South Charlotte Sports Report“HOMETOWN TEAMS ... HOMETOWN KIDS”

Volume 5, Issue 18 January 20, 2011 - FREEwww.southcharlottesports.com

Click “LIKE” at www.facebook.com/SouthCharlotteSportsThe number of fans we have on March 15th, will decide the prize we give away!

** See www.southcharlottesports.com for rules Contest ends March 15, 2011

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

January 29th 2nd Annual Baseball Arm Care ClinicFebruary 5th 4th Annual Greater Charlotte Hot Stove League DinnerMarch 4-6 3rd Annual All-Star Youth Basketball TournamentMarch 12th South Charlotte Sports/Accelerate Basketball Skills Combine

*** We have 3 openings remaining in our weekly 7pm Wednesday Winter Baseball Training Academy

For information on these and other South Charlotte Sports Report events, pleaseemail Tripp@southcharlottesports.com or visit www.southcharlottesportscamps.com

Cooperstown, New York is the home of the Baseball Hall of Fame and the Cooperstown Dreams Park. The Hall of Fame is a place where his-tory is recorded while Cooperstown Dreams Park is the home of many baseball dreams and memories. Coo-perstown Dream Park hosts 96 10U and 12U baseball teams every week of the summer. The park is a place where “baseball present meets the traditional values of baseball past.”

One local player who attended the 10U tournament this year had an ex-perience he will never forget. His sto-ry of Cooperstown is filled with both tragedy and triumph.

Connor Ryan, a fifth grade student at Rea Woods Elementary School and a member of the Carolina Twins made the baseball pilgrimage to Cooper-stown this summer. The son of Kevin and Keely Ryan worked hard all year to increase his baseball skills and raise money for this special event.

The Carolina Twins won a local tournament which allowed them entry into the special 10U week. The boys had fundraisers and practiced hard in preparation to make the trip. Each team that enters the competition is re-quired to bring an umpire to work that week. The Twins were fortunate to invite Jim Walker, who is the grandfa-ther of Connor, and a 40 year umpire of the game of Baseball.

The first three days of the tourna-ment are designed to rank teams for tournament pool play. After Tuesday and six games the Carolina Twins were 3-3 and seeded number 48 out of 92 teams. Wednesday would be a day no Twin will ever forget. The Twins had rented a 3 acre estate which would house all players families as well as the

umpire and his wife, Mary Ann.When the sunlight broke to let

Wednesday begin, the Twins had no idea of the tragedy they were getting ready to face. Jim Walker, husband, dad, grandfather and umpire, had passed away peacefully during his sleep.

Jim Walker was an amazing man. He lived most of his 62 year life in New York before retiring to South Carolina six years ago. Jim had been fortunate enough to visit his family in New York the week prior to umpiring at Cooper-stown Dream Park. He was quoted numerous times throughout the week as saying, “I’m having the time of my life.”

Early that morning, the Twins talk-ed it over and decided to continue to play in his honor. “Jim would want the boys to play ball,” said Keely Ryan, Jim’s daughter-in-law. Every kid on the team wore “eyeblack” under each

eye with the letter “J” under one eye and the letter “W” under the other eye to honor Jim. A moment of silence occurred for Jim on every field before every game during the day. Conner and his family were also recognized during the closing ceremonies by Lou Presutti (founder of Cooperstown Dreams Park) and provided a Cooper-stown bat. The Twins played ball that Wednesday and while Jim Walker was not physically there his presence was felt numerous times throughout the three games the Twins played that hot summer day. Connor played incred-ible defense at 2nd base and recorded the last two outs in two of the games.

Connor reflects back on his trip to Cooperstown.

“Cooperstown was the best expe-rience of my life. It was made even better because my Grandparents were able to be there with me. Especially my Grandpa because he was able to be our

team umpire. I was very sad when my Grandpa died but my parents told me to think of what a wonderful time we had that week. Grandpa died during the night before our big playoffs. I was with him that night & chose to spend the night with him. We fell asleep eat-ing pretzels and watching the Yankee game. I will never forget that night.”

The entire Twins team was there to provide Connor support.

“My team was great and really helped me get through that day. The coaches offered to let the team back out of the tournament but I know my Grandpa would want me to go ahead and play. Also, my Grandma said “Grandpa would want you to play” - so we did and it ended up being the best day of baseball the Carolina Twins ever played.”

“Cooperstown Dreams Park was awesome to our team and family and paid tribute to my Grandpa before all the games. They also brought my Dad & I up at the closing ceremonies and presented us with a Cooperstown Dreams Park official bat in honor of Grandpa.”

With spring just around the cor-ner, Connor is beginning to get excited about another season. The Twins will continue to play in big tournaments and will represent North and South Carolina in a National event later in the summer. While Connor faced an expe-rience that is always tough on children and adults, he came away a stronger person. Those special memories with his Grandfather will remain front and center in his memory. We salute Con-nor and the entire Carolina Twins or-ganization for battling through adver-sity on that sad day in Cooperstown.

CONNOR RYAN WILL NEVER FORGET HIS WEEK IN COOPERSTOWN

Connor Ryan with his Grandparents Jim and Mary Ann Walker

SOUTH CHARLOTTE SPORTS REPORT BASKETBALL COMBINE

...SCSR and Accelerate Basketball to offer Unique Skills Combine

With basketball season in full swing and thousands of area players hard at work to im-prove their game, the South Charlotte Sports Report and Accelerate Basketball have com-bined to offer a first-class basketball skills combine. Accelerate Basketball Training has taken the basketball community by storm over the last year. With their group, team and individual training programs, many of the top youth, middle school and high school players in Charlotte are making regular visits to the facility, located just across the North Carolina state line off Highway 521.

See SCSR AND ACCELERATE BASKETBALL COMBINE, Page 4

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Page 2 Volume 5, Issue 18SOUTH CHARLOTTE SPORTS REPORT

HERE WE GO AGAIN, MIDDLE SCHOOL SPORTS

Yes, like a lot of you, I thought the future of middle school sports had been secured last year when Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools adopted the major-ity of my plan to fund middle school sports. Now, just at the halfway point of the school year, Dr. Peter Gorman announced for the third consecutive year, his decision to recommend that middle school sports cease to exist in CMS. My first thought? Why would you end something that doesn’t cost any tax dollars?

Were the numbers just not adding up? Did someone make a budget mis-take along the way? How many middle school and high school athletes are there in the 2010-2011 season? How many paid the participation fee, how many were waived from the fee? What were the revenues from the $1.00 ticket surcharge at high school games? I turned to LaTarzja Henry, Ex-ecutive Director of Communications for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools a week ago for the answers. After replying that she would get those numbers for me, I was told today, a week later that the numbers were not going to be made available to me for another week.

I have done my best to gather up participation numbers and other facts given to me by different school sources. From what I can tell based on limited information, 10,200 athletes will participate in high school sports this year and for ease of math, lets say that 33% of that number will play middle school sports, 3,366. I am told that due to free or reduced lunch status, 50% of these athletes were not required to pay the $50 middle school or $100 high school participation fee. That would leave a participa-tion revenue amount of around $594,000. A number very close to half of the middle school budget. The additional amount would be made up from the $1.00 ticket surcharge, a $250,000 donation from the Charlotte Bob-cats, a $55,000 donation from The Charlotte Touchdown Club and other small donated amounts. I am going to hold off until next issue to dive any further into the numbers, but one very quick way to solve any shortfall is to raise the participation fees by 30%. Even at that amount, it’s a heck of a deal to play a school sport. To play baseball at most South Charlotte area athletic associations costs $175-$200, Football will run families close to $300 and basketball in the $150 range. I’m not sure why it should be any more affordable at a public school and I do not believe that any tax revenue should be used on school sports.

My early thought is that middle school sports should probably just come to an end in CMS and each school should just let their Athletic Booster Club take over. The opportunities would increase and the teams could follow the very successful pattern for middle school sports that we see in Union County. However, if that happens, many inner city schools may not be able to have athletic teams. Many of these kids would be left without coaches that are such important mentors in their lives, they would lose the opportunity to compete in many of these sports at the middle school level. I personally don’t want to see that happen, I believe the role of sports, fine arts and other extracurricular activities is vital in the lives of both inner city and suburban teenagers.

I seriously doubt that any family is going to be turned away from sports by raising the participation fees by 30%. I hope Dr. Gorman and the school board will let the numbers run for the entire year and then respond with the proper adjustments to the fees. I want to be a part of the solution for this issue as well as the other cuts and changes that were announced last week.

On a side note, I want to send my best wishes out to CMS Athletic Director Vicki Hamilton on her upcoming retirement. Vicki is a wonderful friend of our youth and a huge asset to youth sports in our community. Vicki and I share a hometown connection and I want her to know she has made her hometown and Charlotte very proud! Enjoy your retirement Vicki, you will be greatly missed by all.

Tripp RoakesPublisherSouth Charlotte Sports ReportTripp@southcharlottesports.com704-906-5466

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Volume 5, Issue 18 Page 3SOUTH CHARLOTTE SPORTS REPORT

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ASSOCIATION KNICKSThe South Charlotte Recreation Association 10U Knicks Basketball Team hasbeen named The Buca Di Beppo Team of the Week. The Knicks are coached byAnthony Sciacca and Andrew Petruski.

“We have a great group of boys on the team this year and tremendously supportive parents,” said Coach Sciacca. “The team has come a long way since the beginning of the season, both in learning about basketball fundamentals and playing together as a team. Above all, Coach Andrew and I are proud that they are trying their best, displaying sportsmanship and having fun.”

Front Row (L-R): Aidan Petruski, Clark Kistler, Greyson Owens, Parker FerryBack Row (L-R): Coach Andrew Petruski, Drew Michaud, Scott Elmore, Connor Roche, A.J. Sciacca, Coach Anthony Sciacca

Tip-off for Jay M. Robinson and Community House Middle School.

Page 4 Volume 5, Issue 18

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Charlotte Soccer Academy & South Charlotte Recreation Association are pleased to announce the opening of

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catering to all levels of play. The South Charlotte Sports Report and Accelerate are proud to an-nounce a basketball skills combine with group sessions available on March 12th and 13th.

Each session will consist of only 15 players and will then be split into sub-groups. The players will be placed through a filmed motion screening in order to assess their posture and any muscle imbalances they may have. The combine will then test progress on different move-ments needed to be an effective basketball player. Tests will include; vertical leap, broad jump, 10 yard sprint for first step quickness, seated medicine ball throw for upper body power, pushup/ bench test. They will be evaluated on their jump shot. This evaluation will be filmed with results and a breakdown provided to each player by Accelerate Coaches. Many of these drills are identical to ones performed in the NBA Pre-Draft camp.

Following the combine, each group will participate in a 30 minute Accelerate Basketball workout which will provide instruction to im-prove upon each skills tests.

“Our combine will provide a great opportunity for players to begin to prepare for future evaluations by high school and college coaches. By forming a baseline in the combine, each player will know what they need to improve upon to reach their desired goals within the sport. We are very excited to partner with Accelerate Basketball on this com-bine.”

The cost to participate is only $60.00 per player and a sibling dis-count for two players is only $50.00 per child. Sessions will be held from 2:30pm-4:30pm (13 and under) and from 4:30pm-6:30pm (14 and up) on both Saturday and Sunday. Players only need to attend one session. To enroll in the South Charlotte Sports Report / Acceler-ate Basketball Combine, please visit www.southcharlottesportscamps.com

SCSR AND ACCELERATE BASKETBALL COMBINE

Continued from front page

Volume 5, Issue 18 Page 5

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SOUTH CHARLOTTE SPORTS REPORT

The Community House Middle School cheerleading team has got-ten a couple of extra looks this win-ter. Many folks have noticed the two male cheerleaders that have joined this year’s team. Eight graders Ian Diaz and Sam Pierlott both elected to add a third sport to their Community

House Middle School resumes. The two energetic boys both played on the football team this fall and plan to run track this spring. While it is unusual to see boys on a middle school or high school cheerleading team, both are enjoying the season and the support of many friends.

Ian explains why he chose to cheer this winter.

“What led me to add cheerleading as a winter sport is the fitness, I also can’t play basketball so I decided to do cheerleading. Doing cheerleading will still keep me in good physical shape for the spring sport, Track. I also wanted the Triple Sports (an award for stu-dent-athletes playing three sports) award, but that’s just to say we accom-plished our goal by earning it.

Sam also noted the triple sports award.

“There is an award at Community House called the Triple Sports Award which is where a student is on a fall, winter & spring sports team in one year. Since I made the football team and will have a good chance at making track again in the spring I decided to

try out for cheerleading because I can do flips and cannot play basketball very well. My favorite sport to play is baseball. I did not make the team last year but will try out again this year in hopes of making the team.”

For Sam, the jump into cheerlead-ing seems natural.

“My mom, Meg Pierlott, is the manager at the International Sports Center which teaches gymnastics and cheerleading. She has been there for 15 years so I have grown up there my whole life flipping around and taking gymnastics and tumbling classes.”

Ian had only played around on a trampoline, so this was very new to him. He has quickly gained great respect for all the work cheerleaders have to do.

Once Ian and Sam made the deci-sion to cheer, the next biggest hurdle to face was “what would their friends say?” Many would be to scared to even attempting to cheer for fear of being called a name or laughed at. Ian and Sam were strong enough to move past that and enjoy themselves. Their classmates jumped on board and have

provided support to the pair.“My biggest adjustment was get-

ting used to the games because all the people from other schools stare at us because we are the only guys and it makes it awkward,” said Sam. “The biggest adjustment was getting over the fact that people will make fun of us, but we’re the bigger people and just let it go,” said Ian.

It doesn’t look like either will con-tinue to cheer in high school. Ian is a successful football kicker and he wants to focus on becoming better in high school. Sam isn’t 100% sure as he remains intrigued by the fact that scholarships are available in college for cheerleaders.

Both Ian and Sam are successful students and have found time to bal-ance their studies with playing three sports.

The South Charlotte Sports Report salutes both Ian Diaz and Sam Pierlott for going against the grain and explor-ing a new sport this winter. We hope many others will follow their lead and help to raise the spirit at their schools.

CAVALIER ATHLETES ADD CHEERLEADING TO THEIR RESUME

SHOWCASE BASEBALL ACADEMY TO HOLD RECRUITING SYMPOSIUM

On Sunday, January 30th, Showcase Baseball Academy will host a Parent Symposium on College Recruiting. Greg Simmons (Varsity Baseball Coach for Charlotte Christian) will moder-ate the symposium for all parents who have children from 8th grade to 12th grade. Greg has been recognized as a National, and Regional, High School Coach of the year by the ABCA. Greg has also helped more Student Athletes attend a D1 School for Base-ball than any other coach in North Carolina. Topics will include; NCAA rules governing recruiting contact, Scholarships, NCAA Clearinghouse, Classification of “Core Classes,” Role of parent during the recruiting process, What coaches look for, The role of the High School Coach and Travel/Showcase coach and a ques-tion and answer session. For more information, please contact jrobbins@showcasebaseball.org

Sam Pierlott and Ian Diaz

Page 6 Volume 5, Issue 18

2011 DYNAMIC TRAINING ACADEMY OPTIONSWinter Basketball Academy (South Charlotte) Grades 2-4 & 5-6

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Volume 5, Issue 18 Page 7SOUTH CHARLOTTE SPORTS REPORT

Carolinas Baseball Center and On Deck Academy are pleased to announce a merger, which will take effect immediately. This merger represents a com-ing together of the two top baseball development organizations in the Charlotte area. Combined the two organizations will continue to produce the pre-mium standard for youth baseball development in the southeast.

“We are incredibly excited about the opportunity this merger provides for the greater Charlotte area baseball community”, said Jeff Schaefer, former Major Leaguer and founder of CBC. Schaefer added, “Since our inception, CBC’s mission has been the de-velopment of baseball players and young men. The merger with On Deck not only supports that mission, but enhances it as the core culture of both organiza-tions supports player development over the collec-tion of trophies. We are very pleased to be working with the Hill family towards this mutual mission.”

Carolinas Baseball Center was founded in 2006 by Schaefer whereas On Deck Academy was formed in 1999 under the direction of Mike Shildt.

When asked about the merger Shildt said, “On Deck and CBC joining forces combines two proven, quality baseball organizations. Both establishments bring passion for teaching the game and a sincere interest in the development of our baseball com-munity. The future of Charlotte area baseball is now more promising then ever.”

In 2004, Mike Shildt turned over On Deck Acad-emy to Garry Hill and his family in order to take a position with the St. Louis Cardinals organization, a position he still holds today.

Garry Hill, Owner and Chairman of On Deck BSDA stated, “It has always been our goal to grow the On Deck Academy and we believe this merger with Carolinas Baseball Center is not only growing our business, but our family. Both sides are bringing a lot of good things to this merger and the excite-ment level has never been higher.”

Jeff Schaefer added, “Our combined measure of success has been, and will continue to be, measured

by the young men we help to achieve their goals of playing at the next level.”

Carolinas Baseball Center and On Deck BSDA will control and operate both facilities, while the central office will be located at CBC’s current facility at 1108F Continental Blvd., Charlotte, NC, 28208, (704) 499-9040. www.cbcbaseball.net

TWO MAJOR BASEBALL DEVELOPMENTAL PROGRAMS JOIN FORCESOn Deck Academy merges with Carolinas Baseball Center

4TH ANNUAL COLLEGIATE SKILLS CAMP Only 2 Days Remain… Don’t Miss This Opportunity!

JANUARY 23, 30 Open to all Players Graduating in

2011, ‘12, ‘13, ‘14

Session 1: Infielders/Outfielders 9am-Noon Session 2: Pitchers/Catchers 1pm-4pm

Coaches Committed To The Camp: Appalachian State UNC Clemson NC State Pfieffer Belmont Abbey High Point Elon Wingate Spartanburg Methodist Furman UNC Charlotte Winthrop Gardner Webb Western Carolina College of Charleston Newberry UNC-Asheville Lenoir Rhyne UNC-Greensboro St Andrews USC Upstate Limestone Harvard Catawba Valley

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“I think for the players, and for us as well, any event like this in any time period does two

things. One, it allows players to learn while showcasing their skills in front of college coaches. The second thing, it allows us to

evaluate their talent. Recruiting is the lifeblood of college sports, so an event like this certainly

helps facilitate that.”

Page 8 Volume 5, Issue 18SOUTH CHARLOTTE SPORTS REPORT

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THE Q SHACK COACH OF THE WEEKJASON OTEY

SOUTH CHARLOTTE MIDDLE SCHOOLSouth Charlotte Middle School basketball coach Jason Otey has been named The Q Shack Coach of the Week. Coach Otey, who also serves as Athletic Director, has worked extremely hard with the basketball team this winter. The team continues to improve with each game under his leadership.

Congratulations to Coach Jason Otey on being named The Q Shack Coach of the Week.

To nominate your coach for this award, please visit The Q Shack or email tripp@southcharlottesports.com.

Located in The Providence Promenade10822 Providence RoadCharlotte, NC 28277www.qshackclt.com704-542-5959

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Volume 5, Issue 18 Page 94TH ANNUAL

GREATER CHARLOTTE HOT STOVE LEAGUE DINNER

AN EVENING TO CELEBRATE THE PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE OF CHARLOTTE

BASEBALL AND SOFTBALL

TICKETS AVAILABLE ONLINE AT WWW.HOTSTOVEDINNER.COM

FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL 704-906-5466

The Biggest Night of Baseball and Softball in Charlotte History!Exciting scholarship fundraiser auctionAutograph session with professional baseball players12 youth baseball and softball awards to be presented

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Adults: $40 Students: $35Family Four Pack: $120Corporate Table for 8: $400

SPECIAL GUEST

COACH MIKE SHILDTSt Louis Cardinals FEBRUARY 5, 2011

6:30PM

High School Player of the Year Brett Austin Mikal Hill Logan Ratledge Alex Jensen Anthony Dimino High School Pitcher of the Year Peter Hendel William Frazier Rob Bain Taylor Thurber Brody Koerner High School Team of the Year Charlotte Catholic Baseball Cuthbertson Baseball Youth Baseball Player of Year Max Wottell Rider Ryan Josh Ladowski Lamar Briggs Sean Collins

Comeback Player of the Year Alex Leach Michel Russell Caitlynn Baker John Beaver Taylor Rowe Baseball Scholar Athlete Stephen Gilmore Justin Hammond Matt Hedberg Tyler Powell Softball Scholar Athlete Lauren Billotto Hope Lynn Smith Caitlin Kurtz Youth Team of the Year South Park 10’s Myers Park 12s Cuthbertson Middle Softball

A gathering of nearly 600 baseball and softball fans will oc-cur on Saturday February, 5th for the 4th Annual Greater Charlotte Hot Stove League Dinner. This annual event brings together the top youth and high school base-ball and softball players from the Greater Charlotte Metro area. In addition to 13 unique awards that will be presented an entire evening of fun will be had by all. Charlotte native Mike Shildt will deliver the key note address after dinner. Shildt is the Director of Spring Training for the St. Louis Cardinals and the manager of the Johnson City Cardinals minor league team. One of the most exciting auctions of sports items, jewelry, vacations and other items will be held prior to dinner. A group of current and former major and minor league base-

ball players will also be on hand to visit with guests. All fans of baseball and softball are invited to attend the 4th Annual Greater Charlotte Hot Stove League Din-ner inside Carolinas Baseball Center at 6:30pm on the fifth of February. Tickets are on sale now at www.hotstovedinner.com . A limited number of tickets remain for sale and the fourth consecu-tive sell out is expected.

The most enjoyable aspect of the evening is the presentation of awards and recognition of the finalists. All of these teams and players have worked hard to be-come the very best possible play-ers they can be. Many former winners of the awards are now playing minor league baseball or starring for their college baseball teams. The first ever winner of the High School Player of the Year

Award, Richie Shaffer, played a starring role for the Clemson Tigers during their march to the College World Series this past spring.

“We are very excited to name the finalists for each award at the 4th Annual Greater Charlotte Hot Stove League Dinner,” said Tripp Roakes, Co-Founder of the event. “The Greater Charlotte area is recognized across the country as one of the top areas for both youth baseball and softball. These final-ists and all the players that were nominated deserve every ounce of recognition they can be given for their hard work. Success in both sports doesn’t come without investing thousands of hours of practice and lots of blood, sweat and tears.”

Congratulations to all these finalists!

FINALISTS ANNOUNCED FOR GREATER CHARLOTTE HOT STOVE LEAGUE AWARDS

... Top youth and high school baseball and softball players and teams to be honored

The Gravediggers captured the 11U Kick It 3V3 Championship at ESPN Wide World of Sports in Orlando this past weekend. U11 age group.

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Page 10 Volume 5, Issue 18SOUTH CHARLOTTE SPORTS REPORT

MUSTANGS RECORD A FANTASTIC SOCCER SEASON

Written by Kiyonna Morgan, Myers Park High School

Although the Myers Park Mustangs fell short of a championship, they fought hard for their third finals appearance in the last three years. “Why let one game spoil a good year?” says Bucky McCarley, Head coach for the Myers Park Varsity Men’s soccer team.

On Saturday November 20, 2010 the Mustangs went up against the Falcons of Jordan High School from Durham, North Carolina, competing at North Caro-lina State’s Dail Stadium where that next eighty minutes would determine the next NCHSAA 4A State champions.

As the opening quarter of the first half progressed both teams fought intensely for control of midfield. In the twenty-sixth minute Mambo Bokar assisted Mat-thew Feigler with a goal that helped the Falcons gain an early lead. Starting the second half the Mustangs began to develop better offensive composure, later on in the half Junior Eric Suarez encounters a questionable offside’s shot on goal. Jonathan Ray from Jordan high assisted Mambo Bokar with the second goal for Jordan seventy-five minutes into the game. The Jordan Falcons walk away with the 2010 State Championship carrying out an undefeated record of 25-0. The mustangs close out the season 25-2. Though the Mustangs fell just short of a State Championship for the third time in three years, they have certainly set a sturdy precedent for the future of the Myers Park program. “Hard work, applica-tion, learning, and care for teammates” are the principles for which Coach Bucky McCarley will continue to instill into his players, hopefully leading them to suc-cess resembling their immediate past.

The CSA Fury U8 soccer team won the 3v3 World Tour Palisades Tournament on January 8th. The team went 5-0 and won the finals in a “golden goal” in overtime. Fury team members include; McMillan Davis, Gannon Peters, Luke Foster, Daniel Mathew, Jarron James, Brayden Keenan

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Schools Sports Medicine Program

Anthony Walker, DPT• Doctor of physical therapy • Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist

On-site Services• Sports medicine and primary care• Physical therapy including strength training• Digital radiology• ImPACT concussion testing and evaluation

To schedule an appointment with Eric Warren, MD or Anthony Walker, DPT today, call 704-384-8640.

From Gridiron Stars to Weekend Warriors

Everyone has to start somewhere. Ten year old Riley Wyatt, the daughter of Jennifer and Jim Wyatt, started playing golf a little over two years ago. She has steadily improved on her game and is ready to take the next step in the golfing world. Riley is a fifth grader at Weddington Elementary School. When did you start playing golf and why? “I started playing golf about 2 years ago, I was inspired to play because I had heard my dad talking about it. I started by playing around in the garage, swinging around and hitting balls. Then I asked my dad if I could play golf. “

How often do you play and practice? “Well in the summer time I like to go play golf about two times a week but in the winter it is really cold so I don’t go very often.” What is the best part of your game? “The best part of my game is probably driving. I usually am very accurate at hitting the ball down the fairway.” Do you play any other sports? “Yes, I am currently playing tennis and plan to play lacrosse in the spring. In the past I have also participated in flag football, soccer, swimming, diving, gymnastics, Girls on the Run and basketball.” What is your most exciting memory on a golf course? “Getting my first birdie on Hole #7 at Pebble Creek on October 16, 2010.” How well do you perform in the classroom? “I am an A / B student and my favorite classes are PE and Math”

BEYOND THE GAME WITH RILEY WYATT

Volume 5, Issue 18 Page 11

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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

Fourteen year old Michael Wilmot has been named the Quimby and Collins “Wired for Excellence” Award winner. Michael, an eighth grader at Arborbrook Christian Academy, is the son of Mike and Marylou Wilmot. He enjoys playing basketball, football, cross country and golf. Michael plays guard at Arborbrook Christian Academy and for an AAU basketball team. He plays quar-terback and defensive back for the Carmel Covenant Cats and South Charlotte Patriots. Michael also runs cross country for Arborbrook and he finds time to play golf at Providence Country Club. Michael was named a team captain for his basketball team and he was also named to the CACAA All Tournament Team. In football he was awarded First Team All-American Pop Warner Scholar two con-secutive years. Inside the classroom, Michael maintains an A average and he is a member of the Latin National Honor Society. He also volunteers with Operation Christmas Child, Mecklenburg County Kids Vote, Upward Basketball and Hands On Charlotte. Congratulations to Michael Wilmot for being named the Quimby and Collins “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 Tripp@southcharlottesports.com

MICHAEL WILMOT

Home of the South Charlotte Panthers, Charlotte Hurricanes, Jake Robbins Pitching School and the Jeff Shore Hitting School

www.showcasebaseballacademy.org12857 E. Independence Blvd

Suite JMatthews, NC 28105

704-882-7629

Page 12 Volume 5, Issue 18

STUDENT-ATHLETES OF THE WEEK

ARCHITECH SPORTS AND PHYSICAL THERAPY 8918 Blakeney Professional Drive Suite 120 | Charlotte, NC 28277 | Ph. 704-900-8960

www.architechsports.comPhysical Therapy for Athletes and Weekend Warriors * Sports Performance * Soccer Speed and Agility

Baseball Pitching Arm Care Evaluations * Female Jumpmetrics Training * Coaches Care Programs All programs in conjunction with Morrison Family YMCA

The two Student-Athletes of the Week will receive a Scholarship to Architech Sports and Physical Therapy for a Functional Movement Screen.

JORDAN HENRYMarvin Ridge High School eleventh grader Jordan Henry has been named the Architech Sports and Physi-cal Therapy Student-Athlete of the Week. Jordan is the 16 year old daughter of Joe and Maria Henry and she is leading the way for the Marvin Ridge Mavericks basketball team this winter. The Mavericks are 10-4 and Jordan is averaging 14 points, 11 rebounds and 3 blocks per game. Jordan was an all-conference team member as a sopho-more and she was selected to the all-tournament team in the CMC-Union Holiday Classic Tournament in De-cember. Jordan has played basketball since age eight. In addition to the high school team, she also plays for the Carolina Silver Dynasty, a showcase team that plays in tournaments across the Southeast. Her steady play, athleticism and height has started to attract the atten-tion of college coaches.

Jordan is also a success inside the classroom. She is an Honor Roll student and works hard to maintain her academic standing. She is also very active in service projects at her church and school. Congratulations to Jordan Henry for being names the Architech Sports and Physical Therapy Student-Athlete of the Week.

ROBERT CHAMPIONCharlotte Catholic eleventh grader basketball player, Robert Champion, has been named the Architech Sports and Physical Therapy Student Athlete of the Week. Robert, the son of Wes and Judy Champion is averaging over 15 points per game for the 8-6 Cougars this winter. His steady play and scoring ability have been very key to the success of the team. Over the last six games, Robert has scored 20 points or more three times, including his career high of 25 against Garinger. Earlier this season, Robert was named to the Holy Angels and Morganton Freedom Invitational All-Tour-nament Teams. This past fall, Robert achieved another honor when he was selected to play in the Adidas Phe-nom 150 Basketball Camp in Winston Salem. Away from school, he plays AAU basketball for the Phoenix South team and they travel across the Southeast com-peting in various events. Inside the classroom, Robert has built a 3.6 grade point average and he is enrolled in several honors classes. He

works hard to maintain his academic standing at Charlotte Catholic. Congratulations to Robert Champion for being named the Architech Sports and Physical Therapy Student Athlete of the Week.

Remember Frogger, the classic video game in which a successful player navi-gated frogs across a dangerous street, avoiding oncoming traffic and catastro-phes, safe and sound?

That’s what applying to college can feel like.Juniors are already itching and beginning to ask, “What should I

be doing now?”Come in to NewPoint Learning Center today, to see what your

next step should be. With over 3,500 colleges in the United States, you are bound to

find more than one that is a good fit and feels like home. Take time to really get to know what you value, and most importantly how you want to invest in your future. After all, investing in yourself is the best deposit you can make!

The South Charlotte area understands and values education. Par-ents are unwilling to settle for anything less than excellence in our schools. As a supplemental education provider, NewPoint Learning Center can offer your child more than hope. We can help your child earn top test scores, improve grades and provide your child with con-fidence and optimism that derive from expert level instruction. Our tutors are experienced teachers who are respected for their ability to connect with students to help them reach their academic goals.

With NewPoint’s experience and expertise, we can help you make appropriate decisions that will lead your child to higher achieve-ment, and ultimately on the path to a successful college experience. This starts with improving grades in Middle School or High School

plus achieving the best possible results on College Admissions Tests.Please call us at 704-814-0233 to schedule a student assessment. We look

forward to working with you to help nurture and guide your child on the path to academic success.

High School Juniors, Start Your Engines

7761 Ballantyne Commons Pkwy 704-814-0233www.NewPointLearning.com

*SAT is a registered trademark of the College Board and *ACT is a registered trademark of ACT, Inc.

4 Experienced Teachers4 1-1 or Small Group4 Test Taking Strategies

Get the Score to Get in Your SchoolSAT*/ACT* Test Prep

Volume 5, Issue 18 Page 13

Program structure, program information and registration at:

www.southcharlotterec.com

South Charlotte Rec Spring Baseball and Softball registration has begun

South Charlotte Recreation Association is pleased to provide the following playing levels:

KEY DATES:

REGISTER ONLINE:www.southcharlotterec.com

EMAIL:southcharlotterec@gmail.com

BASEBALL• T-BALL• COACH PITCH• MACHINE PITCH• MINORS (U9-U10)• MAJORS (U11-U12)• BABE RUTH (13-14)• BABE RUTH (15-16)

BABE RUTH (17-18) CHALLENGE BASEBALL CLUB BASEBALL

•••

SOFTBALL• SOFT-T-BALL – 6 & UNDER• UNDER 8 (U8)• UNDER 10 (U10)• UNDER 12 (U12• UNDER 15 (U15)

1/29 WALK UP REGISTRATIONS @ DICKS SPORTING GOODS PINEVILLE 10AM – 1PM (BASEBALL ONLY)

2/20 SOFTBALL EVALUATIONS AT SOUTH CHARLOTTE MIDDLE SCHOOL2/26 BASEBALL EVALUATIONS AT OLDE PROVIDENCE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL3/21 SOFTBALL SEASON BEGINS4/2 BASEBALL SEASON BEGINS

•

••••

Page 14 Volume 5, Issue 18SOUTH CHARLOTTE SPORTS REPORT

With a large majority of first time participants, coach-ing the sport of wrestling can be very interesting at Marvin Ridge High School. With a sport that requires lots of hard work and strategy, the young grapplers are eager to learn and advance their skills. Coach Robert Grasty enjoys working with the wrestlers and sharing his knowledge. With a full force of parental support, this team is growing leaps and bounds!

How is your wrestling season going this year?“First, I would like to say we have a great group of kids on our team, and an excellent coaching staff. Paul Harrold, John Hammond, Todd Cohen, Todd Kanipe and Marvin Ridge High School coach James Wall has been amazing and great support.”

“We have a young team of wrestlers that is composed of mainly 6th graders( 85%). Only 10% of team has wrestled before. With that being said our first three matches were definitely a learning experience. We were matched up with the top three teams in Union County (Holy Trinity, Porter Ridge, and Piedmont). These teams have amazing wrestling programs. Every match, our boys were developing and gaining great experience as wrestlers. I see them maturing, as wrestlers, in front of my eyes. Our first win came in our fourth match against our rival Weddington. Our last four matches we have been undefeated. What is most amazing is after our starting line-up, the remaining wrestlers have won over 95% of our exhibition matches. We truly have an unbelievable team that works hard and if everyone stays with it we will be unstoppable in high school and potentially college. I believe my job is to help Coach Wall build a strong feeder pool for the high school program. I truly believe we have a program that can now com-pete with any program in Union County.”

What are the challenges of coaching a team where most have no background in the sport? “I believe our biggest challenge has been getting our kids mentally focused around how tough wres-tling is and how hard you have to work to be a good wrestler. We also started from square one teaching the kids the true fundamentals of wrestling and we focused on that a lot. We also focused on getting them in good shape and conditioning. Additional chal-lenges were getting our kids mentally and physically tough. Wrestling is a tough sport and if you are not

ready someone can get hurt. If you treat each child with respect, encourage them, and boost their con-fidence, they can achieve anything in the sport. My philosophy has always been and always will be to go out and give 100% and to have fun.” How often do you practice? “We practice Monday thru Thursday unless we have a match during the week. We do not practice on Fri-days. I use that time to spend with my family since I am committed to our team during the week and my son wanted to play basketball this year I support his dream. My son has joined me on occasion to a work out here or there and since has developed a passion for the sport over his beloved basketball. Next year he may try out for the team.” Who have been the leaders on the team this year? “This is a very hard question to answer because when I think about leaders on our team I have seen every-one at some point step up. We have a few kids that

has consistently gone beyond the call of duty and they are Eric Cal, Tyler Stapleton, Jon Dunn, Billy Jewell, Mack Despard, Jason Esposito, Thomas Giarratana, George Konstantinidis, Taylor Harrold, Jacob Ham-mond, and Matthew Wahlers.”

BEYOND THE MAT WITH MARVIN RIDGE MIDDLE SCHOOL WRESTLING

SIGN UP ON-LINE ANYTIME ATpcaasports.org

* Register On-line before January 31st to waive annual $35 family fee *

Pineville Matthews Road across from Carolina Place Mall

SIGN UP IN PERSON

January 22nd 10AM – 2 PM @Enter a raffle for prizes supplied by Dick’s Sporting Goods

February 12th 10AM – 2 PM @PCAA field complex

210 Lowry Street, Pineville

Thomas Pfeiler Thomas R. Perite Luke C. Halodik Aaron Cohen Jared Walther Chase R. Kanipe Mack Despard Justin W. Smits Billy B. Jewell Thomas J. Giarratana Dawson Ward Christian Beach James Anderson Daniel Norman Clay Sturkey Kyle A. Falcon Jared Gillespie Jason Esposito

Preston Davis Tyler Stapleton Jacob C. Bill Tristan Walliser John F. Arthur Chandler B. Latu Edward Krizhevksiy Jason Thompson II John Dunn George K. Konstantinidis Collin Gravelle Webb Reyner, III Taylor D. Harrold Eric Cal Jacob Hammond Matthew Wahlers David Howard

Marvin Ridge Middle School Wrestling Team

Eric Cal, Marvin Ridge Middle School

Volume 5, Issue 18 Page 15

SOUTHERN STORM LACROSSE CLUB

An affiliate of Midwestern Force Lacrosse Club of Ohio

Southern Storm Lacrosse (SSL) is a premier girls lacrosse travel club team in the greater Charlotte area.

SSL offers high school, middle school and elementary age (summer only for this age) girl’s an opportunity to compete

year round in the nation’s fastest growing sport.

Elementary age girls are offered continual instruction in a fun and inviting environment, while also

having exposure to competition!

Middle school aged girls are offered more team structure while continually competing and sharpening their skills.

High school age girls have the opportunity to play with and against some of the best competition in the country by traveling to local and out of state tournaments. Within

the high school division there are various levels of commitment and everyone is welcome.

SSL believes that every girl counts. We formed to provide continual education and instruction in the rapidly growing sport of lacrosse. The intention of our program is to give every girl the opportunity to continue playing lacrosse at

the collegiate level. Specializing in recruitment, we believe that every girl has the ability to succeed.

For more information about the summer of 2011 season, check out the website. If you are interested in the rewarding experience of club lacrosse or simply want to get out on the

field go to MidesternForceLacrosse.com now!

Additional questions contact Lisa @ 330.697.2180 during regular business hours.

ENROLLING NOW FOR JUNE 1st Start date

Information meetings also available March 13th, April 3rd, and May 1st 3pm at Queens University of Charlotte, Athletic Complex for all interested families to answer

questions: Please email midwesternlax@yahoo to confirm date of meeting attendance

Chiropractic Center

Where Athletes Bring Their Families- Yes...We Treat Children!

Dr. Daniel Danieley, DC Shops at Wesley Chapel

5945 Weddington-Monroe Rd. Wesley Chapel, NC 28104

704-684-0307 www.kineticspinesports.com

Helping You Move Through Life Pain Free

Treatments Offered

Active Release Technique (A.R.T.)

Graston Technique

Laser Therapy

Kinesio Taping

Custom Orthotics

The Pineapple

(Whole Body Vibration System)

Neuromuscular Re-Education

Now Open

Dr. Daniel Danieley, DCShops at Wesley Chapel

5945 Weddington-Monroe Rd.Wesley Chapel, NC 28104

7 0 4 - 6 8 4 - 0 3 0 7www.kineticspinesports.com

Treatments Offered

Active Release Technique(A.R.T.)

Graston Technique

Laser Therapy

Kinesio Taping

Custom Orthotics

The Pineapple(Whole Body Vibration System)

NeuromuscularRe-Education

SoftballT-Ball up to 14U

REGISTER NOW!marasports.org

AMERICAN LEGION POST 337 PLANNING BASEBALL SEASON

American Legion Baseball is a tradition inside the state of North Caro-

lina and beyond. For many decades high school baseball players have worn the jersey of their hometown and competed on a road that leads to the American Legion World Series. This year, the series will be held at Keeter Stadium-Veteran’s Field in Shelby, North Carolina. The Pineville Post 337 team would love to set that as a final destination

Mike Edwards, Head Baseball Coach for the American Legion Pineville Post 337 baseball program is busy planning for the season. He has secured the new baseball field at Jack Hughes Park in Pineville as a home for the team. Interest is picking up for the season and many players are beginning to plan for the summer. Anyone interested in playing, coaching, or volun-teering in the American Legion baseball program should contact Mike Edwards at Mkedwards@carolina.rr.com or call 704-560-4133

As the season moves closer, we hope area baseball fans will take the time to watch the team play area legion posts as they battle for league, area, state and national championships.

SOUTH CHARLOTTE SPORTS REPORT

Page 16 Volume 5, Issue 18

Historic Downtown Waxhaw 112 East South Main Street

704-843-2773

Waxhaw’s Newest Restaurant!

Serving Lunch and Dinner

Family Friendly Atmosphere

Excellent Food

Fantastic Service

NFL Direct TV Game Day Package

All ABC Permits

With over 60 years combined restaurant experience, we are excited to have the

opportunity to serve the Waxhaw community and surrounding areas.

Check us out on Facebook for Daily Food

and Drink Specials and Our Full Menu!

11 am - 11pm Tues thru Thurs 11am - Midnight Friday and Saturday

Noon - 10 pm Sundays Closed Mondays