s team won 10 games and placed seven to passes, returning junior QB Sam Branch (1349 yds, 14 td, (5-10, 180) and Quentin Elam (5-9, 180). players into the collegiate ranks. The Eagles won their first 0 int) will have those passing targets in addition to slot back Anderson says, “The defensive backs are really fighting round regional playoff and lost to the newly formed northern Weber Harris (5-8, 163 jr.) for spots and are getting pretty good.” Wallace at free safety, Virginia powerhouse John Champe – all in all, an above Graves (1,110 yards, 22 td) will be a huge loss from the Curtis Waller (5-9. 156 jr.) at strong safety and Matthew Mease average season. running corps, but Kuashaun Forest (279 yards, 5 td) returns (5-10, 164 jr.) corner have all had productive summers that Good Luck Hawks Anderson admits that it will be very difficult to replace as the third leading rusher from last season. Forest will get Anderson hopes continues to build until the season starts. those seniors who headed off to some of the nation’s support from Carl Poole (5-10, 180) and Curtis Waller (5-9, 156 Harris will handle the punting and kicking chores. Harris was best football programs. Donald Smith (Hampton), Malik jr.) at running back. 43-47 on P.A.T.s last season. Jerry Horng will back up Harris. Henderson (NCCU), CJ Graves (Winston-Salem State), Tim The offensive line has three returners and Devontae Walton Overall, Anderson hopes to be competitive with his young Best wishes for a safe Glass (NC State), Curtis Brooks (Cincinnati) and Isaiah (6-1, 305 jr.) and Will Jackson (6-3 225 jr.) have become the squad. Anderson said if the Eagles can minimize rookie errors Guzman (Hampton Roads Collegiate Prep) were all studs in leaders. Two former junior varsity players are moving into and injuries, he can see them perhaps returning to the playoffs their respective positions. Thank goodness Anderson said the starting roles, and this looks to be the bright spot this season and winning a first-round game again this fall. and successful season! young prospects are promising. for the Eagles. The Eagles defeated Dan River in a benefit game on August So far the infusion of junior varsity players has led to a fun The defense is grinding out improving days in the heat. 19 and hosted Athens Drive in the official home opener August summer where the players pay close attention to each play. Brooks, the sack leader last season with seven, has moved on 26. They want to be good and know that it will take a team effort to Cincinnati, leaving the d-line in the hands of senior Jayden Gretna Police department after losing so many individual stars. Poole and a trio of juniors. 12 - Football Preview Football Preview - 13 Gretna JV Football 2016 First Row: DeAndre Miller, Jorden Berger, Caleb Ferguson, Corlyn Witcher, Tony King, Malic Farmer, Paris McClain, Jerry Motley, and Damian Canada; second row: Ethan Bailess, Andrew Calway, Nykyi King, Hazeray Wyche, Nathan Waller, Steven Gregory, Matthew Critchley; third row: Darion King, Eli Bond, Bobby Cockrell, Jason Council, Zach Hendricks, Brandon Sexton, Carter Norcutt, and Nick Covarrubias. Photo by Sydney Shelton/Star-Tribune Sports Gretna Varsity Cheer Sydney Shelton/Star-Tribune Sports Pictured are the Gretna Varsity Cheerleaders. Kneeling: Courtney Kendrick and Kelsi Gretna Varsity Football 2016 Keesee; squatting: Kelsie Myers, Monique Barbour, Shquanna Stone, and Samantha Front row: Travis Hogan, Corbin Hall, Dajon Hicks, Tredarrius Hunt, Dominick Meeks, Daelyn Miller, Malik Stone, Tabron Mabins, Khalil Petty. Second Row: Jaylen Myers, Dalton; and standing: Hayley Payne, Courtney Hines, Taylor Boone, BrookeWalker, and Bryant Davis, Johnte Lipford, Luke Davis, Frank Canare, SeeLife Pannell, Ray Inge, Taelyn Miller, Brandon Hall, Hunter Lightbourne. Third Row: Andrew Williams, Jorden Berger, Jayla Davis. • Photo by Sydney Shelton/Star-Tribune Sports Cameron Towler, Jerry Motley, DeAndre Miller, Caleb Ferguson, Damien Canada, Janathean Ferguson, Matthew Critchley, and Tyrek Kelly. Fourth Row: Steven Gregory, Nathan Waller, Kenaz Moon, Tyler Mattox, Quinton Tucker, Jason Council, Bryson Lecik, Corlyn Witcher, Blaize Kuhn, Zach Hendricks, Bobby Cockrell. Fifth Row: Tasmine Stone-Johnson, Brandon Sexton, Coby Cockrell, Darion King, Carter Norcutt, Malic Farmer, Ethan Bailess, Matel Stone. Coaches: Chitwood, Greg Mabins, Head Coach Cole Simpson, Mat Wilson, Malon Dalton, and Cornelius Witcher. hawks look to continue road back to glory Colbert-Moran By ANDREW BOWLER up – the spread. “They have speed,” Simpson said. “They can run.” Star-Tribune Sports “We are what we are,” the coach said. “We’re doing the same Inge, Malik Stone, Jalen Myers, Taelyn Miller and Khalil Petty thing as we have for the last 15 years.” will start in the secondary. The Gretna Hawks’ football team is looking to use youth to The offense will be led by freshman quarterback Tabron The coach needed only one word to describe this group – return to their old glory days as perennial state title contenders. Mabins. “Fast.” The Hawks will have many freshmen starters while they look “He has lots of potential,” Simpson said. “It’s his show.” On special teams, Frank Canare will handle kicking duties, Funeral Home to build on last year’s 5-6 record that ended with a lopsided road He will have a wide variety of targets in Stone, Travis Hogan, while Andrew Williams will be the punter. playoff loss to Union High School. Dominick Meeks and Dajon Hicks. “They should both be very good players,” Simpson said. Gretna, VA • (434) 656-2211 “It was an improvement over my first year,” head coach Cole “Our receiving core is the total package,” Simpson said. Kick returning duties will be spread around amongst the team. Simpson said. “We got more kids out to play.” Inge, Jalen Myers and Daelyn Miller will be the running backs. “We have 10 guys who can return kicks,” Simpson said. The team will have to make up for the loss of eight seniors, “All three are good players,” the coach said. Simpson is excited to see what his young team can do, but including key contributors Chris Hall, Khalil Witcher-Haymon, The offensive line returns three starters in Lecik, Ferguson knows all of them have to execute. Demontae Haley and Jason Trent. and Coby Cockrell. Kenaz Moon and Tyler Mattox are also “We play in a tough district, but we should be very competi- We Show New “We have a good group coming up from J.V. to fill their roles,” slated to start. tive,” he said. “We have to be good on special teams and the Simpson said. “They will be ok with time and reps,” Simpson said. defense must play well. Simpson also cited the return of a big factor missing from Simpson said the defensive schemes will also look familiar “On offense, we have to be able to run the ball when we need Movie Releases some recent teams as reason for excitement. to spectators. to. Running between the 10 and the goal line will be key.” “We are better and faster,” he said. “We have a lot more “The same thing for the last 15 years,” he said. “We will blitz Most of last season’s assistant coaches have returned – speed.” some, but not a tremendous amount. Malon Dalton, Mathew Wilson, George Clark, Cornelius Witch- Main Street, Simpson pointed to veteran leadership that will come from “We’re a base 5-2 and we will give you multiple looks.” er, Brian Chitwood, Greg Mabins and Shirley Orrell. Senior Day Gretna, VA key players, such as Malik Stone, Ray Inge, Janathean Fergu- Ferguson, Kelly and Blaize Kuhn will see most of the reps on “They are very knowledgeable and experienced,” Simpson Every 3rd Wednesday son, Bryson Lecik and Tyrek Kelly. the defensive line. said. of the month “We have great senior leadership,” Simpson said. “They’ll “A lot is expected of them,” their coach commented. “They The Hawks opened the regular season with a home game 434-656-3377 hold the younger ones accountable and show them the right have all of the tools.” against Randolph Henry on August 26 at 7 p.m. way to do things.” Tre Hunt, Bryant Davis, Lucas Davis, Daelyn Miller and www.thegretnatheatre.com Gretna fans will see an old favorite when the offense lines Corbin Hall will hold down the linebacker positions. 12 - Football Preview Football Preview - 13 Gretna JV Football 2016 First Row: DeAndre Miller, Jorden Berger, Caleb Ferguson, Corlyn Witcher, Tony King, Malic Farmer, Paris McClain, Jerry Motley, and Damian Canada; second row: Ethan Bailess, Andrew Calway, Nykyi King, Hazeray Wyche, Nathan Waller, Steven Gregory, Matthew Critchley; third row: Darion King, Eli Bond, Bobby Cockrell, Jason Council, Zach Hendricks, Brandon Sexton, Carter Norcutt, and Nick Covarrubias. Photo by Sydney Shelton/Star-Tribune Sports Gretna Varsity Cheer Sydney Shelton/Star-Tribune Sports Pictured are the Gretna Varsity Cheerleaders. Kneeling: Courtney Kendrick and Kelsi Gretna Varsity Football 2016 Keesee; squatting: Kelsie Myers, Monique Barbour, Shquanna Stone, and Samantha Front row: Travis Hogan, Corbin Hall, Dajon Hicks, Tredarrius Hunt, Dominick Meeks, Daelyn Miller, Malik Stone, Tabron Mabins, Khalil Petty. Second Row: Jaylen Myers, Dalton; and standing: Hayley Payne, Courtney Hines, Taylor Boone, BrookeWalker, and Bryant Davis, Johnte Lipford, Luke Davis, Frank Canare, SeeLife Pannell, Ray Inge, Taelyn Miller, Brandon Hall, Hunter Lightbourne. Third Row: Andrew Williams, Jorden Berger, Jayla Davis. • Photo by Sydney Shelton/Star-Tribune Sports Cameron Towler, Jerry Motley, DeAndre Miller, Caleb Ferguson, Damien Canada, Janathean Ferguson, Matthew Critchley, and Tyrek Kelly. Fourth Row: Steven Gregory, Nathan Waller, Kenaz Moon, Tyler Mattox, Quinton Tucker, Jason Council, Bryson Lecik, Corlyn Witcher, Blaize Kuhn, Zach Hendricks, Bobby Cockrell. Fifth Row: Tasmine Stone-Johnson, Brandon Sexton, Coby Cockrell, Darion King, Carter Norcutt, Malic Farmer, Ethan Bailess, Matel Stone. Coaches: Chitwood, Greg Mabins, Head Coach Cole Simpson, Mat Wilson, Malon Dalton, and Cornelius Witcher. hawks look to continue road back to glory Colbert-Moran By ANDREW BOWLER up – the spread. “They have speed,” Simpson said. “They can run.” Star-Tribune Sports “We are what we are,” the coach said. “We’re doing the same Inge, Malik Stone, Jalen Myers, Taelyn Miller and Khalil Petty thing as we have for the last 15 years.” will start in the secondary. The Gretna Hawks’ football team is looking to use youth to The offense will be led by freshman quarterback Tabron The coach needed only one word to describe this group – return to their old glory days as perennial state title contenders. Mabins. “Fast.” The Hawks will have many freshmen starters while they look “He has lots of potential,” Simpson said. “It’s his show.” On special teams, Frank Canare will handle kicking duties, Funeral Home to build on last year’s 5-6 record that ended with a lopsided road He will have a wide variety of targets in Stone, Travis Hogan, while Andrew Williams will be the punter. playoff loss to Union High School. Dominick Meeks and Dajon Hicks. “They should both be very good players,” Simpson said. Gretna, VA • (434) 656-2211 “It was an improvement over my first year,” head coach Cole “Our receiving core is the total package,” Simpson said. Kick returning duties will be spread around amongst the team. Simpson said. “We got more kids out to play.” Inge, Jalen Myers and Daelyn Miller will be the running backs. “We have 10 guys who can return kicks,” Simpson said. The team will have to make up for the loss of eight seniors, “All three are good players,” the coach said. Simpson is excited to see what his young team can do, but including key contributors Chris Hall, Khalil Witcher-Haymon, The offensive line returns three starters in Lecik, Ferguson knows all of them have to execute. Demontae Haley and Jason Trent. and Coby Cockrell. Kenaz Moon and Tyler Mattox are also “We play in a tough district, but we should be very competi- We Show New “We have a good group coming up from J.V. to fill their roles,” slated to start. tive,” he said. “We have to be good on special teams and the Simpson said. “They will be ok with time and reps,” Simpson said. defense must play well. Simpson also cited the return of a big factor missing from Simpson said the defensive schemes will also look familiar “On offense, we have to be able to run the ball when we need Movie Releases some recent teams as reason for excitement. to spectators. to. Running between the 10 and the goal line will be key.” “We are better and faster,” he said. “We have a lot more “The same thing for the last 15 years,” he said. “We will blitz Most of last season’s assistant coaches have returned – speed.” some, but not a tremendous amount. Malon Dalton, Mathew Wilson, George Clark, Cornelius Witch- Main Street, Simpson pointed to veteran leadership that will come from “We’re a base 5-2 and we will give you multiple looks.” er, Brian Chitwood, Greg Mabins and Shirley Orrell. Senior Day Gretna, VA key players, such as Malik Stone, Ray Inge, Janathean Fergu- Ferguson, Kelly and Blaize Kuhn will see most of the reps on “They are very knowledgeable and experienced,” Simpson Every 3rd Wednesday son, Bryson Lecik and Tyrek Kelly. the defensive line. said. of the month “We have great senior leadership,” Simpson said. “They’ll “A lot is expected of them,” their coach commented. “They The Hawks opened the regular season with a home game 434-656-3377 hold the younger ones accountable and show them the right have all of the tools.” against Randolph Henry on August 26 at 7 p.m. way to do things.” Tre Hunt, Bryant Davis, Lucas Davis, Daelyn Miller and www.thegretnatheatre.com Gretna fans will see an old favorite when the offense lines Corbin Hall will hold down the linebacker positions. 14 - Football Preview Football Preview - 11

Supporting our �� local teams as they strive �� for excellence. �� Mike Mondul �� Danville City Sheriff

968 Halifax Rd.• Chatham • 434-432-4201 Sydney Shelton/Star-Tribune Sports GW JV Football 2016 306 N. Main St. • Gretna • 434-656-2233 Front row (L-R): Kevon Elam, Deandre Thompson, Billy Smith, Emmanuel Moore, Ja’Zavier McLaughlin, Jaiden Franklin, Wesley Graves, BG Warren, Keyondre Hunt, Taevon Waldon, Messiah Holmes, Carlos Poole, Jose Rodriguez, Deshawn Richardson, and Kendrell McClary. Row 2: Ian Chapman, Jhasiyah Richardson, Larry Moore, Deadrian Toller, 32 N. Main Street • Chatham, VA Rashard Fallen, Jacques Motley, Dominique Ramirez, Rahmel Goode, Ra’Qawn Sydnor, Lamont White and Shawn Watlington. Row 3: Byron Motley, Christian Carden, Gemoyne Glass, Jashuan Murrell, Johnathan Wilkerson, Marquis Carter, Bryson Akers, Jonzell Burns, and Trevon Dailey. Row 4: Tim Torborg-Trainer Shannon Barley, Rashard White, 434-432-1500 Best of Luck This Season! Juwann Spratt, Izac Smithey, Max Roupe, Jailon Williamson, Tylee Myers, and Jayden Worsham, and Varsity Head Coach Nick Anderson. Row 5: Coaches – Steve Stamps, Burl Whitfield, Elliott Davis, Jay Perdue, Hunter Carnes, JV Head Coach Jimbo McCauley, Boyd Pearson, Myron Haskins, and Edward High. 16 - Football Preview Football Preview - 9 Defensive line: All-State defensive end Zemar Anderson (who lines a strong group of DBs. Stone, Jaquon Durant, and Tyree Bar- Q. How do you see your team matching up with other teams will also play some linebacker) and All-Region lineman Dashawn ton, along with JV callups Reggie Venable and Jaylan Fitzgerald in your region? Robertson will anchor the defensive front at end and tackle respec- will start in the secondary. Raven Cardwell, McKenzie Edmunds, A: With their speed, athleticism, and strength, the Wildcats can tively. Daniel Dickerson, Bryson Tillman, EJ Vaden, and DJ Moser Joey Hill, and Wade Thomas can also play in the Wildcat second- match up with anyone in 2A and everyone on their schedule. Ac- will see time at defensive line, while AC Biagioni, Tavin Fitzgerald, ary when needed. cording to one poll, Dan River is projected to finish second in the Domanique Watson, and Sam Qazi will add size at tackle. Dogwood District behind the Raiders. But, the seniors are shooting Linebackers: Brian Womack, Noah Karnes, and Duane Brooks Q: Discuss your special teams with emphasis on kickers, kick for the ultimate goal, their first ever state football title. The Wildcats will start at linebacker, with Anderson joining the crew when they returners, punters and long snappers. opened their regular season as they hosted back-to-back 3A state go to 3-4. Tyreek Chaney and Elijah Motley will also see action A: Micah Knight returns to coach the Special Teams unit. John champion Magna Vista on August 26. at middle linebacker, while Brian “Deuce” Smoot, Joshua Royal, Emory Keller will handle the kicking and punting duties for the Wild- and Cole Watlington are three reserve outside linebackers that cats as he has vastly improved his range and accuracy in both Q: If you were to draw up a blueprint for success for this team, have great hustle and aren’t afraid to hit, thusly they will see time areas; Santiago Rios will backup Keller at kicker. Juniors Jackson what would it look like? on kickoff team. Junior Cole Watlington will transition from playing Aherron and Hunter Slaughter will handle the long-snapping du- A: Establish the running attack early to dictate the game tempo, defensive end to outside linebacker. GW transfer Latavio King will ties. DR will use their track speed in the return game as Durant, utilize the Wildcats’ speedy and athletic backs and receivers in the also strength the middle linebacker group once he’s gotten enough Stone, Hunt, and Womack were members of the state runner-up passing game, have the defense to pressure opponents into mis- practice time under his belt. 4x100m relay team. They will be back returning kickoffs and punts, takes, not giving up big plays on special teams, and being more Defensive Backs: All-Region defensive back Devin Stone head- as well as playing on the kickoff team. consistent at all phases of the game.

Eddy Lloyd/Star-Tribune ‘Let’s go Cincy!’ Wayne and Lib Ashworth of Lanier’s Mill Road in Danville are honoring their grandson, Caleb Sydney Shelton/Special to the Star-Tribune Ashworth, with a tribute to his college football team, the Cincinnati Bearcats. Ashworth, a product of Tunstall High School and the son of Paul and Kim Ashworth, is a redshirt freshman defensive end Dan River for the ‘Cats. His coach and recruiter is Chatham native Robert Prunty. Caleb’s brothers Josh and Eli Varsity Cheer helped their grandfather with the Bearcat rocks. Pictured, from left, sitting: Breniyah Henderson and Janaya Jones; AUTHORIZED DEALER: squatting: Alona Myers, Jada Crowder, and Keyondra Reynolds; standing: Teniya Turner, Mama MamaAmaia Jones, La’davonia Apple, J.A.Plumbing, Electrical, Holmes Air Conditioning & Heating Makayla White, and Kiara Fitzgerald. Your Local Source For Plumbing • Electrical • Air Conditioning • Heating Rosa’s Reduce Your Out of Town Service Call & Mileage Charges Rosa’s Jack Holmes, Owner 41 Years Experience, VA Licensed (434) 432-4100 Power out? Certified Technicians Pump & Well Service • Water Softening Your Local dealer Water Treatment Systems 201 McBride Ln. • Gretna • 434-656-3411 Copper Pipe Replacement 100 HeatingVaden & Air Conditioning Dr., Gretna • 434-656-3411 100434.432.4100 Vaden Dr., Gretna • 434-656-3411 Portable and Standby Generators • NeverFeelPowerless.com OLD DOMINION RUBEN'S TOO INSURANCE AGENCY Sydney Shelton/Star-Tribune Sports 2449 Franklin Tpke., Danville Gordon “Gil” Ragland III, Owner/Agent 2016 Dan River JV Football Team Formerly102 School Gretna Ins. St. Agency • Suites • 105B A&B Henry •St. Gretna• Gretna, VA Row 1 (L-R): Tracey Glass, Jalen Scales, Zavihian Durant, Zachary Casida, Landon Tate, Luke White, Malcolm Groom, Ethan Lewis, Jordan Richardson, and LaMondrae Coles; 434-656-6501 Row 2 (L-R): B.J. Averett, Jzimer Edmunds, Nathianial Watson, Matthew Rigney, Jeremiah Rigney, Cole Andrews, Brylan Kelly, Daquan Skinner, Lance Hilton, and Dakota Trammell; 836-8302 [email protected] Row 3 (L-R): NyJuan Pritchett, DaTaevion Robertson, Jayzon Glass, Kevin Hinton, Daquan Davis, Patrick Barker, Reggie Walker, Austin Deel, Austin Saunders, and Ryan Iraheta; Row 4 (L-R): Asst, Coach Keith Barksdale, Asst, Coach Anthony Brooks, Head Coach Ryan Scolpini, and Asst. Coach Thomas Pounds; Not Pictured: Asst, Coach Martin Pounds. 8 - Football Preview Football Preview - 17 Dodson Distributing Company 336 Airport Drive, Chatham, VA Danville 13950 US Highway 29 - Chatham, VA 434-793- 9490 434-432-8192

tion he plays. the ball. monds has limitless potential. Sophomores Trevor Crowder will play offensive and defensive line. He is Brae Adkins is a beast. He is capable of being dominant at Hunter Furr is a receiver. He will play primarily on the perim- quickly adapting to the speed at which high school football is any position on the front lines. eter. He is a talented pass catcher, and a proficient stalk blocker. played. Nick Williams will play offensive and defensive line. He is very Sam Hyler will probably play center. His athletic ability and in- Kamden Lewis can play practically anything. He will serve athletic for his size. Intensity will define the role that he plays for telligence make it possible for him to compete at the varsity level. where his considerable talents will best suit the needs of the pro- his team this season. Caden Spaulding will play offensive and defensive line. He is gram. Bradley Giles will play linebacker, defensive line, and offensive steadfast in his persistent pursuit of proficiency. Chase Trent is a versatile skill player. He will probably play line. Giles has a wild and wonderful attitude about football. Joseph Davis is a runner. His running ability is capable of running back or wing on offense. He may play outside linebacker Ethan Reynolds will play quarterback, wing, and defensive propelling Chatham’s offense into the Promised Land. or defensive back on the other side of the ball. back. He is the type of player that coaches like to coach. Taylor Moore will play receiver and defensive back. Moore is Jimmy Doss will play offensive and defensive line. Jimmy is Peyton McCoy will play wide receiver. He must master the art most valuable to the team when he is focused on doing his job. quickly learning about physics, leverage, and inertia. of the stalk block in order to have a positive impact at the varsity Colton Walker is an offensive and defensive lineman. His re- Chance Pirdy is a linebacker. He has a great attitude and a level. lentless work ethic makes him a promising prospect on either relentless work ethic. Jacob Pickeral is primarily a special teams’ player on the var- side of the ball. Freshmen sity level. Ty Wingfield will play running back and defensive line. Wing- Zae Edmunds is a wide receiver. His attitude more than his field has the potential to be a dominant force on both sides of aptitude will determine the altitude of his football career. Ed- Chatham Varsity Cheerleaders 2016 Front Row: Captains Jennia Candy and Bryanna Fox. Row 2: Grace Porter, Harley Jamie McBride/Special to the Star-Tribune Gauldin, Megan Porter, Talarra Stone, Kenia Tunstall Varsity Football 2016 Bennett, Abbygail Sims, Morgan Yeatts, Front row: Reagan Dillon, Trevor Lovelace, Ben Donahue, Chase Poe, Josh Wells, Ray Vincent, and Myles Pyrtle. Row 2: Cutler Crider, Luke Buckner, Andrew Snead, Malik Irvin, Robyn Minter and Taliyah Thompson. Row 3: Michael Pyrtle, Hunter Beck, Clay Hardy and Christian McLaughlin. Row 3: Alex Warner, Tony Johnson, Tyler Webster, Jonathan Tyler, Tyler Deane, Carlton Jackson and Khalil Angela Dillard, Rionna Luck, Kendall Sheets, Hunt. Row 4: McKinley Payne, Fletcher Hardy, Eddie Booth, Aaron Carter-Noble, Elijah Morton, Dekotah Curtis, Ehren Sieg, and Matt Fulcher. Row 5: Nick Vest, Jacob Snead, Brian Stroud, Carmen Pruitt, Jacklyn Booher, Tanner Bray, Dakota Mills, Aric Gardner, Jalen Moore, and Sage McBride. Row 6: Antonio Lopez, Donica Hunt, Tony Totten, Dyaln Haley, Jalan Troy, Grayson Hardy, Zach Webster, Elizabeth Durham and Chelsey Galvin. and Tony Grant. Row 7: Coaches – Mark Scarce, Jerry Dallas, Dominique Fitzgerald, Charles Fulcher, Brad Fussell, Head Coach Dave Potts, Mike Estes, Randy Hunsicker, Ed Photo by Eddy Lloyd/Star-Tribune Sherlock, Strength Coach Olivia McCraw, and videographer Ryan Gillie. potts hopeful for successful trojan season Chatham JV By BRIAN CENDEJAS ful. Luke Buckner will return as the starting quarterback for a sec- Star-Tribune Sports “We tried to do more circuit training to get their heart rates up,” ond straight year. Malik Irvin, Tyler Webster, and Johnathan Tyler Football 2016 said Potts. “We’re working on the cardio while we’re doing the will all see playing time in the slot at different times. Entering in his second season as head coach of the Tunstall strength training and the agility training,” Potts added. Their offensive line will feature Dakota Mills, Sage McBride, Front Row (L-R): Jerome White, Steven Taylor, Trojans, David Potts has only one goal in mind: improving from Potts also mentioned that the turnout for conditioning has and Matt Fulcher as they lead a new group of linemen. First year Kamden Lewis, Jacob Dalton, Josiah Hanks, Daniel last year. been the best in recent years in terms of numbers. Overall, 17 senior Ben Donahue will start at the split. Moschler, and Ethan Reynolds. 2nd Row: Peyton Potts, who took over the reins from former head coach Buddy players had graduated from last year’s squad, eight of them be- The Trojans will showcase an almost entirely new defense. McCoy, Xavier Johnson, CJ Meyers, Nathaniel Brown, led the Trojans to a 2-8 record last year with both wins ing starters on offense and defense. Two of the defensive returners are Clay Hardy and Trevor Reynolds, Chase Trent, and Michael Gunnell. 3rd coming from Martinsville and Patrick County. Key losses include Josh Wilson and DeMarcus Wimbush, who Lovelace, who will play in the backfield as well as other positions. Row: Brae Adkins, Colby Martin, Colton Walker, “Last year was very difficult,” said Potts. “We were thin on tal- both will further their playing career at Bluefield College. David Chase Poe will return to safety, as Fletcher Hardy will move from Trevor Crowder, Jamie Blane and Bret Stallings. ent and we were besieged by injuries, so our team got thinner Dean, Will Ashworth, and TeAun Carter were also key players a defensive end to being a linebacker. 4th Row: Jimmy Doss, Caleb Oakes, Nick Williams, and it showed in the fourth quarter in most of our ballgames. We lost to graduation, but Potts said that he is optimistic about this For special teams, Reagan Dillon will move up from junior var- Chance Pirdy, and Jacob Pickeral. 5th Row: Coach have been trying to improve our quality of depth and our condi- year. sity as he will be taking over the kicking duties. tioning so the fourth quarter is an advantage not a disadvantage.” “We’re younger and inexperienced but I believe that we have “He has a huge leg,” said Potts. “Hopefully the kicking game Larry Robertson, Manager James Nuckols, and Last season also saw tired players who were frequently sub- gotten faster and hopefully a little hungrier. I hope we can get will take a step forward and I’m hoping we are better on special Head Coach Tommy Scolpini. Not Pictured: Quintrel stituted through the majority of the game. Potts said that this was more guys on the field that can do the job that needs to be done,” teams as far as coverages and returns. We weren’t good in any Leach, Sam Hyler, and Brandon Pritchett. something he needed to change quickly in order to be success- said Potts. phases of the game in special teams.” Photo by Eddy Lloyd/Star-Tribune 6 - Football Preview Football Preview - 19 Potts said the attack will change some from last season. we ran and that is the first time that it happened in a while.” and the kids like to play the county teams but as far as matching “We got a little more speed on varsity this year and we’re trying Tunstall will face Rustburg, Gretna, and Dan River in their first up, we don’t look too far ahead.” to hit the edges a little more,” said Potts. “Hopefully our passing three weeks of the season, games all lost last season. After opening at Rustburg, Tunstall will face Gretna in its first game can take a big step forward. We had a good 7 on 7 season “The only game we are worried about is Rustburg,” said Potts. home game on September 2. and in our first scrimmage game, we threw for more yards than “We’re not looking ahead, but of course you’ve got rivalry games

Specializing in Non-Surgical

Edmunds. The name is known all across Southside Virginia from Danville to Blacksburg, but as Trey Edmunds is finding out, it might carry more weight in College Park, Maryland, than any Good Luck This Season! other place on the map. “If I had a nickel for every time I run into someone who knew him or knew of him, I’d be a mighty rich man by now,” Trey said with a chuckle. The him is Ferrell Edmunds, Trey’s father. Diesel Engine & The head football coach at Dan River High School, and the father of three college football players (Terrell and Tremaine are starters at Virginia Tech), Ferrell’s identity is sometimes lost because of the success of his sons, but in College Park they remember. �� Equipment Repair Trey, a Virginia Tech graduate with one year of football eligibility remaining, decided late last �� fall that it would be in his best interest to pursue his final year of football in a different venue. 175 Macken Ln. • Blairs That venue ended up being the University of Maryland, where his Dad starred for the Terps in �� the mid-80s. 434-836-6711 “Sometimes people will come up and ask me, ‘Are you Ferrell Edmunds’ son?’,” Trey said. “I am blessed to be in a situation to follow in his footsteps. I hope and pray I can make it to the professional ranks like he did, but I have to make my own path. I don’t minimize anything he did, but it has to be my own journey.” It is not surprising that people remember the elder Edmunds in that neck of the woods. A third team All-American in 1987, Edmunds had 35 catches for Maryland, which tied the record State Farm Insurance for catches by a tight end for the Terps. From Maryland, Edmunds was selected by the Miami Dolphins in the NFL Draft and in 1989 with the Dolphins, Edmunds was selected as the top tight end for the entire league. He played in the Pro Bowl in 1989 and 1990. TODD BREAUX But for the Edmunds family, from Nana (Felicia’s mother Mary Morris) to Ferrell and his wife Felicia, the legacy left to the Edmunds’ sons goes much farther than the 100-yard gridiron. 13995 US Hwy. 29 • Suite 700 “Whether the message comes from my Nana or my parents, the message is always the same. Photo Courtesy of Maryland Athletics Your Local Choice For Fresh Foods Chatham, VA 24531 Academics comes before athletics,” said Trey. & Low Prices! “I graduated from Virginia Tech last December, but my parents are still always interested Trey Edmunds (9) takes a handoff during in the classes I am taking and if I am doing my homework,” said Trey, “and I am in graduate workouts with the Maryland offense. Shelton St., Gretna, VA • 434-656-1755 Phone: (434) 432-5461 school,” he laughed. “I appreciate so much what they have done for me. I’m not sure where I would be without them.” Trey said the stress on academics has been part of the Edmunds household for as long as to me to stay focused and avoid outside distractions to keep you out of trouble.” he can remember. “We would always take a vacation in the summer, but my mother would buy Tremaine, who will be starting at linebacker as a true sophomore, said his parents have advised each of us a summer workbook,” said Trey. “It had lessons in math, English, literature and other him about expectations. “They just told me to tune out the expectations and just do the best I can “I can accept failure, everyone fails at something. subjects and we had to finish pages in our workbook before we were allowed to play. We also do,” Tremaine said. had to read a book from cover to cover every summer.” As with his brothers, Tremaine is held to a high standard by the Edmunds family. “Be a leader. But I cannot accept not trying.” - Michael Jordan Trey said the bottom line was that without academics, there would be no sports. Don’t follow what other people do,” Tremaine said his family advised. The idea of valuing an education has already passed on from the parents to the sons, at least Although Trey broke up the Edmunds party in Blacksburg, his decision to head to the big city life one of them. During Media Day at Virginia Tech, Terrell talked about the things he would miss hasn’t affected the relationship of the brothers at all. “Leaving my brothers behind was a difficult with Trey in Maryland. “Trey was always checking on me, making sure I was keeping up with decision, but they understand I had to take a different route,” said Trey. “We’re in constant com- Let’s make this a fun and safe season! my classes, doing my homework,” Terrell said. “He is my second biggest role model.” munication. We haven’t missed a beat.” Terrell said the torch has now been passed to him and how he takes care of Tremaine. “I try Trey admits the brothers all operate with the same goal in mind; to make a career in the NFL like Vice Mayor Alonzo Jones to look out for Tremaine the way Trey looked out for me,” said Terrell. their father. “We are all working for the same thing,” said Trey. The lessons taught in the Edmunds’ household didn’t stop with academics as Terrell and So while the party in Blacksburg is just a pleasant memory, the brothers Edmunds are hoping to 434.250.3231 • [email protected] Tremaine expressed thoughts on the lessons of life that were relayed from their parents. “My one day put the band back together at a NFL city near you. Dad and Trey told me the ins and outs of everything,” said Terrell. “My parents always stressed 24 - Football Preview friday night lights Score Big This Season! With A Car or Truck From MEADOWS AUTO CENTER DIAGNOSTIC SERVICE for Foreign & Domestic Autos ✓ Check Engine Light ✓ ABS Service & Repair ✓ Cooling System Flush ✓ Transmission Flush ✓ Brakes & Tires ✓ State Inspections Come see our great ✓ Complete Automotive Service ✓ Pick-up & Delivery Available selection of late model used ✓ Genuine AC DELCO Parts cars, trucks and 4x4’s! ✓ Nationwide Warranty 5859 East Gretna Road • GRETNA, VA Toll Free: 866-585-5235 • (434) 656-2140 Directions from Gretna: Turn on 40 East at the trafﬁ c light, go 5 1/2 miles, 0.6 miles past Tucker Rd. Approximately 10 minutes from stoplight Business Hours: Monday - Friday 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. • Saturday 8 a.m. - Noon VADEALER #29405 Chatham • Gretna • Dan River • Tunstall • GWHS • Hargrave 2016 | A special supplement to

www.meadows.mechanicnet.com Sydney Sports Shelton/Star-Tribune STAR-TRIBUNE