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™ STARTING LINEUP IN YOUR PUBLISHER/EDITOR I.J. Rosenberg FACE… MANAGING EDITOR Alex Ewalt ART/CREATIVE DIRECTOR DJ Galbiati VIDEO MANAGER Scott Janovitz BUSINESS MANAGER Marvin Botnick SALES MANAGER Mark Mayo WWW.SCOREATL.COM BEAT WRITERS Josh Bagriansky (Falcons), Stephen Black 5 There’s a lot going on in the spring sports season, which means I.J (Kennesaw State), Jason Boral (Thrashers), James Butler Rosenberg has a lot on his mind. Check out his Sitting in the (UGA), Dave Cohen (Georgia State), Ricky Dimon (Tech), Cheap Seats column for thoughts on the Masters and more. Alex Ewalt (Preps), Scott Janovitz (Hawks/Recruiting), ______Fletcher Proctor (Braves) 12 Score Atlanta’s high school recruiting guru Scott STAFF WRITERS Cranston Collier, Joe Deighton, Rajesh Gupta, Janovitz brings you all the news on the state’s top Zander Lentz, Andrew McCarron, Corey Mitchell, Jessica Parker, football prospects and the latest commitments. Leighton Savary, Keafer Triplett, Derek Wiley ______CONTRIBUTORS Tad Arapoglou, Dean Zindler, Kevin Dankosky, 17 James Butler was on hand for Georgia’s G-Day festivities Mitch Evans, Matt Judy, Tony Schiavone, Richard Diamond, last Saturday and has a full report from Athens. Find out how Joe Haines, Brian Katrek, Chris Dimino, Mike Bell, Matt Stewart, Carlton Thomas (pictured) and the rest of the squad looked. Fred Kalil, Nick Cellini, Phillip Leopold, Dave Marshall, Greg ______Smith, Steak Shapiro, Mike Cather, Beau Bock, Hal Lamar, Chris 19 Falcons beat writer Josh Bagriansky has the full report on the Cotter, Roy Hickman, Dave Cohen, John Olah, Jeff Woolverton, upcoming NFL Draft, taking a look at both the Falcons’ needs Chris Voss, Bob Rathbun, Courtney Capps, Bill Hartman, Chuck and analysis of some of the draft’s top prospects and top sleepers. Dowdle, Shannon Alderman, Dan Kamal, Dennis Scott, C.C., Hal Lanier, Jeff Batten, Micah Hart, Ben Wright, A SCORE UPDATE: Alan Vasquez, Andrew Vedlitz, Brian Jones For the second year in a row, Score Atlanta will be bringing Hawks fans a SPECIAL CONTRIBUTORS Mitch Albom, Dave Kindred, Barry Bloom special edition playoff guide to be handed out at home playoff games throughout the postseason. The issue will include player features, team rosters and ™ SCHOOL player bios, and analysis of the Hawks’ first-round playoff series. Pick one up at LISTING Philips Arena this weekend, or download the issue at Scoreatl.com! CHEROKEE/FORSYTH: Cherokee, Creekview, Etowah, Forsyth Central, North Forsyth, Sequoyah, South Forsyth, West Forsyth, Woodstock COBB: Allatoona, Campbell, Harrison, Kell, Kennesaw Mountain, Lassiter, TEAM PAGES I COLUMNS Marietta, McEachern, N. Cobb, N. Cobb Christian, Pebblebrook, Pope, S. Cobb, Sprayberry, Walton, Wheeler SMILING TIGER: Tiger Woods could- DEKALB: Chamblee, Columbia, Decatur, Druid Hills, Dunwoody, COVER DESIGN BY DJ GALBIATI. COVER PHOTO COURTESY OF DON JACKSON/PHOTOGRAPHIC ARTS. Lakeside, Marist, Miller Grove, M.L. King, Paideia, Redan, St. Pius n’t quite pick up his fifth Green Jacket at Augusta X, Southwest DeKalb, Stephenson, Stone Mountain, Tucker last weekend, but that didn’t stop the world’s FULTON: Alpharetta, Blessed Trinity, Centennial, Chattahoochee, greatest golfer (sorry, Angel Cabrera) from enjoy- 5 CHEAP SEATS 6 DUE UP-KATREK 7 SPIN-PROCTOR Douglass, Grady, Lovett, Mays, Milton, North Springs, Northview, Riverwood, Roswell, Tri-Cities, Westminster, Woodward Academy ing his time at the paradise that is Augusta 8 HS SPORTS REPORT 14 HAWKS-THRASHERS-FALCONS GWINNETT: Berkmar, Brookwood, Buford, C. Gwinnett, Collins National. Tiger made it interesting in the end, how- Hill, Dacula, Grayson, Greater Atlanta Christian, Meadowcreek, Mill 15 DAWGS-JACKETS 16 BRAVES-OWLS-PANTHERS Creek, Norcross, North Gwinnett, Parkview, Peachtree Ridge, ever, pushing the leaders before falling off on the South Gwinnett, Wesleyan last couple of holes. Photo courtesy of Rob Saye. 17 MEMORY LANE 18 CALENDAR 19 AD INDEX

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Thoughts on Masters coverage, NL East looking great and Hawks ready for playoffs

pring is here and the blooming azaleas Washington pitcher John Lannan to the first- speaking of the East, after starting the season Sand sounds of cracking bats at Turner base bag. In this case, Jordan’s suspension for off 0-6, I wonder how former Braves boss Field make my pen feel alive again after an using performance-enhancing drugs may and current Washington Nationals president

ugly winter … have been a blessing. Not that he wasn’t Stan Kasten is doing. The few hairs he had R Have you ever noticed that the announc- headed for the majors anyway, but the 90-day on his head when he left Atlanta have to be ers (especially Jim Nantz) who handle the suspension humbled him and, instead of gone, as his team has won only 43 percent of E Masters on CBS never say anything negative coming to spring a cocky 22-year-old, he their games (284-369 through Monday) V about the players or tournament? It’s almost kept his head down and worked his tail off to since moving to the capital city. as if Masters’ chairman Billy Payne has a make the major league team. I also applaud O

dump switch, allowing him to cut off the manager Bobby Cox for not putting Schafer HOME FOR THE PLAYOFFS … C audio if he hears something he doesn’t like. into the leadoff hole, instead taking some The Hawks open up the playoffs this

While the Masters is one of the best sporting pressure off him and batting him eighth. weekend and there is no reason to think they E events in the world, the broadcast would be While this team is not going to overpower won’t take the first-round matchup with so much better if the CBS announcers could anyone offensively, it appears they have the Miami. That would set up a second-round H take their muzzles off. This goes back to ability to produce runs with strong batting meeting with Lebron James and Cleveland. T 1995 when analyst Gary McCord wasn’t

invited back after he said the 17th green at N Augusta National was so fast that it seemed to be “bikini-waxed” while “body-bags’’ O were located behind the green for players who missed their approach shots. Hawks head coach Mike Woodson will I would love to see how controversial analyst Johnny Miller of NBC would han- be looking to lead his team to a first- dle himself at the Masters? I don’t know if round playoff series victory, something he could make it through the first hole. But the franchise hasn’t experienced since the Masters has always had a stranglehold the 1998-99 season. “Woody” has had on CBS and remains very guarded about what the network can do and, more impor- to deal with his fair share of injuries tantly, what it can’t do. during the regular season, but with a And can someone on the air one day healthy Marvin Williams back in the please ask Tiger Woods a tough question? lineup, the Hawks should be nearly at The fact is, he was supposed to win this, a 2-to-1 favorite over the rest of the field full force when the playoffs start this (which was 5-to-2 together), but couldn’t weekend. The cover photo and photo hit a putt. I don’t know why everyone is so above are courtesy of Don Jackson scared of Tiger. Ask him the tough ques- and David McGregor, respectively, tion. Tiger is perhaps the toughest athlete in both of Photographic Arts. sports, and I’m sure he can handle a reporter doing his job. Interestingly, the print media is very THRASHED OUT: Unlike their Hawks brethren, the Thrashers will not be bringing any playoff excitement to GET OFF THE COUCH … careful about what they write about the Philips Arena, or Blueland, as its called by Thrashers faithful. The season ended last Saturday night with a win I was on the radio Sunday and two of my Masters, worried that they also might not over division rival Tampa Bay, and we can only hope that the late-season momentum that the team achieved co-hosts, Scott Janovitz and Fletcher Proctor be invited back. It is a fantastic event and I will carry over to next season. Photo courtesy of Rob Saye. (and I am sure Bulldog Nation), were talking enjoyed my experiences there when I was about how poorly Georgia’s offense looked in working at the Atlanta Journal- its spring game last Saturday, which was tele- Constitution. But it is still just a game, and CATCH I.J. ON SUNDAYS vised by ESPN. Are you kidding me? It’s a while this event may be the only one out spring game. I played in a spring game when there that hasn’t been touched over the years by the ever-changing world we live in, ‘I don’t know why everyone is so scared of Tiger. Ask him the I was at Alabama and they are nothing more nothing in sports is that sacred. Again, at tough question. Tiger is perhaps the toughest athlete in than a glorified scrimmage. First of all, the end of the day, no matter how pristine Georgia had a large number of players miss- the setting and great the event is, it’s just a sports, and I’m sure he can handle a reporter doing his job.’ ing and, secondly, spring practice is nothing game. It’s not life and death; although, I more than a chance to work on plays, tech- was quite surprised our new president did- averages, especially if leadoff hitter Kelly Actually, if that happens, the series could be niques, etc. Get a life guys; there has to be n’t make an appearance. He seems to be Johnson can continue his hot start. I also like similar to the one last year when the Hawks something better to do on a beautiful spring everywhere these days except Washington. the rotation and what we have seen from all took Boston to seven games, winning all Saturday. If you are going to be a couch pota- the newbies, including No. 1 starter Derek three in Atlanta. The Cavs are an amazing to, then at least watch the Masters. BRAVES START HOT … Lowe, who has 10 strikeouts in 11 innings as 39-1 at home, their only loss (101-91) com- Rosenberg can be reached at 404-256- After three straight seasons of what I well as an 0.82 ERA (through Monday) and ing to the Lakers on Feb. 8, while the Hawks 1572 or [email protected]. He can consider rather boring teams, it’s exciting to Kenshin Kawakami, who started off a little are 30-10 at Philips, including a 97-92 win be heard every Sunday on 790 The Zone from see the Braves get off to a good start. It’s also slow in his first start Saturday night but came over Cleveland on Dec. 13 and an 88-87 loss great to see all the new faces, especially back and lasted six innings for the victory. to them at Philips on March 1. I think the 10 a.m.-1 p.m. for Score Atlanta Sports rookie center fielder Jordan Schafer. What With the Marlins off to a good start, the Hawks match up well with the Cavs and Sunday. “The Official Visit,” Atlanta’s only has impressed me more than his strong offen- rest of the division looks very good, giving while it may be a little early to be looking at high school recruiting show, follows from 1-3. sive statistics is what he did Saturday night the East four possible playoff-caliber teams it, the series would dominate the Atlanta You can listen online every Sunday by check- when he ran out a routine grounder and beat in Florida, the Phillies, Mets and Braves. And sports scene for more than a week. ing out breaking news on Scoreatl.com MIKAEL’S AUTO SPA ATLANTA’S #1 CAR WASH AND DETAILING DESTINATION

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

EL MAESTRO: Angel Cabrera took a Green Jacket back to Argentina (the first ever WEDNESDAY Georgia Tech at Georgia State. 91.1 FM. from his country) after outlasting Kenny Perry and Chad Campbell in a playoff. Tiger and It’s the baseball battle of downtown Atlanta, as the Yellow Jackets travel 1 Phil weren’t around at the end, but who needs ‘em? There was drama enough on Sunday. across the city to take on the Panthers of Georgia State. Can State pull off another upset over Georgia Tech? We’ll find out at 6 p.m. SMOKIN’: It’s been a rollercoaster ride for the Braves franchise for the past couple 15 months, but the team was 5-1 at press time after sweeping the Nationals. If this team in THURSDAY 2 fact makes the playoffs, I won’t let anyone forget I called it in this space two weeks ago. Braves vs. Florida. 96.1 FM. SportSouth. The boys of summer are back in action and they’re looking to get back to MAJOR TALENT: Tommy Hanson may be in the Braves AAA affiliate for now, but the the winning ways of the 1990’s. They will face the Marlins, who are also way the 22-year-old is pitching, he’ll be in Atlanta soon enough. Young kid struck out 10 16 primed for a good season. First pitch at Turner Field is set at 12 p.m. 3 Charlotte batters in less than five innings pitched in the Gwinnett Braves debut last week. FRIDAY ROCK THE ARENA: Hawks fans, your time has finally come. The boys at The Highlight Gwinnett Braves vs. Norfolk. 550 AM. Factory have secured a home playoff series against Miami. I know they have Wade and After seeing the Atlanta Braves at work, go see the Gwinnett Braves the fol- 4 Co. to deal with, but is it too soon to get excited about a potential clash with Cleveland? lowing day in their home opener. The G-Braves give fans an opportunity to 17 see future stars such as ace Tommy Hanson. Game starts at 7 p.m. G-DOH: The Bulldogs capped off 2009 spring practice with the annual G-Day Game, which was well attended and televised by ESPN. However, I think the on-field interviews with SATURDAY Matthew Stafford and Knowshon Moreno were more compelling than the 13-3 outcome. Georgia Tech T-Day Game. 5 Hungry for college football? Well, get an appetizer by going down to Bobby READY TO SWARM: The Georgia Tech spring game—unoriginally dubbed T- Dodd Stadium to see the 2009 Georgia Tech football team in the annual Day, but we’ll forgive them—is this Saturday at Bobby Dodd Stadium. I was at last 18 spring scrimmage. See Jonathan Dwyer and company in action at 12 p.m. 6 year’s spring contest, and I’m hoping this one will have about a tenth of the fumbles. SUNDAY HEAD OF THE STAFF: Unless the poles shift, Matt Stafford looks to be the No. 1 Ferrari Challenge. overall pick by the Detroit Lions when the NFL Draft begins on April 25. We predict he’ll If you are a fan of Ferraris, then come out to Braselton to see the Ferrari Challenge 7 be named the starter pretty quickly over guys like Daunte Culpepper and Drew Henson. at Road Atlanta. This is an opportunity for Ferrari owners to compete in a series 19 of races. The event starts on Saturday and will continue all day on Sunday. LOCKED DOWN IN A-TOWN: Mike Vick (can’t keep him out of Score List), had a tem- porary stopover in an Atlanta penitentiary last week while being moved back to Kansas. MONDAY Braves at Washington. 96.1 FM. SportSouth. 8 Just a few months until freedom (and a phone call from the Raiders and/or Cowboys). This will be the Braves’ third road series of the 2009 season, and they will BYE BYE BLUELAND: Not forever … just until next hockey season. The Thrashers take on the Nationals for the second time this month. Watch Chipper and ended a dismal 2008-09 on a positive note, at least, moving out from the cellar of the 20 the rest of the Braves try to get a big road win at 7:05 p.m. 9 division by defeating the Tampa Bay Lightning in the final game on Saturday night. TUESDAY Georgia vs. Kennesaw State. FROZEN OVERTIME!: It’s not the Final Four, but I found the Frozen Four pretty enter- In another battle between two in-state baseball rivals, the Bulldogs will look 10 taining (as well as educational – who knew Bemidji State existed?). Boston University to continue their winning ways against Kennesaw State. Can the Owls get won the title when Colby Cohen deflected a shot in OT to give the Terriers the win. 21 the big upset and stop the potent Bulldog offense? First pitch is at 5 p.m.

Marvin Williams Atlanta Braves The Masters After about a month on the bench with a That little bullpen collapse in In one of the most interesting and excit- Philadelphia notwithstanding, the ing endings that golf’s most famous back injury, the Hawks Marvin Williams Braves have come burning out of the tournament has seen in a while, the has returned and is ready to go for the gate for a 5-1 record as of press time. Green Jacket came down to a three- playoffs. The swingman played in last With the starters pitching great and way playoff among three unlikely lead- THUMBS UP TO Friday night’s win over the Pacers, getting the bats coming alive, this team actu- ers. This once again shows that the limited minutes. The Hawks will need him ally looks like an early playoff con- sport’s greatest event doesn’t need HAPPY RETURNS healthy in the first round against the Heat. tender in a loaded NL East division. starpower to captivate an audience.

Marshawn Lynch G-Day No-Show We know it was just a spring Tom Glavine The Buffalo Bills’ Lynch is quickly becoming game, but Georgia’s lack of The 43-year-old pitcher, who is try- Pacman Jones-like, as he was recently given offense in the annual G-Day Game ing to make a comeback after miss- a three-game suspension by NFL commis- last Saturday must have caused ing nearly all of 2008 with shoulder sioner Roger Goodell for his conviction on more than a few viewers (the and elbow issues, will miss his game was broadcast on ESPN) to gun charges. In addition to the league’s pun- change the channel. The receivers scheduled start on Saturday THUMBS DOWN TO ishment, Lynch will serve three years of pro- looked shaky and the running because of a shoulder injury sus- bation for the February arrest. backs have a long way to go. tained while swinging a bat. DELAYED RETURNS

CRUNCHING THE SANITY NUMBERS A MASTERS TO REMEMBER AT LAST So many good things happened at The message to Roberto De Vincenzo from the Masters, it is hard to count them all. We Butler Cabin. got the Tiger/Phil showdown we had Cabrera also scored what I hope “The only reason I 18 The number of been looking for, only it was an will be a major blow for fast times the Braves played hour before the leaders went off. players. This guy just steps know my uniform fits Philadelphia in 2008 Tiger and Phil didn't disap- up and hits the ball. No point, though; each got with- grass throwing, or posture is because we had to in one shot of the lead on checking. He gets his take a team picture Sunday. We got much better yardage, pulls his club, 4 Wins by the Braves scoring than in previous and fires away. I would [a couple weeks ago].” years. There were roars all love to see more of that. against the Phillies in 2008 around the course, especially And I would love to see on the second nine on another Masters like the - Hawks’ Marvin Sunday. We got to see Kenny one I saw last week. Williams on returning Wins by the Braves Perry and Chad Campbell han- Brian Katrek can be 2 dle defeat as well as anyone ever heard on 790 The Zone’s “On last Friday from a against the Phillies in the opening could. And we watched Angel Cabrera The Green with Brian Katrek” series of 2009 win his second major, putting one in the Sundays from 8-9 a.m. and can be month-long injury win column for Argentina, and sending a reached at [email protected].

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Dream use top pick on Louisville star; Rathbun honored by N.C. hall of fame AN ANGEL CHECK THIS OUT! TOO SOON There’s nothing like catching a ball Every death is sad, but when a game at Turner Field, and there isn’t young person is taken away through a much that can compare to the rival- senseless accident through no fault ry that is Georgia-Georgia Tech. of his own, it is truly tragic. Last Now you have a chance to combine week, 22-year-old Nick Adenhart the two on Tuesday, May 12, when was just a few hours removed from the Bulldogs and Yellow Jackets pitching six scoreless innings for the face off in this year’s Spring Los Angeles Angels, and the worst Baseball Classic at The Ted. The part of his day should have been his game should be a great one, too, bullpen’s inability to hold the lead. with both teams being ranked in the Just a few hours after Adenhart’s top 10 for much of the season in father Jim, who had flown all the way various polls. Danny Hall’s Jackets are positioning themselves for an across the country, sat in the stands ACC championship run, and poten- and watched his son make just his tially a run to the College World fourth career start, the car Adenhart Series in Omaha. Meanwhile, the was riding in was struck by a drunk Bulldogs spent some time ranked driver who had blown through a red No. 1 in the nation. Get your tickets light. Adenhart died in a local hospi- today at ticketmaster.com for just tal and two other passengers were $10 for general admission! Or you also killed in the accident. The fourth TWO CHAMPIONS: The Masters aren’t always about this year’s winner. Trevor Immelman (left), the 2008 can get your passes by calling the and final passenger of the vehicle is champion, shares a moment with Gary Player (right), the first foreign player to win at Augusta, taking the Green Turner Field box office. Game time expected to survive. The driver of the Jacket in 1961. The “Black Knight”, a native of South Africa, played in his final Masters over the weekend, bid- is scheduled for 7 p.m. other car walked away, ran away ding an emotional farewell to the course he’s had so much success playing. Photo courtesy of Rob Saye. actually, as he tried to flee the scene. Angels fans paid tribute to the HERE’S THE SCOOP ... fallen pitcher by placing flowers on Written by Scott Janovitz a mound outside of the stadium. he Atlanta Dream made some serious under consideration to host matches. The The team’s game the night after the Tnoise in the basketball world last markets on the list range in size from New crash was postponed. Thursday when they selected Louisville star York City, as the new Meadowlands Angel McCoughtry with the first pick of Stadium will open in 2010 in nearby East The Thursday tragedy was the end the 2009 WNBA Draft. Earlier in the week, Rutherford, N.J., to college-town markets of a career that began after Adenhart McCoughtry led her Cardinals to their first- such as Lincoln, Neb., and Fayetteville, was drafted in the 14th round of the ever women’s basketball Final Four appear- Ark. FIFA calls for each bidding nation to ance before losing to Connecticut in propose a minimum of 12 stadiums, each 2004 draft. Numerous teams were Tuesday’s championship game. capable of seating 40,000 or more specta- scared off from taking Adenhart in the McCoughtry, a 6-foot-1 guard/forward, tors. Only stadiums that have a minimum earned First Team All-American honors this capacity of 80,000 will be considered to top 10 due to an elbow injury that the season and was named the Big East play host to the Opening Match and Final Williamsport (Maryland) High School Defensive Player of the Year. For the third Match. FIFA has set a May deadline for the product suffered just a few weeks straight year, McCoughtry led the confer- final paperwork from each nation. ence in scoring (23.1 ppg), rebounding before the MLB draft. Adenhart even- (9.3) and steals (4.2), becoming the first tually recovered from Tommy John player in Big East history to do so. Her 4.2 RATHBUN HONORED … steals per game led the nation this year. Congratulations to Score friend and surgery and posted a 37-28 record over In other Dream news, the team waived longtime Hawks television voice Bob four seasons in the minors before mak- center Katie Feenstra Mattera on Rathbun, who will be inducted into the Wednesday of last week. Mattera, a 6-8 Salisbury Rowan (North Carolina) Sports ing his Major League debut in May of center out of Liberty University, appeared Hall of Fame on May 16. Rathbun, a West 2008. The righty won one of his three in 33 games for the Dream in 2008, making Rowan and Catawba graduate, rose from starts last season. four starts. The move comes only weeks assisting Marty Brennaman on American before the team tips off the 2009 preseason Legion baseball broadcasts at Newman After a strong spring where he on Wednesday, May 27. The team will Park in the 1960s to serving as sports direc- struck out 18 batters in 26 innings begin its second regular season at home on tor of WSTP radio in Salisbury. That job Saturday, June 6 against the Indiana Fever. was the springboard to his becoming the while going 3-0, Adenhart earned the For more information or to purchase season play-by-play voice for a number of pro No. 3 spot in the Los tickets, call (404) 604-2626. baseball and basketball teams. He's broad- In an important and initial step in casted games for the Atlanta Hawks, Angeles Angels rotation to preparing a bid to play host to the FIFA Washington Bullets, Atlanta Braves, Detroit start the season. Now he is World Cup in 2018 or 2022, the USA Bid Tigers, Tidewater Tides and Richmond in a different Angels rota- Committee mailed letters out last week to Braves, among others. public officials and stadium operators in Rathbun has won five Emmys. He was RATHBUN RECOGNIZED: The television voice of tion. Far too soon. more than 50 metropolitan markets across named Virginia Sportscaster of the Year six the Atlanta Hawks and longtime Score Atlanta Proctor can be the United States. Interestingly, both the times and also has earned that honor in contributor Bob Rathbun will be inducted into the Georgia Dome and Sanford Stadium were Georgia. He's already a member of the reached at fproctor among the 70 stadiums contacted and now Virginia and Catawba halls. Salisbury Rowan Sports Hall of Fame on May 16. @scoreatl.com.

WWW.SCOREATL.COM State’s elite runners ready for championships ith the Georgia high school track and The Panthers’ toughest competition will like- Wfield region championships beginning ly come from Tucker and Starr’s Mill. on April 22 and the State Finals to begin with Monroe is the favorite to dethrone the boys championships on May 7, it’s time Sandy Creek as the boys 3A state champions, to run down and highlight the state’s top as the Tornadoes specialize in the hurdles. teams and individual performers. Chris Lovett finished fifth in the 110 hurdles Starting with 5A, the boys favorites at and Sir Paul Jones placed fifth in the 300 this point are Parkview and Redan. The hurdles in the 2008 state finals. Parkview Panthers are led by senior sprinter Reigning long jump and triple jump Ethan Kasson, who placed first in both the state champion, Brittany Porter, has Towers 200 and 400 meters at the Gwinnett County ready to challenge Therrell for the 3A girls Championships on March 30. Redan is led by state championship. Porter jumped 21-3.5 at Steve Emere, who finished second in the 300 the DeKalb County Championships. The hurdles and third in the 110 hurdles a year jump was the 10th-best long jump in girls ago in the state finals. Emere placed first in high school history and the nation’s best the 110 hurdles at the DeKalb County since 2001. Therrell is led by Jawanda King, Championships on April 1. the reining 400 meter state champion. The Collins Hill girls seem destined to repeat as state champions behind Amanda MORE NAMES TO LOOK FOR … Winslow, the reigning 1,600 meter and 3,200 Westminster is the favorite to win both meter state champion. She finished first in the 2A boys and girls state championships. both events this season in the Gwinnett County The boys are led by William Barber and Finals. Also fighting for position at the top will Stephon Shelton. The girls are led by Mary be Westlake, Peachtree Ridge and Kell. Beth Bird and Mary Seward. Andre Carter and Cameron Reid have Darlington is a strong contender to win Alexander eyeing the boys 4A state title. state in Class A for both the boys and girls. Carter placed first in both the 200 and 400 at The boys’ toughest competition will be the Douglas County Championships. His Eagle’s Landing Christian, while the girls 46.97 time in the 400 at the Mobile Challenge will battle with Gordon Lee. of Champions on April 4 is the third best time Individually, Chalonda Goodman of in the nation this season. Reid ran his best this Newnan High School is the best girls sprinter season at the Douglas County Championships, in the state. Goodman is the defending 5A placing second in both the 1,600 and 3,200. 100- and 200-meter state champion. She also Alexander’s toughest competition will come recorded the second-best time in the 200 and from Statesboro and Bainbridge. third best time in the 100 nationally this sea- son at the Mobile Challenge of Champions. ELITE GIRLS READY TO BATTLE … Kenneth Gilstrap of Miller Grove blew up Sprinter Kia Jackson, who plans to con- the DeKalb County Championships, running a tinue her track career at the University of 10.31 in the 100, the best in the nation this year, Tennessee, has the Southwest DeKalb girls and a 20.98 in the 200, second best nationally. thinking repeat. Jackson placed second in Wiley can be reached at both the 100 and 200 in the 2008 state finals. [email protected]. THE HIGH SCHOOL PLAYERS OF THE WEEK

KYLE FARMER DANIELLE AU MARIST SCHOOL NORTH GWINNETT Also the starting quarterback on the Au is a big reason why the Lady Bulldogs Marist team that went to the state foot- (13-1 at press time and ranked No. 3 in ball finals in Class 4A last fall, Farmer Class 5A according to Eurosportscore has chosen to play baseball at the board.com) look to be a darkhorse for a University of Georgia. The shortstop for state title. Au is already committed to the fifth-ranked (GACA Coaches Poll) play soccer at South Carolina. She is just War Eagles hopes to help the team a junior, but took over Senior Night improve upon its second-round exit from against Duluth, scoring four goals in the last year’s playoffs. Farmer finished last 6-1 win. Au was named one of the top season with a .400 batting average. players in metro Atlanta by ESPNRISE.

WWW.SCOREATL.COM HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS REPORT I09

Gwinnett powers struggling, North Fulton team thriving halfway through season s we sit at the midway point of the 2009 a tougher time than usual as well. The season is to No. 3 Ahigh school baseball season, surprises, Panthers’ most recent loss to their bitter rival Pope. That loss puts them disappointments and drama abound. Brookwood left them at 7-8 on the season. behind Pope (13-3, 7-1) Unfortunately, a major factor so far this sea- Although they are also tied for first in in Region 6, but the son has been one that cannot be controlled: Region 8-AAAAA at 3-1, the eight losses region championship, as the weather. It seems almost every day there are not a common thing for the Panthers at well as the state title, have been cancellations or postponements this point of the season. They are averaging might come down to due to rain, lightning, and even snow. The less than two runs in their losses this season. those two teams. The adverse conditions, however, may have Austin Wheeler, however, has been a Hornets will get another evened the playing field a little bit, as there bright spot of late, going 7-for-12 with two shot at Pope, this time at are no undefeated teams left in the state, home runs and 10 RBIs in the last three vic- home on April 24. which is somewhat of a shock. tories. The region schedule has provided Perhaps the team some key victories to keep the Panthers’ sea- with the state’s toughest REGION 8 REELING … son alive, but with Region 8 being stronger schedule, Lassiter, has A few preseason favorites have gotten this year, and another matchup with shown that it can play off to slow starts, including perennial playoff Brookwood on tap, it might be difficult for with anyone and still contenders Brookwood and Parkview. Parkview to make much noise this season. continue its winning Brookwood is the defending 5A state cham- ways. Going 12-5 pion and was the preseason No. 1 team in the HORNETS SWARMING … against the level of com- state. So far, they have gotten off to a very The hottest team in the state right now petition that the Trojans uncharacteristic 8-6 start, already doubling might just be Roswell, as the Hornets have have played this year their loss total from last year. The two most soared to the top ranking in Class 5A is quite an accom- GREEN MACHINE: Roswell has been climbing the rankings all season on its way surprising losses have been an 11-0 loss to (according to Gasports.com) and a 13-1 plishment. Halfway to a 13-2 overall record at press time. The Hornets will be looking to take home Loganville in the opener and a 7-1 loss to record. Their sizzling start has also put them through the season a region championship in a few weeks, and could be considered a darkhorse South Gwinnett. The pitching has been good in the top 10 in the nation (according to they are ranked No. 8 title contender in the state. Photo courtesy of Roswell High School. at times, led by senior Matt Adams, who has Perfect Game). It’s been a total team effort in 5A (according to a 2-2 record on the year. The bullpen has thus far for Roswell, with a different player Gasports.com). They have beaten the likes of against Heritage-Conyers and won his second been the disappointment for Rick Howard’s stepping up every game. Among the most Germantown (Tenn.), and Parkview, and their game of the season when he struck out eight team. It gave up nine runs in two innings in consistent contributors has been senior first losses have been to the likes of Roswell, Pope against Walton last week. Link struck out 14 the loss to Loganville and has yet to put a baseman/pitcher Kevin Herlihy, who went 2- and Columbus, all of which are in the top 10 and pitched into the seventh in an 8-6 win string of consistent performances together. for-4 and had six RBIs with a triple and in their respective classes. over Wheeler. The tough schedule has sad- Still, the Broncos are tied for first place in walk-off grand slam in a recent defeat of Head coach Mickey McMurtry has dled the Trojans with more losses than usual, Region 8. The hot bat of Ronnie Freeman, Alpharetta. He also recently pitched a com- relied on his pitchers going long innings this but they could easily reclaim their perch atop who has eight home runs, has kept the plete game shutout, allowing five hits and year. The staff is led by Reid Handler and the region down the stretch. defending champs in contention. striking out six batters against McEachern Kevin Link. Handler flirted with a no-hitter Deighton can be reached at Parkview, like its county rival, is having for the 7-0 win. The only Hornets loss on the into the sixth inning in an early-season win [email protected].

Ambles, Ogletree headline Georgia’s list of Class of 2010 football prospects eorgia’s top high school talent has bolstered Alec Ogletree. After leading a great transfer to Jacksonville State). Garrison has 5-11, 180-pounder is a tough tackle, regularly Gcollege football programs throughout the defense that surrendered 28 points in the made his own niche by dominating opponents picking up extra yardage after first contact country over the years, and the class of 2010 entire regular season as a junior, Ogletree and accumulating big numbers in his junior with his aggressive style of running. Many will provide recruiters with another outstanding returns as the second-rated safety in the year (108 tackles and 14 sacks). A daunting schools from around the southeast are hoping to obtain Brown’s services at the next level. crop of prospects to choose from. Here’s a look country. The 6-3, 210-pound thumper is a figure at defensive end, Smith overpowers at this year’s top five impact seniors as listed on beast in run support, recording 62 tackles JaWaun James: The North Gwinnett last season for Newnan High and helping the linemen that have trouble with his good get- offensive linemen will be better this year after Scout.com in their early Top 300. off. Smith also has the speed to run past adding a few pounds to his huge stature (6-7, Markeith Ambles: The Henry County Cougars reach the state semifinal round. blockers and get up the field quickly. His 290). Quick for his size, James’ edge blocking wideout had an outstanding junior year, Ogletree also has ball-hawking ability, and great hands will be featured on Saturdays in catching 53 balls for almost 1,000 yards and shown by many passes defended and two stack of scholarship offers will only grow if 2010. As with all young linemen, James will 13 scores. Equipped with the speed and interceptions. With at least 30 scholarship he has a stellar season like his junior year use his senior year to shore up any balance and hands needed for big-time college football, offers prior to his senior campaign, Mack Brown: Anytime a running back consistency issues, but he has all the tools a col- Ambles also shows a willingness to block and Ogletree’s superlative special teams play may averages nearly 10 yards per carry, he quali- lege coach wants: good initial punch, extreme- garner even more attention this year. fies as special. M.L. King’s Mack Brown ly quick feet, and the ability to come out of his go over the middle for catches in traffic. His accomplished the feat last year (9.8 per tote), stance with lightning speed. As of March, 6-foot-2, 182-pound frame and elusiveness Garrison Smith: Georgia Tech fans are hoping Garrison Smith will follow in his piling up 1,700 yards and 21 touchdowns in James has narrowed his college prospects down after the catch make him a tough cover for the process. Brown is skilled both on the edge to six schools: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, any defense. The silky-smooth receiver will brother Greg’s footsteps and become a Yellow and in between the tackles, hitting holes with Oklahoma, Tennessee and Southern Cal. dominate wherever he decides to hone his Jacket after his senior year at Douglass High vigor and power while showing impressive Mitchell can be reached at skill as a collegiate. (although big brother just announced his speed on the outside and the open field. The [email protected].

WWW.SCOREATL.COM 10 HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS REPORT

Etowah tennis teams looking to improve upon ’08 state tournament performances ennis season is winding down as the COMPARE AND CONTRAST … this year. And they are also going to be fac- year they won the region title in convincing TRegion Tournaments are going on this Both teams’ paths to a dominating regular tors when the state tournament begins and the fashion and made it all the way to the finals of week. The Etowah boys and girls tennis season were very different. The girls record at girls that are back from last year want to go the state tournament, losing to Northview. teams are the defending Region 5-AAAAA press time was 13-2, with both of their losses further after losing to South Forsyth in the This year they look hungry to win that title, champions and they look to continue their coming against Marist in February. That record first round last year. winning the Wheeler Wildcat Tournament at runs on Wednesday when the finals take is quite an accomplishment considering the “The girls I have returning, their goal is the beginning of the season. Not only are the place at Marietta High School, the same team lost five seniors from last season. to get deep into the state playoffs,” Morgan Eagles boys undefeated in matches on the sea- place they won the region championship last “The freshmen and the one sophomore said. “It still haunts them. They still talk son, they have only lost two games. So which teams stand in their way? For the year. If they are able to do it again, it would that I picked up are really, really good play- about it, they know what happened, they girls, a dominant Walton program would be a mean back-to-back titles for the girls and ers,” girls head coach Billie Morgan said. know what they did [last season].” tough opponent in the postseason. For the boys, “Most of my wins came from the underclass- four consecutive titles for the boys. But both defending champion Northview is a team that is teams have a bigger goal that they set for men that I had, not so much the seniors that I BOYS UNDEFEATED … familiar with this Eagles team. No matter who themselves before the season, and that is had. So I knew when I picked up these really Going into the region tournament, the they face, however, the Eagles will be the teams winning the state title. If both Eagles teams good players, I had a really good team.” boys team was undefeated and ranked No. 1 in to watch in the Class 5A state tournament. can continue to play like they have all sea- The two freshmen, Nicole LaDuca and the state in the GACA Coaches Poll, having Jones can be reached at son, that goal should be well within reach. Alyssa Siebold, have been keys to the success cruised past every opponent they played. Last [email protected]

WWW.SCOREATL.COM APRIL 15-21, 2009 SCORE ATLANTA I 11

WWW.SCOREATL.COM HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS REPORT I12

Spring sports season moving quickly towards region, state tournament time he high school baseball season speeds up the top spot once again, with Columbus Harrison and North Talong, as the teams are now on the other rival Brookstone coming in at second. Gwinnett round out the top side of spring break and heading towards the three. Another defending home stretch. Most region tournaments will MIDSEASON SOCCER UPDATE … champ, Marist, is the No. 1 start for the prep baseball teams around the The Walton boys soccer team seems in Class 4A with a 14-1 state at about the first week of May. well on its way to another state title run, sit- record. Interestingly, that In Class 5A, the Roswell Hornets, at ting at 11-1-0 at press time with a top rank- lone loss for the Lady War press time, had taken the No. 1 spot on the ing and wins over the likes of Pope, St. Pius Eagles is to St. Pius, the GACA Coaches Poll (see page 9 in the prep X and Hillgrove. The Raiders’ competition loser to Marist in the 2008 section for more on the surprising Hornets). for a regular season area title will come in the 4A title game and the cur- Region 6 has its fair share of squads in the form of the Centennial Knights, with a rent 3A No. 1. And Class top 10, with Pope (No. 3), Centennial (No. 6) record of 12-2 and an area mark of 7-0, just 2A/A features all private and Lassiter (No. 8) also appearing in the a half game below Walton’s mark of 8-0. The schools in the top 10, with rankings. Also players in the Class 5A title two teams meet with the Area 6 title on the Greater Atlanta Christian hunt are Newnan (No. 5), Greenbrier (No. 7) line on Thursday at 8 p.m. at Centennial. leading the way. and Jenkins (No. 9). Jenkins slips into the Fayette County continues to dominate the top top 10 after posting a 16-1 record at press of the boys Class 4A soccer rankings accord- SPRING SPORTS … time, with the only loss coming to Liberty ing to Eurosportscoreboard.com, with The track and field County back in the beginning of March. McIntosh (16-0) and Starr’s Mill (15-0) at state championships will WAITING THEIR TURN: The St. Pius X girls soccer team has already South Georgia rules the top three spots in Nos. 1 and 2, respectively. In another area be held in Jefferson for the defeated its archrival Marist, the team that defeated them in the Class 4A the Class 4 baseball top 10, with Lee County, title-deciding matchup, those two teams meet boys from May 7-9, and in championship game a year ago. Now, after dropping down to Class 3A, Effingham County and South Effingham Wednesday at McIntosh for the Area 5 cham- Albany for the girls from the No. 1 ranked Lady Golden Lions have title aspirations of their own. occupying the Nos. 1-3 positions, respective- pionship and the right for a No. 1 seed in the May 14-16. Region cham- ly. Class 3A has seen Columbus, 15-1 on the playoffs. In the two smallest classifications, pionship meets begin next Photo courtesy of Photographic Arts. season with a slew of wins over top teams powerhouses Carrollton (Class 3A) and week. … Lacrosse playoffs are right around May 8 for the boys and May 9 for the girls. from bigger classifications, establish itself as Westminster (Class 2A/A) taking up the the corner as well, as the boys 16-team … Golf championships will be held on one of the top teams in the state regardless of positions atop their divisions. tournament begins on April 28 and the girls May 4 at 10 different sites throughout the classification. The Class 2A rankings are The girls soccer season in Class 5A has begins on April 29. The championship state, one for each classification. intriguing in that they only feature one Metro gone as expected, as the Parkview Lady matches will both be held on May 9. … Stay with Score Atlanta and Atlanta team, Blessed Trinity, checking in at Panthers have maintained their No. 1 ranking April 24 will mark the beginning of the Scoreatl.com for prep sports coverage No. 9; Pike County is the top-ranked team in all season long (despite a loss to out-of-state boys and girls tennis state tournament. All throughout the state championships! that classification. And Class A sees its power Wando, S.C.) and are a legitimate classes will hold their championship Ewalt can be reached at defending champion, Pacelli Catholic, taking threat to go wire-to-wire as the state’s No. 1. matches at Clayton International Park on [email protected].

Georgia uses G-Day to land two commitments; Gators invade Peach State eorgia may not have impressed on the is a better fit on offense, which would allow Williams, one of the Southeast’s top defen- be the top sophomore in the state, has also Gfield at last Saturday’s G-Day scrim- him to team back up with former Buford team- sive backs, announced that he is all but com- received scholarship promises from Georgia, mage, but it sure looked good off it, as the mate and current Bulldog freshman Dallas Lee. mitted to the Gators. What’s stopping Georgia Tech, Alabama, Clemson, Stanford, team picked up commitments from two tal- Tech also received good news along the Williams then? Meyer asked the 6-2, 180- N.C. State and Central Florida. ented 2010 prospects. Kissimmee, Fla. recruiting trail when it recently landed a com- pound junior to finish taking all of his visits inside linebacker Marc Deas became mitment from Northview defensive tackle before making a commitment. LEAVING HOME … Georgia’s second commitment in the 2010 Denzel McCoy. A four-star recruit according Conveniently, the Gators also used Connor Shaw, current Flowery Branch class, selecting the Bulldogs over Kentucky to Rivals.com, the 6-4, 275-pound McCoy Georgia spring break to get some of the quarterback and brother of Georgia Tech back- and UCF. The 6-foot, 185-pound athlete was chose Tech over a hoard of other offers, state’s top talent to visit Gainesville last up signal-caller Jaybo Shaw, decided last week named First-Team All State last year, record- including ones from Auburn, LSU, Miami, Wednesday. Those in attendance included not to follow in his brother’s footsteps, electing ing over 100 tackles in addition to scoring Notre Dame, Tennessee and Alabama. As a Henry County’s Markeith Ambles, one of the instead to play his college ball for Steve six touchdowns on offense. junior, McCoy recorded 72 tackles, including top receivers in the country, Southwest Spurrier at the University of South Carolina. In Joining Deas and becoming Georgia’s 10 for a loss, and four sacks. DeKalb teammates T.J. Stripling (DE) and addition to interest in Tech, the younger Shaw third 2010 commitment was Buford lineman Kendrun Malcome (RB), and North Gwinnett also considered offers from Stanford, Wake Kolton Houston. The 6-5, 270-pound standout GATOR PRINTS … offensive tackle JaWuan James. Forest, West Virginia, Central Florida and East has been highly sought after to say the least, Following a year in which they didn’t Finally, Meyer looked to get a head start Carolina. As a junior, the 6-2, 195-pound Shaw receiving offers from Georgia Tech, Maryland, land a single Georgia recruit, Urban Meyer on recruiting for 2011 last week as well, passed for 2,200 yards and 22 touchdowns, South Carolina, Tennessee, Auburn and and the Florida Gators are now starting to becoming the most recent coach to offer while also rushing for 941 yards and 11 scores. Clemson, just to name a few. Houston can play make some serious noise along the state’s Tucker sophomore James Vaughters. The 6-2, Janovitz can be reached at on either side of the ball, though he believes he recruiting trail. Last week, Coffee star Pernell 220-pound linebacker, considered by most to [email protected]

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

WWW.SCOREATL.COM APRIL 15-21, 2009 SCORE ATLANTA I 13

WWW.SCOREATL.COM 14 I SCORE ATLANTA Get In The Game!

Hawks clinch home court in first round Thrashers close season with win over Tampa hanks to a watered-down stretch of Miami Heat when the first round of the play- fter trailing the Tampa Bay Lightning in TEAM HARDWARE … Tgames that included contests against offs begins this weekend. At press time, Athe standings for most of the season, the After Saturday’s win over the Tampa NBA cellar dwellers Toronto, Milwaukee Atlanta led the series against Miami 2-1 with Thrashers supplanted their Southeast Bay Lightning, the Thrashers handed out and Indiana, the Hawks were at their best last one left to play on Tuesday. Division rival with a 6-2 victory on Saturday two annual awards. Forward Ilya Kovalchuk week. On Tuesday, the team visited the While Miami is a mediocre 42-38 on the night. The win came in the final game of the was named the team MVP for the 2008-09 Raptors and used 25-point outings from both season, the Heat do resemble a playoff threat season for both teams, leaving Thrashers season. Voting took place the last two weeks, Joe Johnson and Josh Smith to escape thanks to the exceptional play of Wade. Just fans with hope for next year. as fans were allowed to vote online and via Canada with a 118-110 victory. a year removed from his team winning only text message. Kovalchuk finished the season On Wednesday, Atlanta traveled to 15 games, the sixth-year veteran has led Atlanta jumped on the Lightning early, with 43 goals and 48 assists, with most of Milwaukee and, despite giving up more than Miami to the playoffs, putting together an scoring two goals on special teams in the first his damage coming since he was named cap- 100 points yet again, scored enough itself to MVP-caliber season along the way. For the period. Colby Armstrong blew a slap shot past tain on Jan. 11. Since then he scored 27 hang on for the win. As usual, Johnson led year, Wade is averaging an impressive 30 Mike McKenna to score the first goal of the goals in just 36 games. the way for the Hawks with 30 points and points per game, good for first in the NBA, game on a power play. Eric Perrin then Forward Colby Armstrong was also eight rebounds, but big third- and fourth- in addition to 7.5 assists and five rebounds. extended the Atlanta lead to two when a great honored as the winner of the 2009 Dan quarter 3-pointers from Mike Bibby were an pass from Garnet Exelby set up a two-on-one Snyder Memorial Trophy. The trophy goes to Long criticized for his defensive gambles, the player who best embodies perseverance, integral part of the 113-105 victory. Wade has also improved tremendously on shorthanded opportunity for Atlanta. Exelby’s The Hawks trailed at halftime in both dedication and hard work without reward or that end of the floor and has the lead among pass found Marty Reasoner streaking down recognition. It is presented in honor of for- outings, making the come-from-behind road all guards in blocked shots to show for it. the ice with Perrin to his right. Reasoner then wins the first the Hawks have achieved in mer and fallen Atlanta Thrasher Daniel Fortunately, while no one on the Hawks shot a cross-ice pass to Perrin, who one-timed Snyder. Previous winners include Eric consecutive games since 1988. has consistently excelled in matchups with the a shot to give Atlanta the 2-0 lead. Perrin, Slava Kozlov and Niclas Havelid. Finally, on Friday the team returned Heat this year, the team has done an excep- The Lightning came back with a goal home, taking part in yet another high-scoring tional job slowing Wade in two of the three COLLEGE CHAMPIONS … affair, this time against the Indiana Pacers. J- to end the first, cutting the Atlanta lead to contests, holding him to just 21 points on both one, but a strong second period by the While the Atlanta Thrashers won’t be Smoove scored 30 points while Johnson con- celebrating any championships this season, at tributed 24 to help Atlanta outlast Indiana occasions. Containing Wade will be the key to Thrashers put the game out of reach for defeating Miami, as it has a surprisingly weak Tampa. Ilya Kovalchuk, Ron Hainsey and least one player who wore a Thrashers uni- and Danny Granger’s 35-point performance, cast surrounding the Olympic champion. form will. Boston University’s Vinny 122-118. With the win, Atlanta clinched the Armstrong each scored a goal in the second Saponari celebrated an NCAA four seed and home-court advantage for the Finally, while the Hawks have favorable period, giving Atlanta a 5-1 lead heading matchups all over the floor against Miami Championship as the Terriers won the 2009 first round of the playoffs. into the third. The teams then traded goals Frozen Four in Washington, D.C., over the The Hawks will finish their regular sea- (especially at the two forward spots), it’s worth noting that something about playing in the final period, giving Atlanta a 6-2 vic- weekend. The Terriers scored two goals in the son on Wednesday with an 8 p.m. contest at tory to end the season. final minute to tie Miami of Ohio at 3-3 and Memphis. The playoffs will start for the team the Heat translates into poor offensive play send the championship game into overtime, on either Saturday or Sunday. from the Hawks; they have averaged just Now the Thrashers will wait for the 2009 NHL Entry Draft on June 26 in where BU won 4-3. Saponari was drafted by 85.7 points per game in three contests with the Thrashers in the fourth round of the 2008 PREVIEWING THE PLAYOFFS … Miami this year, a good 12.7 points lower Montreal, Canada. Atlanta, which finished draft. He finished the season with eight goals With a Philadelphia’s 111-104 loss to than their season average. 27th overall in the league standings, has a and nine assists for the Terriers. Toronto on Sunday evening, the Hawks Janovitz can be reached at 10.7 percent chance of winning the first Boral can be reached at learned they will face Dwyane Wade and the [email protected]. overall pick in this year’s draft. [email protected]

Robinson dealt to Rams for draft position he Falcons made their first trade of the morning. Members also are making appear- Toffseason, sending third-year wideout ances on radio, with a spot this Thursday Laurent Robinson to the St. Louis Rams in with 92.9 DAVE FM at 3 p.m., and the day exchange for the right to swap picks with the after at 3:30 pm on V-103 FM. Rams in the fifth and sixth rounds. This Tight ends coach Chris Scelfo will help means Atlanta will move up 22 spots in the current and prospective football coaches fifth round to 160th overall, and 20 spots in hone their skills at the USA Football the sixth round to 196th overall. Coaching School this Saturday at Westlake Robinson, a former third-round pick High School in Atlanta. The former Tulane out of Illinois State, showed flashes of bril- head coach will speak at the event, which is liance while in Atlanta, such as his seven- being put on by USA Football, the national catch, 114-yard performance against the governing body of the sport. Arizona Cardinals late in the 2007 season. But Robinson couldn’t stay healthy. In the NEW FAN EVENT COMING … Falcons fans aren’t known for frequent- end, he missed a total of 11 games with var- ing the Georgia Dome in April, but fans have ious injuries. He caught 42 passes for 489 a chance to gain a little insight into the yards during his time as a Falcon. teams’ current affairs by attending the “State of the Franchise” event. IN THE COMMUNITY … The event takes place on Monday, April Michael Turner, Ovie Mughelli, 27, and owner and CEO Arthur Blank, pres- Chauncey Davis and Curtis Lofton spent ident Rich McKay, general manager April 8 at the Georgia Aquarium mingling Thomas Dimitroff and head coach Mike with 10 lucky children and their parents. The Smith will all speak and take questions families engaged in a meet-and-greet session from fans. Fans are asked to RSVP for the with the players before working together event by emailing [email protected]. with the players to make fish-themed crafts, Season ticket holders may reserve seats and and also embarked on a behind-the-scenes submit questions as well. tour of the aquarium. Among the topics at hand will be a The appearances kept coming for the recap of the 2009 NFL Draft, which will Falcons cheerleaders, who--on average-- have taken place the previous weekend, a dis- make an astounding 500 appearances cussion the upcoming season, and a ques- around town annually. They were television tion-and-answer session with attending fans. guests for 11 Alive Sports on Sunday April Bagriansky can be reached at 12 and Good Day Atlanta the following [email protected].

WWW.SCOREATL.COM APRIL 15-21, 2009 SCORE ATLANTA I 15

G-Day concludes spring; Fox on the move Nesbitt injured; Morgan on Lott watch list he annual G-Day Game capped off spring could have made some better cuts, but over- n injury to starting quarterback Josh recording 51 tackles and seven sacks. Tpractice for the football team last Saturday all I think I did pretty well.” ANesbitt marred last Saturday's spring When asked about the defensive line at Sanford Stadium. The Red Team defeated Jackson returned for the last week of practice session, which was primarily an being a potential problem spot for the Jackets, the Black Team 13-3 in a defensive struggle. spring practice after having an arthroscopic offense-defense intrasquad scrimmage. Morgan responded, "I’ve heard that a lot so far. “It was pretty obvious they did a nice job, lim- knee scope. “If he came out healthy, I’m Nesbitt went down hard on his shoulder dur- We look at that as having a chip on our shoul- iting the run especially,” said head coach happy,” Richt said. “It’s tough not to get in any ing the first series of the scrimmage and did ders. We’re basically just using it as motivation not return. The rising junior was replaced by to work harder and prove everybody wrong." Mark Richt about both teams’ defenses. kind of contact until [G-Day], so I’m not sophomore backup Jaybo Shaw, who led the The Black Team’s Justin Houston and going to judge him on the performance today.” offense on two touchdown drives in four pos- HOOPS LOSES ASSISTANT … the Red Team’s Marcus Washington both fin- Jackson said he feels like his knee is sessions starting at its own 30-yard line. Men's basketball assistant coach ished with three sacks and Bryan Evans healed, though it still feels weak. “I still can’t do Head coach Paul Johnson said afterward Charlton Young was introduced as the new added an interception for the Black Team. a lot,” he said. “[My] main goal is to work hard that Nesbitt possibly suffered a dislocated head coach at Georgia Southern University “We just wanted show people that even with- in the offseason and get my knee stronger.” shoulder. Johnson added that Nesbitt, who last Thursday. Young worked on Paul Hewitt's out the two stars (Matthew Stafford and rushed for 693 yards last season and added 808 staff for four years before being lured away Knowshon Moreno) that entered the draft, OTHER HAPPENINGS … through the air, could miss the rest of spring by his alma mater. He started 97 consecutive we’re still going to come out and play as a Less than a week after being named practice, which concludes on Saturday with games as a point guard for the GSU Eagles team,” Evans said. “We’re making strides; Georgia’s new head basketball coach, Mark the T-Day Game. Nesbitt brushed aside his from 1989-93, averaging 14.8 points per we’ll only get better as time passes.” Fox officially brought in his first two assis- personal injury problems after practice and game and 4.9 assists. Young replaces Jeff tant coaches, Kwanza Johnson and Philip instead noted that the team is rounding into Price, who resigned on March 30 after 10 sea- FILLING IN … Pearson. Johnson coached under Fox at form nicely after three weeks of spring ball. sons at Georgia Southern. Hewitt and the Nevada, while Pearson, a former Alabama "We're looking real good," Nesbitt said. Jackets will be on the lookout for a new assis- Speaking of Stafford and Moreno, their "We're always excited to come out here and play tant coach for the first time since 2005, the replacements had fair days on Saturday. assistant, served as the Crimson Tide’s inter- im head coach last season. Fox took the the game we love. Everything's coming together." year Young was hired. First-team quarterback Joe Cox completed 9- The annual T-Day game, meanwhile, will of-16 passes for 105 yards for the Red Team, Georgia job after being the Wolf Pack’s head coach for five seasons. … With its 5-2 win begin at noon on Saturday at Bobby Dodd TENNIS STREAK ENDS … while second-teamer Logan Gray completed Stadium and is open to the public. The women's tennis team had its seven- 9-of-13 passes for 91 yards for the Black over Kentucky last Sunday, the No. 2 Barring any significant injuries, Georgia match winning streak halted by Duke last Team. Both quarterbacks were plagued by women’s tennis team won at least a share of Tech's triple-option offense should be the Saturday in Durham. Tech, the 2007 National dropped passes. the SEC regular season title. Georgia (19-2, strength of the team heading into the 2009 Champion and No. 7 team in the nation, fell Redshirt freshman tailback Carlton 9-1) has claimed eight such titles in its histo- season. Question marks pop up on defense, in a hard-fought 4-3 thriller to the fifth- ry. … After winning the Southeast Regional, where three defensive line starters must be ranked Blue Devils. Junior Amanda Thomas led all rushers with 59 yards on the gymnastics team is the No. 1 seed for the eight carries, including the game’s lone replaced. If Derrick Morgan has anything to McDowell, however, won her ninth consecu- NCAA’s Super Six, which starts Thursday in do with it, the revamped line will be just fine. tive match at the No. 1 singles line. The team touchdown. Among other contenders to Lincoln, Neb. The Gym Dogs will go for their Morgan was named last week to the presea- as a whole enjoyed some good news one day replace Moreno, Caleb King rushed for 22 fifth consecutive national championship in son watch list for the Lott Trophy, which is earlier, scoring a 5-2 road victory over No. 19 yards on seven carries and Dontavius Suzanne Yoculan’s 26th and final year as head awarded annually to the player who makes the North Carolina on Friday. Georgia Tech fin- Jackson had a yard on three carries. King coach. … The equestrian team will compete biggest IMPACT (Integrity, Maturity, ished its regular season 16-6 overall and 9-2 thought that he and the offense played well, at the Varsity National Championships in Performance, Academics, Community and in the ACC, securing a first-round bye for this considering it’s only spring. “It always takes Waco, Tex., Thursday through Saturday. Tenacity) on his respective team and commu- weekend's conference tournament. the offense longer than the defense to jell, so Butler can be reached at nity. A rising junior, Morgan was an honor- Dimon can be reached at I think we did pretty well,” he said. “I think I [email protected]. able mention All-ACC performer last season, [email protected].

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

Braves sweep Nats in opening home series Baseball team’s win streak comes to end he Braves returned home after a three- change in the order: “When we traded he Owls’ six-game winning streak came pitched another gem, going 7.2 innings and Tgame season-opening series in (Mark) Teixeira last year, I stepped into the Tto an end on Sunday as Atlantic Sun rival giving up just two hits. Closer Kenny Faulk Philadelphia to find the Washington four-hole and I think that’s where I’m going USC-Upstate managed to avoid a three-game got the save in both games. Next up for the Nationals waiting for a three-game series. to hit in the lineup for sure.” Schafer also sweep before leaving town. Upstate won the Owls (17-13, 10-4) is a three-game set Derek Lowe was scheduled to take the hill made quite an impression, homering in his game on Sunday by a score of 7-5 despite against Mercer this weekend in Macon. last Friday after mowing down the Phillies in first major league at-bat. He added another the season opener. Lowe continued his home run last Wednesday as the Braves three-hit performances by KSU’s Curtis Van strong start, striking out six in the first three jumped out to a 10-3 lead on the Phillies, Wyck and Jacob Robbins. OTHER NEWS … innings before the rains came. A Yunel only to watch the bullpen melt down and The Owls swept a double-header on The men’s track team competed at the Escobar home run gave the Braves an early surrender eight seventh-inning runs en Saturday against the Spartans. In the first Seminole Invitational this past weekend in 3-1 lead, then--after the rain delay--the route to a 12-11 loss. Javier Vazquez’s effort game of the day, the Owls broke a tie and Tallahassee. Steven Murray and Michael Braves bullpen gave up the lead in the ninth, (six innings pitched, three runs) was ren- scored four runs in the eighth inning to Johnson finished first and second in the but Jordan Schafer’s astute baserunning dered a no decision as Blaine Boyer was secure a 10-6 victory. Kyle Heckathorn 5,000 meter run. Scott Burley came in sec- allowed Kelly Johnson to drive home the tagged with the loss. pitched for the Owls, getting six innings of ond in the 3,000 meter run with teammate rookie in the bottom of the 10th. In work and allowing just three hits. The Travis Holmes close behind in fourth place. Saturday’s tilt, Kenshin Kawakami made his HANSON EXCELLING … Joshua James tuned in another nice perform- regular season debut and looked to be in Chipper Jones missed last Wednesday’s Spartans did manage three earned runs off of the Owls’ ace, however. Jace Whitmer and ance for KSU, coming in second in the 400 trouble early, giving up three runs in the first game with a bruised thumb but he was back meter hurdles. Next weekend, the team will three innings. However the Braves battled in the lineup against the Nationals. Before Andrew Martin each homered for KSU. The back, and thanks to another Johnson home the injury, Jones crushed a home run against second game of the day was marked by a compete in the LSU Alumni Gold meet in Baton Rouge. … The women’s track squad run they took a 4-3 lead. The team added the Phillies. Diaz also went deep in the series sensational pitching performance from one more insurance run before Mike finale in Philadelphia. competed in the same meet last weekend as KSU’s Chad Jenkins, who pitched a com- well. Jessica Irrizarry set a regional record in Gonzalez closed out the Nationals. Future ace Tommy Hanson had a stellar plete game shutout. The junior from Canton Easter Sunday was kind to the Braves, debut for AAA Gwinnett last Thursday, the javelin throw with a toss of 46 meters. as the hometown team got on the board early striking out 10 in 4.1 innings pitched. allowed five hits and struck out ten in the Also, Jill Arthur won the triple jump. The thanks to Brian McCann’s walk and stolen Hanson allowed two walks and three hits win. Jenkins now has pitched 17 consecutive women’s track squad will travel to Baton base in the fourth. Matt Diaz drove home and threw just 84 pitches. He was named scoreless innings. Rouge this weekend. … This past weekend, McCann and was then driven home himself MVP of the 2008 Arizona Fall League, the During the week, the Black and Gold the softball team split double-headers at on Jeff Francoeur’s RBI triple. The Braves first time a pitcher has ever captured that defeated Western Carolina, 12-10. Bucky Jacksonville and North Florida. On April 7, finished off the sweep, 8-5, with Rafael honor, and is ranked in the top five of Smith’s solo shot in the bottom of the eighth Campbell swept the Lady Owls in a two- Soriano recording the save. Baseball America’s top 100 prospects. Tom gave the Owls the lead for good. On the Glavine, meanwhile, injured his pitching game set. On April 4, the team was swept by weekend of April 3-4, KSU swept A-Sun Florida Gulf Coast after sweeping Stetson McCANN STAYS HOT … shoulder while swinging a bat while in AA rival Lipscomb at Stillwell Stadium. The first The Braves’ three-time all-star catcher Mississippi and will miss his scheduled the previous day. The team travels to had quite the series against Philadelphia Saturday start. Jo-Jo Reyes is getting the call two games were pitchers’ duels with KSU Nashville this weekend for doubleheaders with two home runs and three runs scored in up to fill in for the injured Glavine. winning 2-1 and the 2-0. Heckathorn pitched against Lipscomb and Belmont. the three games. McCann was in the Proctor can be reached at 8.2 innings with nine strikeouts and gave up Black can be reached at cleanup spot, and had this to say about the [email protected] just one run. In the next game, Jenkins [email protected].

Baseball continues excellent conference play; softball sweeps George Mason he Georgia State baseball team took two SOFTBALL SWEEPS … are: Sarah Bennett, Centennial, Colo. (Cherry Ga., beginning on April 17. Lady Panthers Tof three from Old Dominion this past Freshman Alana Thomas tossed her sec- Creek H.S.); Haley Holderfield, Atlanta, Ga. golf is currently ranked 32nd in the country. weekend in Panthersville. GSU won the open- ond straight shutout and catcher Catherine (Buford H.S.); Megan Geiger, Lawrenceville, Meanwhile, freshman Allen John also earned er 3-2 and then took Game 2 in a slugfest, 14- Lee drove in three runs as the Georgia State Ga. (Parkview H.S.); Carly Lafferty, Tucker, Ga. CAA Golfer of the Week honors for his play (St. Pius X); Bridget Gilmore, Woodstock, Ga. at the Administaff Augusta State Invitational. 13, on a walk-off grand slam off the bat of softball team blanked George Mason 3-0 last Sunday at Bob Heck Field to sweep the (Etowah H.S.); Erin Hill, Snellville, Ga (St. Pius John fired rounds of 72-66-70-208 (minus 8) Chase Childers that capped a five-run 9th series. The Panthers took the opener 8-3 and X); Jocelyn Baker, Winder, Ga. (St. Pius X). en route to a third-place overall finish. John’s inning. ODU came back to win the Sunday won the second game 9-0. Sunday’s win was play helped the Panthers to an eighth-out-of- game 2-1. Georgia State’s record is now 23-11 the team’s ninth straight and moves Georgia GOLF AND TENNIS NEWS … 17 finish in Augusta. overall and 6-3 in the CAA, where the State (22-14, 9-2 CAA) into a first-place tie On the links, freshman Charlotte The men’s tennis team ended its regular Panthers hold down second place in the stand- with Hofstra atop the CAA standings. The Lorentzen won her first CAA Golfer of the season with a 6-1 loss to DePaul last Sunday ings. They will travel to Birmingham to face Panthers and Pride will meet next weekend Week award on Thursday for her second- afternoon on the courts of the Westminster Schools. The Panthers now turn their atten- Samford on Tuesday and then return to host in a three-game series at Hofstra. place finish at the SunTrust Lady Gator Women’s soccer coach Domenic Martelli Invitational. Lorentzen made her appearance tion to the 2009 CAA Tournament, which is Georgia Tech on Wednesday in Panthersville has announced the signing of seven players to high up the leaderboard with rounds of 76- scheduled for April 16-17 on the campus of at 6 p.m. (WRAS-FM 88.5). Following those National Letters of Intent who will begin play 74-74-224 (plus 14) at the par 70, 5,954-yard Old Dominion in Norfolk, Va. two games, the Panthers are on the road for Follow the Panthers online at for the Panthers in the fall of 2009. Six of the Mark Bostick Golf Course in Gainesville, www.georgiastatesports.com. For basketball their next three series at Northeastern, seven signees come from in-state, including Fla. The Panthers now look toward the CAA and football ticket information call Tennessee Tech and James Madison. three from St. Pius X High School. The signees Championships, to be held at Pine Mountain, 1-866-GA-STATE.

WWW.SCOREATL.COM APRIL 15-21, 2009 SCORE ATLANTA I 17

Spring practice concludes with G-Day Game, but personnel questions still remain n addition to the unresolved situation at tail- probably have missed out on,” Richt said might be a right tackle.” Iback due to the departure of Knowshon about not moving any linebackers to end dur- When the dust clears, Moreno, three critical positions and/or units ing pass rush situations in the past. Georgia’s offensive line remained question marks after Georgia’s No matter who lines up at defensive end will be able to rotate more spring practice finished up last Saturday with come fall, the production of the group will players and will have con- the annual G-Day Game. Here we take a look have to improve. siderably more experience at the uncertainties surrounding the defensive than last year, which end, offensive line and kicking units. All pose OFFENSIVE LINE … should give the Bulldogs key, distinct questions. Much like the trenches for Georgia on a very strong group. the defensive side of the ball, the Bulldogs’ DEFENSIVE END … offensive line was also affected by injuries. KICKER … The play of the defensive ends last sea- But unlike the defensive end position, which While the question son was about as underwhelming as it has will first need to show it can be productive mark is not as big as it was ever been in the Mark Richt era. Departed once healthy, the offensive line may be ready last year when he was a senior Jarius Wynn led the ends with only to show its dominance. A dozen players true freshman, placekicker three sacks. Add to that the injuries that return on the line, most with valuable playing Blair Walsh’s performance affected the position this spring, and Georgia time under their belts as a result of the is worth watching. Walsh has to wonder if the ends will be ready to injuries and the lack of depth of the last two started last season 10-for- produce by the season opener. The Bulldogs seasons. Four linemen with starting experi- 12 on field goals, but hit finished spring practice with just two healthy ence missed spring because of injury, and all only five of his last 11 and scholarship defensive ends in Justin Houston but one, Josh Davis, is expected to be back struggled with kickoffs. In and converted offensive lineman Kiante before the start of the season. That will not the G-Day Game, he hit Tripp. The injuries may have been a blessing only give Georgia its most experienced line in his only try, a 51-yarder. in disguise for the two, as that allowed them years, but it will also give the Bulldogs some “I’ve been working hard to get more practice time. Houston especial- hard decisions to make about who starts, and this spring just trying to ly took advantage, finishing the spring where. “It’s going to be tough,” said tackle get more consistent,” BACK IN THE SWING OF THINGS: Sensational freshman wideout strong and racking up three sacks in the G- Clint Boling. “Once we get all those guys Walsh said. “I didn’t miss Day Game. “The more reps I take, the better back, we’ll have some options as far as where many kicks this spring, so A.J. Green snags a pass away from Prince Miller during Georgia’s I’m getting, so it’s starting to pay off,” we’re going to plug everybody in.” it was nice to go out and annual G-Day Game, which was televised in full by ESPN last Houston said. “All the defensive ends, we’re Boling has experience playing tackle hit a long one like that.” Saturday. With over 40,000 fans in attendance, the Red Team beat disappointed about the season we had last and guard and currently lines up at the left Earlier this spring, the Black Team by the score of 13-3. Photo courtesy of Rob Saye. year. We take it as a challenge to step up to tackle position that Trinton Sturdivant held Georgia added kicker the plate and hopefully defensive end will be before missing all of last season. Richt called Brandon Bogotay as a late signee out of wise, so we just have to play it by ear once a main factor this year.” Boling his most consistent lineman of the Grossmont Junior College in El Cajon, Cal. camp comes.” Another effect of the injuries is that spring, but Boling may be moved when Bogotay is expected to provide competition Points and yardage in the kicking game some linebackers were moved to defensive Sturdivant returns. “If Trinton comes back to Walsh, especially as a kickoff specialist. this season could be more of a factor for a end. Senior middle linebacker Marcus very healthy and plays well, I can see Clint Still, Walsh thinks he will handle kickoff team that may have less room for error than Washington lined up at defensive end in the playing the left guard spot, that is if we see duties in addition to placekicking. “I feel it did last year. G-Day Game and matched Houston with Cordy [Glenn] playing right tackle,” Richt like I will,” Walsh said. “I don’t know what Butler can be reached at three sacks. “I think that is something that we said. “Cordy might be a guard, Vince Vance the coaches are going to do philosophy- [email protected].

Braves freebie schedule and phantom tickets ark your calendars. Don’t miss all the • Dwyane Wade Autographed Basketball Mfree stuff available at Atlanta Braves • Dwight Howard Autographed Basketball games this year. Here is a partial giveaway promotions list for the 2009 season: This year’s winner is … King James. The LeBron James basketball scored the top spot, 5/3 – All-Star Autograph Session bringing in $500, followed closely by Kobe 5/16 – All-Star Autograph Session Bryant who nailed down $450. Dwyane 5/16 – Jersey Off Our Back Fundraising Event Wade grabbed $300 while Chris Paul fans 5/21 – 1970s Atlanta Braves Cap Giveaway dished out $250 for his autographed basket- 6/7 – Brian McCann Signature Bat Day ball. Rounding out this week’s top five was 6/1 – 1980s Atlanta Braves Cap Giveaway the Orlando Magic’s Dwight Howard, whose 6/27 – Braves Rally Flag Giveaway signed basketball brought in $200. 6/28 – All-Star Autograph Session 7/16 – Braves Players Card Deck Giveaway FROM THE MAILBAG … 7/19 – All-Star Autograph Session Dear Dean: I have a 1981 Atlanta 7/23 – Braves Road Cap Giveaway Falcons NFC Championship playoff ticket. Is 8/2 – All-Star Autograph Session it worth anything? 8/27 – Chipper Jones Signature Cap Giveaway Dear Phantom: In the past it was not 9/20 – All-Star Autograph Session uncommon for teams in a playoff race to pre- 10/2-10/4 – Fan Appreciation Weekend print tickets and sell them to the public in anticipation of upcoming playoff games. As Also after some Sunday games, kids get many remember, the Falcons were defeated to run the bases for free. by the Dallas Cowboys and never made it to the NFC Championship game. The ticket you IN THE NEWS … have is referred to in the hobby as a phantom The NBA regular season has finally ticket since the event never took place and come to a close. So who will be this year’s doesn’t hold a whole lot of collectible value. MVP? Check out who the fan favorites are in The value of your ticket is $15 and a nice this week’s on-line auction report. keepsake of what could have been. Want to know what your item is worth or • Chris Paul Autographed Basketball have a question about a particular sports • Kobe Bryant Autographed Basketball item? Email me, Dean Zindler, at • LeBron James Autographed Basketball [email protected].

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

Capitol City Officials Association. CCOA is accepting Suwanee Sports Academy. Ongoing. Volleyball Gymnastics Classes at Gwinnett Gymnastics Center BASKETBALL ongoing registration for the upcoming GHSA High training and development for boys and girls grades Ongoing - 927 Killian Hill Road Lilburn, Ga. Hawks. April 18 vs Miami (first round of playoffs). School season in football. We hold weekly training 3-12.VolleySkills, VolleyStars, VolleyTraining, and For information call 770-921-5630. Top of the Key. Ongoing. Personal basketball lessons meetings. For more information, contact Irvin OnCourt Player Development, a year-round Atlanta School of Gymnastics in Lawrenceville. with Olympian Debbie Miller-Palmore, boys and Seabrook at 404-957-3331 or e-mail comprehensive player development program. For Ongoing. Classes for tots through teens. girls ages 8-18. For information call 770-465-1502. [email protected]. more information, contact Mary Carnell at 770- Cheerleading classes for ages 5 and older. For Southern Xposure. Ongoing. Cobb County Christian 614-6686 x108 or visit www.ssasports.com. information call 770-277-9434. School - Marietta. AAU and YBOA tryouts for 9- HOCKEY VolleyStars. Beginning February 7 @ Suwanee Sports The Little Gym of Snellville. Ongoing. Noncompetitive and-under and 8-and-under teams. For information Peachtree Booster Club. Ongoing - Pickneyville Roller Academy for girls & boys grades 6-8 teaches gymnastics and motor-skills development classes call 404-447-3992 or email [email protected]. Hockey Rink. Fees: $95 for 12-game season, $30 individual skill development and team concepts and camps. For ages 10 months-12 years. For Peach State Basketball. Ongoing. Basketball skill out-of-county fee. For information visit through instruction and game play. For more information call 770-982-0901 or visit development training for college caliber high school www.pbsports.org. information, contact Christy Howard at 770-614- www.tlgsnellvillega.com. players throughout the off-season. Players can use 6686 x106 or visit www.ssasports.com. these sessions to continue improving all year long. SOCCER High School Volleyball League. Beginning February 7 RACING Contact Brandon Clay at 404-422-3946 or visit Challenged Soccer. Ongoing. For mentally and physi @ Suwanee Sports Academy for girls grades 9-12. Tara Place Home and Garden Show. April 17-19 at www.peachstatehoops.com for more information. cally disabled youngsters. For information call Ken This league is designed for athletes who want to get in Atlanta Motor Speedway Suwanee Sports Academy. Ongoing. Basketball train Higgins at 770-985-0434. the gym but don’t want to commit to club volleyball. RV Supershow and Outdoor Extravaganza. April 17- ing and development for boy and girls grades K-12. Fair Play Sports Center. Ongoing on Saturdays. Indoor For more information, contact Christy Howard at 770- 19 at Atlanta Motor Speedway. Rising Stars, Future Stars, Suwanee Basketball soccer for ages 4-7. 30- to 60-minute classes. For 614-6686 x106 or visit www.ssasports.com. Ferrari Challenge. April 18-19 at Road Atlanta. League, On Court Player Development, nationally- information call 770-831-3210. recognized year-round comprehensive player devel Hall of Fame soccer clinics. Ongoing on Fridays - SWIMMING & DIVING OFFICIATING opment program. For more information contact Clarkston Community Center. For under-6 through Swimming lessons. Ongoing - Alpharetta City Pool - Basketball - Duluth basketball association. Mike Brown at 678-541-0176 or visit www.ssasports.com. under-12 players. Fees: Free. For information call Alpharetta, Ga. - 1825 Old Milton Parkway. For Ongoing. Looking for youth officials with training Mark Price Shooting Lab. Ongoing: Personalized pro 404-508-1050 or visit information call 678-297-6107. provided. For information call Barry Sullivan at fessional shooting instruction through one-on-one www.clarkstoncommunitycenter.org. 5:30-7 PM. Gwinnett Aquatics. Ongoing - 2800 Quinberry Drive 770-623-1750. coaching and state-of-the-art technology at Competitive Amateur Soccer in Atlanta For more and Bethany Church Road. For ages 5-18. Swim Football - Lanier Football Officials Association. Suwanee Sports Academy. For more information, information, visit www.majesticsoccer.com. team and lessons available. For information call Ongoing. GHSA member accepting applications contact Mike Brown at 678-541-0176 or visit 770-972-4055. with weekly training meetings. For information call www.ssasports.com. TENNIS Senior Water-Exercise class. Ongoing - Mountain Park Tom Tipton at 770-967-3197, ext. 239 or visit SSA’s On Court. Check out Suwanee Sports Technique Clinics. Ongoing - Bitsy Grant Tennis Center. pool - Lilburn, Ga. Fees: $1 per class. For informa www.lanierofficials.org. Academy’s On Court, the nation’s premier off-sea Tuesdays (serve/volley) and Saturdays tion call 770-546-4650. 10-10:50 AM. son development program at the nation’s premier Metro Atlanta Wrestling Officials Association. (forehand/backhand). Fees: $18. For information SwimAtlanta Sugarloaf at Kid’s Village. Ongoing. Ongoing. Needs officials. For information call Bud basketball training facility right here in Gwinnett call 404-790-4772 or email Swim team, lessons, lap swimming, master’s pro County! For more information, contact Michael Hennebaul at 770-338-0705 or email [email protected]. 2 PM on Saturdays, gram, water aerobics and scuba available. For [email protected]. Brown at 678-541-0176 or visit 6:30PM on Tuesdays. information call 678-442-7946. www.ssasports.com. 9RCorp Sports Officials. Ongoing. Provider of sports Tennis camps for kids. Ongoing weekly. Lost Mountain officials for multiple sports including basketball, Open Recreational Basketball. GSL -- Georgia Sports Tennis Center. For information call 770-528-8525. YOUTH REGISTRATION Leagues. Georgia’s Best Sports Leagues. Soccer - Soccer Alley. Ongoing - 3265 Roswell Road- flag football, & softball. Looking for additional Registration ongoing. We offer “Top Gun,” “B,” Atlanta. For information call 404-266-0762 or visit officials.For information call Dennis Reagan at 404- “C”and Co-Ed styles of play around Atlanta. We LACROSSE 213-0588 or email [email protected]. Lacrosse. Ongoing. Registration for 1st-8th grades. For www.starsoccerclub.com. Georgia Lacrosse Officials Association. Needs youth play ALL year round. For more information please information call 404-216-5870, email Tucker Youth Soccer. Ongoing - 2803 Henderson Road contact (678)799-0159 or email mark@georgi sports Tucker, Ga. For information call 770-414-0538 or and High School officials for 2007-2008 season. [email protected] or visit Training and mentoring provided for free. Great leagues.org.Visitwww.georgiasportsleagues.org. www.bagatawaylacrosse.com. visit www.tysa.com. Just Skills Of Atlanta. 8-week basketball fundamentals Track and Field - Peachtree City Flash Youth Track way to earn some extra money and get some fun PlayLaxGwinnett. Ongoing. Players, coaches, referees aerobic exercise. For more information, visit program for boys and girls ages 5 to 17 at Bogan needed for play at Gwinnett Sports Center. For Team registration. Ongoing - Riley Field -Peachtree Park in Buford and Lenora Park in Snellville. Spring City, Ga. For ages 6-14. For information call www.GALAXREF.com or call Jim Westbrook at information call Chris Chico at or 678-429-0094 or 770-753-9059. programs start the week of March 24th, Summer pro email [email protected]. 770-631-3552 or email [email protected]. grams start the week of June 3rd, Fall programs start Double Stixx Lacrosse. Ongoing - Leagues, Travel Gymnastics - Georgia Gymnastics Academy. Ongoing. the week of August 11th. Please visit www.justskillso For registration in Lawrenceville call 770-962- ATLANTA SPORTS COUNCIL Teams and Tournaments for youth, high school and Chick-Fil-A Bowl. Dec. 31, 2009. Georgia Dome. For fatlanta.com for more information or call 770-296- adult’s boys and girls. More information about the 5867; in Suwanee call 770-945-3424. 2580. Sessions are filling up now for spring, summer Gym Elite. Ongoing. Registration for ages 2 and older. tickets, call 404-444-4444. best lacrosse programs in Georgia can To reach the Atlanta Sports Council call 404-586- and fall. Ask about our free introduction day to see be found at www.doublestixxlacrosse.com or by Cheerleading for ages 6 and older. For information what Just Skills Of Atlanta is all about. call 770-242-0678. 8510 or visit www.atlantasportscouncil.com. contacting Chris Smith at chris@dou Youth Soccer Training. Ongoing. Start age 3 and up. BASEBALL blestixxlacrosse.com or 404-550-5322. For information, call 678-714-7454 or e-mail MISC Braves. April 15 vs. Florida 7 PM. April 16 vs. Florida RUNNING [email protected]. Senior Horseshoe Pitching League. Ongoing - 12 PM. April 17 at Pittsburgh 7:05 PM. April 18 at Susan G. Komen Savannah Race for the Cure 5K. www.atlantasilverbacks.com/indoor. Gwinnett Senior Center - Bethesda Park. Includes Pittsburgh 12:35 PM. April 19 at Pittsburgh 1:35 Apr. 18. Savannah, 8 AM. Flag Footall. GSL -- Georgia Sports Leagues. instructional coaching. Games will be played under PM. April 20 at Washington 7:05 PM. April 21 at Water For The World 10K/5K/Mile. Apr. 18. Johns Georgia's Best Sports Leagues. Registration NHPA rules. For men and women seniors. Meets Washington 7:05 PM. April 22 at Washington 7:05 Creek, 7:30 AM. 678-336-3000 ongoing. We offer Youth Flag Football for ages Tuesdays. For information call PM. April 24 at Cincinnati 7:10 PM. April 25 at Chickamauga Chase 15K/5K/Walk. Apr. 18. Ft. (6-8) and (9-12) year olds for both Boys & Girls. 770-9722434 10AM. Cincinnati 1:10 PM. April 26 at Cincinnati 1:10 PM. Oglethorpe, 7 AM. www.chickchase.org. Games are played in the Chamblee, Doraville, Pool Tournament. Every Monday - Ongoing - April 27 vs. St. Louis 7 PM. April 28 vs. St. Louis 7 PM. Better Health, Stronger Families 5K. Apr. 18. Dunwoody area. Next season starts in February. Motorheads Bar ‘n’ Grill - Henry County. Cost: No Gwinnett Braves. April 15 at Durham 1:05 PM. April 16 at Jonesboro, 8 AM. 678-479-2600. For more information please contact (678)799- cover. For information call 770-898-0008 or visit Durham 7:05 PM. April 17 vs. Norfolk 7 PM. April 18 Run for the World 5K. Apr. 18. Rome, 8:30 AM. 0159 or email [email protected]. www.motorheadsbarandgrill.com. 7 p.m. vs. Norfolk 7 PM. April 19 vs. Norfolk 2 PM. April 20 vs. 706-234-5775. Visit www.georgiasportsleagues.org Pool Tournament. Nightly - Ongoing - Sean Patrick’s Durham 7 PM. April 21 vs. Durham 7 PM. April 22 vs. Subuaru of South Atlanta Granite Grinder Half Atlanta Junior Golf. Boys and girls, ages 7-18, can Bar & Grill - Buckhead. Fees: No cover. For infor- Durham 7 PM. April 23 vs. Charlotte 7 PM. April 24 vs. Marathon & 5K Trail Race. Apr. 18. Conyers, enjoy summer and fall tournaments throughout mation call 770-650-5723. 8 PM. Charlotte 7 PM. April 25 vs. Charlotte 7 PM. April 26 vs. 8 AM. 404-627-6349 Metro Atlanta and Middle and North Georgia (from East Cobb Bass Club. Ongoing - Ryan's Family Charlotte 2 PM. April 28 at Norfolk 7:15 PM. Paces for Pickle. Apr. 18. Acworth, 7:30 AM. Dalton to Macon and from Carrollton to Athens) in Steakhouse - Canton Road - Marietta, Ga. Boaters Prospect Watch. Ongoing - Buckhead. Baseball pitch- 770-262-1096. one the nation’s premier junior golf associations. and nonboaters welcome. Meets the first ing and hitting lessons by a former college and EcoRun 5K/Mile. Apr. 18. Buford, 8 AM. 770-904- All skill levels are welcome, from beginner to expe Tuesdayof each month. For information call mino league coach. For information call 404-869- 3500. rienced players, with more than 8,000 rounds of 770-364-3036 or email [email protected]. 7 PM. 7966 or visit www.eteamz.com/tryouts. Run for the Bun 5K/1K. Apr. 18. McDonough, 4 PM. golf available during the summer program alone. Cohutta chapter of Trout Unlimited. Ongoing - Adult Baseball League Metro Atlanta. Ongoing. MSBL 678-432-5438. For more information, log on 770.850.9040. Delkwood Bar and Grill. Meets the fourth Thursday 18+, 28+, 38+, and 48+. Sunday League con Dean Griffin Pi Mile 5K. Apr. 18. Atlanta, Georgia Corpus Christi Youth Basketball League. Registration of each month. For information call 770-425-5364 tact info is 770.785.2588, e-mail Tech, 8 AM. 404-894-9273. is now underway for our 29th season! Boys and or email [email protected]. 6:30 PM. [email protected]. MSBL 18+ Saturday 5th Annual Dawg Jog 5K. Apr. 18. Athens, 8:30 AM. girl sages 5 through 14, any skill level, are wel GEORGIA BIKES! Membership. Ongoing. The effec- League contact info is 770-436-8114, e-mail 404-376-7078. come. Cost: $90 per child/$85 for siblings. Fee tiveness of GEORGIA BIKES! is dependent on vol- [email protected]. MSBL 18+ includes uniforms, field trips, skills clinics, 9 unteers, supporters, and members, like you, who Inaugural Terrapin Beer 5K Plus One More Mile. games and more! Register while space is still avail Midweek Wood bat league contact info is 770-436- Apr. 18. Athens, 4 PM. 706-769-6593. are willing to make a and Club/Small Business: $100. 8114, e-mail [email protected]. MSBL 18+ able Saturdays October 11 & 18, 2008, 10 AM to Condor Handball Organization. The Condors feature Run for a Reason 5K. Apr. 18. Flowery Branch, 12 PM. Location: Corpus Christi Church Sports Fall League contact info is 770-436-8114, e-mail 9 AM. 678-910-7368. current Men’s National Team members and past [email protected]. For more information Arena, 600 Mountain View Drive, Stone National Team members and Olympians as well as 2nd Annual Brentwood Scamper and Scoot Mountain, GA 30083. For info, call 770-469-0395, about our Atlanta Adult Baseball League, please 5K/10K. Apr. 18. Sandersville, 4:30 PM. 478-247-3361. the greatest American to ever play the sport, Darrick visit our website at www.AtlantaMSBL.com. email [email protected], or visit the league’s Heath. We have weekly leagues and training opportu Easter Seals Walk with Me 5K Run and 2.1 Mile website(www.ccybl.net). TNT Sports. Ongoing. Baseball pitching and hitting les Walk. Apr. 18. Atlanta, Grant Park 9 AM. nities for men, women, and youth. For more informa sons by Rob Blair, former college coach, Snellville. 404-943-1070. tion, contact Jeb Bell at handball@equipmentcon To set up a free pitching or hitting analysis call SOFTBALL trols.com. 2nd Annual Corners to Crossing 10K. Apr. 18. AYSA Spring Season. Ongoing - North Park - Cogburn 678-344-5876. Norcross, 8 AM. 678-795-0115. Performance Training Inc. at Suwanee Sport Jack City Baseball. Ongoing. Baseball pitching and hit- and Bethany - Alpharetta. Fees: If Alpharetta Academy. Ongoing. Offers speed, agility, and quick 2nd Annual 'Scot Trot' Community Fun Run Residential Property Tax IS NOT PAID at the pri ting. Instruction with former pro Keith Whitner. 18-y 5K/Mile. Apr. 18. Atlanta, 8 AM. 404-321-1844 ness training for athletes across multiple sports. looking for high school players. The new location is mary residence of the player, then the Non-City Huddleston Elementary Hustle 5K/Mile, Apr. 18. Resident Fee must be paid. After Jan. 13, $10 l For moreinformation, contact Dustin Wolf at 770- inside Velocity Sports in North Gwinnett. For more Peachtree City, 8 AM. 770-714-1352. 614-6686 x121 or visit www.ssasports.com. information call 770-633-0948 or visit jackcity.net. ate fee is charged. Gator-Go 5K, Macon, 9:30 a.m.; 912-816-7007. Senior Softball League. Ongoing - Best Friend Park, Suwanee Sports Academy. Pre-K Athletics for 2, 3 Eye Run - Chart the Course 5K/10K/Tot Trot. Apr. Jimmy Carter Blvd., Norcross, GA. All Skill levels and 4 year-olds introduces the basic skills needed FOOTBALL 18. McDonough, 7:30 AM. 770-305-7390. welcomed. Men age 45+ and women age 40+. to play basketball, soccer, and t-ball. Also, there is Collins Hill Athletic Association. Ongoing. Accepting Covington YMCA Cheerios Challenge 5K/10K/Mile. a unique after school program that provides applications for qualified coaches in all age groups. Open practice on Saturdays and games on Apr. 18. Covington, 7:45 AM. 770-787-3908. Tuesdays, Wednesdays, or Thursdays. For infor students with a weekly sports curriculum along For information email Phinizy Swamp Stomp 5K. Apr. 18. Augusta, 9:15 with the after school classroom setting. For more Craig Deneau at [email protected] mation call Gary Mastrodonato at 770-266-7042 AM. 706-722-8195. or visit www.atlantaseniorsoftball.com. information, call 770-614-6686 or visit Grayson Athletic Association. Ongoing. Football Chickamauga Chase 5K/15K. Apr. 18. Chickamauga, Open Recreational Softball. GSL -- Georgia Sports www.ssaports.com. coaches needed for eighth grade and all age 8:30 AM. 800-669-2723. Leagues. Georgia’s Best Club Sport. Club Sport opens registration for summer groups. For information call Duane Davis at Climb Atlanta (50 floor climb). Apr. 18. Atlanta, SportsLeagues.Registration ongoing. We offer leagues on May 1st with league play beginning in 678-300-0282 or visit www.gaasports.org. Peachtree Tower, 10 AM. 770-434-5864 ext.532 "Men's" and "Co-Ed" styles of play in June. Club Sport is Atlanta's recreational sports Flag Football. GSL -- Georgia Sports Leagues. Doraville/Dunwoody area. Monday, Wednesday & and social group with over 10,000 participants Georgia’s Largest Flag League. Registration ongo- CAMPS Sunday league play available. Next season stars in each year on 1200 teams in 120 leagues. Each ing. We offer 7-Man, 8-man, Youth and Co-Ed Nike Basketball Camps. Camps located in Snellville, February. We play ALL year round. For more infor- season Club Sport offers leagues in flag football, styles of play around Atlanta. We play ALL year Roswell, Kennesaw, Oxford and 0894-4297 to find mation please contact (678)799-0159 or email softball, soccer, sand and indoor volleyball, basket round. For information please contact out which dates suit your campers best. [email protected]. Visit www.geor ball and more. Club Sport is where Atlanta comes (678)799-0159 or email mark@georgiasport Georgia Tech MaChelle Joseph Basketball Camp. giasport sleagues.org. to play! For more information about Club Sport, sleagues.org.Visit www.georgiasportsleagues.org. Ages range from 7-17. Day camps, overnight Capitol City Officials Association. CCOA is accepting upcoming events, photos or interviews with the Georgia Force Home School High School Football camps and team camps available. Visit www.ram ongoing registration for the upcoming GHSA High owner, please contact Rich Alvarez at 678-994- Program. If you are a home school student or a blinwreck.com or call 404-894-4297 to find out School season in fast-pitchsoftball. We hold week 0793 ext. 818 or visit www.usclubsport.com. student that attends a Christian school in the which dates suit your campers best. ly training meetings. For more information, contact Stout Irish Sports Pub Events and Specials. Monday: Gwinnett or Hall county region and would like to Harlem Legends. The Harlem Legends have scheduled Irvin Seabrook at 404-957-3331 or e-mail Dart League and Free Pool from 11 p.m.-close; participate in high school football, please contact their 2008 Shoot for the Stars Basketball & [email protected]. Tuesday: Texas Hold 'em; Wednesday: Trivia Night Scott Willis at 770-531-1499 ext 401 or email at Physical Fitness Camps. The "Shoot for the Stars K-Club Classic – D1 Fastpitch Softball. February 20-22. and Free Pool from 11pm-close; Thursday: [email protected] The Georgia Force High School Youth Basketball Camps and Clinics" are a unique Kennesaw State, Memphis, Buffalo, Miami, Drexel College Night with DJ All Night; Friday: Happy football program participates in the GFL (Georgia form of learning experiences geared towards young and Iowa are schedule to participate. Entry fee Hour Food Specials; Saturday: Game Day all day Football League) and is accepting players from the basket ball players of all skill levels. There are two $300. All Tournament Players Park, 3910 Canton long on Stout's big screen plasma TVs; Sunday: ages of 13-18 years old. We currently offer a JV Gwinnett County camps this year. Please visit our Hwy Marietta, GA 30066. Register at www.alltour- Game Day all day long on Stout's big screen and Varsity program. For more information, please website (www.harlemlegends.com) or call 404- namentplayerspark.com or (678) 384-6500. plasma TVs. Miller High Life Beers are always $1. go to our web site at www.forcehighschoolfooball.com. 837-6719 for additional camps. Beer Club:Guests join for $120 and receive a Arena Indoor Football. Ongoing. Youth and Adult GYMNASTICS prestigious Stout Club Mug engraved with their Leagues. Youth 7 vs. 7; Adult 6 vs. 6. For VOLLEYBALL Gymnastics Classes at Gymnastics AcademyofAtlanta. name on it.Each visit over the course of the year, information, call 678-714-7454 or e-mail Gwinnett Sports Center. Registration ongoing. For Ongoing - 3126 Cobb Parkway Kennesaw, Ga. For members enjoy their first beer of choice on the [email protected]. information call Jerry Robison at 678-491-0203 information call 770-975-8337 or visit house. For more, call 404.869.1151 or email www.atlantasilverbacks.com/indoor. or visit www.gscfun.com. www.gymnasticsacademyofatlanta.com. www.stoutirish pub.com.

WWW.SCOREATL.COM APRIL 15-21, 2009 SCORE ATLANTA I 19

Falcons looking to fill needs through draft SAID ON THE AIR he NFL Draft is just around the corner, plethora of holes on a team that went 0-16, “[The Hawks] are scary at Tand crunch time has started for coaches they have a major decision to make. and executives around the league. Here we Quarterback Matt Stafford of Georgia home, and skittish on the take a look at the draft from a Falcons per- seemed to be the early candidate for the road. Still, the first series spective and offer a look around the NFL at opening pick, but as always seems to be the how the top of the draft is shaping up. First, case, questions about his ability and charac- should be terrific to watch.” here’s a few places in which the Falcons ter arose after his workouts and interviews - ESPN’s David Thorpe on the need help and how they can address them for teams. There is still reason, however, to through the draft. believe that the Lions won’t be able to pass Hawks and their playoff chances, Secondary: Help is needed anywhere up such a prospect, especially at the quarter- specifically in round one and everywhere in the secondary, especially back position. The Lions also have to consid- against the Miami Heat with the losses of Lawyer Milloy at safety er tackle Jason Smith, who many experts and Domonique Foxworth at cornerback agree is the safest pick. A 6-foot-5, 309- WIPE YOUR leaving two starting jobs open. Malcolm pound mammoth out of Baylor, Smith was Jenkins and Vontae Davis are likely the two the first Bear to be selected to the All- KEEPIN’ AN EYE ON top corners in the draft, but Jenkins should be America team in two decades and is the best DEBT AWAY! gone by No. 24. Davis, an extremely physical run blocker in the draft. The other possibili- Affordable Loans for every corner with top-notch speed and leaping abil- ty is linebacker Aaron Curry, a small-time ity, seems like a sensible pick. This is a fair- Say all you want about the relative Situation and Budget recruit who blossomed into a star at Wake lack of importance of spring football ly weak draft for safeties, meaning Atlanta Forest. He made 105 tackles, 16 of them for might best be served by taking one in the a loss, last season. games, but in our opinion the spring is Call now and get an later rounds of the draft. Louis Delmas of Sleepers: With the great emphasis that time for unknown or “under-the-radar” answer in 24 to 48 hrs! Western Michigan is the best of the bunch. teams now put on the NFL Combine and pre- players to make their names and a Offensive Line: The Falcons offensive draft workouts, some very good college play- move toward meaningful roles. With Call us at 888-964-7111 line overachieved last season, getting contri- ers get lost in the fold, even when their col- that said, if you missed Georgia’s G-Day butions from several players with hardly any lege resumes often stack up quite nicely. game last Saturday, you really didn’t experience. One year later, Atlanta still has Wide receiver Brian Robiskie out of Ohio miss much. Still, there were some plenty of questions to answer up front. Some State fits that bill. He probably doesn’t have meaningful positive and negative SCORE ATLANTA fans must be salivating at the possibility of the star potential of a Jeremy Maclin or moments throughout the day and, last embattled tackle Andre Smith of Alabama Michael Crabtree, but he has the ability to be Sunday, Tim Tucker of the AJC did a ADVERTISING INDEX falling into Atlanta’s lap. Smith was consid- a quality starter on the outside, which will commendable job chronicling them all. ered a top-five pick before he was kicked off make the probable second- or third-round In case you haven’t heard, Atlanta 790 The Zone ...... 1, 8, 10 the team prior to its appearance in the Sugar pick a steal for any team. Robiskie caught 97 Braves rookie center fielder Jordan Bowl for making improper contact with an balls and 19 touchdowns in his junior and Schafer has gotten off to a start for the Affordable Loans ...... 19 agent. Then he mysteriously disappeared senior seasons combined as a Buckeye. ages, hitting .348 through his first six Atlanta Hawks ...... 11 from the NFL Combine without working out Michael Tauiliili was an undersized line- major league games with two home for teams, once again raising questions backer at Duke, but he made up for it in col- runs, three RBIs, six runs scored and an Atlanta Thrashers...... 3 about his character and work ethic. With lege with fantastic instincts and playmaking outlandish .696 and 1.119 slugging and Atlanta Sports Hall of Fame ....10 those kinds of red flags surrounding him, a ability, making over 400 tackles his four OPS percentages, respectively. What AT&T...... 2 once-elite prospect could conceivably drop years, including a monster 141-tackle season you probably don’t know, however, is to the Falcons, but clearly many teams see last year. He went on to be the defensive how Schafer is adjusting to his new mid- Aqua Blue...... 17 him as a gamble. Expect the Falcons to draft MVP at the East-West Shrine Game. Tauiliili town lodgings. Thankfully, beat writer several linemen throughout the draft to help should be drafted on Day Two. Cigar Merchants...... 19 Locals: Former Georgia Bulldogs David O’Brien had an update on just that build competition and depth up front head- in his Sunday blog. FSN...... 19 ing into training camp. Stafford and Knowshon Moreno will both be Tight End: The emergence of Roddy first-round picks. But there are plenty more Georgia State ...... 16 White as a star wideout and Michael Jenkins former Dawgs hoping to hear their names MEDIA Hooters...... 13 as a solid No. 2 alongside him helped the called on draft day. Cornerback Asher Allen, passing game immensely. But the Falcons still wide receiver Mohamed Massaquoi, and HALL OF FAME Instant Imprints ...... 19 missed a playmaker at tight end, an area that defensive tackle Corvey Irvin are all ranked Joseph & Friends ...... 1 was once their only effective option in the 12th or better at their position by Scouts Inc. Last week, ESPN.com’s J.A. Adande Among the other players looking to make a investigated the Orlando Magic and Man’s Best Friend ...... 9 passing game thanks to Alge Crumpler. team are linebacker Dannell Ellerbe and full- Brandon Pettigrew of Oklahoma State could back Brannan Southerland. Georgia Tech’s Miami Heat, arguing that both have the Mikael’s Auto Spa ...... 5 be a perfect fit in Crumpler’s old role. Michael Johnson has seen his draft stock ability to make serious runs in this North River Tavern ...... 7 Pettigrew had a fantastic season in Mike plummet since the beginning of his senior year’s playoffs. With specific regard to Gundy’s passing offense last season, catching season, but still figures to be a first-day pick. the Heat, Atlanta’s first-round opponent Rhodes Bakery ...... 14 42 passes for 472 yards. He’s also an excel- Fellow defensive linemen Vance Walker and when the playoffs begin this weekend, Ron Veal QB Instruction ...... 19 lent blocker, particularly in the run game. Darryl Richard should also make the grade Adande writes, “The modern (i.e., post- for an NFL team, as should 6-7 offensive Jordan) standard for singular playoff Sammy’s DJ ...... 14 AROUND THE LEAGUE … tackle Andrew Gardner. excellence was set by Dwyane Wade SportSouth ...... 19 At The Top. The Detroit Lions will Bagriansky can be reached at for his playoff run in 2006 … Wade is Stats ...... 1, Back Page entertain several options at No. 1. And with a [email protected]. an even better player now. He faces a more challenging conference … But TGS Media ...... 14 what's to say he can't upset the order of Wild Bill’s...... 4 CATCH THE THRASHERS AND HAWKS things in at least one round?” Worthmore Jewelers ...... 19

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