CONTINUES! PLEASANT GROVE BASEBALL PAGE 6 the COMPETITIVE EDGE MAGAZINE 2 the COMPETITIVE EDGE MAGAZINE the COMPETITIVE from the EDGE Sports Magic Publishing LLC

THE COMPETITIVE ISSUE #8

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THE TRADITION CONTINUES! PLEASANT GROVE BASEBALL PAGE 6 THE COMPETITIVE EDGE MAGAZINE 2 THE COMPETITIVE EDGE MAGAZINE THE COMPETITIVE FROM THE EDGE Sports Magic Publishing LLC. 8523 South Lake Drive, Texarkana, TX 75501 FIELD HOUSE All Rights Reserved A LETTER FROM THE EDITOR EAST TEXAS MARKET DIRECTOR Finally, spring is Edwards about the success they were having Roger Sheppard here! What a dif- this year. His outlook was very optimistic and 4 4 ferent winter we you could detect the excitement and the an- EAST TEXAS EDITOR had this year with ticipation of going deep in the play-offs. At Roger Sheppard all the wind, rain press time they are getting ready for the Area and snow. It is round of the playoffs. ADVERTISING & MARKETING now time to clean Robert Rankin off the lawn chairs It is great to follow high school athletics in Roger Sheppard and throw them our area, and we hope you enjoy following Debbie Sheppard in the trunk so with us in the Competitive Edge Magazine. I you can take in thank all of you that have committed on the CONTRIBUTING WRITERS spring sports that magazine and hope we can bring back some Lindsey Pilgreen abound this time memories of those in the past. It is kind of Kristin Spencer of the year. All like treasure hunting to discover all the suc- Matt Graves across the four states area there are games, cess that has been enjoyed by many an ath- matches, tournaments, and meets being held lete that has played on the court, fields, rinks, DIRECTOR OF EDITORIAL for high school athletics. in this wonderful four states area. Roger Sheppard CREATIVE DIRECTOR It is exciting to witness all the success this Roger Sheppard Jonathan Bryant region is enjoying in all aspects of sports. We have tennis players going to state, golf teams GRAPHIC DESIGNERS heading to the finals. There is tremendous ON THE COVER Gregg Pilgreen talent in the track and field division along The Pleasant Grove Hawks Roger Sheppard COMPETITIVE EDGE MAGAZINE THE COMPETITIVE with success beginning to show in baseball Jonathan Bryant and softball. There is really nothing that re- Baseball Team. ally compares to the Northeast Texas and STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS Southwest Arkansas high school sports. You Erin Treadway can find hard work being done at every athlet- Lindsey Pilgreen ic venue in this area. You can also see training facilities being constructed to capitalize SUBSCRIPTIONS on the feverish interest in all sports. Sports Magic LLC. 8523 South Lake Drive Robert and I took some time visiting with Texarkana, TX 75501 (903) 832-1975 some of the coaches that were leading the pack in golf and baseball. Our first visit was WEBSITE: at Pleasant Grove High School talking to Ri- www.thecompetitiveedgemagazine.com ley Fincher the PG head baseball coach and with Steve Wren the head golf coach at PG. EDITOR One thing you can say in this territory is that roger@thecompetitiveedgemagazine. teams are plentiful, the talent pool deep, and com interest in the sports world is tremendous. ADVERTISING Elite college and pro level talent can be found In our last issue I wrote a story about the THS [email protected] throughout the region, and we want to recog- Cheerleaders and indicated that there were four seniors on the squad. My attention was nize those players, coaches and teams who SUBSCRIPTIONS excel at what they do. Looking at the base- called to the fact that there were 10 seniors. I The Competitive Edge Magazine ball and softball scene we find of the best in assumed that the four that were made available 8523 South Lake Drive the state in both Texas and Arkansas. for interview were the only seniors and you Texarkana, TX 75501 We will also begin to pick up on some of the know what you usually get when you assume 903-832-1975 summer league baseball and soccer teams something. I am sorry to imply that only four that are considered elite travel teams. I have seniors were on the squad. In this cover photo traveled to Shreveport to watch my grand the seniors are Ashlee Martin, Maggie Coleman, daughters soccer team compete in a large Autumn Jester, Caroline White, Rachel White, tournament a couple of weeks ago. I was The Competitive Edge Magazine (TCEM) is somewhat amazed at the skill and effort that Madeline Hundley, Meagan Pattonm, Chasity published monthly by Sports Magic Pub- Jefferson, Haley Garner, Katie Johnson, The lishing LLC. Reproductions in whole or was displayed on the field. Her team lost in in part without permission are prohibited. the finals 1-0 in what turned out to be a de- mascot for the group is also a senior, Chandler TCEM is not responsible for the return of fensive battle. Thomas unsolicited art work, photography or man- uscripts and will not be responsible for We took a look at the Redwater Lady Dragons I am very sorry for the mistake and will be more holding fees or other similar charges. All digital submissions or correspondences softball team and found a very solid squad. careful in my discovery as to not leave anyone will become property of The Competitive We spent some time talking to Coach John out. Edge Magazine.

5 THE COMPETITIVE EDGE MAGAZINE

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GENOA SIGN PLAYERS

Cale is the son of Tammy and Hershal Downs. Cale is the son of Tammy a .381 batting average with 19 rbi’s and two homeruns. summer baseball for the East Texas Canes where he had he where Canes Texas East the for baseball summer the Xtra Innings Classic in Jonesboro, AR. Cale played Cale played AR. the Xtra Inningsin Jonesboro, Classic tournament team, the all area team, and participatedteam, in area all the tournament team, and 2014 all conference and all-state team, the all-state 11 doubles, and 24 rbi’s. He was a selected to the 2013 He finished the season hitting .457 with 4 home runs, son leading Genoa Central to the state championship. state the to Central son leading Genoa finished off a great 2014 junior- sea academic and baseball career. Cale and baseball career. academic Arkansas-Little Rock to continue his to continue his Rock Arkansas-Little He has signed with the University of University signedthe He has with from Genoa Central High School. High Central Genoa from Cale Ridling is a 6’3 195 outfielder and Kevin Huff. and Kevin all-state tournament team, the all-area team, and particteam, all-area the team, tournament all-state Debbie son of the is Garrett scored. lected to the all-conference team, the all-state team, the team, all-state the team, all-conference to the lected with 24 stolen bases and 18 runs spot, and a school record 32 stolen bases. He was se- was He bases. stolen 32 school record spot, and a batting average .333 had a he where ples, and two home runs. He had 19 rbi’s from the leadoff the from rbi’s 19 had He runs. home two and ples, Gar AR. Jonesboro, in Innings Classic Xtra the in ipated rett played summer baseball for the East Texas Canes the season hitting .480 with 46 hits, 12 doubles, two tri Genoa Central to the state championship. He finished Garrett Garrett finished off a great 2014 junior season leading University to continue his academic and baseball career. baseball career. and to continue his academic University Central High School. He has signed with Arkansas State Arkansas with signed has He High School. Central Garrett Garrett Huff is a 6’0 185 middle infielderfrom Genoa 6 THE COMPETITIVE EDGE MAGAZINE importance ofeveryonesimportance position intheunit.” team in front of their individual stats and goalsrealizing the the put definitely They roll. that with happy are and needed if nine players Wecan start. have those that are ready to take up the slack only that understand ofthem all and unselfish their everyday lives and in staying out of trouble. They are very team effort. They know the importance of being consistent in in thecommunity. Noonewants to let anyonein this down concerned and work hardabout the team effort in academics as well as very are They field. the off and field the on both getherness of the players. Riley said, “Our kids are close very ing were equal andprobably was the to- the most important in every phase of the game. Pitching, hitting, running and field- Riley described his 2015 team as an all-around team, excelling success thatweare having onthefield.” of thegames. It buses at the beginningcontributesto sake of winning. We love watching all the fans getting off the excitingis very to see all the community pulltogether for the that the communitywasto cause contributing saying,“it to the games. He spoke and pride highly of all the support fromcoming theADingettingfanbusestogethertotake fans director happy Josh Gipson.Hewasvery withthesupport in the play-offs. Riley began by heaping phrase on hisathletic and werementioned sports excited very about their chances Fincher and Steve Wren are the two head coaches of the two vis- to chose it with the Pleasant Grove Baseball andGolfcoaches. Riley Magazine Edge Competitive The month This BASEBALL PLEASANT GROVE competing fortheStatechampionship. We wish the Pleasant Grove Hawks all theluckinworld assistant atPGpriortohistenure atAshdown. play-offs the in the game. championship He was falling just an a little short to it made panthers The success. enjoyed he Coach Fincher came to Pleasant Grove fromwhere Ashdown perspective itwilltake care ofusinthelongrun.” in their field. Riley Stated, “If we do all the right thing from our control theother teams todoall theythe right things just try possible as with the goal ofcontrolling the situation. Without the ability to competitive as practices their keep to try rule.They run the past play to difficult it found have they hot ing play. and the With the bats pitching beingoutstanding smok- left on their schedule with six wins and nolosses in district At the Hawks have the time of this story four district games

Check Out Our New Website www.sportsmagicinc.com JARION LAWSON 8 OUR SPOTLIGHT PLAYER THIS MONTH COMES FROM LIBERTY EYLAU HIGH SCHOOL.

He literally JUMPED into the spotlight with tow first place performances in the long jump and the triple jump. What is more remarkable than that is Jarrion was a five- time Texas state champion. At the 2011 and 2012 UIL COMPETITIVE EDGE MAGAZINE THE COMPETITIVE Texas 3A State Championships, he swept the long and triple jump event titles. In the process of sweeping the horizontal jumps at the state meet, Lawson broke the Class 3A state records in both events with marks of 25’8” in the long jump and 51’10.25” in the triple jump. Both jumps also represented the top prep marks in the United States. For his performance, Lawson was named the Texas 3A most outstanding athlete for the second straight year. As a sophomore, he was also part of the Leopards’ state champion 4 X 400 meter relay team. With this kind of skill one would only expect Jar- Jarrion was a letter winner and team captain for the Lib- rion to be just a great in his college career and let erty-Eylau basketball and football teams. me tell you.... He hasn’t disappointed anyone. Fol- lowing his prep career at Liberty-Eylau, Jarrion was a double winner at the USA Junior Championships with first place performances in the long jump and triple jump. Representing the United States, he went on to finish third in the long jump and sixth in the triple jump at the World Junior Championships in Barcelona, Spain.

Jarrion has a long list of success at the University of Arkansas where he was the 2014 indoor national champion in the long jump. With his mark at the 2014 indoor event he ranks fourth in all-time NCAA history and number seven in all-time U.S. history. His jump just missed the NCAA championship meet record of 28’4” set by the legendary Carl Lewis in 1981. He currently ranks number tow all-time in Arkansas history in the long jump (27’- 6.5”) He is a two-time All-SEC second team hon- oree and a three time 2014 USTFCCCA first team all-american selection, 2013 All-Ameri- can first team.

Jarrion as a sophomore jumped the #5 NCAA indoor all-time mark of 8.39 meters in 2014, outdistancing second place finisher Corey Crawford by more than a foot. That jump made him the world leader indoors, but remarkably he failed to qualify for the NCAA out doors. The champ made up for his miscues by finishing second at USAs. Leaping to an out door personal best of 8.13 meters. 9 THE COMPETITIVE EDGE MAGAZINE The University of Arkansas ranked number seven just recently got a win from Jarrion in the long jump on day one of the John McDonnell Invitational in Fayette- ville. In his outdoor-season debut, Law- son posted a winning effort of 7.6 meters to lead a 1-2-3 finish for the Razorbacks in the long jump. The Razorback junior passed on his final three jumps after the third-round mark. It was his first appear- ance since his runner-up showing at the NCAA indoor championships.

We will be watching Jarrion the remain- der of the season to see just how far he can go. 10 THE COMPETITIVE EDGE MAGAZINE DANNY THARP talk about loudandanimated, hewas justthat.His kidswere Coach Tharpe put inhiscoachingstyleand thatwasafact.You school. Ihadalways heard andexcitement about theeffort that High School.He wastheheadbasketball coach at DeKalbhigh Tharpe. IfirstmetDannywhile coachingbasketball atHooks poletes. ThepersonIamtalking aboutisDanny dribblers organization. He called his group Thar- Magictohave printedforhislittle Sports shirts gentleman thatwouldfrequently cometo plished athletethatIhadever seenwasa The personthatIputupasthemostaccom and establishedinfact....NOHYPE! about itwasthatIhadevidence thatiswritten was totallyblownaway. thing Thewonderful worldbutafterIshowedmycardssporting he that thepersonwasvery accomplishedinthe better aboutputtingmineoutthere. Imustsay learned togettheoppositionsstanceontablefirstthen If to gofirstsohecouldn’t after thefact.Ihave addtothestory in thisregion. Ihadacandidate inmindbutIwaswantinghim discussing whowethoughtwasthemostaccomplishedathlete I wastalkingtoacolleaguefew monthsagoandwewere - eel one ofthe mostversatile andgreatest all-round athletes inthe he wasincredibly Hewas accomplishedin many othersports. Cocoa HighSchool toa1960statebasketball championship, but want totalkbasketball. Tharpe wasasixfootguard that led Most ofthepeoplewhoremember Dannyfrom hisplaying days Judging by thereaction ofhiskidsthey knewwhatthatsound he gotupsetslappeditonthefloorlike anoldtimebullwhip. chine. Hekept awhitetowelinhishandatalltimesandwhen disciplined andrandefense andoffense like awelloiledma like drones thatfollowedhisevery command.They were well Hall ofFame. induction intotheFloridaHigh SchoolActivities no lessthan15varsity letters, leadingtohis he attendedCocoaHighSchool.Hereceived inBrevardschool sports County, Floridawhere see, setthebarvery highwhenitcameto about thebestIhave ever heard of.Danny, you will cometothesameconclusionthatIdid Ithinkyouin highschoolandcollegesports Looking backonDanny’s life asalivinglegend was allabout, - 11 THE COMPETITIVE EDGE MAGAZINE - - - life of competition. life luck in his continued We wish him good We the world of sports. Competitive Edge in Edge Competitive true picture of the true picture Danny was and is a about themselves. about themselves. help kids feel better help kids feel and noble in trying to efforts were genuine efforts were disadvantaged. His disadvantaged. to the kids that were to the kids that were and give instruction and give to promote basketball basketball to promote tablish a kids program tablish a kids program hard in this area to es in this area hard Danny worked very Danny worked and then a coach at East Texas State. and then a coach at East Texas He later returned to WCU where he became an assistant coach to WCU where He later returned Dribbler” league for children 6-12 years of age in Brevard county. county. of age in Brevard 6-12 years Dribbler” league for children at Cocoa High from 1965 to 1969 and started the first “Little at Cocoa High from his Brevard community where he coached basketball and tennis basketball he coached community where his Brevard and physical education. After leaving WCU, Tharpe gave back to WCU, Tharpe gave and physical education. After leaving and the championship game in the 1963 NAIAand the championship game in the 1963 National Tourna double majoring in biology with 3.0 grade point average, room to three 20 win seasons, a Carolina’s conference championship, championship, conference 20 win seasons, a Carolina’s to three in the class Tharpe also excelled a mid-season injury. suffering starter in basketball at point guard, Tharpe led the Catamounts at point guard, starter in basketball for the 1964 football team before Danny started at line backer nationally in tennis for three years. During his four years as a During his four years years. nationally in tennis for three in all four seasons. figures in double ment he averaged bles where he went 70 and 1. Tharpe was ranked in the top 25 in the he went 70 and 1. Tharpe was ranked bles where winning 71 straight and never losing a match except in dou- losing a match except winning 71 straight and never was the number one singles and doubles player for four years, for four years, player was the number one singles and doubles as a Senior, playing both offense and defense. In tennis, Tharpe and defense. offense both playing as a Senior, He was a two year starter in football, earning All-State honors He was a two year by the Baltimore Orioles in his senior year. in his senior year. Orioles the Baltimore by no-hitters during his junior and senior seasons. He was drafted junior and senior seasons. He was drafted no-hitters during his batter in th game against Melbourne and tossed a combined 12 Melbourne and tossed a combined batter in th game against threw two perfect games. One in which he struck out every out every games. One in which he struck two perfect threw As a four year starting and second baseman, Tharpe pitcher As a four year age of 100 percent (29 for 29) has never been equaled. (29 for 29) has never age of 100 percent - percent and his state tournament record made made, career tive and state records for the best free throw percentage, consecu- percentage, throw for the best free and state records in WCU history. Danny still holds the school, county, conference conference Danny still holds the school, county, in WCU history. in four different sports and was chosen as the greatest athlete sports as the greatest and was chosen in four different ed into the WCU Athletics hall of fame in 1991 after he started fame in 1991 after hall of WCU Athletics ed into the scholarship to Western Carolina University where he was induct he was where University Carolina to Western scholarship was elected as All-American. He earned a four year basketball basketball He earned a four year as All-American. was elected a two-time first team all state selection, and in his senior year his senior selection, and in first team all state a two-time A four year starter in basketball as a point guard, Tharpe was Tharpe was a point guard, as starterA four year in basketball four years as a Cocoa High Tiger. High Tiger. a Cocoa as four years history of Brevard and of the State of Florida, during Tharpe’s during Tharpe’s Florida, State of and of the history of Brevard 12 12 COMPETITIVE EDGE MAGAZINE THE COMPETITIVE Texas High

Lady Tiger SoccerBy Jessica Emerson

The Texas High Lady Tiger soccer team has always been a successful component of Texas High athletics, but this year’s team held something different. Unlike previous years, this team housed a large amount of freshmen. The Lady Tigers had a successful run, finishing with a 20-4 record after a heart breaking loss to the Mansfield Lake Ridge Lady Eagles in the second round of state playoffs.

“I think the fact that we have such a young team with a lot of freshman is a great thing, especially since we did so well this season,” junior outside midfielder Abigail Hill said. “Now we have so much time to grow together and improve throughout the next few years. Most people see it as a disadvantage, but really it’s our biggest weapon.”

As their season began, the Lady Tigers were not seen as competitors leading into district play. Although they had a winning season leading up to conference play, the district still had them ranked low in the pre-district rankings.

“All of the other teams ranked us at fifth in district before the season started,” Hill said. “Basically, all the coaches from the district came together and voted on how they thought the rankings would go. It was a huge accomplishment for us to finish second in our district since all the other teams underestimated our ability.”

Although the Lady Tigers were victorious in district play, the playoff loss to the Lady Eagles was a bitter defeat. “I’m really proud of how we trained this year, but I wish we could have played more difficult teams in the pre-season,” junior goalie Leah This year’s team also held two record breakers, including Senior Hannah Brantley and Freshman Reagan Sandford, who had to move to North Carolina at the end of the season. Brantley surpassed Caroline Byrd’s career record of 70 goals with her own 73 goals, while Sandford also broke Byrd’s single season scoring record by scoring 28 goals in her rookie season. Also, on that same night, coach Dustin Holly achieved his 100th career win.

“I feel like I contributed to offense this season whether it was goals or assists,” Sandford said. “Just being a part of the team felt like this biggest contribution I could have made. I will miss being part of the family for the Lady Tigers, bonding with each and every person on the team, and most- 13 ly, being able to play soccer with my best friends.” THE COMPETITIVE EDGE MAGAZINE

For many seniors, this was their last season to make an im- pact as a Lady Tiger. After all of the hard work put out over a four year period, the season was gratifying with the help of teamwork and the growth of younger players. “I feel like I had a great senior year,” senior outside midfielder Kelsi Allen said. “I can walk away from high school soccer knowing that I left everything I had on every field I have played on. The freshman helped us a lot this year. We Crenshaw said. “In the games that we lost this year, when it knew we had a lot of talented freshmen coming in, but they really came down to the wire, we didn’t know how to keep all worked super hard during pre-season and I think they all going. This will improve next year as our team matures, but played awesome. I’m really glad I got the opportunity to play it would have been nice to have a pre-season game or two in with them and they helped us seniors have a great senior which we were the underdogs.” year.” Crenshaw plays a difficult role on the team, as a goalkeeper is it her job to prevent the opposing team from scoring. During district play, Longview was the only team the Lady Tigers could not dominate. Longview was a new addition to “I am a goalkeeper, meaning that I am the only player on the district this year, so it was the first time the Lady Tigers the field who can use my hands,” Crenshaw. “My job is to do had faced the Lady Lobos. whatever it takes to stop the ball from going into the goal. I’m the last resort of the defense and I give my absolute best “I think Longview is a great team and in order to be the not to fail my team. I feel like I’ve gotten much more consis- best you have to play the best,” Allen said. “We played hard tent this season. Last season I was really nervous and while against them and never gave up. It helped us to prepare for I had higher highs, I had lower lows. With a great defense I playoffs because they are exactly like the teams we went Texas High had watching my back, I think we all did better together.” against. It showed us that you have to show up ready to play

Lady Tiger SoccerBy Jessica Emerson your best each game and that’s what we did. I wouldn’t trade this year for anything different.”

After exceeding expectations, the Lady Tigers were not disappointed with the run they had this season, with an 11-3 run in district and a 20-4 record overall. It gave them an opportunity to explore their strengths and build off their weaknesses. With a young team on the rise, the Lady Tigers are only looking to improve from here.

“My favorite part of our team is that we all get along so well,” Crenshaw said. “Winning is nice and all, but at the end of the day what you really want is a team you can really love. I love every single one of my teammates and it makes me so happy to get to practice and play with them. With as much time as we spend together, we have to really love each other, and I’m really 14 14 happy that we do.” COMPETITIVE EDGE MAGAZINE THE COMPETITIVE 15 THE COMPETITIVE EDGE MAGAZINE - also asked why these programs such programs these why asked also quiz forestry, trapshooting, as wildlife, sporta to considered was etc… team them. They all said that you still have com- for your and prepare to practice yourself must prepare petition and you contest. each for animals and your partbe a to learn and team of a You and ef- time put in the to have still you fort like you would in any other sport. you fort like their upcoming to Queen City looks forward contests Houston Antonio, Jacksboro, Hooks, San Worth, Fort in and Northeast Texas. We asked students students asked We thought they what partbeing a the of them. has taught FFA how Many expressed indi as grown they’ve practice You viduals. a good responsibility, learn work ethic, and We skills. leadership

The Competitive Edge Magazine Edge Competitive The for what searching always is New competitive a is think we to came renovations Shop Ag. after School High City Queen - trap the from winning a spree newly With two shooting team. classrooms, painted and floored and shop pieces such

greenhouse. greenhouse. ture classes and can properly maintain the newly roofed roofed newly the maintain properly and can classes ture member was also hired so that they may have - floricul to now being 220 students An this additional year. staff vious year’s average at 86 students QUEEN CITY AG CITY QUEEN - pre making the members, ticipating departmentin par- tripled has almost more more student to join the FFA. This pand their program and encourage program pand their er, Queen City hopes Queen to furtherex- er, as a plasma cutter and a wood - plain as a plasma cutter

18 THE COMPETITIVE EDGE MAGAZINE play golf asacollegestudent. to continue can he that hope does He field. medical the into go sure what his major will be yet, but knows that he would like to tinue toplay for funwhen sheisn’t studying. Wilsonisn’t quite now she isn’t planning on playing golfin college, but will con - has already been accepted and planstomajor in biology. As of Jaylie TexasA&M. attend to plans have both Jaylie and Wilson her. and is thankful shehadsomanypeopleinher corner supporting and now I love it.” Looking back she is thankful for being pushed so Ikeptwith alittle encouragement. “Iwaswinning, playing year and it turned out that she did endupenjoying the game It was Mr. Fratangelo that kepther to pushing play her freshman first. at game the for care didn’t really she how about talks and gelo, that “forced” her to play. She has been playing for six years Jaylie the on other hand jokes about a family friend, NedFratan for whathappensonthecourse.” the way. I’m incontrol ofmygame and onlyI can be responsible teammates their weight orgettingin and otherpeoplepulling than baseballat thetime. I knew I wouldn’t have about toworry he states, “It seemed likewhy he chose the sport a better choice of time with them on the course as a child. When asked about due tohisdadandgrandfather. Heremembersa lot spending all was it and five was he when playing started remember.He tells Wilson me that he hasbeenplayingas foras he can long aged them,Jaylie and Wilsonbothhave different viewpoints. When asked how long they have been playing andwhoencour- 2014. 3rd at regionals this year. He was also the runner upat state in district two years in a row, hewonregionals in2014andplaced won out.”has it Wilson rock and best my play to going I’m but “Well, I’m a little worried about Jaylie wanting it so badly too, gold.” the getting is about I’m worried All first. says, he Jokingly into state going hereplied,his mind what wason “First and only Wilson agrees with Jaylie on the goal for this week. When asked the medalthistimearound,” shesaid. want year. this really I state from win a home bringing finally is all she canthinkaboutrightnow. “My onlygoalat this moment although she hasn’t yet brought home the state medal yet, that it’s says Jaylie years. four her of three for state for qualified enced. She also currently holds two regional medals and has fewcomplishment that very schoolstudents havehigh experi- Jaylie has won the district medal for four years straight, an ac- level, with home state hopes ofbringing titles this week as well. titles this year which includetitles at the district and regional world of golf.Both of these teammates have clinched several ber of the team and looksto have promisinga very future in the nior,some ofthe same isshowing success as a third year mem- years and hasproven successful. Wilson Powell, tobevery ju- Jaylie Abernathy, senior, hasbeena member of the team for four fell ofreaching justalittleshort thatgoal. the playoffto see which team advancewould tostate, the girls year with a tie for third place at regionals. Unfortunately, during this successful fairly was team girls year.The this golf to new new totheteam, two returning boys and two boys that were brand are which of three girls, five of consists team The ward. stopped the Jefferson High School Golf Team from pushing for- It’s been a bit of a wet and rainy golf season,butthat hasn’t JEFFERSON GOLF - successful inAustin. and their competitive spirits, we are sure they will both be very possess both they that drive the With 27-28. April on petition com- state the in competing be will athletes young two These the motto,“You can’t ever getwhatyou wantby quitting.” continue to get better with every swing.” Wilson says he lives by You have tokeepfor thenext step andthenextgoalto pushing “Golf hashelpedme to understandthe value of never giving up. their goals. Jaylie chimes in witha little advice as well replying, can remembera sport times like those and continueto push for of andhehopesthat other student athletes considering golfas could get 2nd place and I did!” It’s a moment that he’s very proud moment at state last year. “I had a 15 footer for a birdy so that I As Wilson reflects on his time as a golfer, he remembers his big by Amanda Turner

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STAND OUT! STAND with MULTIPLE SPORT BENEFITS I was at a track meet recently watching my daughter run. these young men went on to play on the division I level on Between races I was visiting with a couple of coaches. We scholarship. were discussing how we believed that track helped prepare kids for other sports. We had no real data to sup- There are also many studies that look at injury rates among port our argument except to say that most schools with the athletes who specialize at an early age. A study out good football teams placed a good deal of emphasis of Loyola University found that early sports specialization on track. After returning home, I wanted to determine if leads to an increased rate of injuries. The study found that our argument had any foundation. Although there really athletes who specialized were 70 to 93% more likely to de- wasn’t much information about schools specializing in a velop injuries than those who played multiple sports. This 22 22 single sport, there was a good deal of information about makes sense if you look at it from an overuse perspec- kids specializing in a single sport at an early age. Over tive. If someone worked in a factory and for eight hours a the past few years as a society we have moved from most day did the same job using the same muscle groups in the kids participating in a variety of sports to many athletes same way you would expect an injury. Early specialization specializing in one sport in order to become the best they in adolescent females is also associated with many types can be. The argument is that if you begin at a young age of knee injuries. There has been a huge increase in ulnar just playing a single sport, that athlete will perform at a collateral ligament (UCL) injuries in young baseball play- higher level. It makes sense right, because if you spend ers. Dr. James Andrews is an expert in this area. He has more time with just one sport you are able to perfect that kept statistics on the number of Tommy John procedures sport and be the next great baseball player, runner, golfer he has performed over the years. The Tommy John sur- and the list goes on. On the other hand, a good friend of gery is what is performed to repair a torn UCL. If I remem- mine makes the argument that there were no overuse in- ber the numbers correctly I think he now does the number juries before organized sports. He said as a kid during the of UCL reconstructions in a month that he once performed summer he would play all kinds of different sports and if in a year. One of the recommendations he gives is to not he was sore from one sport he would play a different game throw year round. In other words, he is recommending not the next day. Deliberate play is when kids get together in specializing at an early age. When I first started practicing the neighborhood and just play. Another argument is if it took several years for me to see my first patient who the kids are just playing in the neighborhood usually they had, received a Tommy John surgery. A year ago I think I COMPETITIVE EDGE MAGAZINE THE COMPETITIVE are all playing. There is no bench and therefore there are saw five in that one year. So for whatever the reason there no kids on the bench. Organized sports develop a pecking is an increase in that particular injury. order very early on and if not in the top tier it may mean sitting on the bench or not playing in a particular league. As parents we want the best for our kids. We want to pro- The question is “What does the research say about spe- vide them with everything they need to give them the best cialization?” chance at success. As athletes we want to do everything we can to become the best at the sport we love. Accord- According to much of the research early specialization in ing to the statistics the way to help an athlete become the one sport is not as good as participating in many sports. best that they can be is to not allow them to specialize A study out of UCLA found that 88% of the NCAA Division I to early. By allowing them to try multiple sports we give athletes in the study participated in multiple sports. Most them a better chance to play at the next level. We also re- of the athletes from our area (that I know)who have gone duce the risk of injury. Multiple sports also allow the ath- on to play at the college or even professional level would lete to determine for him or herself which sport they want have fallen into the 88% who played multiple sports at to spend time perfecting their skills. This will also reduce least until the age of 12. The other side of the argument is the chance of the athlete burning out. According to The that to be a great athlete one must practice 10,000 hours Changing Game Project prior to age 12 the athlete should in their respective sport to reach that level. The statistic spend 80% of their time in deliberate play or sports other for this number of hours came from a study on people who than their chosen sport. Athletes aged 13-15 should split played the violin. Those who practiced 10,000 hours were the time 50/50 between their chosen sport and deliberate great and the ones who did not practice that much were play or other sports. Athletes aged 16 and over should not able to reach the elite level. I don’t have an article spend 20% of the time in deliberate play or another sport. to back this next statement up so take it with a grain of I hope this is as helpful to you. salt but I believe that there is a difference between violin practice and football or baseball practice. Some other ar- See ya Russ. guments for multiple sports is by playing another sports and developing other muscle groups you will be able to play your favorite sport better. Two young men from our area who played football one on the offensive line and one on the defensive line played other sports to help them to become faster and develop better foot work. Both of MULTIPLE SPORT BENEFITS RIDING FOR THE BRANDBY TIM GRAHAM For one high school senior from New she sent to accompany this article, her dad pointed out a brand on Boston, her last act for her alma mater the right sleeve of her shirts. It is the brand of the late Lee Forrester, will not be a ceremonial walk across son of Kevin and Jane McClaran Forrester, who was killed in an auto- the stage to celebrate her graduation. mobile accident on 24 March 2013. Madeline’s parents have certainly It will culminate with a trip to the Tex- impressed upon her the importance of family, and she honors that as High School Rodeo State Finals in every time she takes to the arena. In regards to the scholarship part of Abilene the week of June 5 13, 2015 the association, she earned $1000 scholarship for competing all four where she will have the opportunity to of her high school years in Region 4. She also earned the McKnight represent Region 4 in Barrel Racing. Leader Scholarship from OSU, which targets students who exemplify She will be competing against 99 oth- leadership that are from small towns. Recipients receive a full four er young women who were fortunate year tuition 23 enough to place in the top ten of their respective regions for the title of State Waiver as well as $5,000 for each of their first two years. It is a rather THE COMPETITIVE EDGE MAGAZINE Champion Barrel Racer for 2015. For unique scholarship that offers a Leadership Program that includes Madeline McClaran, the road to the speaker training and a summer conference to develop leadership State Finals started on 7 September of skills next year in Arkansas for all scholarship recipients. Ross and 2014 as she entered the first of twelve rodeos which would allow her Billie McKnight of Throckmorton are interested in students that have to compete in barrel races and earn enough points to make the trip to the potential to become tomorrow’s best and brightest leaders. They the State Finals. Her fastest time and best finish was 16.020 seconds have made a great choice in identifying Ms. McClaran as one of these for 2nd place at the Regional Finals in March of 2015 in Athens. She leaders. seems to be peaking at just the right time, but she has little margin for error in the competition because there is rarely more than a half sec- Rodeo is a big part of her life, but there are many other activities that ond that separates the top place finisher from the 15th place finisher. compete for her time as well. She is a member of the Varsity Golf At the finals in June, there will be 50 contestants that run the barrel Team, the Cross Country Girls Track Team, National Honor Society, pattern on Monday and Tuesday. The remaining competitors will run Student Council and is scheduled to graduate 6th in her class at New on Thursday and Friday. The top 15 averages from these two runs Boston. Madeline is the daughter of Brett and DeAnn McClaran and will advance to the Short Round the sister of Mallari. Her on Sunday. The top four finish- grandparents are Harold and ers from Sunday’s race will then Juanell Halford from Chil- move on to the National Finals dress, Rutledge and Robin Competition in Rock Springs, McClaran from Marshall and Wyoming. Harlan and Nancy Oelklaus from Arizona. She and her She has ridden many horses family worship at Heritage throughout her career in rodeo, Baptist Church in Texarkana and she has a preference for and First Baptist Church in mares when riding in compe- New Boston. tition. The mare that she rides now is called Jazzy, a grey quar- ter horse that was purchased from the late Dan and Patti Moore of Texarkana. Madeline’s love for each and every horse that she has ridden is evident the moment that she starts talking about them. She even bought a gelding named Pop- corn from her role model, Shelly Morgan out of Canton. Shelly is a Pro Barrel Racer that has been to the National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas. Her work ethic and attitude are ones that Madeline tries to emulate. These animals have helped her decide that she wants to major in Animal Science when she travels north next year to Oklahoma State University in the hopes that one day she can become a veterinarian who specializes in genetics and re- production. Madeline will also exhibit her rodeo skills in college, where she will continue to barrel race. There will be five rodeos in the fall and three in the spring in Western Oklahoma and Kan- sas. It is not often that students get to pursue their passion on into college, but she will get to do exactly that next year as a college freshman.

The mission of the Texas High School Rodeo Association is “enriching the lives of Texas student rodeo athletes by preserv- ing our western heritage through the sport of rodeo, promot- ing family values and providing future opportunities through college scholarships”, and Ms. McClaran has certainly taken advantage of this program. As we were evaluating photos that

25 THE COMPETITIVE EDGE MAGAZINE -

Softball Redwater Redwater petition. it is her bat that has helped the Lady Dragons dominate the com- dominate the Lady Dragons has helped the that bat her is it keep the pitches in the zone.” and a Kelli solid shortstop. Kelli For the keep pitches in the zone.” Maud and developed 5 pitches. I have good level of control and she replied, “I have worked with my pitching coach ------from ------from pitching coach my with worked have “I replied, she struck out 82. I ask Katy what her success was contributed to and to contributed was success her what Katy ask I 82. out struck time completed 12 games. She has only 7 walked batters and has defense. Katy, who pitches for the Lady Dragons who have at this at who have Dragons Lady the for who pitches Katy, defense. This dynamic duo uses their skills to dominate in both offence and offence both in dominate to skills their uses duo dynamic This that explain the success the Lady Dragons are having this year. this year. having the Lady Dragons are explain the success that rell. These two girls have been lighting up the stats in to categories to in stats the up lighting been have girls two These rell. The two girls that TCEM is featuring is Kelli Francis and Katy - Wor you lose all doubt that they are making an accurate assessment. are lose all doubt that they you what a person is all about in the products and services they put out put and services they products the about in all is person a what and think that Scottie’s grill is a wonderful place. When you can see wonderful grill is a When you place. Scottie’s and think that Scottie’s opinion because I have always admired his quality of work admired always opinion because I have Scottie’s trip to Redwater to discover what they were all about. I didn’t doubt didn’t I about. all were they what discover to Redwater to trip getting lots of print in the local news papers and decided to make a make and decided to papers news local in the of print getting lots Edge Magazine. I kept noticing that there were two girls that was that girls two were there noticingthat kept I Magazine. Edge average and I would love to see you feature them in the Competitive Competitive in the them feature you see to would love I and average saying, “Coach, you need to look into two girls that are well above above well are that girls two into look to need you “Coach, saying, skill that was on display at the Redwater softball field. He kept and Redwater. Scottie would keep reminding me of the exceptional me of the exceptional reminding would keep Scottie and Redwater. tie’s tie’s Grill located on Highway 67 next to OT’s between Texarkana Scottie Martin.Scottie of Scot and manager owners one of the is Scottie es from a former athletic of mine from Liberty Eylau High School, LibertyEylau mine from of former athletic a from es going on in the region. In this case I kept getting email messag- email getting kept I case this In going region. onin the often helpful to have some scanning eyes keeping up with what is what up with keeping eyes scanning some have helpful to often In the business of writing magazine articlesmagazine business of writing the is In it athletics on local 26 THE COMPETITIVE EDGE MAGAZINE THE COMPETITIVE EDGE MAGAZINE 27 FAMILY LOVE

OF THE GAMEby Amanda Turner 2828 28 Baseball is America’s favorite pas- rable moment was when I played on the Dbats with time, but for one Jefferson High Nate. I was playing ball with my brother while the School family baseball is just a way rest of the family was routing us on.” Nate’s most of life. Ryan and Nate Gibbons cur- memorable moment was playing against New Di- rently play varsity baseball for the ana last year when they went to 13 innings. Luckily, Bulldogs as the catcher and pitcher. Jefferson pulled off a win that day with a score of Both of these boys have been play- 3-2. ing on the same team since child- hood on local and select teams. Throughout the interview the brothers were playing Ryan, a senior at JHS says he has off of each other’s answers and it was very obvi- played the sport since the age of four and Nate, a sopho- ous just how close they were. When asked what more, jokes that he has played “since he was knee high to it would be like to play without each other for the a grasshopper.” Both of the boys, along with their younger first time next year Ryan answered, “It’s going to brother, Luke, are following in the footsteps of their father be different. These past two years as a Bulldog I and grandfather who both played the sport as well. The have been blessed to play with Nate. There aren’t boys talk fondly of their grandfather who was also a Jef- a whole lot of people that can say they played with ferson Bulldog and offered their brother. I know him so COMPETITIVE EDGE MAGAZINE THE COMPETITIVE a spot to play for the San well. I know how he pitch- Francisco Giants right out es and even how he bats. of high school. He chose If he messes up, I can pull a different path due to his him to the side and talk love of music, and went on to him and he goes right to college instead. back at it. I can’t do that to anybody else on the team. The boys talk about their The great thing is that he family influence, which does it to me as well. He helped them get started in pulls me up and makes baseball and both express me a better player. Nate how thankful they are that has a natural talent that their family has pushed them and supported them along nobody else has. I can go practice for a week and the way. They even laugh about how they will continue the even though he doesn’t, he can still beat me. I wish tradition with their five year old brother. Nate says, “He’s he had the same effort as I have, then he would be got it coming!” “Oh, we will have him drinking protein unstoppable. He has pushed me to work harder. shakes and having early morning workouts by the age It’s an amazing thing to have and I will always look of seven,” jokes Ryan. It’s all part of the family bond they back at my high school career and thank him.” Na- have created through their time in baseball. They want to te’s response was very similar and shows that the help support Luke just as their family has been there for brothers are always thinking along the same lines. them. He says, “Next year playing without my brother is going to be hard on me. He has pushed me to be While talking with these young athletes you can feel their the best I can possibly be. He is one of the most love of the game. They are very passionate about base- hardworking people I’ve ever met. Every time he ball and love that it allows them to spend time as a fam- competes with me, he will do it over and over ily. Thinking back to some of their most memorable mo- again no matter how long it takes. He hates ments from the sport Ryan explains that he just loves the that I don’t put in the work to be better fact that they get to travel all over and have fun with their than I am. He pushes me to be the family. “It’s become a family event for us. My most memo- best and that’s what I like about having him on the team because no one up the new program and how he feels else will do that. He’s not selfish at all. the team will progress,” states Ryan. He If I’m better than him at something, he also feels at ease knowing that there are will just say it. It’s going to be hard not also a few other players from the East having that person there on the field that Texas areas that Ryan has either played is pushing me to be where I need to be.” with or against that will be a part of this new team. Although Nate is still trying to decide where he would like to go to college, Both of the boys are working hard to keep Ryan has been given the opportunity their family legacy and love of baseball to attend Texas A&M Texarkana to be alive. They each live by a different quote by Amanda Turner a member of their brand new baseball that helps push them through. Ryan’s team. Ryan is extremely enthusiastic favorite quote is,” Don’t be a follower, be 29 about this new venture and feels like a leader not he team.” Nate states, “You THE COMPETITIVE EDGE MAGAZINE there couldn’t be a better place for him. never know when it’s your last game, so He talks about Coach Steve Jones and give it your all every pitch.” how comfortable he made him feel. “He made this decision very easy. He talks Pleasant Grove

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The Pleasant Grove golf team has been playing some more kids participating in golf but now it is very selec- good golf this year averaging 76 strokes per round. tive. Most teams do not have five strong players any- PG’s freshman, Braxton WatkinsGolf has been averag- more. One team that has five strong player in Pleas- ing an awesome 71.3 strokes per round with Braden ant Groves region is Argile. They have five guys that Young averaging 75. Coach Wren said, “We have shoot around par and beat us by 20 shots. We shot clicked at district shooting better than we have ever 300 to 305 which is still pretty good but is no match shot this year.” For the girls team Senior Brittany Les- for them. The regional format takes the top five guys sard has accomplished breaking 80 with a round of 79 in a two day tournament taking the best four scores and 78. Brittany has signed with =Southern Arkansas and throwing out the highest score. The Hawks will COMPETITIVE EDGE MAGAZINE THE COMPETITIVE in Magnolia to continue her golf career. be going to the state tournament in Austin to play the Onion Creek course which is not considered as hard I ask coach Wren who their district competition was as the Wolf Dancer course they played last year. Tex- and he said. “North Lamar and Paris are probably our as High is having to play the Wolf Dancer course this biggest competitors and will take a good effort defeat year at state. The Wolf Dancer course is long and has them. We are peaking at the right time and expect to a lot of hills making walking a challenge. handle them though.” The problem that we have is there are very few schools that field a golf team so we Good luck to the Pleasant Grove Hawks in their return don’t get close heads up play. We have had to learn to the state tournament in Austin. We hope they bring to compete against each other and to play the course the State Championship back to Texarkana as well as and not the competition. Ten years ago there were the Texas High Tiger golf team. THE COMPETITIVE EDGE MAGAZINE 31 3A Genoa

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903-293-2626 3A Genoa TWIN CITY

343434 34 DYNAMIC CHEERLEADERS Her name is Cookie Deloney and when I got through the kids collected over 500 cans of food. They also my interview with her I was feeling refreshed and mo- participate in the race for the cure each year.” tivated to take on almost anything. Ms Cookie works at Westlawn school in the TISD school system and I When asked what her future plans are for the compa- must say they are lucky to have her. The subject of ny she stated, “I am working toward having my own our discussion was the accomplishments and re- building and own identity. We are very fortunate to be wards that her dance group received after their trip to able to us the gym here at Westlawn but would love to “Amazing” in San Antonio on April 3, 2015. “Amazing” have our own building giving the girls somewhere to is a cheer competition that is open to youth groups go. I deal with a lot of girls that have parents that are all over the United States. The wonderful thing about less fortunate so we have to cut things very close.” their trip is they won the championship. With their victory the girls received gold medals, a championship Another positive element of the organization is having

COMPETITIVE EDGE MAGAZINE THE COMPETITIVE banner and championship jackets, blankets and back- a young lady named Jasmine Abbott who commutes packs. While all the prizes are wonderful the most every week from Marshall, Texas to give instruction. “Amazing” prize was a cash award of $1000. The Ms. Cookie said, “She is a tiny girl that just works group has decided to donate the $1000 dollars to the wonders with the girls. She was a great cheerleader Susan B Koemen organization. in college and we are very lucky to have her to instruct and guide the girls in a very positive way. The bid to attend the competition was received in November and the girls registration was paid by the In the world of competition you must realize that you competition directors. The girls parents had to make must work hard to receive anything good. You must up the funds to cover hotel, meals and the charter make good decisions and follow the plan that the bus. Ms. Cookie was a bit concerned about their good Lord has given you. Ms. Cookie recognizes that chances to compete because she was judging from God is first in all aspects of her life and passes that their last practice before they departed. She said, “I teaching to her students. She makes it mandatory was worried about getting embarrassed at the show that each student go to church at least once a month. because all of our stunts and routines had fallen apart She teaches by Gods principals which she believes is in practice. I was “Amazed” when we danced to near responsible for all of their success. perfection on stage that night. They were totally different than they were at practice. It was like someone Congratulations to the Twin City Dynamic Cheerlead- just turned on their motors and it all came together. ers for their efforts and the community involvement. You guys are a shinning star in this community and I asked Ms. Cookie how long has she been working we wish you continued success in all that you do. with her dance business and she said, “I have been working with the group for 18 years, since my young- est daughter was in the fourth grade.” Ms. Cookie does everything to take care of her girls. When ask why, her face light up and she begins to tell you why. “My concern is that the students receive something positive early in their life. I want to help keep them off of the streets and focused on trying to become a good productive citizen. We participate in charity work do- nating to Randy Sams shelter two time a year where THE COMPETITIVE EDGE MAGAZINE 363636 36

NEW PASTOR Jim is a Fort Worth native, but has moved exten- sively as a preacher’s kid and military “brat.” His degrees are from Southwestern Baptist Theo-

COMPETITIVE EDGE MAGAZINE THE COMPETITIVE logical Seminary and Howard Payne University. Before entering full-time ministry, he worked in higher education at Howard Payne University and Tarleton State University, managed two daily newspapers in central Texas, and worked in radio production at several stations. He enjoys photography, music writing, and visiting with friends.

Amy was born and raised in the Houston area. She has a BA in Religious Education from Howard Payne University. She is currently at home with the boys, but will be seeking employment when the school year starts. She enjoys cooking, reading and doing product reviews for companies.

James is 8 years old, currently in 2nd grade at JK Hileman Elementary in Queen City. He loves trains and science and reading. He wants to be an astronomer when he grows up.

Caleb is 5 years old, and will be in Kindergarten this fall and loves Transformers and Star Wars. THE COMPETITIVE EDGE MAGAZINE 903-293-2626 6A Arkansas High Arkansas 6A We are a Pre K – 6th Grade Campus

Conveniently located between New Boston and DeKalb on HWY 82 3838 38 Outstanding Scores on State Assessments

Small Classroom Learning Environments

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Currently Enrolling Pre K and Kindergarten Students for the 2015-2016 School Year

PLEASANT GROVE COMPETITIVE EDGE MAGAZINE THE COMPETITIVE SIGNINGS

Jarod Bayless- Baseball with San Jacinto College

Chelsea Cole-Soccer with Trinity (San Antonio) Cheyne Brown- Baseball with Williams Baptist Opens May 23, 2015! Jarod Bayless- Baseball with San Jacinto College 4040