south charlotte sports report “hometown teams...
TRANSCRIPT
South Charlotte Sports Report“HOMETOWN TEAMS ... HOMETOWN KIDS”
Volume 10, Issue 8 September 10, 2015 - FREEwww.southcharlottesports.com @SCSportsReport
SOCIAL MEDIAFriend or Foe of Student-Athletes?
Social Media has certainly taken over when it comes to letting the outside world inside your life. First it was Facebook and now Twitter, SnapChat and Instagram that seem to be the top websites in our universe. With just one click of the mouse I can see the latest news on the New York Yankees or my East Carolina Pirates. I can also see up to the minute reporting of local, region, national and worldwide events. Within minutes, I know when some-thing good or bad has happened in the world.
I also notice both the positive and the negative social media use by local stu-dents. Nothing sticks out more than when I see someone’s twitter account filled with posts that were not very well thought out. These accounts can leave a first impression that is so hard to ever get past.
I want to share some very important advice for students on Twitter and other Social Media Sites. These tips are designed to allow Social Media to be your best friend and keep it from being your biggest foe.
I speak to college coaches and administrators throughout the year and one prevailing message I hear is how they regularly look at recruits Social Media usage. There isn’t a coach in America that hasn’t dropped a recruit at one time or another because of things posted online. In fact, it happens quite regularly.
Tripp’s Tips For Social Media:
Be smart, do you really want to use foul language in front of the world?Do you really want to post that photo of you showing your middle finger to the camera? Twitter has around 300 million+ active users, Facebook has over 1 billion, that’s a lot of people outside your neighborhood that can form a real quick opinion about youAfter typing a post ask yourself: “Would it be ok to say this in front of my parents, my grandmother, or a current or future coach?” If the answer is no, don’t post it.
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Take pride in who you represent, don’t embarrass your school, your family or yourself with immature posts.Don’t use foul language, don’t ReTweet foul language, and don’t try to ab-breviate dirty words.Don’t try to be cute or even dirty with your Facebook or Twitter names.
I used a lot of “don’ts” up above, now for a few things that I encourage all stu-dents to do with social media.
Use Twitter as your own personal resume, share all the positives in your life.If you are mature enough to follow the Do’s and Don’ts of Social Media, then follow the coaches and schools that you are most interested in. Learn about their programs and let them learn about you.Use proper spelling, take advantage of the 140 characters Twitter pro-vides.
How can you use Twitter to help the South Charlotte Sports Report?
Please follow us on Twitter @SCSportsReport. Once you have followed us, please tweet us with any good news you have to share? Did you make your college commitment? Are you down to 5 finalists? Did you get named all-con-ference? Did you record a 4.5 grade point average and play three sports? Let us know, I have a lot of contacts that I want to share your news with. Please take the time to follow me and please, be smart about how you use social me-dia. It can be your friend or it can be your foe, your choice. I LOVE to share your positive news, just Tweet me!
Tripp RoakesPublisher
South Charlotte Sports [email protected]
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Myers Park High School junior basketball player McKenna Haire can often be found inside a gymna-sium, working to become the best basketball player she can possibly be. The 16 year old daughter of Mike and Jen Haire has always strived to be the very best at whatever she chooses to do. Her dedication to hustle and hard work is nearly unmatched as she pursues her dream of becoming a high level basketball player. McKenna has been a member of two consecutive state championship basketball teams in her first two years of high school. In each season she played a different role on the team and now moving into her final two seasons McKenna will be called on to contribute more than ever to the success of the Mustangs.
McKenna began playing basketball in the fifth grade. She has always searched out for more opportuni-ties to learn the finer points of the game. In addition to winning the last two state championships, McKenna was selected to the All-Regional Championship Team last year and she participated in the USA 16U Team Trials.
The first thing one notices about McKenna is her heart and level of hustle. Whether she is diving on the floor for a loose ball or guarding her opponent’s every move, McKenna qualifies for the label of a basketball hustler.
“My hustle and drive for success just comes naturally. I’ve always strived to be the best at whatever I’ve done and enjoy making myself better every day.”
A very busy summer of basketball was recently completed by McKenna and her team. They know the tal-ent is in place and the drive and determination is on solid ground for their journey this season. Many games are won and lost in the summer based on the level of training performed by each team.
“This summer was by far my favorite summer yet. All the hard work and preparation I put in the off sea-son paid off and I had great success. Not only did I excel but my team did as well! We became very close off the court and I think that showed on the court. It was fun being a part of a team where I knew everyone had my back and wanted me to succeed. It was like having a second family with 11 other sisters.”
With the official start of basketball season over six weeks away, McKenna is working hard to be in the best shape of her life. The Myers Park team has set their sights on a third straight championship.
“This season I want my team to be the best we can be. Obviously I hope for that to be winning another state championship.”
See MCKENNA HAIRE, Page 9
MCKENNA HAIRE IS LOCKED IN ON SUCCESS AT MYERS PARK
Page 2 Volume 10, Issue 8
The Park Sharon Nationals 10U Baseball Team has been named the South Charlotte Sports Report Team of the Week. The Nation-als won the Nations Baseball Labor Day Championship held in Gastonia. Congratulations to the Nationals on their success.
The Team of the Week Feature, one of the most visible features in the South Charlotte Sports Report, is now
open for sponsorship. Please contact Tripp Roakes at 704-906-5466 or [email protected] to learn more about our Team of the Week Advertising Package.
Team of the Week
To nominate your team for the Team of the Week, please email [email protected]
Front Row: (L-R) Cole Gillis, Landon Radley, Brady Thompson, Alex IsonMiddle Row: (L-R) Chase Berry, Sam Hucko, Michael Perry, Owen Miller, Isaac Pena, Cooper GandossoyBack Row: (L-R) Curt Ison, Travis Thompson, Matt Hucko
Park Sharon Nationals 10UBaseball Team
The Sun Valley Middle School 8th Grade Football Team
Front Row: (L-R) Kolbi Anderson, Brandon Neshat, NathanNygaard, Max Domrongchai, Robert Williams, Christian Sileo, Elijah Ivey, Jared Hough, Marquis Taylor, Tacory Robinson
Middle Row: (L-R) Michael Cabrera, Chris Viegelmann, Vinny Porto, Malachi Clyburn, Jerry Stephens, Matt Gagatch, Ryan Gundersen, Ethan Huntley, Matt Norton, Ben DiMezzo, Noah McNair
Back Row: (L-R) Jacob Rader, Mikey Price, Jacob Gravely, Mason Thompson, Hunter Carr, Bryce Burk, Liam Hollahan, Michael McKoy, Joseph Flucas, Jackson Hase, Jamie Caffrey, Lucas Bratton
Coaches (L-R) Duane Thompson, Rodney Ivey, Ralph Viegelmann, Erik Gundersen, Jonathan McNair, Scott Domrongchai, Rich DiMezzo, JJ Caffrey
The Sun Valley Middle School Cross Country Team
Front Row: (L-R) Aoibhinn O’Shea, Colby Parks, Katherine Jones, Devin Lyash, Griffin Bean, Dominick De Felice, Katherine Harman, Johnathan Baumgartner, Nick Pirozzi, Logan Spilde, Jack Valentine, Steven Bausinger, Jacob Budzik
Middle Row: (L-R) Kendall Cook, Michael Kenary, Elaina Lewis, Mia Nguyen, Max Nguyen, Allyson Lee, Tristan Wheeler, Lucas Wagner, Ryan Kirkland, Atish Pillai, Braden Roark
Back Row: (L-R) Lauren Miller, Owen O’Grady, Samuel O’Grady, Noah Watson, John Nixon, Nate St. Bernard, Claire St. Bernard, Matthew Kenary, Sydney Wray, Riley Fecker, Coach-Donna St. Bernard
PART TIME ADVERTISING DIRECTORLooking for extra spending money?
Need to pay those expensive sports training bills?Work your hours and contacts to help the South Charlotte
Sports Report secure new advertising partners.20% Commission!
Email [email protected]
Volume 10, Issue 8 Page 3
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Wired for Excellence Award Recognizing Academic and Athletic Excellence
Sarah Post
8125 Ardrey Kell Road Charlotte NC 28277704-443-0006
www.quimbyandcollins.com
Winning Smiles
Marvin Ridge Middle School eighth grader Josh Schwartz has been named the Quimby and Collins Orthodontics “Wired For Excellence” Award winner. The son of Jeff and Marsi Schwartz plays baseball for the Mavericks and the Carolina Vipers. His top positions are shortstop and pitcher. Josh’s favorite memory was winning the Union County Middle School Baseball Championship.
Inside the classroom, Josh carries a strong report card filled with A’s and his favorite class is Math. Josh donates time and effort to help the Urban Ministries Soup Kitchen and he also tutors younger students.
Congratulations to Josh Schwartz for being named the Quimby and Collins Orthodontics “Wired For Excellence” Award winner.
Would you like to nominate an elementary or middle school student for The Quimby and Collins Orthodontics “Wired For Excellence” Award? Send your nominations to [email protected]
Josh Schwartz
MARVIN RIDGE DIVERS CONTINUE SUCCESS FROM THE BOARDS
Nikki Canale, a sophomore this past year at Marvin Ridge High School (Division 3A) in Waxhaw, NC just finished competing this Au-gust in the 2015 AT&T USA Diving Nationals held in Orlando Florida. Nikki is now nation-ally ranked in 4 different events. Competing along side Olympians and NCAA champions in the Open Senior Women’s 1meter springboard event, she finished 11th in the nation! She also finished 13th in the Platform event, 13th in 1 meter springboard and 19th in the 3 meter event for the 16-18 year old Junior Olympics.
Nikki has also has been named a 2015 NIS-CA/Speedo All-American for diving.
Sara Maleski, 18, was a senior this past year at Marvin Ridge finishing strong as State Run-ner-up for Division 3A with 477.50. Sara was
also runner-up for each in the County, Confer-ence and Regional meets. Sara was also named
a 2015 All-American as well and is diving for UNC Chapel Hill starting Fall.All-American distinction goes to the top 100 divers in the country based on
results from high school regional and state meets. Nikki scored a 511.60 at the 3A state meet, and now holds the records for both
3A (old record set in 1999 for 471.78) as well as the overall state record spanning across all divisions (1A-4A ...old record set in 1996 for 491.35 points). Nikki went undefeated her sophomore year and was County, Conference, Regional and NC 3A State Champion.
Diving is a crucial part of high school swimming and diving teams, scoring up to 20 points per place going towards the overall Swim & Dive team total points at meets! This can make the difference between a state-title. Marvin Ridge High School Women’s Swim and Dive Team were 3A State champs this year, benefiting from the 51 points scored collectively by Nikki, Sara and Freshman Ady White-head, who had an impressive 5th place finish as well.
Sara Maleski and Nikki Canale
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Kristen SeibertCovenant Day School junior volleyball player Kristen Seibert has been named the winner of the Shoeless Enterprises Leadership Award. The 16 year old daughter of Craig and Rebecca Seibert started playing volleyball in the fifth grade and she plays the position of setter. Kristen also serves as a co-captain for the Lions. Her leadership skills are more important than ever for the team which lost six seniors to graduation last year. With a younger team, Kristen is called upon to set an example for others to follow. Playing the position of setter also calls for more leadership from Kristen.
“Being a setter is a lot like being the quarterback of a football team. I’m responsible for how we run the offense and the plays. I need to know the strengths and weaknesses of my team, as well as the opposing team, in order to put my team in the best situation possible.”
Kristen and her teammates are aiming for another strong season of play after finishing in second place the last two years at the state champion-ship. Her goals include working hard and helping everyone on the team push themselves to be the best they can be.
Inside the classroom, Kristen is leading the way with a 4.67 grade point average. She is enrolled in Honors and AP classes at Covenant Day School.
Congratulations to Kristen Seibert for being named the winner of the Shoeless Enterprises Leadership Award.
The Shoeless Enterprises Leadership Award
Page 4 Volume 10, Issue 8
With a ten year history of success on the softball field, it was only natural for Marvin Ridge High School se-nior Dharma Rosbrugh to set a goal of playing college softball. The daughter of Carlos and Tonyia Rosbrugh recently accomplisher her goal by making a verbal commitment to play softball at Tusculum College in Tennessee. Let’s go Beyond The Game to learn more about this outstanding player.
How long have you played softball and why do you enjoy it so much?“I have been playing softball for 10 plus years, I started when I was 7 at the Steele Creek Recreational league in South Charlotte and soon moved into Travel
ball playing for the 8U MSA Cobras out of Matthews, NC. I then played for Coach Adam Martin from 10U through 16U (Starting with the Charlotte Blaze and ending with The Lady Blues). Last summer I joined a new team from South Carolina called the 18U Carolina Elite coached by Brad Norton. I plan to be with them until I go off to college next fall.”
“I enjoy playing so much because of the girls that have the same passion that I do for the game and are willing to put it all on the line week in and week out. I’ve meet and played with some of the best and most talented softball players in the country right here in my own back yard. I enjoy getting to travel and play in places all over the southeast that I otherwise may not have gone to, through softball. I love how when I step on to the field with my team nothing else matters.”
What position do you play?“Through the years I have played every position on the field, but my passion has always been pitching. During my freshman year in high school I was introduced to my current pitching coach Sharon Bailey out of Davidson, NC. Without a doubt, she has gotten me to the level I’m at today and was instru-mental in making me believe I had what it takes to be recruited as a college level pitcher.”
Tell me about the last year of softball?“This past year of softball has been great. After committing to Tusculum College in January, I was able to focus on my high school season, leading the team from the mound with a 17-6 winning record. Making it to the 2nd round of the State playoffs. I finished the season with a 1.93 ERA and 106K’s. From the plate I had a .278 batting average, with 20 hits, 14 RBIs, five doubles and a home run. I was named MVP for my team and I received All District, All Conference, and First Team All-County for Union County, NC and All State honors for the season.”
What are your top three athletic accomplishments?“Committing to play in college for Tusculum University. Going 17 wins and 6 loses from the mound as the starting pitcher for my high school. Being named MVP by my high school team and earning All State recognition this past year.”
Did you play other sports growing up?“When I was little I played basketball and cheerleading for “Upward” at the Pineville Church of the Nazarene. After my first rec season of softball, I was hooked and didn’t play any other sport until my 8th grade and freshmen year, when I tried to put my height to use by playing basketball and ran track also. But the passion was not there, so I stuck with softball.”
What are your goals for this season?“My goals for this season are to go further into the state tournament and win a state championship and to show that we are one of the best teams in the state. For my travel ball team, I want us playing the best teams out there, in the best tournaments, so we can show the country that us girls from the Caro-linas can compete with the best, any time any place.”
When did you first hear from Tusculum?“I first heard from Tusculum back in November of last year, they had been watching me play the previous two summers. Several of my teammates from the Lady Blues softball organization were already committed to and playing for Tusculum and the coach got to see us as a team. Then in January I went up for an unofficial visit, I ended up staying the night with some of the girls from the team (who were all former teammates of mine) The next morning Coached Huebner asked if I wanted to become a part of the Pioneers softball program. And I haven’t looked back since.”
What led you to choose Tusculum for your college education?“I chose Tusculum College because of the campus, located in Greeneville, TN surround by the gorgeous Smokey Mountains, in addition they have several majors in my area of interest to choose from. I also love Coach Huebner and what she has done for the softball program. Tusculum also is a block system school which means that I will be taking one class for 18 days and once that class is finished I move on to the next class. I love this idea because it will al-low me to focus on one subject at a time and only having one class a day will allow for more time on the ball field.”
How well do you perform in the classroom?“In the classroom, I carry a 3.8 unweighted/ 4.2 weighted grade point average.”
What is your favorite subject and why?“My favorite subject would have to be history, I love learning about the past and how life was different just 20 years ago, let alone 120 years ago. I love learning about wars and what caused them so we can learn how to hope-fully prevent them in the future. I love learning about influential people that change and shape our world from the early days to present day.”
BEYOND THE GAME WITH DHARMA ROSBRUGH
The Mecklenburg Area Catholic Schools/ Arbor Construction GroupGood Sport of the Month
Mollie Ray Written By: Lane McCree
Varsity volleyball player and senior at Charlotte Catholic High School, Mollie Ray, has been awarded the Meck-lenburg Area Catholic Schools/ Arbor Construction Group Good Sport of the Month. The 17 year old daughter of Roger and Eileen Ray plays the position of setter for the Cougars.
As a co-captain of the team, Mollie is responsible for working with her other captains, Kayla Weisker and
Emma Mitchell, to improve the technique and execution of the team as a whole, and set an example for other teammates. Her favorite part of being on the team is the sense of camaraderie and support everyone gives each other on and off the court. In addition to being a captain, Mollie also holds the title of all-conference set-ter, attained during her sophomore and junior years. In addition to volleyball, she also volunteers at St. Matthew’s Catholic Church in the donated goods ministry.
Inside the classroom, Mollie has acquired all A’s and a 4.20 GPA. Her favorite classes at Charlotte Catholic are either AP Physics or Honors Anatomy. Congratu-lations to Mollie Ray for being named the Mecklenburg Area Catholic Schools/ Arbor Construction Group Good Sport of the Month.
New Homes-RenovationsAdditions-Repairs
704-542-5833www.arborconstructiongroup.com
Together MACS and Arbor Construction are building with integrity for our futures.
Volume 10, Issue 8 Page 5
Marvin Ridge High School varsity tennis player, Hannah Scott, has set high standards following her tremendous accomplishments from last year’s outstanding sophomore season. The daughter of David and Ellen Scott has distinguished herself as a top competitor on the tennis court and inside the classroom. Her dedication and commitment make Hannah an excellent role model for her teammates and peers. Lets go Beyond the Game with Hannah to learn more!
What are your top three athletic accom-plishments?“My top athletic accomplishments would be fin-ishing as the Mid-Western region runner up, re-ceiving the MVP award for our tennis team, and being undefeated in the conference and through-out playoffs (all last year in 2014 season). In ad-dition, I was part of the SCC All Conference team and Mid-Western regional team.”
What is your role on the Marvin Ridge team this year? “I am co-captain of the team this year. We have a fairly young team so making everyone feel welcome is an important aspect to help keeping the team strong.”
What are your goals for this season?“My personal goal for the season would be to qualify for the state tournament again. My goals for the team would be to create a good team atmosphere and win our conference.”
What is you’re favorite part of playing on the team? “I enjoy being able to represent my school for a sport and getting the opportunity to play against competitive teams.”
How well do you perform in the classroom?“Academics are very important to me because
I believe a good academic base helps with success in the future. I try to make sure to put academ-ics above most of my other priorities. I receive all A’s and have a 4.75 weighted GPA. In addition, I am part of the National Honor Society and Beta Club. I am also the Junior Class Historian for the Student Council.”
How do you balance school and sports? “I find it very difficult at times to balance both school and extracurriculars, but I make sure to prioritize my work. There are a few late nights when I have to get everything done, but I like to be busy and involved in many different things.”
What other activities do you participate in off the tennis court? “I volunteer at my church, Saint Matthew Catholic Church. There I have been a group leader for the
annual VBS program and I am currently a peer minister to prepare students for an upcoming sac-rament of Confirmation. I have also volunteered at YMCA camps, such as Camp Boomerang which is a camp for autistic children. Also, I enjoy traveling to the mountains, running, and hanging out with my friends. I have completed two half marathons and loved it. I also run winter track for Marvin Ridge”
Have you placed any thoughts into college? “I am not really thinking about playing varsity in college but possibly club or intramural. It would be great to continue to play tennis throughout my life! I would like to study nutrition in college and eventually become a Registered Dietitian.”
BEYOND THE GAME WITH HANNAH SCOTTWritten By: Lane McCree
Page 6 Volume 10, Issue 8
Front Row: (L-R) Trey Abrams, Leah Helms, Grace Wiggs, Alison Fennell, Madeline Hill, Sarah Thomson, Kendall Gallagher, Kelly Poole, Tori Bridgforth, William Walsh, Nathan JenningsSecond Row: (L-R) Aydan McGuire, Kaitlin Capuano, Hannah Sawyer, Gianna Giglio, Madison Ilch, Alex Tierney, Annalise Furr, Elizabeth Franklin, Ashley Sinagra, Kathleen Mack, Tyler CarrollThird Row: (L-R) Johanna Walters, Ava Cachine, Izzy Mague, Sarah Valentine, Olivia Khan, Kaitlyn St. Hilaire, Cassie Wooten, Ryan Hoover, Riley CarlsonFourth Row: (L-R) Jamison Kroeger, Apollo Wortham, Trey Austin, Owen Pinkney, Ethan Wahab, Ben Galbraith, Connor Dingee, Keegan Burr, Evan ZottlFifth Row: (L-R) Shaun Raughley, Jaden Hanson, Robby Hodel, Jake Sizemore, Mark Weinstein, Garrett Dean, Tyler Strickland, Jonah Cutler, Michael Garrity, Campbell TurnerBack Row: (L-R) Ryan Osterberg, Connor Mack, Justin Green, Davis Seik, Josh Nemitz
THREE YEAR WINNING STREAK FOR CUTHBERTSON MIDDLE RUNNERS
The Cuthbertson Middle School Cavaliers have been on quite a run the past few years in building a winning culture in both cross country and track and field. Since the spring of 2012, the CMS track team has won 20 consecutive meets, while the Boys’ cross country team has opened its 2015 season notching its 17th and 18th consecutive victories over the same period. Not to be outdone, the Girls’ team also opened the season with 2 convincing wins, placing 1st through 4th in its opener against a very tough Weddington team.
It’s never easy to rebuild season-to-season, but this year has posed a particu-lar challenge for the Cavs. For the Boys, the team lost 4 of its Top 5 runners to high school; each went on this fall to earn a spot on the high school varsity team as a Freshman. The only returning runner from that group was 8th grade leader, Josh Nemitz. And as fate would have it, Nemitz has battled injury all summer and has had to lend his leadership from the sidelines. The Girls return more Top 5 runners from last year’s team; however all were 6th graders last year and have had to grow up fast.
And thus, the current Top 5 Boys and Girls are very young, and are gaining ex-perience on the fly. Fortunately, all have bought into the Cuthbertson program, which includes an active summer schedule running with the team in voluntary group runs, races and pool parties. In fact, the team had 52 athletes and family members competing in the July XTERRA 4-Mile Trail Race at the US National Whitewater Center, with Cavs sweeping the age group awards. Seventh-grader Tori Bridgforth even placed 3rd overall female against seasoned competition, and several Cav parents and siblings won awards in their own age groups. According to Kirk Walsh, 4th year Head Coach, “there is a real sense of community when it comes to running with this team. It starts in the summer, when we’re just a large group of friends, athletes, parents, and siblings choosing to spend time doing healthy things together. And it continues past the middle school years, as several alumni continue to run with the summer group year after year. When we decide to do something together as a group, we tend to take over the venue.”
In spite of the uncertainty of the young team, the current Boys’ and Girls’ squads have developed fast and each opened the season in convincing fashion. The 2015 Boys are led by 8th grader, Davis Seik. Seik had a breakout spring track season, and validated his progress on August 27th setting a new CMS cross country course record 3K time of 10:40 in the season-opening dual meet with Weddington. The rest of the Top 5 Boys are all 7th graders, including Evan Zottl, Michael Garrity, William Walsh and Shaun Raughley. For the Girls, the top of the pack has a similar composition, with 8th grader Annalise Furr and 7th grad-ers Madeline Hill, Leah Helms, Tori Bridgforth, Jordan Browning, Kelly Poole, Kendall Gallagher and Gianna Giglio leading the team.
According to Walsh, “there’s no question this is the best Girls’ cross country team I’ve ever been around. And seven of our top eight are 7th graders. Annalise was a transfer this summer, and what a blessing it’s been to have her calming 8th grade presence on the trail. I’ve really enjoyed watching the girls work together in the early going this season, and to see them finish 1st through 4th in a pack that first meet was really special. And then the boys coming out of the gate like they have, we just really feel grateful that the hard work has translated well in the early-going.”
The Sun Valley Middle School Tennis Team
Front Row: (L-R) Draven Wright, Lacey Craig, Ashton Williams, Leah Iglesias, Tori MooreBack Row: (L-R) Coach Antony, Brianna Warren, Morgan Vogus, Sophie Trantham, Sydney BrazzellNot pictured: Abigail Duke, Lauryn Fraction, Holly Hall
Advertise With Us! 704-906-5466
Volume 10, Issue 8 Page 7
Q SHACK COACH OF THE MONTHCoach Nelson York
WCWAA Titans FootballCoach Nelson York has been named the Q Shack Coach of the Month. Coach York serves as a Head Football Coach inside the WCWAA Titans Pop Warner Football Program. He also contributes unlimited hours to serving as a board member for WCWAA Football. Coach York works
very hard to help his football players learn the fundamental skills needed to find success on the football field.
To nominate your coach for this award, please visit The Q Shack or email [email protected].
Located in The Providence Promenade10822 Providence RoadCharlotte, NC 28277www.qshackclt.com704-542-5959
#TBT Throwback Thursday With Kelly Ellis
If you have a throwback picture that you want featured, please submit your digital photo to [email protected].
Kelly Ellis, Realtor NC & SCSpecializing in S. Charlotte and Union [email protected]/kellyellis
Supporting Student-Athletes From Pee Wee To High School.
Steven is now a freshman basketball player at Elon University. He graduated from Ardrey Kell High School this past spring and is pictured here playing for Jay M. Robinson Middle School.
Steven Santa Ana
Action from the Marvin Ridge vs Sun Valley Middle School football game.
The Marvin Ridge Middle School 7th Grade Cheer Team halftime performance.
Marvin Ridge High School defender Marcus Logan defends the pass play.
Page 8 Volume 10, Issue 8
Community Service Heroes Award Recognizing Actions in Support of
Individuals, Community and the Environment
www.QueenCityOnline.com
Myah WardWritten By: Lane McCree
To nominate your team or a student-athlete for their service to the community, please email
Community Service Heroes Award Recognizing Actions in Support of
Individuals, Community and the Environment
www.QueenCityOnline.com
Weddington High School senior volleyball player, Myah Ward, has been named the Queen City Audio, Video and Appliances Community Heroes Award Winner. The daughter of Raina and John Ward plays the positions of outside line hitter and defensive specialist for the Warriors. Myah’s standout performance can be seen both on and off the court, as she carries her passions into all of her extracurricular activities.
On the volleyball court, Myah serves as a leader for her team this year as a senior athlete. She enjoys watching the chemistry grow between teammates, and noting improvements in the team’s skill level. Myah explains, “I love moments on the court where we successfully execute a play that we worked really hard on in practice the day before.” In addition to volleyball, Myah also plays a very active role in helping out in the community. She orchestrated the Teens for Jeans campaign at Weddington High, Middle, and Elementary school. Last year, the schools raised over 1,000 pairs of jeans, and donated them to the homeless youth. In addition, Myah volunteers at Heaven’s Own Dog Shelter, Battered Women’s Shelter, and Carrington Place.
Inside the classroom, Myah is a straight A student who has attained a 5.0 GPA. Not only is she a Junior Marshall, but she is also a part of the National Honor Society. Myah has also been a representative in the student government at Weddington High School for the past two years. She is also actively participating the International Thespians Society, an honors program for students who excel in theatre at the high school level. Although her favorite class is English, Myah hopes to study political science or law at the college level.
Queen City Audio, Video and Appliances salutes Myah Ward for her continued commitment serving others in need in our community.
Roddey PlayerPresident, Queen City Audio, Video & Appliances
www.QueenCityOnline.com
Mary Catherine Avey
To nominate your team or a student-athlete fortheir service to the community, please email
Mary Catherine Avey has been named the Queen City Audio, Video and Appliances Community Heroes Award Winner. The daugh-ter of Scott and Meg Avey attends Carmel Christian School and she is active in both soccer and serving inside her community. MaryCatherine has been playing soccer since the age of three and she plays forward as a senior member of the Carmel Christian Schoolteam.
Mary Catherine was named to the All-Conference Team in 2014 and she was voted as the MVP of her soccer team. She has served asthe team captain for all three of her varsity soccer years. As a captain Mary Catherine helps lead the team in practices and games.
Mary Catherine is very active in serving her community. She volunteers with an organization called Rice and Beans. They go outinto downtown Charlotte and feed the homeless. She also is active with the Joy Prom, an event held by the Carmel Christian Churchthat provides a full scale prom for those with special needs. As a member of the National Honor Society, Mary Catherine also volun-teers with the Beds For Kids organization that supplies beds and furnishings for families in need.
Inside the classroom, Mary Catherine carries a 3.69 unweighted grade point average and a 4.7 weighted average. She is taking threeAP classes and is involved in many school clubs. Mary Catherine plans to attend UNC-Wilmington and study Athletic Training.
Queen City Audio, Video and Appliances salutes Mary Catherine Avey for her work in the classroom, on the soccer field and in hercommunity.
Roddey PlayerPresident, Queen City Audio, Video &Appliances
Community Service Heroes AwardRecognizing Actions in Support of
Individuals, Community and the Environment
www.QueenCityOnline.com
Mary Catherine Avey
To nominate your team or a student-athlete fortheir service to the community, please email
Mary Catherine Avey has been named the Queen City Audio, Video and Appliances Community Heroes Award Winner. The daugh-ter of Scott and Meg Avey attends Carmel Christian School and she is active in both soccer and serving inside her community. MaryCatherine has been playing soccer since the age of three and she plays forward as a senior member of the Carmel Christian Schoolteam.
Mary Catherine was named to the All-Conference Team in 2014 and she was voted as the MVP of her soccer team. She has served asthe team captain for all three of her varsity soccer years. As a captain Mary Catherine helps lead the team in practices and games.
Mary Catherine is very active in serving her community. She volunteers with an organization called Rice and Beans. They go outinto downtown Charlotte and feed the homeless. She also is active with the Joy Prom, an event held by the Carmel Christian Churchthat provides a full scale prom for those with special needs. As a member of the National Honor Society, Mary Catherine also volun-teers with the Beds For Kids organization that supplies beds and furnishings for families in need.
Inside the classroom, Mary Catherine carries a 3.69 unweighted grade point average and a 4.7 weighted average. She is taking threeAP classes and is involved in many school clubs. Mary Catherine plans to attend UNC-Wilmington and study Athletic Training.
Queen City Audio, Video and Appliances salutes Mary Catherine Avey for her work in the classroom, on the soccer field and in hercommunity.
Roddey PlayerPresident, Queen City Audio, Video &Appliances
Community Service Heroes AwardRecognizing Actions in Support of
Individuals, Community and the Environment
Volume 10, Issue 8 Page 9
Arthur Goodman Memorial Park, 1200 S Trade St., Matthews, NC 28105
www.marasports.orgSponsorship opportunities are available. See our website for more information.
“THE LEAGUE OF CHAMPIONS”
baseball ¥ softball ¥ football ¥ track basketball ¥ rugby ¥ cheerleadõng
Rising Star Award
Boating Without Owning - It’s About TIME!
Elizabeth FiepkeCharlotte Catholic High School sophomore tennis player Elizabeth Fiepke has been named the first winner of the Carefree Boat Club Rising Star Award. Eliza-beth, the daughter of Tom and Julie Fiepke, is a key member of the Cougars Ten-nis Team and a rising star on the courts. Elizabeth began playing tennis at age 10 and she has become very serious about her game over the last three years. When Elizabeth
isn’t competing for her school, she trains at the Johan Kriek Tennis Academy here in Charlotte.
After moving to Charlotte from Des Moines, Iowa, Eliza-beth earned a starting spot on the Cougars Tennis Team as a freshman. Elizabeth and her team advanced to the NCHSAA State Semifinals last year and aim to go even further this year. Elizabeth and her doubles partner, Catie Nelson are already among the top doubles teams in the state and will contend for the state title.
Inside the classroom, Elizabeth is an Honor Roll student and she is very dedicated to excellence in the classroom. In addition to her academic work and play on the tennis court, Elizabeth volunteers at the Levine Children’s Hospi-tal and at the Ronald McDonald House. Congratulations to Elizabeth Fiepke for being named the first winner of the Carefree Boat Club Rising Star Award.
[email protected] ext. 4
www.CarefreeBoats.com
As her junior year continues forward McKenna will begin to also look for college basketball op-portunities. Many colleges have shown interest in this emerging player. St. John’s and Virginia Tech are just a couple of the many offers McKenna has picked up recently. With her continued develop-ment and dedication to success, McKenna will end up with a well-rounded group of college offers. McKenna spent the last two weeks of August making college campus visits to Harvard, Princeton, U Penn, West Point, William & Mary, Elon, Wake Forest, St. John’s and American University.
“I’m excited for this upcoming journey and can’t wait to see where basketball takes me.”Inside the classroom, McKenna is also a very successful student. McKenna carries a grade point
average of over 4.0 inside the Myers Park IB Program. She understands the importance of her academics and the role they play in her life. Her favorite classes are Earth Science and Astronomy. McKenna works hard to be organized in her pursuit of academic and basketball success.
“I balance books and basketball by being organized and managing my time. I also have good re-lationships with my teachers and am able to get extra help or extended time when needed.”
The South Charlotte Sports Report is excited to watch McKenna’s development over her final two years of high school. We wish McKenna and her entire Myers Park team the very best of luck this season as they chase their third consecutive state championship.
MCKENNA HAIREContinued from front page
Page 10 Volume 10, Issue 8
The Sun Valley Middle School 8th Grade Cheer Team
Front Row: (L-R) Summer Long, Carlee Dombo Middle Row: (L-R) Kayla Merrill, Allison Fox, Haley Adams, Alexia Talero, Dayna Richardson and Micah MusialowskiBack Row: (L-R) Shannon Layburn, Kylie Bowling, Elizabeth Busby, Emily King, Alyssa Francisco, Abigail Kuntz, Anna Pawline, Coach Sue RichardsonNot pictured: Mikayla Lincoln
@SCSportsReport
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COOPERSTOWN DREAMS PARK 12U BASEBALL OPPORTUNITYSouth Charlotte Sports Report President Tripp Roakes is building a 12U
Baseball Team to compete in the nationally known Cooperstown Dreams Park Baseball Tournament next summer. The Cooperstown Dreams Park event is known as the “Greatest Tournament in America” as it promotes a high caliber of play for players twelve years and under. Participants experience the purity of baseball as it was meant to be played at the 22 field complex located in Cooper-stown, NY.
Beginning with the opening ceremony, you can feel the energy and excitement of the cultural ex-change and life enrichment. 104 teams come to-gether each week for pin trading , orientation, eating together, skills competitions, and the excitement of the tournament. As the competition builds, all 22 fields coming to life, with home runs, diving catches and heroic saves. This is the beginning of a player’s dream, becoming his own hero. To be inducted into the most prestigious Youth Baseball Hall of Fame, and receiving the coveted Hall of Fame Ring, the highlight of this experience leaves every player with a great sense of pride, dignity and accomplishment, through the traditional values of faith, family, coun-try and baseball.
“I have been fortunate to be a part of the Cooper-
stown Dreams Experience the last three years and have found it to be everything players and families could ever hope for inside an amazing week of baseball.” said Tripp Roakes. “Cooperstown holds a very special place in my heart and I am looking forward to taking another group of 12 year old baseball players and
their families to New York to compete for the cham-pionship at Cooperstown Dreams Park this coming summer. Many outstanding players never have the opportunity to play in Cooperstown or maybe they want to play a second week this summer in addition to their regular team. We will be building this team with players from across the Carolinas with the sole intention of competing for one week only in Coo-perstown. As Cooperstown Dreams Park founder Lou Presutti is fond of saying, I want kids to Dream Their Dream and Be Their Own Hero at Cooper-stown Dreams Park with our team.”
Families of 12U Elite level players that are inter-ested in becoming a part of this dream should visit www.southcharlottesports.com/Cooperstown to complete the information form and or email [email protected]. This is a one–time, one-week team that will come together for an amazing week of baseball at Cooperstown Dreams Park.
Volume 10, Issue 8 Page 11
STUDENT-ATHLETES OF THE WEEK
Jack AllenCovenant Day School junior soccer player Jack Allen has been named the Architect Sports and Physical Therapy Student Athlete of the Week. On the soccer field, Jack plays striker for his school team and mid attack for his club team. The 16 year old also plays basketball and lacrosse for fun and to stay in shape.
Jack earned a spot on the varsity soccer team at Covenant Day School as a freshman and helped his team to win the conference championship in the 2013-2014 season. His favorite memory from that year is a last minute header goal to help the team beat Hickory Grove. Jack’s role on this
year’s team is to play off of the center midfielder, Julius Klohr, and make runs through the opposing backline to open up space and put himself in a position to score. In only 5 matches this season, Jack has tallied 11 goals and 2 assists.
Jack is a strong student who records all A’s and B’s in the classroom and earned a position on the Covenant Day School Honor Roll. Jack will soon begin work-ing alongside a special needs school to help them with biology labs and he will partner with a student there to help in the biology learning process. Jack hopes to play soccer in college following his graduation from Covenant Day School.
Catie NelsonCharlotte Catholic High School sophomore Catie Nelson has been named the Architech Sports and Physical Therapy Student Athlete of the Week. The 15 year old daughter of Clyde and Laurie Nelson started playing tennis at the age of nine. Since then she has risen up the ladder and has been ranked inside the top-15 for her age group at ages 10, 12 and 14. Catie was a member of the NCHSAA Regional Champi-onship doubles team last year. She is also a member of the Catholic Lacrosse Team.
Catie hopes to lead her team to a conference championship this season and to also win the doubles championship in the
conference and regionals.
Inside the classroom, Catie ranks near the top of her class and she is a member of the National Honor Society. Catie is active in community service working as a teacher in the Religious Education classroom at her church. She also helps to serve meals at the Ronald McDonald house once a month. Congratulations to Catie Nelson for being named the Architech Sports and Physical Therapy Student Athlete of the Week.
ARCHITECH SPORTS AND PHYSICAL THERAPY Blakeney Office: 8918 Blakeney Professional Drive Suite 120 | Charlotte, NC 28277 | Ph. 704-900-8960
Indian Trail Office: 1001 Van Buren Avenue Suite 3 | Indian Trail, NC 28079 | Ph. 704-628-6053www.architechsports.com
Physical Therapy for Athletes and Weekend Warriors * Sports Performance * Soccer Speed and AgilityBaseball Pitching Arm Care Evaluations * Female Jumpmetrics Training * Coaches Care Programs
All programs in conjunction with Morrison Family YMCA
Athletic Directors, Coaches, Team Moms Please send your team news, statistics and story ideas
The Sun Valley Middle School 4th & 5th Grade Football Team
Front Row: (L-R) Dominic Paterno, Joshua Wynn, Anthony Givens Jr., Shawn Hawkesworth, Blake Jett, Carlos Foster, Mason Collins, Christian Flucas, Cooper Smetak, Colton Green, Sean Swiatek
Middle Row: (L-R) Daniel Han, Jimmy LaMura, Elijah Robinson, Alex Bosse, Marvin Zoe, Brock Girgenti, Brock Winston, Nikolas Henry, Colton Penner, Ryan Reilly, Demetrius Trevino
Back Row: (L-R) Coach Dave Collins, Coach Zack Maher, Head Coach Sean Maher, Coach Jim Reilly
Not pictured: Coach Chris Goeller, Jaden Goeller, Blake Quick
The Sun Valley Middle School 6th Grade Football Team
Front Row: (L-R) Joseph Fahr, Savanna Samuels, Jack Williams, Braden Eckert, Mounir Fahr, Thomas Ayers, James Jett, Bert Davis, Chris Austria, and Dakota Arnold
Middle Row: (L-R) Logan Chaffin, Jabari Crawford, Camden Gist, Jacob Gants, James Jackson Jr, Carson Sanner, Will Gaddy, Gavin Freeman, Collin Ferrell, Isaiah Robinson, Nathaniel Hindes, Devin Singleton
Back Row: (L-R) Lucas Cheek, Dominick Moye, David Windham, Mason Tinsley, Mychal DeBerry, Andrew Macchiavello, Sean Carbin, Matthew “Cole” Burgess, Dallas Brooks, Brooks Johnson, Aidan Mashburn
Page 12 Volume 10, Issue 8
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