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APRIL 1-7, 2009 ATLANTA’S WEEKLY SPORTS TALK NEWSPAPER VOL 5 NO 7

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 02 I SCORE ATLANTA Get In The Game!

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™ STARTING LINEUP IN YOUR PUBLISHER/EDITOR I.J. Rosenberg FACE… MANAGING EDITOR Alex Ewalt ART/CREATIVE DIRECTOR David Gaudio VIDEO MANAGER Scott Janovitz BUSINESS MANAGER Marvin Botnick SALES MANAGER Mark Mayo WWW.SCOREATL.COM BEAT WRITERS Josh Bagriansky (Falcons), Stephen Black 5 Now that the Hawks are on their way to the playoffs, longtime (Kennesaw State), Jason Boral (Thrashers), James Butler Atlanta star Dominique Wilkins is planning a comeback. But is (UGA), Dave Cohen (Georgia State), Johnny Crosskey he ready for the rigors of the league? Scott Janovitz investigates. (Tech), Alex Ewalt (Preps), Scott Janovitz ______(Hawks/Recruiting), Fletcher Proctor (Braves) STAFF WRITERS Cranston Collier, Joe Deighton, Ricky Dimon, 12 Derek Wiley offers his take on this weekend’s Final Four matchups. Will pre-tournament favorite North Carolina Rajesh Gupta, Zander Lentz, Andrew McCarron, Corey Mitchell, be able to fend off a surging Villanova squad? Jessica Parker, Leighton Savary, Keafer Triplett, Derek Wiley ______DESIGN INTERNS DJ Galbiati CONTRIBUTORS Tad Arapoglou, Dean Zindler, Kevin Dankosky, 17 It’s time for another season of Braves baseball, and beat Mitch Evans, Matt Judy, Tony Schiavone, Richard Diamond, writer Fletcher Proctor previews the 2009 year. Can the team return to the playoffs for the first time since 2005? Joe Haines, Brian Katrek, Chris Dimino, Mike Bell, Matt Stewart, ______Fred Kalil, Nick Cellini, Phillip Leopold, Dave Marshall, Greg tu Smith, Steak Shapiro, Mike Cather, Beau Bock, Hal Lamar, Chris 19 Hawks fans may be ready for the postseason, but Flip Murray Cotter, Roy Hickman, Dave Cohen, John Olah, Jeff Woolverton, (pictured) and team still have a lot to play for. Hear what Chris Voss, Bob Rathbun, Courtney Capps, Bill Hartman, Chuck head coach Mike Woodson had to say on the playoff push. 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 It’s been a bittersweet couple of weeks around the Score Atlanta offices, as two SPECIAL CONTRIBUTORS Mitch Albom, Dave Kindred, Barry Bloom longtime members of the Score family will be moving on to pursue other opportuni- ties. Managing editor Tad Arapoglou (who started in November 2005) and art director ™ SCHOOL David Gaudio (October 2005) have each left a big impression on Score and will be LISTING sorely missed. From everyone at Score Atlanta, good luck in all your future pursuits! 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 TOMAHAWK TIME: The Braves open DEKALB: Chamblee, Columbia, Decatur, Druid Hills, Dunwoody, COVER DESIGN BY DAVID GAUDIO. COVER PHOTO COURTESY OF SCOTT CUNNINGHAM/ATLANTA HAWKS. Lakeside, Marist, Miller Grove, M.L. King, Paideia, Redan, St. Pius the season in Philadelphia this Sunday, but X, Southwest DeKalb, Stephenson, Stone Mountain, Tucker Tomahawk Team captain Jessica and the rest of the FULTON: Alpharetta, Blessed Trinity, Centennial, Chattahoochee, girls will be back in action at Turner Field soon 5 OFF THE PINE 6 DUE UP-KATREK 7 SPIN-C.C. Douglass, Grady, Lovett, Mays, Milton, North Springs, Northview, Riverwood, Roswell, Tri-Cities, Westminster, Woodward Academy enough! Since Jessica heads up the team, we have 8 HS SPORTS REPORT 14 HAWKS-THRASHERS-FALCONS GWINNETT: Berkmar, Brookwood, Buford, C. Gwinnett, Collins to ask — is there any room on the squad for a few Hill, Dacula, Grayson, Greater Atlanta Christian, Meadowcreek, Mill 15 DAWGS-JACKETS 16 BRAVES-OWLS-PANTHERS Creek, Norcross, North Gwinnett, Parkview, Peachtree Ridge, spirited sportswriters? I’m drawing the line at the South Gwinnett, Wesleyan shorts, though. Photo courtesy of the Atlanta Braves. 17 MEMORY LANE 18 CALENDAR 19 AD INDEX

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With playoffs on the horizon, a Hawks legend makes his comeback push

hile the 2008-09 season has no doubt “I’m making a comeback,” he said. Rathbun. He did, however, give me the Wbeen a successful one that Hawks offi- “Going back to Greece to join Josh number of his agent, Steve Kauffman. cials can be proud of, recent injuries to for- Childress?” I asked, thinking I had just bro- Still, I had to find out a little more before ward Marvin Williams and backup point ken my first big story but totally unknowing I could leave. I mean, the man is almost 50 guard Acie Law have sullied the good air as to what was about to come next. years old and hasn’t played NBA ball in near- R over at Philips Arena as of late. In fact, as the “Nope. I’m coming back to help the ly 10 full seasons. How good could he be? E team’s beat writer for this paper and some- Hawks win a championship.” What was he hoping to contribute? one who keeps a watchful eye on the league “Well, I’m obviously not going to be the V same ‘Nique. I can’t jump like that anymore, in general, and considering how hard Hawks COULD IT BE TRUE? … O officials have taken this recent crop of bad Of course, it took me a moment to deter- that’s for sure,” he said with a grin. “They’re

news, I have been utterly shocked by the mine he was actually serious about all this, not bringing me in to start or to play 40 min- C team’s apparent disinterest in adding another after which time I asked why, how and when utes or anything like that, but I can definitely body or two to the roster. (I mean, did you all this was determined. bring experience to this team and be a big- see what Tony Parker and the Spurs did to “I’ve been working out pretty hard for time contributor off the bench. I still know the E game, I feel young, and I have the same skills the Hawks last week without Tim Duncan some time now, staying in shape, and the H and with Manu Ginobili only logging a Hawks and I of course have remained close, I had when I was scoring almost 30 a night. measly 14 minutes?) That is, until I stumbled so they know what kind of shape I’m in,” he “I can definitely still be a good scor- T upon perhaps the juiciest piece of Hawks news since … well, ever. N At this point in your read, you already know what I’m talking about. Dominique O Wilkins – that’s right, The Human Highlight Film and the greatest player in franchise his- tory – is returning to his sanctuary, the hard- We watched Michael Jordan return to wood, just in time for the playoff push and in the game at an advanced age after a an a attempt to put the Hawks over the top. prolonged absence … so why can’t The THE SCOOP … Human Highlight Reel pull off a come- Now, at this point I’m sure you’re asking back of his own? Thanks to a chance how I’m privy to such valuable information. encounter with the legend, our own Where are Sekou Smith, the AJC and the rest of the sports world on this one? The answer: Scott Janovitz learned of Dominique dumb luck and a pious friend were my Wilkins’s aspirations of returning to the weapons of choice. game — and soon. The 49-year-old’s So here’s how the story goes. A good friend of mine attends bible study at a local presence should provide some much- church every Thursday. As one for theologi- needed leadership for the playoff-bound cal discussion and the friend of a relatively observant American Jew (that’s me), she has Hawks. The above photo and cover shot approached me on numerous occasions in of Dominique Wilkins are courtesy of the past about attending the class with her. Scott Cunningham/Atlanta Hawks. Well, last Thursday, I finally accepted the invitation, not knowing of course it would go and Dominique come to a contractual agree- down as one of the better decisions I’ve THEY’RE BACK: Head coach Mark Richt (left) looks on as a group of his quarterbacks (No. 11 Aaron Murray and No. 5 Zach Mettenberger, two early enrollees, among them) take part in a drill during a spring practice. ment and something is officially announced,” made in life thus far. Kauffman said. “I really have nothing to say Long story short, about midway through The Bulldogs first hit the field for the spring sessions back on March 17 and are building up to the annual G- to the media on this issue other than the the class, I stumbled away from the captivat- Day game, which will be televised by ESPN on April 11. Photo courtesy of Rob Saye. ing Leviticus discussion to receive a call and Hawks need some bodies, Dominique has grab some fresh air when I realized the been working out and the man looks church had its own indoor basketball court absolutely phenomenal.” and that someone was going at it pretty hard, CATCH I.J. ON SUNDAYS So there you have it. This may be mere- as if they were divinely inspired. Interested ly smoke for now according to Nique’s in this mystery man and a bit tired of biblical agent, but the house is coming down; it’s just banter, I decided to quickly check things out ‘Worst-case scenario, the Hawks continue to play like the four seed they a matter of when. for myself. What I saw upon entering the are now, only with the excitement brought on by a Dominique Wilkins return Now, for the big question: What does gym, however, was truly remarkable, forcing this do for Atlanta’s playoff hopes? me to do a triple-take before realizing that and the veteran leadership his presence on the bench provides. Either way, For now, it’s just too hard to tell. the gym rat I came to watch was none other the Atlanta Hawks are finally poised to make some real postseason news.’ Skepticism is inevitable when you’re consid- than ‘Nique himself. Of course, from there, ering a comeback of such surprising and nothing at all was “quick” about my visit to explained. “When Marvin and Acie went er off the bench and get after it on the monumental proportions. One thing is for the gym, except maybe the legend’s surpris- down, the team decided it needed to find defensive end, too.” sure, though: it can’t possibly hurt. In the ingly youthful feet, in the paint and on the some help for the playoffs. But, with the After receiving an answer I was more best-case scenario, Dominique returns to break; to this day, from what I saw, he is still economy the way it is, they didn’t have much than happy with, I decided to give the new Philips and leads the Hawks to their second- the real deal. to spend and there aren’t really many quality Hawk some space, letting him get back to his ever NBA championship (first since 1958). So, despite a strong voice in my head free agents available now. wind sprints and shooting drills. Worst-case scenario, the Hawks continue to telling me to leave the man alone and not to “That is when I approached them play like the four seed they are now, only with disturb his workout, I just had to introduce about returning at a low cost. They liked COMEBACK ON THE WAY … the excitement brought on by a Dominique myself and find out why he was training with the idea so I started really working out hard Once the gym doors closed behind me I Wilkins return and the veteran leadership his such passion and intensity. When I approached a couple weeks ago.” immediately gave Kauffman a call and, to my presence on the bench provides. Either way, the former Hawks star, it was his response to Dominique could not disclose the surprise, got an answer. Not surprisingly, he the Atlanta Hawks are finally poised to make my initial question and how surprisingly can- terms of the deal and asked me to keep the was just a bit more tight-lipped than his some real postseason news. did he was that changed my life forever and the news quiet since he is still acting as the client had been only moments before. April Fool’s! Janovitz can be reached at Hawks’ playoffs chances for sure. team’s TV color man alongside Bob “Nothing is set in stone until the team [email protected]

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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

LET’S PLAY BALL!: The Nationals are still the Nationals; the Marlins are talented WEDNESDAY Thrashers vs. Buffalo. 680 The Fan. SportSouth. but young; the Mets are trying to decide how they’ll choke this year; and the Phillies can’t This is one of the Thrashers’ last four home games, and they’ve been 1 possibly reproduce their 2008 run, can they? Do the Braves have a shot in the East? playing great hockey as of late. They take on the Sabres, who are fight- ing for the last playoff spot in the East. Game time is 7 p.m. BLOODLINES: Nick Montana, one of the top high school quarterbacks in the coun- 1 try—and the son of legendary signal caller Joe Montana—is taking a long look at UGA THURSDAY 2 as a college destination. Is there any way you can go wrong by inking the son of Joe Cool? Braves at Houston. CSS. It’s not the last game of spring training but this will be the last game for the SOUNDS TIR-ING: James Boit won last Sunday’s ING Georgia Marathon in 2:22.16. Braves in Florida. They will take on the Astros, and you can look for the starters Wanna recreate his path for your daily jog? Start at Centennial Park, head south through 2 to play more innings to get ready for opening day. First pitch is at 1:05 p.m. 3 Five Points, north through Midtown, east through Little Five Points, hang a left at Decatur … FRIDAY SETTIN’ RECORDS: The Hawks may have fallen to the Spurs and Celtics at home last Gladiators vs. South Carolina. 550 AM. week, but must have gotten an extra push from the crowd against the Lakers on Sunday. The Gladiators haven’t had the season they were hoping for, but they have 4 The game, an 86-76 Hawks win, set a single-game Philips Arena attendance record. a chance to beat the playoff-bound South Carolina Stingrays in their home 3 finale. Come down to Gwinnett Arena at 7:35 p.m. CAN’T ESCAPE: Michael Vick was released from prison last week. Don’t get excited; it was only so he could attend a bankruptcy hearing in his native Virginia. The pension-pil- SATURDAY fering quarterback hasn’t played in an NFL game since ’06, but can’t stay out of the news. Georgia vs. LSU. CSS. 5 Spring football is going on in Athens, but the talk of the town is how great the base- TIGER BITES: OK, so he’s really back. In essential Tiger Woods fashion, the greatest ball team is looking early in the season. The Bulldogs, currently ranked in the top golfer of all time flew past some pretty good competition in making up five strokes to win 4 five in the country, will take on LSU at Foley Field. The game starts at 1 p.m. 6 at Bay Hill last weekend. I’d tune in to see what he does at the Masters if I were you. SUNDAY FOUR PLAY: Who had Villanova and Michigan State in the Final Four? Show of Braves at Philadelphia. 96.1 FM. ESPN. hands? Congratulations, you will probably win your office pool. I, on the other hand, am It’s Opening Day for Major League Baseball and what better way to start 7 batting just .250 for my semifinal picks (I picked UNC, who I still think will win it all). the 2009 campaign than with the Braves taking on the World Champion 5 Philadelphia Phillies? Watch Chipper and Co., starting at 8 p.m. OVAL OFFICE POOL?: Both President Obama and I picked the Tar Heels as our national champions and only got one of the Final Four right. If UNC wins, will Barack MONDAY NCAA Basketball Championship. CBS. 8 join them in another pickup game when they visit the White House? It’s been a great basketball season and it will conclude on Monday with the NOT VOLUNTARY: After Pat Summit’s Lady Vols shockingly lost to Ball State in championship game in Detroit. With most of the top teams still alive, this the first round of the women’s NCAA Tournament last week, the legendary coach made 6 should be a matchup everyone is talking about. Tip-off is set for 8 p.m. 9 her team practice the next day. That, my friends, is why the court is named after her. TUESDAY Hawks at Toronto. 790 The Zone. Fox Sports South. TWEET TWEET: Mavericks owner Mark Cuban becomes the latest NBA name to get in The Hawks have had a great season but they have struggled on the road. 10 trouble for using Twitter to air his grievances (like he needs another platform for that). They have a chance to gain a road win on Tuesday by defeating Chris What is with this Twitter craze, anyways? (P.S. look for Score Atlanta on Twitter.com!) 7 Bosh and the struggling Raptors. The action will start at 7 p.m.

Derrick Favors Maya Moore Hawks-Lakers crowd The senior basketballer, who won his The women’s Final Four wasn’t The playoff-atmosphere crowd first-ever state basketball title earlier determined by press time, though spurred the Hawks on to an 86-76 we bet Moore’s UConn Huskies victory over the Lakers, setting a this month, was the only Georgian to be are in by the time you’re reading single-game attendance record named to the McDonald’s All-American this. Moore scored 22 points in (20,148 officially) Philips Arena. It THUMBS UP TO squad. Favors (pictured) will play in the her team’s second- and third- also extended the team’s single- NATIONAL HONORS event on Wednesday on ESPN. round games, both blowout wins. season sellout record to 11.

Dallas P.D. Michael Vick SEC Basketball You’ve probably already seen the police If there weren’t enough negative No SEC men’s teams made it to the headlines about the embattled QB, it video, but Dallas police officer Robert was announced last week that Vick Sweet 16 this year, and only one Powell overstepped his bounds in dealing is being accused of stealing about (LSU) made it to the second round. with Houston Texans running back Ryan $1.3 million dollars in pension For only the third time ever, the SEC Moats, who ran a red light on the way to money from employees of his for- did not have a women’s team make THUMBS DOWN TO see his dying mother-in-law. mer company, MV7. the Final Four. SOUTHERN HOOPS

CRUNCHING THE SANITY NUMBERS TIGER TAKES BAY HILL So, in case you missed it, Tiger the field. Now, it appears the AT LAST Woods is back. All the way back. party is over. Tiger didn’t even 188 Number of Tiger came from five shots play his best golf at Bay innings pitched by Jair Jurrjens in back to beat Sean O’Hair Hill, but it was enough “It really is a great 2008, most on the team on Sunday, but O’Hair to win on a tough golf wasn't the only victim. I course. The Masters is honor to be able to can’t help but wonder one week away, and pitch that game.” 211 Number of how Phil Mickelson, Tiger’s timing could- innings pitched by new Brave Sergio Garcia, Padraig n’t be much better. Derek Lowe in 2008 Harrington and the like Brian Katrek can be - Braves pitcher feel about this. Some of heard on 790 The Derek Lowe after these guys (Harrington Zone’s “On The Green especially) flourished in with Brian Katrek” being named Opening 1,940 Total number Tiger’s absence. Sundays from 8-9 a.m. and of innings pitched by Lowe in his Mickelson just won at Doral a can be reached at Day starter 12-year MLB career couple of weeks ago with Tiger in [email protected].

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Italian soccer power coming to Atlanta; Hawks, Thrashers going green HAWKS NEED CHECK THIS OUT! HOME COURT The sudden intensity and rush of The Atlanta Hawks have clinched drag racing is an experience that is a playoff spot and there are still sev- unique in the world of motorsports. eral games left to be played. How You’ll have a chance to get in on amazing is that? Okay, maybe it’s not that action in just a few weeks when all that amazing, but it is a pleasant the NHRA, America’s premier pro- surprise. Keep in mind that the year fessional drag racing organization, comes to town. The world’s greatest before last year, and the year before drag racers will be in Commerce that, and the year before that, and the from Thursday, April 16, to Sunday, year before that, and the year before April 19, when the Full Throttle that and a few consecutive years Drag Racing Series visits the before that, the late-March/early- Atlanta Dragway. Four-day passes April games were nothing more than are $119 and give you a chance to a formality. It is extremely refresh- catch all of the great action unfold ing that this team is playing for all weekend long. Daily prices vary home-court advantage in the first depending on when you choose to round instead of playing for lottery attend. Adult admission is as low as balls. There’s really no reason the $14 on Thursday and $46 for all of Hawks shouldn’t secure the fourth the final races on Sunday. Get all of spot in the Eastern Conference. The the info on the race and much more teams behind them seem to only be START YOUR ENGINES: Get ready for some high-octane racing action this Friday through Sunday at Road by visiting atlantadragway.com. moderately interested in even mak- Atlanta! Catch the AMA Suzuki Superbike Showdown this weekend, and watch superbike superstars such as And for all the latest news and ing the playoffs at all. Matt Mladin (pictured above) engage in physics-defying turns and maneuvers. The 2.54-mile road course in results, visit www.nhra.com. Don’t underestimate how impor- Braselton is widely recognized as one of the world’s finest. Photo courtesy of Road Atlanta. tant home court in the first round would be to this young team. They are HERE’S THE SCOOP ... still in single digits as far as home Written by Scott Janovitz losses this season and overall they fter learning the Atlanta Silverbacks Sun commissioner Ted Gumbart announced selecting their “7th Man”, given annually to have one of the better home records Aand their 2009 season were just anoth- that Mercer University will host the A-Sun the winner of the team’s biggest-fan compe- in the entire association. In other er casualty of the American economy, tournament championship for the next two tition, in the coming month. If you feel you words, their best chance to get out of Atlanta soccer fans finally have something years. Two other A-Sun schools, are the team’s ultimate advocate, submit an to cheer about. That’s because on July 22, Jacksonville and Belmont, made bids for essay to Thrashers.com explaining why you the first round is to ensure they’ll AC Milan, a seven-time European the tournament. should be the team’s 7th Man. In addition to have four games at Philips Arena. I’m Champion, will showcase its skills at the being named the team’s No. 1 fan, the win- not saying they can’t win a game in Georgia Dome in a showdown with Club GOING GREEN … ner of the contest will get to take the ice to Philadelphia or Miami, but I’d like America. The game, which is scheduled for As part of Philips Arena’s inaugural meet his or her favorite player, leave with a 7 p.m., will be televised on ESPN2. Green Week, the Atlanta Thrashers, Atlanta jersey, attend a morning skate-around next their chances better if they didn’t Last week, Mel Kiper released his top- Hawks and Philips Arena joined The Home have to win a game there. These last season as a V.I.P. guest, and receive a special five senior draft prospects at each position Depot last week in a special tree-planting behind-the-scenes tour of Philips Arena. two weeks should be extremely inter- and two local standouts made the cut. project at Vine City Park, an area hit partic- The winner will be announced on April 11 esting. The race is too close to call, According to Kiper, ESPN’s so-called draft ularly hard by the tornado of 2008. and his or her photo will hang throughout but home court in the first round is guru, Georgia Tech receiver Demaryius Prominent members from each organiza- Philips Arena for the entire 2009-10 season. Thomas is the fourth-best prospect at his tion participated, including Atlanta Hawks While the media is quick to jump on the Hawks’ to lose. We’ll see just how position. Though Thomas is not yet a junior, and Thrashers owner Rutherford Seydel, much this team has matured when the Terrell Owens anytime he does something he is a third-year sophomore, making him Thrash, Harry the Hawk, Atlanta Spirit we disapprove of, T.O. rarely gets a fair playoffs begin. If they start the first eligible for the list. The team in Athens also employees and associates from The Home shake when it comes to his community round on the road, they clearly received some recognition from Kiper, as Depot. In addition to planting trees, the work. Well, here’s to some change. The star haven’t learned to take full advantage Bulldog defensive tackle Geno Atkins is the group also built a community bulletin fourth-best junior tackle in the country. In board and installed bollards to help main- wideout missed the start of the Bills’ volun- of the opportunities in front 2008, Thomas caught 39 passes for 627 tain the piece land. tary offseason conditioning program last of them. However, if they yards and three touchdowns, while Atkins In other Thrasher-related news, if week to attend the sixth annual National start the playoffs at recorded 34 tackles (7.5 for a loss) to go you’re a girl, enjoy skating and don’t mind Alzheimer’s Gala. Believe it or not, T.O. not Philips Arena, we can along with a fumble recovery. and/or like the idea of cleaning ice, now’s only attended the shindig, but took home The State of Georgia was dreadfully the time to start getting in shape, as May 13, some hardware in the process. For his finally rest assured that this absent from March Madness in 2009, with the day for Blue Crew Auditions, is right efforts to raise awareness in the fight against team has in fact grown up both Georgia and Georgia Tech coming up around the corner. Registration costs $25 a the disease, Owens received the Alzheimer’s and is serious about short of the Big Dance. Even if such histo- person and auditions will begin on Association’s (AA) first Young Champions taking that next step. ry repeats itself in 2010, however, the state Wednesday and run through Sunday. Those Award last Wednesday evening. The AA is C.C. can be reached will have a role in postseason play next trying out must be at least 19 years of age. of particular interest to Owens considering his grandmother suffers from Alzheimer’s. at [email protected] March and beyond. Last Tuesday, Atlantic In a similar vein, the Thrashers will also be MIKAEL’S AUTO SPA ATLANTA’S #1 CAR WASH AND DETAILING DESTINATION

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WWW.SCOREATL.COM Wesleyan’s Armstrong strong all around n six weeks, Wesleyan senior Anne Marie Dynamo Swim Club. Her athletic activities IArmstrong hopes to be the first known eventually became more than the family could Georgia high school athlete to become a handle, however, and by seventh grade she had three-time state champion in three different to give up a sport. “In the summer time she sports. She will look to win her third high was playing two sports, basketball and soft- jump championship this year in Class A after ball, and we asked her to make a choice winning in Class 2A the last two years. But in because we had another child playing sports. It two to three weeks, just being able to jump just got to be too much,” Robert said. will be quite an accomplishment. Armstrong, But when school started again, she start- who has been a part of three championship ed playing volleyball. “I just wanted to try teams in both basketball and volleyball since something new,” Armstrong said. “It was her freshman year at Wesleyan, tore the hard at first because I was really bad. Then I meniscus in her left knee on Jan. 29 but still started liking it more, getting accustomed to played the final two months of the season, it and kept playing it through high school.” helping the Lady Wolves basketball team to a TOUGH CHOICE … state title. “I just played through the injury Her love for volleyball eventually came because it was my senior year and I didn’t to rival her love for basketball. She chose to want to miss out,” she said. play basketball, instead of volleyball, at the Armstrong had surgery on the knee last University of Georgia but not before ponder- week and will try to be in top form by the ing opportunities at other schools. After her Region 7 Championships. freshman year in Athens, she may even resume playing volleyball, but she is excited AN EARLY TALENT … about playing collegiate basketball. “There’s Those who know Armstrong are not sur- so much I like about each sport and I could- prised at her willingness to play through the n’t really pick which one I wanted to play in injury. The oldest of three children, her com- college, but I couldn’t see myself not playing petiveness dates back to attending a small pri- basketball,” she said. vate elementary school. “I was one of the only Robert credits coaches Jack Feagin, Jan girls at first,” Armstrong said about her ele- Azar, and Bosco McAbee with his daughter’s mentary class. “I grew up just around guys, development in basketball, but realizes he is playing football and kind of being a tomboy.” the father of a unique athlete. “She’s just Her parents, Robert and Linda, noticed been blessed with great hand-eye coordina- their daughter’s athletic ability and got tion and a very strong desire to excel and Armstrong involved in church league basket- compete,” he said. ball at the age of nine. By age 11 she was play- She will put that desire to use in track ing AAU, winning a state championship as a and field one more time before she finishes sixth grader. She participated in AAU softball her career as arguably the most versatile high as well, also winning championships, and was school athlete in Georgia history. an outstanding swimmer, competing briefly Butler can be reached at for Swim Atlanta and getting an invite to the [email protected]. THE HIGH SCHOOL PLAYERS OF THE WEEK

BRENDAN MOORE KIM SPENCE CENTENNIAL HIGH PARKVIEW HIGH The junior goalkeeper has been stingy Spence is a star forward on Parkview’s in goal all season for the No. 5 top-ranked Class 5A girls soccer team (Eurosportscoreboard.com Class 5A (Eurosportscoreboard.com), which rankings) Knights, pitching an incredi- some publications ranked No. 1 nation- ble nine shutouts so far this year to ally in the preseason. The junior is lead the team to a 10-2 record at press already verbally committed to play at time. Moore is verbally committed to play at North Carolina, and was recent- Auburn in 2010, and was named to the ly selected to the Disney Soccer ESPNRISE all-Greater Atlanta area first Showcase All-Star Team. team earlier in the year.

WWW.SCOREATL.COM HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS REPORT I09

Three decades after father’s success, Centennial sprinter shines at Roswell Relays hirty years ago to the day, his father cap- had some world-class athletes that I hung track career and measures it against his own. “Courtland Walls had beaten me last year. Ttured first place in the Roswell Relays out with everyday.” “The times Martin is running as an 11th- And then Branden Smith, he’s one of the top 100-yard dash as a senior. On March 21 of grader, I wasn’t like that until my senior year (football) recruits. And I got to race against this year, Martin Jenkins wanted to match his FAST FAMILY … in high school or my freshman year in col- him and I won, so it was a big accomplish- father’s accomplishment and then some. The Upon finishing at Tennessee, Jenkins lege,” Lee said. ment because of the competition there.” Centennial sprinter did just that, capturing was drafted in the 11th round by the New Martin, like his dad, faces tough compe- Smith, a Georgia signee, was ranked by the 100-meter title as a junior — a full year York Giants. After a short tour in the NFL, tition in the area, making the first-place finish many as the top football prospect in Georgia ahead of the pace his father set three decades Jenkins moved into the investment business, that much more rewarding. for the 2009 recruiting class, which signed earlier at the same meet. where he has prospered in a 23-year career as “It was a big accomplishment because of this past February. “It was 30 years to the day, basically, a financial advisor. Lee now watches Martin’s the people in the race,” said Martin. when I won the 100,” explained Lee Jenkins, TWO-SPORT STAR … the proud father of one of the state’s top Martin is now seeing the same type of sprinters. “Actually, it was the 100-yard dash interest from colleges that his father did 30 when I ran. That’s the only difference. I won years ago. Programs such as Maryland, Wake it back in ’79.” Forest, Duke and Georgia Tech have all been in Lee, then a three-sport athlete at contact with the 5-foot-9 junior cornerback. Therrell High School in Atlanta, went on to a Teammate David Yankey is being recruited successful football career at the University of nationally as well, while senior Euclid Tennessee, where he played cornerback for Cummings recently signed with Georgia Tech. Johnny Majors’s Volunteers. “I’m good friends with Euclid and with “I was one of the top recruits in the David also,” Martin said. “I’m always asking nation when I came out (of high school) in Euclid, because he’s already been through the football,” Lee declared. “I was (one of) the process (and) he knows me. We’re kind of the top five fastest guys in the state. Two of the same. He knows which kinds of schools I guys that beat me in the state meet went on like. He gives me advice on the schools.” to the Olympics the next year. It was an As far as his early favorite, Martin extremely, extremely fast field.” likes two of the schools which have shown One of the runners that beat him would him the most interest. become his roommate in college. “Out of the schools that are recruiting “It was a guy named Willie Gault who me, Maryland and Wake Forest. Those stand ended up playing pro football and making out the most to me,” Martin declared. the 1980 Olympic team,” said Lee of the What about Tennessee? Will Martin fol- future Chicago Bear. Jenkins would see a lot low his father’s footsteps to Knoxville? more of Gault and another future NFL leg- “Yeah, I like Tennessee,” he said. “But I end while in Knoxville. [would like] a new experience. I’ve been all “I ended up going to Tennessee and throughout that campus already and already Willie Gault was my roommate and one of ALL IN THE FAMILY: Martin Jenkins (left) won the 100-meter race in the Roswell Relays 30 years know how everything is.” my best friends,” he said. “My other room- to the day after his father, Lee (highlighted), won the 100-yard dash in the same event. Like his Black can be reached at mate at Tennessee was Reggie White. I father, Martin is a two-sport athlete, excelling at both track and football. Photos courtesy of Lee Jenkins. [email protected].

Taking a closer look at several of the top high school baseball players in Georgia pring is in the air, the GHSA baseball season back in football. Sounds a little like a certain Zack Wheeler, East Paulding: This ior pitcher Cam Bedrosian. If that last name Sis off and running, and the Major League former Brave, Deion Sanders. Dallas product is the top senior pitching sounds familiar, it’s because he is the son of Baseball season is nearly upon us. On that note, Luke Bailey, Troup: Bailey is ranked prospect coming out of Georgia and is ranked former Braves reliever Steve Bedrosian, who let’s take a look at some of the top high school No. 7 in this senior class according to the No. 6 overall, according to the Baseball America is now the pitching coach for his son’s team. baseball prospects from around the state. Baseball America Prospect Handbook. The Prospect Handbook. The right-hander stands at The right-hander is already being projected in Donavan Tate, Cartersville: Tate is not senior catcher is a shoe-in to go in the first an intimidating 6-foot-4 and has an array of the first round in next year’s draft. He has a only a great baseball player, he is a superb round of the draft, but is leaning more pitches, including a vicious fastball that he can fastball that can travel from 92-95 mph, and athlete. He has committed to North Carolina towards an opportunity to play at Auburn to play football, but he is pegged by some as throw up to 95 miles per hour. He also has a nice that number will only improve as he gets University. As a catcher, Luke controls every- the No. 1 overall draft pick in this year’s MLB curveball that he throws consistently between 78 older and stronger. According to many scouts, thing on the field, and his defensive skills are draft. Donovan has had a number of memo- and 80 mph. Last season he went 8-3 with a 1.31 Cam has the best stuff of any high school jun- his greatest attribute. “Luke understands the rable games over his high school career. As a game of baseball far better than most high ERA and 127 strikeouts. He had a 15-strikeout ior in the country. In a recent game against sophomore, he single-handedly pushed his game against North Cobb earlier this season. Chapel Hill, Bedrosian had 14 strikeouts. He team to a win against powerhouse Parkview school ball players,” said Troup assistant Wheeler pitches a lot like the Detroit Tigers’ allowed only one hit against Morrow in a 12- with two home runs. In the same game he coach Jamie Schmitt. “Luke’s greatest made a game-saving, diving catch, popping strengths are his defensive ability, both his Justin Verlander, and has the same body type as 0 win, and against Hiram, he pitched five up and throwing out a tagging runner at the arm and catching, his knowledge of the game, the Major Leaguer. Zack’s brother Adam was innings, struck out 13 batters and was part of plate. Last season, Tate hit .410 with seven and his ability to hit for power.” That power drafted by the Yankees in 2001. a combined no-hitter in the 8-0 win. home runs and 25 RBIs. He bats leadoff for was on display last year when he hit .505 with Cam Bedrosian, East Coweta: A player Deighton can be reached at the Purple Hurricanes and plays defensive 13 home runs and 61 RBIs. that will probably go in the 2010 draft is jun- [email protected].

WWW.SCOREATL.COM 10 HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS REPORT

Not just a northern sport: Lacrosse making inroads at Georgia high schools ost avid sports fans in our state already Atlantic/Southern region. That’s pretty good hits the road to face St. Mknow about the rising popularity sur- company considering powerhouse states Stephens, St. Agnes and rounding the sport of lacrosse. Since 1999, such as Maryland and Pennsylvania are in Springfield Delco in the sport has grown seven-fold amongst boys the same region. Pennsylvania. teams (52 teams for 2009 season) and eight- With a 15-8 win over Lovett last week, Though Lassiter and fold amongst girls teams (52 teams for 2009 Lassiter extended its record to 8-0 on the Milton are not the only teams season) in Georgia high schools. year. The game held special value to to take on out-of-state oppo- One of those schools in particular, Manderano and his players, because the nents, the schools should cer- Lassiter, has seen a large amount of talent teams have combined to win two of the last tainly be recognized as two of grace its fields and is in the midst of another three state titles. the leaders in the state in that stellar season. Led by fourth-year coach Next up for Lassiter is a Spring Break category. Each year, the Peter Manderano, who is a Rochester native trip to Tennessee, when the Trojans will take schools are able to produce and played competitively growing up in the on McCallie and the Memphis University competitive teams and they New York high school system, the Trojans School. Lassiter has never beaten either put those individuals to the have built one of the most successful pro- school, but each year looks to prove that the test by taking on top-flight grams in Georgia. quality of lacrosse is improving in Georgia. opponents from lacrosse-rich Part of the winning formula for Lassiter states. These experiences can has been the development of JV and junior MILTON STAYING ON TOP … only enhance the overall tal- league programs. Similar to the strength that Lassiter has ent level for Georgia teams. “Even though popularity has increased, shown in the boys game, the Milton Lady the amount of kids trying out has actually Eagles are experiencing a four-year stretch of RAPID GROWTH … decreased this year,” explained Manderano. In contrast to lacrosse, consecutive state championships unmatched STATE AMBASSADORS: Like the Lassiter boys, the successful Milton “At first a lot of kids tried out simply because by any other team. While head coach Tim Georgia has 436 football lacrosse was a new sport. With the develop- teams, 447 boys basketball girls lacrosse program (shown here after the 2008 state championship Godby is forced to rebuild a team that lost teams and 426 girls basket- ment of our JV program and other junior pro- nine starters from last year, he knows that game) is seeking to challenge itself with tough out-of-state competi- grams, the kids this year have the best skills ball teams registered with the tion. In its fifth year as a GHSA championship sport, lacrosse is gain- “the more the team works, the more they will GHSA. Though the sport of yet because they are starting to play earlier.” jell and learn how to win.” So far, the season ing in popularity at a faster-than-ever rate. Photo courtesy of Alanna Lavelle. That skill was on display against Lovett lacrosse has a long way to go has been productive, though the team suf- to catch its counterparts, after the 10-year in Savannah has expressed interest in starting in a highly anticipated Friday night matchup fered close losses to Northview and mark, the sport continues to keep growing in a team next year.” that drew the most people that Manderano Chattahoochee as of late. popularity and skill level. Jay Watts, GHSA While geographically it is difficult for had seen at a game since the 2006 state Much like Lassiter, Milton has a tough coordinator for lacrosse, states, “At first the some of these schools to schedule games, in championship. The game even received string of games coming up against out-of- sport was popular mostly in metro Atlanta,” the end, Watts is very supportive and feels it national attention, as it was picked by state opponents. The team plays Park Vista says Jay Watts, GHSA coordinator for is a positive sign for the growth of the sport. Laxpower.com as one of its five games of the from Florida and Memorial from Texas. lacrosse. “Now there is a team in Columbus, Gupta can be reached at week for March 19-23 in the Mid- After a game with Westminster, the team two teams in Augusta, and Benedictine School [email protected].

Westminster boys soccer program returns to glory days in new millienium here are a number of sports at which STAYING TOUGH … leads the way, having yielded just seven game bothers [the players]. TWestminster routinely excels, but boys Snyder’s approach to the game, which goals on the year. Their record is impressive The Wildcats returned plenty of talent soccer wasn’t always a part of that discussion. focuses heavily on discipline and toughness, as well. The Wildcats sat at 7-1-2 at press from last season’s squad, including junior Then current head coach Scott Snyder has created a certain mystique around the pro- time and hadn’t lost since Feb. 11 in a 3-2 playmaker Rawson Haverty and senior showed up on campus to revive a program gram. His insistence on excellence helped turn defeat to No. 1 Walker. defender Cole Egan, both of whom Snyder that had been dormant for a while. the tide for a program that hadn’t won a state “We’ve been on a good run, we’ve been credited for stepping into important roles that A hard-nosed center defender in his crown since 1983 when he arrived. And while lucky in some games,” Snyder said. “I’d like to have keyed their success. playing days, he took over coaching duties at the Wildcats still may not always have the most think we’re confident. But I don’t think were With plenty of experience, motivation, the program in 2000. Since then, his teams and one of the state’s top coaches at the helm, individually talented team, their soundness in overconfident. We just talk about the next game.” the Wildcats look poised to make another have won state championships on three occa- fundamentals and tactical adjustment has often deep run into the state tournament in Class sions and amassed multitudes of region titles helped them to victory with the odds seeming- SEEKING REDEMPTION … A/AA. The team is looking to get back to the and other accolades, making them one of the ly stacked against them. The Wildcats also have a bit of motiva- state championship game, and this time they most accomplished and consistent programs “We want to outwork the other team,” tion in their back pocket. Last year’s team was want to win it. of the decade. Snyder said. “We always make sure we’re the first of Snyder’s to qualify for the state “We’re good enough to beat anybody, and “I like to think I was part of it,” said crisp on set pieces. Be efficient on offense. At title game and leave without a ring. The ‘Cats we’re also bad enough to lose to anybody,” Snyder of the program’s success. “It means a the end of the day we want to win the game.” relinquished a 1-0 lead to region rival Snyder said. “But if we can keep our focus and lot to me. I know it’s cliché, but the longer This year’s edition of the Wildcats is a Chamblee, losing 2-1. work hard, I think we can do anything.” I’ve been coaching, the more I’ve learned. vintage Snyder team. They’ve been spot-on “I think we had too much success early Bagriansky can be reached at I’ve really been able to learn so much.” in the back, where senior Matt Thomas (last year),” Snyder said. “I do think that [email protected].

WWW.SCOREATL.COM APRIL 1-7, 2009 SCORE ATLANTA I 11 . . . . Y T T A E E E E T A A A A A S S R R T T D N N N N N N N U U H T K I I I S T S L N E S L K S E E S S V A O G A A S C R S I O O G C M I T O S P S E O L T L C L U U X U O A C V S G D O R R A N A V O S E I T N A I N T O S S E Z U C D F I M N M N K A U S N A D M H U M R R E O N H E T U I A L N A E A E A D S A G B A E X E A A O C C N O B K N L E L T R L R H O A R I C S L I L . H T Z S N N M N L N G Y O F I T G O R I C I I K A H . M R N R E L A N S T T R L E E V I O M S I O T W F M T R T K A B P P S . O O E E N W . . Y A E E H A A A A S R T N N U T I K N L K S G E V S A S G A S I M C S I . R L C L U U O X A G U O V N A K I O U , E T Z U C N D H A O N R O B n H T N A A N C A A X S O E o C L R O t I L C T S K Z I L I . y Y T . I G K I M R N a S V W W O P A D : s i s h e p t i s m A A E E H A A R e N S d G K V E G M I I R 8 n M 9 L U O O U A V U O u , C H Z N D 2 2 A B R o s A A A S N i S r A X l L L I N R - T O C K & o & L T Y . d I I G O p H S O N V n P a 6 7 o n T P c 2 2 a i e S d s M h h / n I - c O c t E A A H A : r r s N G V s M I r B i R a a L O e O f M t U O H i N B R 2 A M s M A S A L 2 L l T C K T L a T . I I I d O n N V P n 4 o i a O l g i 0 e R r 2 r T l p h 9 l A A c A 2 E r N V I a d L O D a n O N M a R A A L • 7 C b L . I 2 o N r t V h o c b r p e s a i n e M k e r h • G s n , o s y t t i s a C o n B s a , B s e o l n a i a d K n s , e p l a ’ i G h : p l s n e e m t d i a e s l i l a h a P n , h o M ) i . g e r e r C O ( 9 8 d 2 T n S 0 d a l n N t T r A a . I 0 G o N I 6 P 4 H N 2 O C : I O l 2 s i h M C R e r c t r i T p a s A E M d n S D • u . I 9 T 8 E o I e S r L L 2 s 2 R - E i L N I d U o . A L V O n & O & B G N S I o I S A , N H P c U S s 7 C 6 i O I I e l O D A 2 C s 2 L M o M / p - N N t h a h s e E c r A c i n r I r f L n . i T a E I a 1 D S L S G R M 2 I L E A N M S I , M U H i N A d . U N V A O P I G n S O N I D m S S I a Z M H a R N N I S i U C E I I O A U R 9 O M M K P A M L C M 1 h c r a . . E M T N E T I T S D O L S S T M A R T I L D N S E I N E N G N N & U A . H A A V U U N O A L L A I A O O P G L N S S T Q D I A Y I H Z . E N S I N N H R Y M S R V R C U X E S C E A A A R I O A E I A I . U E O L A S D K C L W S P M C T M M M M . T S D A E E . T . A T E . S L . H I T T A G T N T E G U S E A W A R S E E S G A S S M I T D O D E R C C L O I I I R I L I I O T L T N O R P N & D S A N O . R N R L L N T . O I O I G E N A T P I T N O R E A A H A T M I L S M R C C U N N / R H N G T O A F U N V S . L S E O S G I U E E A E T A T O O L N I S R K P R S A S Q O Y H F T E H H R I I D N E S S N I O T I H S O H A A H T O T Z T E N . R R K S T S M V V I R R I N N L N Y U U A S A A C X D U R B S E A S E A A E I A A I . I T T A H I R . A O A U O Y E H O O O S O L L O K N W L D A O C W B S A U S M R T W C B M U C C N M P M C M M C

WWW.SCOREATL.COM 12 I SCORE ATLANTA Get In The Game!

Wildcats crash party, must face red-hot Heels; Huskies seek third title in 10 years t’s Final Four time in the Motor City! well (see his last-second, game-winning shot UCONN VS. MICHIGAN STATE … against the Tigers. UConn has also IHere’s Score Atlanta’s preview and analy- against Pitt in the Elite Eight), adding 12.5 A year ago, UConn’s season came to done an excellent job of getting to sis of both of Saturday’s games. points a game for Villanova. an abrupt end as A.J. Price suffered a the foul line, making more free The Tar Heels are the most talented torn ACL and the Huskies fell to throws in the tournament of any VILLANOVA VS. NORTH CAROLINA … team in all of college basketball with 2008 San Diego in the first round of of the remaining teams with 89. Villanova was the Big East team in the AP Player of the Year Tyler Hansbrough (pic- the NCAA Tournament. This Michigan State has tournament that few were talking about as tured) and 2009 ACC Player of the Year Ty year’s team could have suffered advanced to its fifth Final Four the Wildcats were overshadowed by the three Lawson. Lawson missed the ACC the same fate when Jerome in 11 years with stellar defen- No. 1 seeds of Louisville, Pittsburgh and Tournament and first round of the NCAA Dyson, the Huskies second leading sive play. In the Spartans’ 64-52 UConn. But that’s fine for ‘Nova, as Jay Tournament with a toe injury but has scorer, suffered a torn lateral menis- win over Louisville, they held Wright’s team thrives as the underdog. The bounced back to average 20.3 points and 6.7 cus in his right knee on Feb. 11 in a the Cardinals to 38.3 percent Wildcats are back in the Final Four for the assists per game since. Hansbrough has aver- win over Syracuse. shooting from the field. The first time since winning the championship as aged 17.3 points and 7.3 rebounds per game, After losing to Pittsburgh twice Spartans are led by Big Ten a No. 8 seed in 1985. with his best performance coming against and then falling to Syracuse in six Player of the Year Kalin Lucas, All that’s just perfect for the Wildcats, as Gonzaga, as he scored 24 points and pulled overtimes in the Big East Tournament, who has struggled with his shot they find themselves in the underdog role down 10 boards. Wayne Ellington and Danny the Huskies have regrouped to prove lately but has remained clutch. once again in their Final Four matchup with Green have been stellar as well, averaging 19 their worth as a No. 1 seed. In the team’s 67-62 win over Kansas to reach the Elite Eight, North Carolina, who is in the national semi- and 13.5 points per game, respectively. Price has averaged 20 points per Lucas scored seven points in the finals for the second straight year and a UNC and Villanova last met in the 2005 game in the tournament to lead the final 49 seconds. record 18th time. This year’s Wildcats will NCAA Tournament, as the Tar Heels won 67- Huskies. Hasheem Thabeet and The Spartans will face off look to drive to the basket and get to the foul Stanley Robinson are dominant defen- 66 in the third round on their way to their latest with UConn in Detroit, only 90 sive forces in the paint. Thabeet has line, where they have shot 85 percent in the championship. If the Wildcats are going to have miles from their campus. The tournament, including making 22 of 23 in a different result this go-round, they must con- averaged 11.3 rebounds and two blocks Huskies are playing in their third their win over Pittsburgh. tinue to get to the foul line and sink free throws. per game in the tournament. He is also Final Four. They won the champi- Dante Cunningham has led the Wildcats The Wildcats must also continue to defend an excellent passer. Robinson had four onship both of the other times, first in with 17.8 points and 8.3 rebounds per game against the 3-pointer, as they held Duke to 18.5 blocks in the 82-75 win over Missouri. 1999 and then in 2004. in the tournament. Fellow senior Dwayne percent shooting behind the arc. UNC has the Freshman Kemba Walker has Photo courtesy of the University of Anderson has contributed 15 and eight per potential to go off from 3-land; the Heels hit stepped up after the loss of Dyson, North Carolina. Wiley can be reached contest, and Scottie Reynolds is clutch as 11-of-19 3-pointers against Gonzaga. leading the Huskies with 23 points at [email protected].

WWW.SCOREATL.COM APRIL 1-7, 2009 SCORE ATLANTA I 13

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

Hawks fall to Spurs, Celts but take down L.A. Thrashers offense continues hot streak fter an impressive two weeks that saw the combined to mark only the second time all arlier in the week the Atlanta Thrashers OFFENSE SINKS OTTAWA … Ateam win eight straight games at home, the season the Hawks have lost consecutive Eplayoff hopes officially ended with a loss First-year head coach John Anderson is Hawks took a step backward last week with games at Philips, making Sunday’s show- to the Montreal Canadiens. Since then, how- beginning to see the fruits of his labor, as the consecutive losses at Philips Arena to San down with Los Angeles. all the more impor- ever, the team has won two in a row against Atlanta Thrashers are no longer the lethargic Antonio and Boston before getting revenge tant, as three home losses in a row would mid-level competition from the Eastern offensive group they once were. Anderson against the Lakers at home on Sunday. have brought the Hawks into what is, for Conference, raising hopes for the possibili- saw his offense blossom once again, this time When San Antonio came to town last them, uncharted territory this season. The ties next season. on home ice, against the Ottawa Senators, a Wednesday, Atlanta was riding an eight-game Hawks responded to this challenge, however, The formula employed by the Thrashers team fighting to get into the playoffs. home winning streak and had the luxury of using suffocating defense to earn an 86-76 against the New York Rangers last Thursday Atlanta broke open a 2-2 tie with the facing the Spurs without All-Star Tim Duncan. victory. Mike Bibby led the Atlanta charge has almost become standard for Atlanta this Senators with three goals in just 2:58 in the Despite the big man’s absence and Manu with 21 points, five rebounds and three season: tie the game in the third, keep the second period. Tobias Enstrom, Marty Ginobili getting only 14 minutes of action, the assists, while Pau Gasol paced the Lakers game scoreless in overtime and win in the Reasoner and Colby Armstrong each scored Spurs were still too tough for an Atlanta squad with 21 points and 11 rebounds. playing without Marvin Williams and Acie shootout. Todd White accomplished two of in the period giving Atlanta a three-goal lead This week should be another challeng- the three tasks in the Thrashers’ formula for that the team wouldn’t give up. Enstrom’s Law, capturing the 102-92 victory. ing one for the Hawks, as it begins with a goal came on a wrist shot from beyond the Although Law has been far from a big- Celtic rematch on Friday, this time in Boston. victory, scoring the game-tying goal in the time contributor this season, (or last, for that On Saturday, Atlanta welcomes division rival third period and the only goal in the circle on an Atlanta power play, giving the matter) his defensive presence off the bench Orlando to Philips Arena before finishing the shootout, giving Atlanta a 5-4 win. defenseman five goals on the season. Atlanta was sorely missed at the point guard posi- week on Tuesday with a road contest in A bad New York pass through center ice came back right after the faceoff, scoring tion, as San Antonio’s Tony Parker shredded Toronto against the Raptors. allowed Ilya Kovalchuk to steal the puck and another goal when Reasoner tipped a shot the Hawks and anyone who guarded him for start the odd-man rush for Atlanta. from Eric Perrin for his 13th goal of the sea- 42 points and 10 assists. As usual, Joe FOR THE RECORD … Kovalchuk charged the net, pulling the son. Finally, Armstrong ended the outburst Johnson led Atlanta with 30 points in 44 Sunday’s showdown with the Lakers Rangers’ defense with him before dropping with a backhanded shot. minutes of action. drew the highest single-game crowd for a the puck off for White in front of the net. The two teams traded third-period Hawks regular-season contest in Philips White finished the play by knocking the goals, leaving Atlanta with a 6-3 win over the FINALS PARTICIPANTS VISIT … Arena’s nearly 10-year history (20,148). The puck past Rangers goalie Stephen Valiquette. Senators on Saturday. Also scoring for the Looking for redemption against another next two largest crowds include an April White’s goal closed a comeback that saw Thrashers was Kovalchuk, who recorded a hobbled NBA power, the Hawks came up game against Boston last year (20,098), and the Thrashers score three unanswered goals to goal and an assist to bring his season point short yet again last Friday, this time to a a 2001 contest against the Washington total to 87 on the year. Kovalchuk now sits in tie the game at four after trailing 4-1 in the sixth in the NHL in points, trailing leader Boston Celtics club playing without star Wizards (20,073). Game 6 in the first round second period. Kovalchuk not only assisted power forward Kevin Garnett. Surprisingly, of last year’s playoff series against Boston Evgeni Malkin by 20, and is just two points Boston dominated the paint even in Garnett’s drew the arena’s highest attendance ever with on White’s goal but also assisted on Atlanta’s out of a top-five spot. absence, as second-year power forward Glen 20,425 fans in attendance. third goal, scored by Colby Armstrong, and In net for Atlanta was Johan Hedberg, Davis scored 19 points and grabbed 12 Additionally, Sunday’s game also scored just before the end of the second peri- who stopped 18 shots for the win, the 100th rebounds in 43 minutes of play. Johnson had marked the club’s 11th sellout of the sea- od to make the game 4-2. The goal was of his career. Hedberg, who is in his eighth yet another good showing with 22 points, son, extending the total for the most sell- Kovalchuk’s 39th of the season, making him NHL season, has played for the Pittsburgh while Josh Smith recovered well from a outs the team has recorded in a single sea- fourth overall in the NHL in the category. Penguins, Vancouver Canucks and Dallas dreadful performance against the Spurs to son at Philips Arena. Johan Hedberg stopped 24 shots, includ- Stars before joining Atlanta three years ago. score 22 points and grab 11 rebounds. Janovitz can be reached at ing all the shots during the shootout, to help Boral can be reached at The Wednesday and Friday home losses [email protected]. Atlanta improve to 7-1 in shootouts this season. [email protected]

A look at some ’09 Draft possibilities pon his arrival in Atlanta, general man- holes in the secondary. Although safety Uager Thomas Dimitroff quickly made it Louis Delmas spent four years starting for clear that he planned to rebuild the team MAC school Western Michigan, he raised through the draft. And many of his 2008 more than a few eyebrows when he faced off draft picks, such as quarterback Matt Ryan, against the big boys at the Senior Bowl. wide receiver Harry Douglas and linebacker It appears harder to predict what corners Curtis Lofton, paid dividends immediately. will be available when Atlanta is on the With plenty of holes to fill on next sea- clock. Among the possible selections are son’s team, and considering the team’s inac- Ohio State’s Malcolm Jenkins, Illinois’ tivity in free agency, Dimitroff will be look- Vontae Davis, UConn’s Darius Butler and ing to hit a home run once again in the Utah’s Sean Smith. upcoming draft. The team has the 24th pick in the first round. IN THE COMMUNITY … One area that must be addressed is line- As always, the Falcons have kept busy off backer, where one starting spot alongside the field during the offseason. Linebacker Lofton and the newly signed Mike Peterson Curtis Lofton and defensive end Kroy is open for the taking. Biermann delivered meals to a group of sen- USC linebacker Clay Matthews Jr., iors at an apartment complex in Gainesville, whom several mock draft sites have Atlanta Ga., on March 26. Their endeavor was a part of taking, is one option. Another much-dis- the Hall County Meals on Wheels program. cussed possibility is Matthews’ teammate Biermann and Lofton were joined by Brian Cushing, who started across from him several football players from Flowery Branch at outside linebacker. Cushing made 74 tack- High School and also a few participants in les his senior season and “possesses a very the Junior Falcons football program, which good combination of height, bulk, and over- was designed to raise awareness for the all speed,” according to Scouts Inc. Meals on Wheels program. There is also a need at tight end. Justin Punter Michael Koenen is also keeping Peelle was solid last season, but he is not a busy in the community. He will host the sixth consistent threat catching the football. annual Dream House Golf Classic on Brandon Pettigrew, who multiple draft Thursday, April 23. Proceeds go to Dream experts project to be available at No. 24, House, an organization that strives to provide could solve that problem. The 6-foot-6, 260- proper care for medically fragile children. pound Oklahoma State alum caught 42 balls Registration begins at noon for the outing, with for 472 yards and nine touchdowns in the golf beginning at 1 p.m. Other Falcons players Cowboys’ dynamic offense last season. are expected to join Koenen at the event. The departures of safety Lawyer Milloy Bagriansky can be reached at and corner Domonique Foxworth left two [email protected].

WWW.SCOREATL.COM APRIL 1-7, 2009 SCORE ATLANTA I 15

Dobbs injures foot; coaching search continues Spring practice begins; women’s hoops falls he football team is halfway through ic teams held a top-10 spot in their sport’s he football team has completed two full were spotted at Flowery Branch over the week- Tspring practice and the injury bug has rankings. Baseball, equestrian, men’s golf and Tweeks of spring practice as it gears up for end. Additionally, Johnson has already signed already hit a team that was still recovering gymnastics all held the No. 1 spot in their 2009. Head coach Paul Johnson and the two in-state talents for the 2010 season and he from last year’s injury-plagued season. respective sports. Also, the men’s swimming Yellow Jackets will be looking to build upon hinted that the 2010 class could consist almost Defensive end Demarcus Dobbs broke his and diving team wrapped up its season with a Johnson’s successful inaugural season, which exclusively of Georgia products. left foot and will miss the rest of the spring. 10th-place finish at the NCAA featured a 9-4 record and a 45-42 road win Dobbs was one of four defensive ends that Championships over the weekend. That per- over archrival Georgia. Tech finished in the WOMEN LOSE IN TOURNAMENT … started the spring healthy for Georgia, leav- formance followed a second-place showing Top 25 of both the AP and coaches polls. The women’s basketball team fell to top- ing Justin Houston, Jeremy Longo and by the women a week earlier. Key to the Jackets’ continued improve- seeded Oklahoma 69-50 in the second round of Kiante Tripp at the position. Though it will Of the four teams that were ranked No. ment is a revamping of the defensive line, the NCAA Tournament on March 24. Georgia hurt his growth as a player, Dobbs’ injury 1, gymnastics and equestrian have the earli- which must deal with the losses of Michael Tech used a 21-11 run late in the first half to tie should hasten the development of Longo, a est and probably the best shot at bringing a Johnson and Vance Walker. Ends Derrick ithe score going into the half at 29-29. The redshirt freshman, and Tripp, a convert from national championship back to Athens. The Morgan and Robert Hall have been impres- Sooners, however, pulled away over the final 20 the offense. The Bulldogs will conclude gymnastics team has won the previous four sive in practice so far, while tackles T.J. minutes of play en route to their 19-point victo- spring practice on April 11 with their G-Day national championships and may have some Barnes and Logan Walls are showing prom- ry. Sophomore guard Deja Foster had 15 points game, which will be televised on ESPN. added motivation to win another title this ise. Morgan is the only returning starter from to pace the Yellow Jackets, who finished their With only four college basketball teams last year’s defensive line. 2008-09 campaign with a solid 22-10 record. still in play, the coaching search at Georgia year, as this is head coach Suzanne Yoculan’s The quarterback position—at least for can now begin in full. The teams of Jeff 26th and final year at the helm of the pro- now—also appears to be open for some com- BASEBALL TAKES SERIES … Capel (Oklahoma) and Mike Anderson gram. The Gym Dogs will take their next petition. Josh Nesbitt (starter in 2008) and The third-ranked baseball team went into (Missouri) lost in the NCAA Tournament step towards a fifth consecutive national Jaybo Shaw (Nesbitt’s backup in 2008) are Miami last weekend and won two of three Elite Eight, paving the way for Georgia to championship when they participate in the joined by Tevin Washington, who redshirted games from the host Hurricanes. An offensive ask their respective schools for permission to Southeast Regional in Raleigh, N.C., on last season. Coaches have been raving about show in the series opener last Friday resulted speak with them. Capel, 34, is 69-33 in three Saturday. A top-two finish there and the team Washington, especially infatuated with his in a 13-9 Georgia Tech victory. Senior first years as the head coach of Oklahoma after will advance to the Super Six, which runs accurate passing and ability to tuck the ball baseman Luke Murton hit two home runs in serving as head coach at Virginia from April 16-18, in Lincoln, Neb. away and run when the pocket collapses. The the win. Tech clinched the three-game series Commonwealth the previous four seasons. The equestrian program has won three staff got its first good look at Washington, with a 6-4 triumph one day later. Starting Anderson, 49, is 65-34 in three years as the national titles in its six-year existence. The and others, when Tech made its debut in full pitcher Zach Von Tersch struck out seven and head coach of Missouri after seeing as the team will compete in the Southern Equestrian pads on Saturday in Flowery Branch at the allowed just two runs in five innings. Both head coach at UAB the previous four sea- Championships in Bishop, Ga., on Friday and Falcons’ indoor training facility. Johnson’s Murton and sophomore shortstop Derek sons. Other candidates may include Xavier’s Saturday with an eye on the National eye has also been drawn to wide receiver Paul Dietrich homered for the second straight Sean Miller and Butler’s Brad Stevens. Championships in Waco, Tex., April 16-18. The Reese, a sophomore walk-on. game. The Yellow Jackets, however, could not baseball team stood at 19-3 at the end of last Meanwhile, the buzz surrounding complete the sweep on Sunday. Dietrich’s CHAMPIONSHIP LEVEL … weekend, while the men’s golf team has won Johnson’s first full-fledged recruiting class at three hits were not enough as Tech went down Whoever is named the next head basket- four tournaments since the fall. Georgia will Georgia Tech has been palpable, as the coach to the second-ranked Hurricanes, 6-2. The ball coach of the Bulldogs will have his work have to wait until late June and the end of May will soon be working with players whom he has Jackets will take on visiting North Carolina in cut out for him when attempting to rival the to attempt to bring home titles in those sports. targeted to fit his trademark triple-option their upcoming weekend series. success of the University’s other athletic pro- Butler can be reached at offense (as opposed to last year’s bunch recruit- Dimon can be reached at grams. As of last week, eight Georgia athlet- [email protected]. ed by Chan Gailey). Several incoming recruits [email protected].

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

Budding stars sent to minor league camp Tennis makes history; baseball beats Stetson raves all-star Brian McCann dodged a ly pulled a muscle in his side on March 24 in he men’s tennis team (5-9, 1-4) made team won the second game of the double- Bhuge bullet Saturday when former Brave an appearance against the Pittsburgh Pirates Thistory on Sunday afternoon by winning header by a score of 13-9. The Owls scored in Mark Teixeira fouled a pitch off the catcher’s and the severity of the injury may require the program’s first-ever Atlantic Sun match. each of the first eight innings in their second right ring finger. McCann was lifted from the him to begin the season on the disabled list. The Owls, who are in their first year as a comeback win of the day. The Hatters had game and was going to have an X-ray of the Soriano missed major parts of last season injured digit taken, but feeling returned and with various injuries, appearing in only 14 varsity sport at KSU, defeated Florida Gulf taken a 6-3 lead in the bottom of the second doctors ruled that no bones had been broken. games, but the team was hoping to have him Coast by a score of 6-1 at the KSU tennis only to watch the Owls take a 7-6 lead in the McCann, as well as team doctors, believe as an eighth-inning stopper and occasional complex. The Black and Gold won the dou- sixth inning after Tyler Stubblefield’s two-run that he should be back after missing possibly closer. Soriano is in the final year of his con- bles point, then jumped ahead when No. 2 home run. KSU went on to score three more a day or two with the bruise. tract with Atlanta. singles player Tyler Mills won his match runs in the inning to take a commanding 10- Fans hoping to see young gun Tommy Meanwhile, Glavine continues to dazzle decisively, 6-1, 6-1. After losing at No. 1 6 lead. After traveling to Clinton, S.C., on Hanson throw for Atlanta this season may and prove to be a medical marvel at age 43. singles, the Owls ripped off four straight still get a chance, but it will not be at the Following surgery last August, Glavine has Wednesday to take on the Presbyterian Blue start of the season. Last week the organiza- pitched 10 innings this spring and has victories to clinch the match. The win Hose, the Fighting Owls will host conference tion assigned Hanson, along with Freddie allowed zero runs. The first three scoreless snapped a three-match losing streak for the rival Lipscomb on Friday and Saturday. Freeman and Jason Heyward, to the minor frames came in an intrasquad game but he team. On March 24, the Owls lost to USC league spring training camp. The team also has also started against the Mets and Tigers Upstate by a score of 6-1. The previous OTHER NEWS … optioned Jo-Jo Reyes, who was having a for a combined seven scoreless innings with weekend, KSU dropped matches on the road The Lady Owl (7-7) tennis squad strong spring, to AAA Gwinnett, as well as just five hits and zero walks. As the fifth starter, Glavine’s spot in the rotation isn’t against North Florida and Jacksonville. This defeated Florida Gulf Coast on Sunday catcher Clint Sammons and infielder Diory weekend, the team will travel to Nashville to Hernandez. Reyes finished 2008 with seven scheduled to pop up until Saturday, April 18. afternoon by a score of 6-1 to improve to 3- losses in his last 13 starts but pitched well take on Lipscomb and Belmont on Friday 2 in Atlantic Sun play. Like the men’s squad, in the spring, putting together a 2-0 record COMMUNITY NEWS … and Saturday, respectively. the Lady Owls won the doubles point before with an ERA around 2.00. Hanson, mean- The Atlanta Braves organization will dominating singles action. The team will honor former team broadcaster Pete Van BASEBALL TAKES SERIES … while, was sent down to receive regular reps Wieren on Friday, April 10, before its 2009 travel to Nashville this weekend to take on to continue his development. With Tom home opener against the Washington The baseball team (11-11, 5-3) took two conference rival Lipscomb and Belmont on Glavine requiring innings to recover from Nationals. Van Wieren manned the broad- of three from host Stetson this past weekend Friday and Saturday. … The softball team shoulder surgery and Jorge Campillo and cast booth for 33 years, many of which as the Owls swept a doubleheader on Sunday Javier Vazquez returning from WBC play, dropped games to Georgia on March 18 and found him alongside Skip Caray, who to clinch the series. After dropping the Friday Mercer on March 21 before having a dou- the organization realized that the innings passed away last summer. He is also sched- would get eaten up by the projected staff of uled to throw out the first pitch. … Former night opener 7-2, KSU scored a total of 26 bleheader at Campbell rained out on Derek Lowe, Vazquez, Jair Jurrjens, Braves centerfielder Marquis Grissom, who runs in the next two games to achieve the Saturday. The Campbell games were Kenshin Kawakami and Glavine. ... still lives in the Atlanta area during the off- series victory. In the second game, the Owls rescheduled for April 7. Before then, the Outfielder Josh Anderson was traded to the season, is hosting the Grissom Fields of were led by sophomore infielder Bucky Lady Owls will play doubleheaders at home Detroit Tigers on Monday for Rudy Darrow, Dreams Spring Extravaganza on Thursday, Smith, who homered twice in a 13-6 come- against Stetson and Florida Gulf Coast on a minor league reliever. April 9, from 3-7 p.m. in Conyers. For more information, visit mgba.org. back win. Smith launched his second dinger Friday and Saturday respectively. SORIANO HURT … Proctor can be reached at in the sixth inning, a three-run blast that gave Black can be reached at Braves reliever Rafael Soriano reported- [email protected] KSU the lead for the first time at 7-6. The [email protected].

Baseball team pulls historic upset; John receives Golfer of the Week honors ed by a trio of home runs, the Georgia host UNC Wilmington at Panthersville. benefit the Hootie and the Blowfish Thursday in the Chitimacha Louisiana Open LState baseball team earned a 10-1 upset Georgia State freshman Allen John, the Foundation. Georgia State’s lineup for the presented by Dynamic Industries. Oakey was win over No. 3 Georgia Tech on Tuesday top-ranked Panther according to Golfweek’s tournament is junior Tom Sherreard, fresh- a member of the men’s golf team from 2002- night at Russ Chandler Stadium. The win latest rankings, has been named CAA Golfer of man Allen John, sophomores Tobias 07. Oakey qualified for the event in over the third ranked Yellow Jackets (16-3) the Week for his play at the John Hayt Rosendahl, Brent Paul, and Alan Fowler. The Broussard, La. by finishing as one of the top was the highest ranked opponent that the Collegiate Invitational at Sawgrass Country Panthers are coming off of a disappointing seven finishers during a Monday qualifier, Panthers have defeated in the history of the Club in Ponte Vedra, Fla. John earned a seventh 15th of 18 finish at the Schenkel E-Z-Go shooting 69. “It feels good to be able to final- program. “We look at every game as a big place finish, leading the Panthers to a fourth of Invitational in Statesboro, Ga. ly tee it up on the Nationwide Tour,” com- game and a big win,” commented head coach 15 finish, by carding a 75-72-72—220 (+4). The 36th-ranked (Golfweek) women’s mented Oakey. “I spent last year preparing Greg Frady. “To come over here to Georgia golf gears up this week to host the 16th for this on the Canadian Tour and working to Tech and get a win like this against a great MORE GOLF NEWS … annual John Kirk/Panther Intercollegiate at reach this level. Now that I am out here, I organization and such a well run club is a The 46th-ranked (Golfweek) Georgia the par 72, 6,047 yard Eagle’s Landing want to try and take full advantage of it.” special thing. Tonight was also the first night State men’s golf team heads to Awendaw, Country Club in Stockbridge, Ga., beginning Dave Cohen is in his 26th season as the that we played on television in a number of S.C. for the Hootie at Bulls Bay hosted by on Monday, March 30th. “Voice of Georgia State Basketball and years, so that just adds to an already great College of Charleston at the par 72, 7,282 Former Georgia State men’s golf Derek Baseball” on WRAS-FM (88.5) and works evening of baseball for our team.” The yard Bulls Bay Golf Club beginning Sunday, Oakey has qualified for his first Nationwide on the football radio crew at Furman Panthers are now 15-7 on the season and March 29th. Proceeds from the tournament Tour event and will tee off beginning on University in Greenville, S.C.

WWW.SCOREATL.COM APRIL 1-7, 2009 SCORE ATLANTA I 17

Brand-new rotation, improved outfield make Braves dangerous in playoff race t has been more than three years since the well for Puerto Rico in the World Baseball Frenchy was expected to pro- IAtlanta Braves reached the playoffs. In Classic and upon returning to the team has vide the pop that Andruw Jones each of those two seasons, Braves fans fig- continued his hot spring. The big right-hander had for years, but his struggles ured that the team was a lock for postseason is also a workhorse and will let the bullpen were just a microcosm of the play, only to come to the cold, hard realiza- have a light day on his turn on the bump. 2008 outfield. Centerfield was tion that, ultimately, the team was flawed. The rotation was filled out by 2008 a rotating door between Mark This offseason fans may have jumped off the breakout star Jair Jurrjens (his 13 wins last Kotsay, Gregor Blanco and bandwagon, thinking the team is a year or year led the team), Japanese-import Kenshin Josh Anderson. Left field was two away. But the 2009 edition of the Braves Kawakami and Tom Glavine. Some Braves also an area of concern with may surprise a lot of people. fans were irked with super-prospect Tommy Matt Diaz, Brandon Jones, Hanson’s recent demotion to minor league midseason pickup Greg camp, but Braves management felt that the REVAMPED STAFF … Norton and Omar Infante. The General manager Frank Wren faced a future ace needed regular work instead of power was never there and major crossroads after last season. He had spot work, which is what he would have decisions to make on John Smoltz, Tom received had he stayed with the big club. Wren wanted to correct that Glavine, left field and the bullpen. Wren’s Hanson has been quite impressive this this season, so he signed decision to overhaul the starting rotation spring, tallying 14 strikeouts in 14-plus Garret Anderson. The former with the idea of acquiring inning-eaters to innings of work and consistently hitting 94- Angel has hit close to .300 aid the wear on the bullpen has proved to be plus on the radar gun. He has also shown a for his career and can provide nice curveball and slider. Hanson’s promo- some pop from the left side of the plate. a wise one thus far in the spring. New staff SPRING FLING: Yunel Escobar and the rest of ace Derek Lowe has looked sharp, and will tion this summer could be what David Price’s Anderson might also be plugged into the was last season for the Tampa Bay Rays and cleanup spot in the batting order. The center- the Braves will look to get an early leg-up on be the Opening Day starter. Lowe has mixed the competition with divisional series against a nice sinker in with a sneaky fastball to jus- Joba Chamberlain’s was the season before field spot might also find rookie Jordan tify the contract the club game him. The for the Yankees. Schafer manning the position on opening day, the Phillies, Nationals and Marlins to open up right-hander will be the pitcher that manager as Schafer has flashed impressive leather and the year. After three seasons with no playoff Bobby Cox trots out against the opposition’s OFFENSIVE IMPROVEMENTS … has posted a .360-plus average this spring. appearances, the team hopes to return to post- No. 1, and Lowe has proved in the past that One of the team’s biggest weaknesses Francoeur still remains the X-factor that season play. Photo courtesy of Todd Kirkland/Atlanta Braves. he can be a big-game pitcher. In 2004, Lowe last season was lack of pop in the outfield, could make this outfield a potent one if he can hitting catcher in the game. If both can get started each of the series-clinching games for and part of that had to do with Jeff live up to his .290/25 home run potential. some help from Anderson, first baseman the Red Sox as Boston won its first world Francoeur’s season-long slump. The one- The strength of this lineup remains with Casey Kotchman and shortstop Yunel title in 86 years. time “future of the franchise” hit just .239 its two All-Stars, Chipper Jones and Brian Escobar, this team could be in the running for The trade for Javier Vazquez may have with 11 home runs and .359 slugging per- McCann. Jones won the batting title last sea- the NL wild card all season long. raised a few eyebrows at the time, but Vazquez centage. The organization even briefly sent son and can still rake even in his mid-30s, Proctor can be reached at has impressed this spring. Vazquez pitched him to AA Mississippi to clear his head. while McCann has quietly become the best [email protected]. PUMPING THE IRON AT ROSWELL…

HOISTIN’ HORNETS: Last Saturday, the Roswell football teams, from 6th-12th grade, took part in the first annual StrongMan Competition to raise money for the program. Members of the Roswell community were in attendance to watch some of the area’s gridiron standouts compete in five different strongman events. Photo courtesy of Linda Porter.

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

information, call 678-714-7454 or e-mail through instruction and game play. For more Atlanta School of Gymnastics in Lawrenceville. BASKETBALL [email protected]. information, contact Christy Howard at 770-614- Ongoing. Classes for tots through teens. Hawks. March 19 vs. Dallas 7 PM. March 21 at www.atlantasilverbacks.com/indoor. 6686 x106 or visit www.ssasports.com. Cheerleading classes for ages 5 and older. For Cleveland 1 PM. March 23 vs. Minnesota 7 PM. Capitol City Officials Association. CCOA is accepting High School Volleyball League. Beginning February 7 information call 770-277-9434. March 25 vs. San Antonio 7 PM. March 27 vs. ongoing registration for the upcoming GHSA High @ Suwanee Sports Academy for girls grades 9- The Little Gym of Snellville. Ongoing. Noncompetitive Boston 7:30 PM. March 29 vs. Los Angeles Lakers School season in football. We hold weekly training 12. This league is designed for athletes who want t gymnastics and motor-skills development classes 3:30 PM. March 31 at Philadelphia 7 PM. meetings. For more information, contact Irvin o get in the gym but don’t want to commit to club and camps. For ages 10 months-12 years. For Top of the Key. Ongoing. Personal basketball lessons Seabrook at 404-957-3331 or e-mail volleyball. For more information, contact Christy information call 770-982-0901 or visit with Olympian Debbie Miller-Palmore, boys and [email protected]. Howard at 770-614-6686 x106 or visit www.ssas www.tlgsnellvillega.com. girls ages 8-18. For information call 770-465-1502. ports.com. Southern Xposure. Ongoing. Cobb County Christian HOCKEY RACING School - Marietta. AAU and YBOA tryouts for 9- Thrashers. April 1 vs. Buffalo 7 PM. April 3 at Florida SWIMMING & DIVING Suzuki Superbike Showdown. April 3-5 at Road and-under and 8-and-under teams. For information 7:30 PM. April 5 at Washington 3 PM. April 7 vs. Swimming lessons. Ongoing - Alpharetta City Pool - Atlanta. call 404-447-3992 or email [email protected]. Washington 7 PM. April 9 vs. Florida 7 PM. April 11 Alpharetta, Ga. - 1825 Old Milton Parkway. For Off-Season Legends Race. April 3 at Atlanta Motor Peach State Basketball. Ongoing. Basketball skill vs. Tampa Bay 7 PM. information call 678-297-6107. Speedway. development training for college caliber high school Gladiators. April 1 at Florida 7:30 PM. April 3 vs. South Gwinnett Aquatics. Ongoing - 2800 Quinberry Drive players throughout the off-season. Players can use Carolina 7:35 PM. April 4 at Charlotte 7:30 PM. and Bethany Church Road. For ages 5-18. Swim OFFICIATING these sessions to continue improving all year long. Peachtree Booster Club. Ongoing - Pickneyville Roller team and lessons available. For information call Basketball - Duluth basketball association. Contact Brandon Clay at 404-422-3946 or visit Hockey Rink. Fees: $95 for 12-game season, $30 770-972-4055. Ongoing. Looking for youth officials with training www.peachstatehoops.com for more information. out-of-county fee. For information visit Senior Water-Exercise class. Ongoing - Mountain Park provided. For information call Barry Sullivan at Suwanee Sports Academy. Ongoing. Basketball train www.pbsports.org. pool - Lilburn, Ga. Fees: $1 per class. For informa 770-623-1750. ing and development for boy and girls grades K-12. tion call 770-546-4650. 10-10:50 AM. Football - Lanier Football Officials Association. Rising Stars, Future Stars, Suwanee Basketball SOCCER SwimAtlanta Sugarloaf at Kid’s Village. Ongoing. Ongoing. GHSA member accepting applications League, On Court Player Development, nationally- Challenged Soccer. Ongoing. For mentally and physi Swim team, lessons, lap swimming, master’s pro with weekly training meetings. For information call recognized year-round comprehensive player devel cally disabled youngsters. For information call Ken gram, water aerobics and scuba available. For Tom Tipton at 770-967-3197, ext. 239 or visit opment program. For more information contact Higgins at 770-985-0434. information call 678-442-7946. www.lanierofficials.org. Mike Brown at 678-541-0176 or visit www.ssasports.com. Fair Play Sports Center. Ongoing on Saturdays. Indoor Metro Atlanta Wrestling Officials Association. Mark Price Shooting Lab. Ongoing: Personalized pro soccer for ages 4-7. 30- to 60-minute classes. For YOUTH REGISTRATION Ongoing. Needs officials. For information call Bud fessional shooting instruction through one-on-one information call 770-831-3210. Soccer - Soccer Alley. Ongoing - 3265 Roswell Road- Hennebaul at 770-338-0705 or email coaching and state-of-the-art technology at Hall of Fame soccer clinics. Ongoing on Fridays - Atlanta. For information call 404-266-0762 or visit [email protected]. Suwanee Sports Academy. For more information, Clarkston Community Center. For under-6 through www.starsoccerclub.com. 9RCorp Sports Officials. Ongoing. Provider of sports contact Mike Brown at 678-541-0176 or visit under-12 players. Fees: Free. For information call Tucker Youth Soccer. Ongoing - 2803 Henderson Road officials for multiple sports including basketball, www.ssasports.com. 404-508-1050 or visit Tucker, Ga. For information call 770-414-0538 or flag football, & softball. Looking for additional SSA’s On Court. Check out Suwanee Sports www.clarkstoncommunitycenter.org. 5:30-7 PM. visit www.tysa.com. officials.For information call Dennis Reagan at 404- Academy’s On Court, the nation’s premier off-sea Competitive Amateur Soccer in Atlanta For more Track and Field - Peachtree City Flash Youth Track 213-0588 or email [email protected]. son development program at the nation’s premier information, visit www.majesticsoccer.com. Team registration. Ongoing - Riley Field -Peachtree Georgia Lacrosse Officials Association. Needs youth basketball training facility right here in Gwinnett City, Ga. For ages 6-14. For information call and High School officials for 2007-2008 season. County! For more information, contact Michael TENNIS 770-631-3552 or email [email protected]. Training and mentoring provided for free. Great Brown at 678-541-0176 or visit Technique Clinics. Ongoing - Bitsy Grant Tennis Center. Gymnastics - Georgia Gymnastics Academy. Ongoing. way to earn some extra money and get some fun www.ssasports.com. Tuesdays (serve/volley) and Saturdays For registration in Lawrenceville call 770-962- aerobic exercise. For more information, visit Open Recreational Basketball. GSL -- Georgia Sports (forehand/backhand). Fees: $18. For information 5867; in Suwanee call 770-945-3424. www.GALAXREF.com or call Jim Westbrook at Leagues. Georgia’s Best Sports Leagues. call 404-790-4772 or email Gym Elite. Ongoing. Registration for ages 2 and older. 770-753-9059. Registration ongoing. We offer “Top Gun,” “B,” [email protected]. 2 PM on Saturdays, Cheerleading for ages 6 and older. For information “C”and Co-Ed styles of play around Atlanta. We 6:30PM on Tuesdays. call 770-242-0678. ATLANTA SPORTS COUNCIL play ALL year round. For more information please Tennis camps for kids. Ongoing weekly. Lost Mountain Youth Soccer Training. Ongoing. Start age 3 and up. Chick-Fil-A Bowl. Dec. 31, 2009. Georgia Dome. For contact (678)799-0159 or email mark@georgi sports Tennis Center. For information call 770-528-8525. For information, call 678-714-7454 or e-mail tickets, call 404-444-4444. leagues.org.Visitwww.georgiasportsleagues.org. [email protected]. To reach the Atlanta Sports Council call 404-586- Just Skills Of Atlanta. 8-week basketball fundamentals LACROSSE www.atlantasilverbacks.com/indoor. 8510 or visit www.atlantasportscouncil.com. program for boys and girls ages 5 to 17 at Bogan Lacrosse. Ongoing. Registration for 1st-8th grades. For Flag Footall. GSL -- Georgia Sports Leagues. Park in Buford and Lenora Park in Snellville. Spring information call 404-216-5870, email Georgia's Best Sports Leagues. Registration MISC programs start the week of March 24th, Summer [email protected] or visit ongoing. We offer Youth Flag Football for ages Senior Horseshoe Pitching League. Ongoing - programs start the week of June 3rd, Fall programs www.bagatawaylacrosse.com. (6-8) and (9-12) year olds for both Boys & Girls. Gwinnett Senior Center - Bethesda Park. Includes start the week of August 11th. Please visit PlayLaxGwinnett. Ongoing. Players, coaches, referees Games are played in the Chamblee, Doraville, instructional coaching. Games will be played under www.justskillsofatlanta.com for more information needed for play at Gwinnett Sports Center. For Dunwoody area. Next season starts in February. NHPA rules. For men and women seniors. Meets or call 770-296-2580. Sessions are filling up now information call Chris Chico at or 678-429-0094 or For more information please contact (678)799- Tuesdays. For information call for spring, summer and fall. Ask about our free email [email protected]. 0159 or email [email protected]. 770-9722434 10AM. introduction day to see what Just Skills Of Atlanta Double Stixx Lacrosse. Ongoing - Leagues, Travel Visit www.georgiasportsleagues.org Pool Tournament. Every Monday - Ongoing - is all about. Teams and Tournaments for youth, high school and Atlanta Junior Golf. Boys and girls, ages 7-18, can Motorheads Bar ‘n’ Grill - Henry County. Cost: No adult’s boys and girls. More information about the enjoy summer and fall tournaments throughout cover. For information call 770-898-0008 or visit BASEBALL best lacrosse programs in Georgia can Metro Atlanta and Middle and North Georgia (from www.motorheadsbarandgrill.com. 7 p.m. Braves. (Preseason). April 1 at Detroit 1:05 PM. April 2 be found at www.doublestixxlacrosse.com or by Dalton to Macon and from Carrollton to Athens) in Pool Tournament. Nightly - Ongoing - Sean Patrick’s at Houston 1:05 PM. April 3 vs. Detroit 7:10 PM. contacting Chris Smith at chris@dou one the nation’s premier junior golf associations. Bar & Grill - Buckhead. Fees: No cover. For infor- April 4 vs. Detroit 1:10 PM. (Regular season). April blestixxlacrosse.com or 404-550-5322. All skill levels are welcome, from beginner to expe mation call 770-650-5723. 8 PM. 5 at Philadelphia 8 PM. April 7 at Philadelphia 7:05 rienced players, with more than 8,000 rounds of East Cobb Bass Club. Ongoing - Ryan's Family PM. April 8 at Philadelphia 3:05 PM. April 10 vs. RUNNING golf available during the summer program alone. Steakhouse - Canton Road - Marietta, Ga. Boaters Washington 7:30 PM. April 11 vs. Washington 7 3rd Annual Yellow Jacket 5K and Mile Buzz Run. For more information, log on 770.850.9040. and nonboaters welcome. Meets the first PM. April 12 vs. Washington 1:30 PM. April 14 vs. Apr. 4. Jesup, 9 AM. 912-427-4707 or Corpus Christi Youth Basketball League. Registration Tuesdayof each month. For information call Florida 7 PM. www.wayne.k12.ga.us/WCYJRun.htm is now underway for our 29th season! Boys and 770-364-3036 or email [email protected]. 7 PM. Prospect Watch. Ongoing - Buckhead. Baseball pitch- 18th Annual Silver & Archibald Run/Walk for girl sages 5 through 14, any skill level, are wel Cohutta chapter of Trout Unlimited. Ongoing - ing and hitting lessons by a former college and Home 5K. Apr. 4. Athens, 8 AM. 706-769-6593. come. Cost: $90 per child/$85 for siblings. Fee Delkwood Bar and Grill. Meets the fourth Thursday mino league coach. For information call 404-869- Emory PA Fun Run 5K. Apr. 4. Atlanta, 9 AM. includes uniforms, field trips, skills clinics, 9 of each month. For information call 770-425-5364 7966 or visit www.eteamz.com/tryouts. 770-655-6785. games and more! Register while space is still avail or email [email protected]. 6:30 PM. Adult Baseball League Metro Atlanta. Ongoing. MSBL Relay for Life of Bleckley County 5K. Apr. 4. able Saturdays October 11 & 18, 2008, 10 AM to GEORGIA BIKES! Membership. Ongoing. The effec- 18+, 28+, 38+, and 48+. Sunday League con Cochran, 9 AM. 478-290-1930. 12 PM. Location: Corpus Christi Church Sports tiveness of GEORGIA BIKES! is dependent on vol- tact info is 770.785.2588, e-mail CrimeStoppers Azalea Run 2009 5K/10K. Apr. 4. Arena, 600 Mountain View Drive, Stone unteers, supporters, and members, like you, who [email protected]. MSBL 18+ Saturday Savannah, 8 AM. 912-652-3560. Mountain, GA 30083. For info, call 770-469-0395, are willing to make a and Club/Small Business: $100. League contact info is 770-436-8114, e-mail Race for Ronald 10K. Apr. 4. Atlanta, Georgia Tech, email [email protected], or visit the league’s Condor Handball Organization. The Condors feature [email protected]. MSBL 18+ 8 AM. gtadpi.org/philanthropy/philanthropy.htm website(www.ccybl.net). current Men’s National Team members and past Midweek Wood bat league contact info is 770-436- Homes for People and Pets 5K/Mile. Apr. 4. National Team members and Olympians as well as 8114, e-mail [email protected]. MSBL 18+ Commerce, Georgia Tech, 4 PM. 706-769-6593. SOFTBALL the greatest American to ever play the sport, Darrick Fall League contact info is 770-436-8114, e-mail The 2009 JCB 5K Charity Run. Apr. 4 Pooler, 8:45 AYSA Spring Season. Ongoing - North Park - Cogburn Heath. We have weekly leagues and training opportu [email protected]. For more information a.m.; 912-447-2253. and Bethany - Alpharetta. Fees: If Alpharetta nities for men, women, and youth. For more informa about our Atlanta Adult Baseball League, please Nancy Parrish Bridges Memorial Run 5K/12K Residential Property Tax IS NOT PAID at the pri tion, contact Jeb Bell at handball@equipmentcon visit our website at www.AtlantaMSBL.com. and Fun Run. Apr. 4. Cordele, 8 AM. mary residence of the player, then the Non-City trols.com. TNT Sports. Ongoing. Baseball pitching and hitting les 229-938-1222. Resident Fee must be paid. After Jan. 13, $10 l Performance Training Inc. at Suwanee Sport sons by Rob Blair, former college coach, Snellville. Peach Pace 5K/1Mile Fun Run. Apr. 4 Fort Valley, ate fee is charged. Academy. Ongoing. Offers speed, agility, and quick To set up a free pitching or hitting analysis call 8 AM. 478-825-6466. Senior Softball League. Ongoing - Best Friend Park, ness training for athletes across multiple sports. 678-344-5876. Pound the Pavement for Peter 5K. Apr. 4. Atlanta, Jimmy Carter Blvd., Norcross, GA. All Skill levels For moreinformation, contact Dustin Wolf at 770- Jack City Baseball. Ongoing. Baseball pitching and hit- Brookhaven, 9 AM. 404-327-7738. welcomed. Men age 45+ and women age 40+. 614-6686 x121 or visit www.ssasports.com. ting. Instruction with former pro Keith Whitner. 18-y Open practice on Saturdays and games on Suwanee Sports Academy. Pre-K Athletics for 2, 3 looking for high school players. The new location is Tuesdays, Wednesdays, or Thursdays. For infor and 4 year-olds introduces the basic skills needed inside Velocity Sports in North Gwinnett. For more CAMPS mation call Gary Mastrodonato at 770-266-7042 to play basketball, soccer, and t-ball. Also, there is information call 770-633-0948 or visit jackcity.net. Nike Basketball Camps. Camps located in Snellville, or visit www.atlantaseniorsoftball.com. a unique after school program that provides Roswell, Kennesaw, Oxford and 0894-4297 to find Open Recreational Softball. GSL -- Georgia Sports students with a weekly sports curriculum along FOOTBALL out which dates suit your campers best. Leagues. Georgia’s Best with the after school classroom setting. For more Collins Hill Athletic Association. Ongoing. Accepting Georgia Tech MaChelle Joseph Basketball Camp. SportsLeagues.Registration ongoing. We offer information, call 770-614-6686 or visit applications for qualified coaches in all age groups. Ages range from 7-17. Day camps, overnight "Men's" and "Co-Ed" styles of play in www.ssaports.com. For information email camps and team camps available. Visit www.ram Doraville/Dunwoody area. Monday, Wednesday & Club Sport. Club Sport opens registration for summer Craig Deneau at [email protected] blinwreck.com or call 404-894-4297 to find out Sunday league play available. Next season stars in leagues on May 1st with league play beginning in Grayson Athletic Association. Ongoing. Football which dates suit your campers best. February. We play ALL year round. For more infor- June. Club Sport is Atlanta's recreational sports coaches needed for eighth grade and all age Harlem Legends. The Harlem Legends have scheduled mation please contact (678)799-0159 or email and social group with over 10,000 participants groups. For information call Duane Davis at their 2008 Shoot for the Stars Basketball & [email protected]. Visit www.geor each year on 1200 teams in 120 leagues. Each 678-300-0282 or visit www.gaasports.org. Physical Fitness Camps. The "Shoot for the Stars giasport sleagues.org. season Club Sport offers leagues in flag football, Flag Football. GSL -- Georgia Sports Leagues. Youth Basketball Camps and Clinics" are a unique Capitol City Officials Association. CCOA is accepting softball, soccer, sand and indoor volleyball, basket Georgia’s Largest Flag League. Registration ongo- form of learning experiences geared towards young ongoing registration for the upcoming GHSA High ball and more. Club Sport is where Atlanta comes ing. We offer 7-Man, 8-man, Youth and Co-Ed basket ball players of all skill levels. There are two School season in fast-pitchsoftball. We hold week to play! For more information about Club Sport, styles of play around Atlanta. We play ALL year Gwinnett County camps this year. Please visit our ly training meetings. For more information, contact upcoming events, photos or interviews with the round. For information please contact website (www.harlemlegends.com) or call 404- Irvin Seabrook at 404-957-3331 or e-mail owner, please contact Rich Alvarez at 678-994- (678)799-0159 or email mark@georgiasport 837-6719 for additional camps. [email protected]. 0793 ext. 818 or visit www.usclubsport.com. sleagues.org.Visit www.georgiasportsleagues.org. K-Club Classic – D1 Fastpitch Softball. February 20-22. Stout Irish Sports Pub Events and Specials. Monday: Georgia Force Home School High School Football VOLLEYBALL Kennesaw State, Memphis, Buffalo, Miami, Drexel Dart League and Free Pool from 11 p.m.-close; Program. If you are a home school student or a Gwinnett Sports Center. Registration ongoing. For and Iowa are schedule to participate. Entry fee Tuesday: Texas Hold 'em; Wednesday: Trivia Night student that attends a Christian school in the information call Jerry Robison at 678-491-0203 $300. All Tournament Players Park, 3910 Canton and Free Pool from 11pm-close; Thursday: Gwinnett or Hall county region and would like to or visit www.gscfun.com. Hwy Marietta, GA 30066. Register at www.alltour- College Night with DJ All Night; Friday: Happy participate in high school football, please contact Suwanee Sports Academy. Ongoing. Volleyball namentplayerspark.com or (678) 384-6500. Hour Food Specials; Saturday: Game Day all day Scott Willis at 770-531-1499 ext 401 or email at training and development for boys and girls grades long on Stout's big screen plasma TVs; Sunday: [email protected] The Georgia Force High School 3-12.VolleySkills, VolleyStars, VolleyTraining, and GYMNASTICS Game Day all day long on Stout's big screen football program participates in the GFL (Georgia OnCourt Player Development, a year-round Gymnastics Classes at Gymnastics AcademyofAtlanta. plasma TVs. Miller High Life Beers are always $1. Football League) and is accepting players from the comprehensive player development program. For Ongoing - 3126 Cobb Parkway Kennesaw, Ga. For Beer Club:Guests join for $120 and receive a ages of 13-18 years old. We currently offer a JV more information, contact Mary Carnell at 770- information call 770-975-8337 or visit prestigious Stout Club Mug engraved with their and Varsity program. For more information, please 614-6686 x108 or visit www.ssasports.com. www.gymnasticsacademyofatlanta.com. name on it.Each visit over the course of the year, go to our web site at www.forcehighschoolfooball.com. VolleyStars. Beginning February 7 @ Suwanee Sports Gymnastics Classes at Gwinnett Gymnastics Center members enjoy their first beer of choice on the Arena Indoor Football. Ongoing. Youth and Adult Academy for girls & boys grades 6-8 teaches Ongoing - 927 Killian Hill Road Lilburn, Ga. house. For more, call 404.869.1151 or email Leagues. Youth 7 vs. 7; Adult 6 vs. 6. For individual skill development and team concepts Forinformation call 770-921-5630. www.stoutirish pub.com.

WWW.SCOREATL.COM APRIL 1-7, 2009 SCORE ATLANTA I 19

Hawks focused on final stretch of season SAID ON THE AIR he 2008-09 season has not yet come to a NOT DONE YET … “[Knowshon] Moreno possess- Tclose (there were eight games left as of While Atlanta has no doubt met regu- es Barry Sanders-like lateral press time), but it has already been a memo- lar-season expectations, in the big picture, quickness, and although he rable one for the Atlanta Hawks. If the season the team must achieve some degree of play- lacks elite speed, the Cardinals ended today, the Hawks would have earned off success for this season to be remem- the four seed and home court in advantage in bered in a positive light. What kind of suc- should snap him up if he falls the first round of the Eastern Conference cess are we talking about? to them [at No. 31].” playoffs. Trailing only conference powers Simply put, Atlanta must get past the - ESPN’s Ben Riley on Georgia Cleveland, Orlando and Boston just a year first round, whoever their opponent may be. running back Knowshon removed from earning the eight seed with a With the season’s end just over two weeks Moreno’s draft prospects mediocre 37-45 record, the Hawks have a lot away, the Miami Heat look like the proverbial to be proud of in ‘09. Historically speaking, favorite to land the five seed and the Hawks WIPE YOUR Atlanta’s 43-31 record finds significance in in a first-round matchup. If not the Heat, the the fact that it marks the team’s first season Philadelphia 76ers will most likely be KEEPIN’ AN EYE ON DEBT AWAY! above .500 in nine years (since the strike- Atlanta’s opponent to open postseason play, shortened 1998-99), the same amount of time but either way, the Hawks will be expected to Affordable Loans for every it’s been since the Hawks made back-to-back make a second-round appearance and will be D. Orlando Ledbetter used Friday to Situation and Budget playoff appearances, another feat they will hugely disappointed/-ing if they don’t. address the NFL Draft and the Falcons’ accomplish in the next month. With that in mind, a 3.5-game lead over role in it specifically, and also simulated Call now and get an the Heat and only eight games remaining in the entire first round. According to answer in 24 to 48 hrs! STEADY IMPROVEMENTS … Ledbetter, offensive tackle Jason Smith It’s about more than just numbers, how- the season, Woodson is probably hard at work preparing for the playoffs, right? Wrong! from Baylor will be the first player Call us at 888-964-7111 ever. The team has found a reliable and selected overall (going to the Detroit promising inside presence in Al Horford, “I’m just trying right now to keep us Lions), while Matthew Stafford will fall to honed a sharp-shooting All-Star in Joe playing to get to the four spot,” he explained Seattle at No. 4. As for the Falcons, Johnson, and covered up the damage inflict- before Friday night’s loss to Boston. “Once Ledbetter believes USC linebacker Clay SCORE ATLANTA ed on the bench from Josh Childress’s Greek we secure the four spot, then we’ll start Matthews will be the choice when the defection with the sometimes-explosive and thinking about the playoffs. That’s the third team picks at No. 24. ADVERTISING INDEX always-reliable duo of Flip Murray and phase. I go in three phases: exhibition sea- Mark Bradley addressed the Hawks’ Maurice Evans. Best yet, with a newfound son, regular season and then playoffs. We’re playoff chances on Friday, acknowledg- 790 The Zone ...... 1, 8 not at the playoff phase yet; we’ve still got a ing the team is far from elite but also touch from the outside, Marvin Williams has Affordable Loans ...... 19 finally begun taking steps, even if they are lot of work on our hands.” suggesting they are as dangerous as small, towards the basketball stratosphere in Knowing Woody’s approach down the ever and even more prepared than they Aqua Blue...... 17 stretch, Hawks fans would be smart to root were for the playoffs last year. “They which experts thought he would be comfort- now know what the postseason entails, Atlanta Hawks ...... 2 ably settled by now. for an Atlanta surge and a Miami meltdown. With Williams and Acie Law both out recov- whereas last season’s team was flying Atlanta Thrashers...... 12 Ask head coach Mike Woodson to blind,” Bradley writes. While Bradley is describe the difference between this year and ering from injury and Atlanta’s other go-to Brandsmart ...... 1, Back Page guys continuing to log big-time minutes, right in assuming playoff experience last, however, and the answer is perhaps sim- helps, there is also a chance last year’s Cigar Merchants...... 19 pler than the many aforementioned team time for rest would be a valuable luxury postseason success against eventual- improvements would suggest. heading into postseason play. Without the champion Boston will have the team FSN...... 19 “Part of it is our defense has gotten bet- four seed locked up, however, it’s simply not overconfident this time around. Georgia State ...... 16 ter,” said Woodson. “Defensively we’ve just an option according to Woodson. gotten much better. Statistically, we now “You can’t; there is no time to rest right Instant Imprints ...... 19 have six guys who average in double figures, now until you’re secure,” he said. “You rest MEDIA Man’s Best Friend ...... 10 and that’s pretty good. after you’re secure. Hopefully we can get it HALL OF FAME “Other teams don’t know who’s going to done here in the next week or so, then you Mikael’s Auto Spa ...... 7 can start thinking about resting.” get you one night and that’s kind of how I set Jayson Stark used Monday to cre- North River Tavern ...... 5 With what looks like will be little to no it up. I wanted it to be that way because other ate various all-baseball teams in many Pro Sports Team Outfitters...... 3 time left over for playoff preparation then, different categories. Chipper Jones teams can’t key in on one guy. But our the postseason experience the Hawks defense has carried us this year without a made Stark’s All-Money team as a Rhodes Bakery ...... 14 gained during last season’s memorable player he would pick if everything was doubt; when we hold teams below 100 we are matchup with Boston looms all the more Road Atlanta...... 4 … some staggering number.” important with every day. riding on one game; Rafael Soriano Ron Veal QB Instruction ...... 19 To be exact, the Hawks are actually an “They taught us how to play basketball made the team for players who make a impressive 37-10 when they hold oppo- at its highest level,” Woodson concluded, lot but fail to produce; Kenshin Sammy’s DJ ...... 14 nents below 100 points and are currently with an air of confidence. Kawakami made a team for players Sport South ...... 19 ranked 12th in the league overall in defen- Janovitz can be reached at who wear No. 11; Jason Heyward and sive efficiency rating. [email protected] Tommy Hanson made the team of phe- TGS Media ...... 14 noms; and Phil Stockman made the All- Trivia Zone ...... 1 Moneyball team for having one of the Wild Bill’s...... 13 CATCH THE THRASHERS AND HAWKS “greatest” last names in baseball. Worthmore ...... 15 TO ADVERTISE IN SCORE ATLANTA: 404.256.1572

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