New Hope develops chemistry on defense 11/20/2009 8:51:00 AM The New Hope High School football team has 11 players in it to win it on defense.
Other teams might have faster players or better individual talent, but the Trojans would argue their team chemistry and camaraderie on defense has helped them have one of the best seasons in school history.
Seniors Anthony Nelson and Marquise Coleman are two examples of the kind of mentality New Hope has on defense.
Noxubee County has had Itawamba's number 11/20/2009 8:48:00 AM Things get tougher for the Noxubee County football team each time it faces Itawamba Agricultural High School.
The Tigers’ job gets tougher because each victory extends the team’s streak.
Noxubee County has eliminated Itawamba AHS from the playoffs the past two seasons and has won the last four meetings, dating back to 1994.
Patterson, East Webster have matured to make playoff run 11/20/2009 8:00:00 AM MABEN — Ledrick Patterson knew it wasn’t going to be easy taking over for Johnthan Banks at quarterback for the East Webster High School football team.
What made it especially tough for Patterson was he had never played the position. He wasn’t even listed as a quarterback on the preseason roster.
Liles believes defense will decide Aberdeen game 11/20/2009 7:57:00 AM ABERDEEN — Perry Liles knows the football programs at Charleston and Aberdeen high schools have plenty of similarities.
As a former coach at both schools, Liles had plenty of talented players on both teams. He also grew to be accustomed to a hard-charging style of play at each school.
Given Charleston and Aberdeen have so many things in common, don’t ask Liles to tell you which team will win at 7 tonight when they meet in a Mississippi High School Activities Association Class 3A North Half state semifinal at Lester Miley Stadium.
West Point football team has something prove 11/20/2009 7:56:00 AM WEST POINT — Noxubee County and Aberdeen should feel special.
The 2009 edition of Mississippi Sports Magazine singled out the Tigers in Class 4A and the Bulldogs in Class 3A as top teams in each classification in its preseason issue.
In Class 5A, Pearl and Oxford join Wayne County, West Jones, D’Iberville, and Brookhaven, a team to keep an eye on, were listed as the state’s top teams.
Hall leads Columbus basketball team past East Oktibbeha 11/18/2009 10:41:00 AM If things go according to plan for Sammy Smith, Michael Hall will play a key role this season in helping the Columbus High School boys basketball team come together.
Hall showed again Tuesday night how he can be a ring leader, scoring a game-high 22 points in a 71-44 victory against East Oktibbeha.
Chy Cunningham earned game-high scoring honors with 26 points to lead the Columbus High girls to a 62-48 victory against East Oktibbeha.
Starkville shuts out New Hope in soccer 11/18/2009 10:40:00 AM STARKVILLE -- Raevonne Shoemaker takes her role as goalkeeper seriously.
The Starkville High School junior knows she has to be focused on a match at all times and has to know what her teammates are doing on the field.
“(Goalkeepers) have to be the strong foundation,” Shoemaker said.
Shoemaker has only allowed one goal this season for the Lady Yellow Jackets and has recorded three shutouts, including Tuesday’s 2-0 home victory against New Hope High School.
Aberdeen's Hoskins signs basketball scholarship with Alcorn State 11/18/2009 10:38:00 AM ABERDEEN — The smile on Jameika Hoskins’ face Tuesday equaled relief.
Hoskins wasn’t as relaxed last Thursday, and Aberdeen High School girls basketball coach Latorrence Bivens could see it in her eyes.
After Hoskins scored 22 points in a victory against Baldwyn, she admitted to Bivens she “had purple and gold on her mind.”
Those colors helped spell relief five days later.
Everything comes together for Aberdeen's Andrews 11/17/2009 11:22:00 AM ABERDEEN — One, two, three — Release.
It sounds simple, and it doesn’t always go according to plan, but Aaron Andrews is all about being on time.
When you’re the quarterback of a high-scoring offense like the Aberdeen High School football team, you have to be precise with your movements and read and deliver the football at the right times.
Aberdeen's Duncan gets wish of Bulldogs playing complete game 11/17/2009 9:10:00 AM RIPLEY — All season long, Aberdeen High School football coach Chris Duncan has been looking for a “complete” game from his Bulldogs.
Although his team had compiled an impressive 10-2 mark heading into Friday’s 3A playoff matchup at Ripley, the Bulldogs, according to Duncan, had failed to click on all cylinders through their first 12 outings.
New Hope rallies to edge Callaway 11/15/2009 12:36:00 AM Michael Bradley seldom is speechless when he talks about football.
But the nature of his team’s come-from-behind 34-33 victory against Callaway on Friday night in the Mississippi High School Activities Association Class 5A North Half State playoffs had the fourth-year coach searching for words.
When Bradley got going, though, his words did the game — and his players — justice.
Noxubee County stops Senatobia's potent passing attack 11/15/2009 12:34:00 AM MACON — In high school football, as with any sport, winning can be so contagious that it takes a heavy dose of reality — a loss — to stop the momentum.
Facing a 9-2 Senatobia team in the second round of the Class 4A North Half State playoffs, Noxubee County knew the Warriors’ potent passing attack could stop their bid to repeat as state champions.
West Point goes to running game to win playoff game 11/15/2009 12:32:00 AM WEST POINT — After a couple bad experiences with the passing game Friday, the West Point High School football team opted to go with what it knows.
The result was 371 rushing yards and five touchdowns as the Green Wave shared its knowledge with Canton in a 36-0 victory in the first round of the Mississippi High School Activities Association Class 5A North Half State playoffs.
Lamar County outlasts Tanner for overtime victory 11/15/2009 12:25:00 AM VERNON, Ala. — On Friday, George Bell Stadium was packed with a crowd that generated noise that rivaled a college football game.
That crowd all but erupted after a play that many people take for granted.
Tanner High School’s Mark Adams extra-point attempt in overtime sailed low and to the right, enabling Lamar County to escape with a 28-27 victory in an Alabama High School Athletic Association Class 2A second-round playoff game.
Curry's interception ignites Pickens County to playoff win 11/15/2009 12:23:00 AM REFORM, Ala. — Pickens County High School’s Jematric Curry was looking to make a play.
When that didn’t come as the quarterback early against Goshen High in Friday’s second round game of the Alabama High School Athletic Association Class 2A playoffs, he turned to the other side of the football.
Curry’s second-quarter interception of running back Reginald Foster on a halfback pass attempt sparked the Tornadoes.
Once Pickens County got rolling, it recorded a 48-14 victory against the Eagles.
East Webster avenges playoff loss to Calhoun City 11/15/2009 12:18:00 AM MABEN — The East Webster High School football team avenged a loss in the playoffs last season by beating Calhoun City 28-14 Friday in the second round of the Mississippi High School Activities Association Class 2A state playoffs.
East Webster (7-6) won its third game in a row and atoned for a 14-7 loss to Calhoun City last season.
“We’re playing pretty well,” East Webster coach Jimmy Carden said. “I thought my kids played the hardest they’ve played all season. Not that Calhoun City didn’t play hard, but my kids played better than they have all year.”
Starkville's Perkins signs to play basketball at Southern Miss 11/15/2009 12:13:00 AM STARKVILLE — Starkville High School senior basketball player Rashad Perkins can get back to business.
After signing a national letter of intent Friday to attend the University of Southern Mississippi, Perkins is ready to concentrate on the rest of his high school season.
“It feels good to get it out of the way,” Perkins said. “It takes a lot of pressure off of me because I don’t have to worry about people asking me where I’m going. I can focus on what I need to be doing.”
Columbus soccer team wins two games in Tupelo Tournament 11/15/2009 12:11:00 AM TUPELO — Matthew Esquivel scored four goals in three games this weekend to help the Columbus High School boys soccer team win two of three games in the Tupelo Tournament.
Esquivel scored both goals in a 2-1 victory against Saltillo on Friday, scored the only goal in a 6-1 loss to Corinth on Saturday and scored scored a goal in a 3-0 victory against Center Hill on Saturday.
Sevascian Vasquez led Columbus (3-2-1) with two goals against Center Hill.
Starkville builds momentum going into playoffs 11/13/2009 9:09:00 AM STARKVILLE — Offensive lineman Jarrod Atterberry likes the future of Starkville High School football.
That doesn’t mean he’s ready for this season to end.
Atterberry believes the Yellow Jackets have momentum going into the Class 6A playoffs after defeating Columbus High 29-28 this past Friday.
West Point focuses on winning state championship 11/13/2009 9:07:00 AM Ever since the start of practice in August, the Green Wave have been focused on winning a state title.
The championship would be the program’s first since 2005, and it would give seniors like Xavier Hogan and Jeremy Cannon a chance to leave a permanent mark — not one left in magic marker — on the program.
Hogan, Cannon, and the rest of the Green Wave will begin that journey at 7 tonight when they play host to Canton (4-7) in the first round of the Mississippi High School Activities Association Class 5A North Half State playoffs.
Hodges out to help Aberdeen extend winning streak 11/13/2009 9:05:00 AM ABERDEEN — A 100-plus yard effort last week wasn’t what Victor Hodges expected.
It’s not that the Aberdeen High School junior is hard on himself, it’s just that he knows an “OK” effort isn’t going to help get the job done at playoff time.
“I could have had two touchdowns, but I tripped on one,” Hodges said.
Hodges will try to help Aberdeen (10-2) push its winning streak to 10 at 7 tonight when it plays at Ripley (6-5) in the second round of the Mississippi High School Activities Association Class 3A North Half State playoffs.
Williams becomes player for New Hope 11/12/2009 9:08:00 AM Ahmad Williams might not want to admit it, but his journey from a football novice to starter on the New Hope High School football team makes for a good story.
Williams, though, isn’t one to boast about his accomplishments, and he is currently writing a book about a battle in a fantasy world, so it will be a while before he takes the time to tell his story in his words.
Team concept pushes Noxubee County closer to title 11/12/2009 9:07:00 AM MACON — Patrick Patterson and Vincent Sanders have attracted a lot of attention the past two seasons.
A lot of publicity about the Noxubee County High School football team has accompanied the attention the standout wide receivers have generated.
Victory Christian overcomes obstacles to win CFA title 11/12/2009 9:04:00 AM The wait was worth it for the Victory Christian football team.
In a season that even on its final day nothing seemed to go according to plan, the Eagles took care of business like they thought they would.
Lamar County, Pickens County will try to reach third round 11/12/2009 9:02:00 AM A year ago, the Tanner High School football team knocked the Lamar County Bulldogs out of the state playoffs.
Lamar County will get a chance to avenge that setback Friday when it meets Tanner in a playoff rematch.
Jones returns to Golden Triangle as coach at Callaway 11/11/2009 9:08:00 AM Daryl Jones likes basketball.
As a coach at Callaway High School in Jackson, Jones is in a perfect spot.
Last year, Callaway beat Forest Hill for the Mississippi High School Activities Association Class 4A state title. The Chargers then went on to beat Hinds AHS for the MHSAA/EnviroTurf Grand Slam Championship.
The title added the Jackson area’s reputation as the hotbed for basketball talent.
Jones’ job is to duplicate that success — as the school’s football coach.
O'Briant leads East Webster football team into playoffs 11/11/2009 9:06:00 AM MABEN -- Coach Jimmy Carden has had the privilege of coaching several O’Briants at East Webster High School, but said Demetrius might be the toughest.
Carden said all of them have brought something extra to the table while playing for the Wolverines, but Demetrius, a junior running back, doesn’t let his size (5-foot-11, 150 pounds) bother him.
“He’s not a big guy, but has a lot of heart,” Carden said. “He’s pretty much fearless and doesn’t mind sticking his nose in there and getting after it.”
Determination key to win for West Lowndes 11/11/2009 9:04:00 AM West Lowndes High School boys basketball coach Herman Peters saw a determined look in the eyes of his players on Tuesday.
Peters knew it would be a tall task for Class 2A West Lowndes to knock off Class 6A Columbus on its court, but in this matchup size didn’t matter.
Peters said the Panthers may not have much height, but they have plenty of heart and that led to a 58-51 victory.
Aberdeen girls basketball team manages without Hoskins 11/11/2009 9:03:00 AM Jameika Hoskins liked the view from the bench Tuesday night.
Opponents of the Aberdeen High School girls basketball team shouldn’t be comforted, though, because Hoskins doesn’t figure to spend much time there this season.
The senior forward had a seat on the sidelines because she was recovering from flu-like symptoms and first-year coach Latorrence Bivens wanted to give her time to recover.
The Lady Bulldogs didn’t miss a beat without Hoskins and starters Michelle Stewart and Dayana McGee thanks to the play of Janee Hodges and Regina Barker
Caledonia soccer sweeps New Hope 11/10/2009 11:06:00 AM CALEDONIA — It’s only one game, but Brandon Webber showed Monday night he just might have what it takes to challenge Taylor Chisolm’s scoring record.
Webber kicked off the 2009-10 season in style by scoring three goals to lead the Caledonia High School boys soccer team to a 3-1 victory against New Hope in the season opener for both teams.
Plant delivers for Lamar County 11/10/2009 11:03:00 AM VERNON, Ala. — The playoffs are a chance to shine.
Lamar County’s Marcquis Plant was the latest Bulldog to have his night in the spotlight, and it came at the right time.
Starkville football team rallies to edge Columbus 11/8/2009 12:41:00 AM There’s something magical about the fourth quarter for Jaquez Johnson and Chuck Tillery when the Starkville High School football team plays Columbus.
A year ago, Johnson connected with Tillery for two touchdown passes to help the Yellow Jackets score 22 unanswered points in the fourth quarter in a come-from-behind victory.
On Friday, there was more riding on the outcome, which made the fourth-quarter heroics even sweeter.
Lamar County football team remains undefeated 11/8/2009 12:39:00 AM VERNON, Ala. — Undefeated Lamar County High School had posted back-to-back shutouts entering its game against Red Bay in the opening round of the Class 2A playoffs.
Coach Ken Adams said he wasn’t worried about getting a third shutout in a row Friday night as long as Lamar County won.
Adams didn’t have much to worry about as the Bulldogs rolled to a 42-0 victory.
Pickens County football team re-establishes itself in playoffs 11/8/2009 12:38:00 AM REFORM, Ala. — Top-seeded Pickens County needed to re-establish itself in the first round of the Class 2A playoffs coming off its first loss of the season to rival Gordo in its regular-season finale.
The Tornadoes did just that, lighting up the scoreboard for 43 first-half points in a 57-24 victory against Keith..
Noxubee County footbll team victory not pretty 11/8/2009 12:36:00 AM MACON — It wasn’t the prettiest game in the history of the Noxubee County High School football program, but coach M.C. Miller will take it.
The Tigers surrendered their second-most points in a game this season, had more 100 yards in penalties, and committed three turnovers, but mustered enough offense to defeat New Albany 36-17 Friday night in the first round of the Mississippi High School Activities Association Class 4A North Half State playoffs.
West Point football team finishes unbeaten in district 11/8/2009 12:34:00 AM WEST POINT — After routing its fourth opponent in a row, the West Point High School football team is ready for its first challenge of the Mississippi High School Activities Association Class 5A North Half State playoffs.
“We just want to take care of business each week, regardless what the competition is,” West Point coach Chris Chambless said
West Point completed a 7-0 district march Friday night with a 37-7 victory against Hernando.
Bates leads Louisville football team past Pontotoc 11/8/2009 12:31:00 AM LOUISVILLE — There was some question going into the Louisville High School football team’s first-round Mississippi High School Activities Association Class 4A North Half State playoff matchup as to whether sophomore wide receiver C.J. Bates would play.
The Warriors of Pontotoc High School left the turf of Louisville’s R.E. Hinze Stadium on Friday night wishing he had not.
Bates caught seven passes, including one for a touchdown that led to LHS tying the game late, and intercepted a pass on the last play of the game to spark the Wildcats to a 28-21 double-overtime win.
Victory Christian wins championship game 11/8/2009 12:29:00 AM TUSCALOOSA, Ala. –– Winning football championships has become contagious at Victory Christian Academy.
Victory Christian won its second-consecutive title, and third in four years, Friday by beating Tuscaloosa Christian 49-6 in the Christian Football Association championship game.
Parker Eaves completed 9 of 11 passes for 320 yards and threw four touchdown passes to lead Victory Christian (10-0) to its second consecutive undefeated season.
Dentry leads New Hope football team past Gentry 11/8/2009 12:27:00 AM INDIANOLA — Terrance Dentry rushed for 155 yards and scored both of his team’s touchdowns Friday night to lead the New Hope High School football team past Gentry 14-0 in its final game of the regular season.
New Hope (9-1, 6-1 Class 5A, Region 1) scored all its points in the first half as Dentry scored on a 24-yard run in the first quarter and on a 3-yard run in the second quarter.
Dentry finished the regular season with 1,010 yards.
EMCC plays Gulf Coast for state championhip 11/6/2009 9:21:00 AM The timing is right for East Mississippi Community College.
At 2 p.m. Saturday, the No. 7 EMCC football team will take on two-time defending state champion and No. 3 Mississippi Gulf Coast C.C. for the Mississippi Association of Community & Junior Colleges (MACJC) state championship at EMCC’s Sullivan-Windham Field.
If EMCC President Dr. Rick Young’s dream comes true, the Lions would be able to play host to playoff games and future state title games at a new multi-sport stadium on campus.
Columbus, Starkville meet with playoff spot on line 11/6/2009 9:19:00 AM Bubba Davis and Bill Lee have playoffs on their minds.
Unfortunately, only one man’s team could get to realize those dreams.
That will be the storyline at 7 tonight when Davis’ Columbus High football team plays host to Lee’s Starkville Yellow Jackets.
Starkville and Columbus enter the game at 3-7, but the Yellow Jackets are 3-3 in Class 6A, Region 1, District 2 and the Falcons are 2-4.
All Starkville has to do is win and it’s in the playoffs.
West Point bids for unbeaten district record 11/6/2009 9:16:00 AM WEST POINT — Tommy Keys and his defensive linemates don’t need an elaborate answer to explain their success.
Like their counterparts on the offensive line, Keys and the rest of the West Point High School defensive linemen have a one-track mind and they explode from there.
“You’ve got to want to first,” Keys said. “Everybody else relies on us because if we get blown back everybody else is going to get blown back.”
Aberdeen ready to make run in playoffs 11/6/2009 9:14:00 AM ABERDEEN — Fred Ward and Channing Ward don’t want people to forget about the Aberdeen High School football team.
At the beginning of the season, the Bulldogs were the talk of the area and the state. Many people thought they were going to run the table and secure an easy road to the Class 3A state title game in Jackson.
An injury to starting quarterback Aaron Andrews played a role in an opening-season loss to Class 6A Columbus and a loss to Class 4A Pontotoc in week three, but the Bulldogs have regrouped and are ready to make their playoff run.
Caledonia soccer team begins rebuilding process 11/6/2009 9:09:00 AM CALEDONIA — Everything came together last season for Morgan Mansfield and the Caledonia High School boys soccer team.
The first-year coach needed time to mold a senior-laden team into form, but things took off when the pieces solidified.
This season, the Confederates will have to find a way to replace six seniors who played key roles in a 14-5 school-best season and a trip to the Class 4A North Half State title game.
Even though Caledonia won’t be as experienced as it was last season, Mansfield is excited about what his team can accomplish this season.
Heritage Academy coach Allsup likes mix on his team 11/6/2009 9:05:00 AM Bruce Allsup likes his mix of players.
Sometimes coaches have the luxury of dealing with senior-laden teams that can adjust to nearly every situation.
Other years, coaches have to take a step back and start fresh with inexperienced squads.
This season, Allsup figures to have a mix of both with his Heritage Academy girls basketball team.
Seniors Madison Ford, Morgan Lott, and Carolina Borland will lead a 12-player team that features four juniors and five sophomores.
Central Academy's Eaves has game to remember 11/5/2009 10:30:00 AM Everything came together Friday night for Trevor Eaves.
It was motivation enough that Eaves and the Central Academy football team had to face archrival Kemper Academy on Senior Night in their regular-season finale.
The game carried added motivation because Kemper Academy knocked Central Academy out of the playoffs last season.
To make matters even bigger, the Vikings needed a victory to help force a tie atop the Mississippi Association of Independent Schools eight-man District I standings.
Victory Christian one win from repeat 11/5/2009 10:24:00 AM A variety of weapons has helped the Victory Christian football team overcome an assortment of obstacles this season.
Like many of the other teams in the state of Mississippi, the Eagles have dealt with enough rain to last five seasons. The rain has left Victory Christian’s home field — as well as many of its opponents’ fields — a soggy mess.
Lamar County isn't satisfied with perfect regular-season record 11/5/2009 10:22:00 AM Lamar County High School football coach Ken Adams thinks it’s an accomplishment that his team made it through the regular season with an undefeated record.
But Adams and the Bulldogs want more.
Central Academy to play three-way tiebreaker 11/4/2009 2:21:00 PM Central Academy, Veritas, and Calvary Christian decided to Monday to settle things on the field.
Tied atop Mississippi Association of Independent Schools eight-man District I standings with 4-1 records, the teams had planned to use a coin flip Monday to decide the two teams that would advance to the playoffs.
But the teams instead will play a three-way tiebreaker at 5 p.m. today at East Central Community College to decide which teams will represent the district in the playoffs.
New Hope's Stillman plays through pain 11/4/2009 8:22:00 AM Toughness and commitment are one to Seth Stillman.
It’s something he thinks about when he is on the field and in pain Friday nights with his “brothers” on the New Hope High School football team.
As difficult as it is for Stillman, a senior linebacker, to describe the intensity of that pain, he is somehow able to compartmentalize that feeling and allow his leadership skills to take over.
At no time did Stillman’s presence on the field mean more than it did on Friday night in New Hope’s game against Hernando at Trojan Field.
Bazzell hired as Starkville Academy baseball coach 11/3/2009 4:03:00 PM Starkville Academy hopes Shane Bazzell can bring some of his state championship magic to its baseball program.
Bazzell, who played baseball at New Hope High School from 1993-98 and helped the Trojans win state titles in 1996 and ’98, was named Monday the new head baseball coach at Starkville Academy.
“He played at one of the best high school programs in the state and has obviously learned the game,” Starkville Academy Athletic Director Glenn Schmidt said. “He has a passion for baseball.”
Heritage Academy's Ford finalist for award 11/3/2009 3:55:00 PM Madison Ford’s busy schedule is making national news.
The Heritage Academy senior learned a few weeks ago from classmate Morgan Lamb that she is one of 20 of scholar-athletes from the state of Mississippi who is a finalist for the 2009 Wendy’s High School Heisman Award program.
More than 50,000 seniors applied nationwide and from that group, 10,848 school winners were selected. The 20 Mississippi state finalists were chosen from these winners.
New Hope outlasts Hernando in overtime 11/1/2009 12:39:00 AM Championship programs are made of this.
The New Hope High School football team still has work to do before it earns a title, but it showed Saturday night it just might have the mettle to be a state contender.
Terrance Dentry scored on a 1-yard plunge on fourth down in overtime and the Trojans’ defense swarmed Brandon Dennis on the final play to seal a 35-27 victory at Trojan Field.
Columbus loses game to Olive Branch 11/1/2009 12:38:00 AM OLIVE BRANCH — Olive Branch High School football coach Scott Samsel hadn’t called a swinging gate play in three years.
He did so at just the right time Saturday afternoon.
With the Conquistadors nursing a seven-point lead against Columbus with 84 seconds left in the first half, the play sprang running back Keyshun Shipp for a 41-yard gain that turned the momentum of the game at Leslie Pool Field.
Victory Christian advances to championship game 11/1/2009 12:35:00 AM The Victory Christian football field was marshy Friday night, so coach Chris Hamm didn’t expect the passing game to have much of an impact.
Yet every time the rain increased, Parker Eaves connected with Tyler Jones for another long touchdown pass.
Eaves hooked up with Jones for three of his four touchdown passes on the night to lead Victory Christian to a 46-6 victory against Victory Millbrook in the semifinals of the Christian Football Association playoffs.
East Webster doesn't allow a yard in beating West Lowndes 11/1/2009 12:33:00 AM The East Webster High School football team shut out West Lowndes on Friday night in more ways than one.
Not only did the Wolverines blank the Panthers 24-0, but they also held them without a yard on offense.
The Wolverines (5-6, 1-4 Class 2A, Region 2, District 4) allowed negative-21 yards total offense in a dominating victory that put them in position to earn a playoff victory.
Victory worth the wait for Winston Academy's Moffitt 11/1/2009 12:30:00 AM WEST POINT — It was worth the wait for Winston Academy football team and Rob Moffitt.
Poor weather postponed the Patriots’ matchup against Oak Hill Academy from Friday night to Saturday afternoon.
When the game was finally played, Moffitt had to wait nearly three quarters before he touched the football.
But Winston Academy coach Wyatt Rogers decided to give Moffitt a carry with 26.9 seconds remaining in the third quarter.
Amory rallies in second half to beat Louisville 11/1/2009 12:27:00 AM AMORY –– The Amory High School football team scored all of its points in the second half Friday night and rallied to beat Louisville 19-14 in a Mississippi High School Activities Association Class 4A, Region 4 game on Friday.
Amory (3-8, 3-2 region) rallied in the second half after trailing 14-0 at halftime.
Joreel Freeman scored the winning touchdown on a 5-yard run with 2 minutes, 40 seconds remaining in the fourth quarter.
Heritage Academy's Ledbetter earns All-State honor 11/1/2009 12:24:00 AM A slow course wasn’t enough to prevent McGee Ledbetter from earning All-State honors.
The Heritage Academy junior cross country runner finished fourth Monday with a time of 19 minutes, 3 seconds at the Mississippi Association of Independent Schools Class AAA boys 5-Kilometer run at the Choctaw Trails course used by Mississippi College.
Starkville Academy’s Joseph MacGown was second in the Class AAA meet with a time of 18:52. Jackson Prep’s Daniel Lang won the race in 18:29.
Brewer resigns as Starkville Academy baseball coach 11/1/2009 12:22:00 AM STARKVILLE — Justin Brewer thought about the opportunity and decided it was too good to pass up.
After putting off Copiah-Lincoln Community College at first when a job as assistant baseball coach came open, Brewer decided to take the job after one season as the head baseball coach at Starkville Academy.
Brewer was also an assistant football coach for the Volunteers. He wrapped up his responsibilities Friday in a 31-14 loss to Pillow Academy.
CHS-Olive Branch game postponed 10/30/2009 10:06:00 AM The Columbus High School football team’s game at Olive Branch High School has been moved to 2 p.m. Saturday due to expected inclement weather in the state.
The game was originally scheduled to be played at 7 tonight.
Noxubee County gets ninth shutout of season 10/30/2009 9:13:00 AM MACON — The Noxubee County High School football team is ready for the postseason.
Judging from the left right side of the scoring column, the defense is primed and raring to go.
The Tigers secured a perfect record in Class 4A, Region 4, District 4 on Thursday night with a 42-0 victory against Caledonia at Tiger Stadium.
Gordo upsets No. 1 Pickens County 10/30/2009 9:11:00 AM GORDO, Ala. — Thursday night was proof that when county rivals get together you can disregard records.
The Pickens County High School football team entered its game Thursday night against Gordon 9-0 and ranked No. 1 in Class 2A, while Gordo came in at 5-4.
Led by a stellar night of punt returns by Demario Lanier, the Green Wave snapped the Tornadoes’ winning streak with a 28-7 victory.
The victory was the fourth in a row for Gordo, which will enter the Class 3A state playoffs next week at Montgomery Academy.
Starkville's Johnson seeks improvement 10/30/2009 9:09:00 AM STARKVILLE — Jaquez Johnson understands what he must do to move forward.
The Starkville High School junior quarterback wants to settle down and rely on his teammates more to make plays.
That’s something Johnson doesn’t think he’s done well enough in the past two weeks with five interceptions.
Johnson believes he’s making the right reads, but says he has tried to force some things.
West Point can take step toward district title 10/30/2009 9:07:00 AM WEST POINT — It’s all about a mind-set for the West Point High School football team.
While some teams revel in the precision pass routes of a spread offense, the Green Wave prefer the direct approach.
It might not be elaborate, but you better may sure your helmet is on tight because the first thing your defense will see when you play West Point is a fast-charging, hard hitting offensive line that is focused on clearing running lanes.
Pupil gets best of teacher in Aberdeen victory 10/30/2009 9:06:00 AM ABERDEEN — The regular-season finale Thursday night between the Aberdeen and Nettleton High School football teams for the Class 3A, Region 2, District 1 championship featured a classic teacher-pupil matchup that pitted a pair of coordinators — Mike Hathcock of the Tigers and the Bulldogs’ Kris Pickle — against each other.
As often happens, the pupil emerged victorious, as Aberdeen topped Nettleton 30-6.
The game was moved to Thursday night in anticipation of tonight’s predicted inclement weather.
Miller helps build Noxubee County into power 10/29/2009 8:35:00 AM MACON — The toothpick and straw hat have become his trademarks.
Noxubee County High School football coach M.C. Miller can roll a toothpick in his mouth as he shouts instructions to his players or as he talks to a reporter.
The straw hat usually remains atop his head to cover his graying hair and his salt-and-pepper beard.
Victory Christian offensive linemen have special skills 10/29/2009 8:17:00 AM There is something special about offensive linemen.
Typically, the behemoths up front toil in the trenches to clear paths for darting running backs and scampering quarterbacks and seldom receive any accolades.
There is something even more special about offensive linemen in eight-man football.
Miller emerges as go-to player for Raiders 10/29/2009 8:16:00 AM WEST POINT — Doss Miller didn’t have time to think.
On one play, Jake Orman was in his usual spot as running back.
The next play, Orman was on the sideline nursing a shoulder injury.
A change of possession gave Miller time to process the fact he now was the Oak Hill Academy’s go-to running back, but it didn’t make the thought of taking on that role any easier.
Lamar County, Pickens County will try to stay perfect 10/29/2009 8:13:00 AM The Lamar County and Pickens County high school football teams will try to finish the regular season undefeated when they take the field this week.
Columbus High School's Jackson takes initiative 10/28/2009 9:37:00 AM The fire has been burning inside Chris Jackson for a number of years.
Eighth grade. Losing season. Ninth grade. Losing season. Eleventh grade losing season.
This year was supposed to be different for the Columbus High School football team. The Falcons were a year older and a year wiser and were more comfortable with the ways of veteran coach Buddy Davis and his assistants.
The season started fast with an overtime victory against Aberdeen in Columbus, but the Falcons couldn’t maintain that momentum.
Porter, New Hope playing for second in region 10/28/2009 9:29:00 AM Service and commitment are important words to Ben Porter.
Growing up in a family with a proud history of military service for this country, Porter hopes to follow that path by joining the United States Naval Academy.
Before gets to that crossroads in his life, Porter and the New Hope High School football team have some unfinished business to take care of this season.
Porter and the Trojans will play host to Hernando (7-2, 4-1 Class 5A, Region 1, District 2) at 7 p.m. Friday in their final home game of the regular season.
Bradford does it all at QB for Bulldogs 10/27/2009 10:40:00 AM VERNON, Ala. — Don’t let Michael Bradford fool you.
He might not be the biggest or fastest player. He probably also isn’t the best passing quarterback.
But Bradford enjoys proving people wrong.
Columbus blanks Horn Lake 10/24/2009 10:29:00 PM Apprehension and shock were the common denominators that linked coaches Bubba Davis and John Cooley before and after the Columbus High School football team’s 28-0 win against Horn Lake here Friday evening.
New Hope beats Clarksdale to clinch playoff spot 10/24/2009 10:28:00 PM CLARKSDALE –– The New Hope High School football team registered its second consecutive shutout Friday to clinch a Mississippi High School Activities Association Class 5A North Half State playoff berth.
Washington School hands Heritage another loss 10/24/2009 10:26:00 PM The Heritage Academy football team’s bid for an upset against No. 9 Washington School ended quickly after the Generals used an 18-point second quarter to earn a 26-7 victory.
Olive Branch keeps Starkville playoff bid on hold 10/24/2009 10:25:00 PM STARKVILLE — The Starkville High School football team needed a victory Friday night to clinch a berth in the Class 6A North Half playoffs.
But Olive Branch turned four Starkville High turnovers into 13 points that proved to be the difference in a 23-13 win in their Class 6A, Region 1, District 2 game.
Noxubee County shuts out Louisville 10/24/2009 10:24:00 PM MACON — The Noxubee County High School football team’s defense might not have eye-popping size, but the results it is producing are larger than life.
Kosciusko keeps Caledonia winless 10/24/2009 10:23:00 PM CALEDONIA — One play can affect an entire game.
If you execute, one play can keep a drive alive and lead to a momentum-building effort.
If you fail to execute, that one play can lead to a spiraling confluence of events that can sap any team’s spirit.
New Hope continues playoff pursuit 10/23/2009 8:20:00 AM The “practice” jerseys survived.
More importantly, the New Hope High School football team escaped Saltillo last week with a 6-0 victory.
The win in conditions New Hope High coach Michael Bradley likened to the “worst pigpen” he had ever seen helped the Trojans continue their march toward a No. 2 seed in Class 5A, Region 1 and the opportunity to play a first-round North State playoff game at home.
New Hope (6-1, 3-1 region) will try to take another step closer to securing its postseason fate at 7 tonight when it travels to Clarksdale (3-5, 2-2).
Starkville bids to make up for missed opportunity 10/23/2009 8:16:00 AM STARKVILLE — Starkville High School football coach Bill Lee believed his team missed a great opportunity this past Friday.
Lee said all the Yellow Jackets had to do was beat Southaven to make the Class 6A state playoffs.
That didn’t happen as Starkville lost 27-16.
A victory would have made things a lot easier on the Yellow Jackets, but now the playoff picture in Class 6A, Region 1 is clouded.
Victory hosts Tuscaloosa Christian for homecoming 10/23/2009 8:14:00 AM So much for being rusty.
After four weeks of practicing, watching, and waiting to get back on the field for a Friday night game, the Victory Christian football team returned to action last week with a 66-16 victory against North River Christian in Tuscaloosa, Ala.
The victory pushed the Eagles to 7-0 and set the stage for their homecoming game at 7 tonight against Tuscaloosa Christian. That game likely will determine the top seeds for the Christian Football Association playoffs, which will begin next week.
Noxubee bids to extend shutout streak against Louisville 10/23/2009 8:11:00 AM MACON — The Noxubee County High School football team’s defense never rests.
At practice last season, the Tigers’ defense had to find ways to stop quarterback Termarcus Conner and a high-octane offense that featured wide receivers Patrick Patterson, Teddy Young, Vincent Sanders and others and a host of other weapons.
This year, Patterson has moved on to the University of Mississippi and a number of the Tigers’ 2008 stalwarts on offense and defense are now playing football in college.
West Oktibbeha rallies past East Oktibbeha in overtime 10/23/2009 7:34:00 AM MABEN — You gotta believe.
The tears on Dwight Quinn’s face Thursday night showed just how much he and his West Oktibbeha High School football teammates believe.
Trailing by 18 points early in the third quarter, the Timberwolves used a punt return for a touchdown by Quinn to change the momentum.
From there, West Oktibbeha dominated the rest of the second half and carried that energy into the first overtime.
Columbus football team hopes to begin winning streak 10/22/2009 8:57:00 AM Bubba Davis hopes last week was just the beginning.
The Columbus High School football coach will find out Friday if the Falcons have started a trend when they play host to Horn Lake at 7 p.m. in a Class 6A, Region 1 game at Columbus Stadium.
Columbus (2-6, 1-3 region) is coming off a 12-7 victory against DeSoto Central that snapped its 10-game losing streak in region games. Sophomore running back Damian Baker rushed for a career high 224 yards and two touchdowns to help keep the Falcons in contention for one of the top four spots in the region and a playoff berth.
South Lamar's Harper coaches against his mentor, Funk 10/22/2009 8:55:00 AM Josh Harper credits Rusty Funk with helping him advance through the ranks to become a head football coach.
Harper was an assistant to Funk at Columbus High School and at South Lamar High School in Millport, Ala.
Harper will get a chance Friday to show his mentor what he learned when he coaches against Funk.
Harper, who replaced Funk as the coach at South Lamar, will coach against his mentor at 7 p.m. Friday when the Stallions travel to Marion County in Guin, Ala., for an Alabama High School Athletic Association Class A, Region 7 game.
Lamar County, Pickens County play for region championships 10/22/2009 8:51:00 AM Region championships will be at stake Friday night when the Lamar County Bulldogs and Pickens County Tornadoes take the field.
Lamar County will claim the Alabama High School Athletic Association Class 2A, Region 7 championship and Pickens County will capture the Class 2A, Region 4 title with victories.
Both have the task of trying to win region championships on the road, with Lamar County playing at Winston County and Pickens County traveling to Fultondale.
East-West Oktibbeha rivalry game could decide playoff spot 10/21/2009 9:19:00 AM MABEN — Numbers don’t tell the whole story at East and West Oktibbeha high schools.
If they did, the schools’ football teams would be doomed for failure.
Confidence helps CHS' Baker make impact 10/20/2009 11:15:00 AM Damian Baker hoped he could make an impact.
A year ago, Baker was a go-to player on the Columbus High School freshman team.
But the step up to the varsity level requires a faster step and a stronger step.
West Point shuts out Lake Cormorant 10/20/2009 9:50:00 AM WEST POINT — The West Point High School football team new Class 5A, Region 1 rival Lake Cormorant played their game Friday in ankle-deep mud.
And the Gators were positively stuck in it.
Thunder and lightning leads Hebron past Immanuel 10/20/2009 9:49:00 AM PHEBA — Effective running back tandems should have nicknames.
Hebron Christian’s Ryan Pinnix and Marques Robinson are no different.
You likely could add J.D. Edwards to the mix and create a three-headed monster that is even more dangerous.
Ackerman blanks West Lowndes 10/20/2009 9:48:00 AM The West Lowndes High School football team made several mistakes in the first half Friday night errors that allowed Ackerman to leave Panther Field undefeated.
Ackerman (9-0) capitalized on poor execution by West Lowndes to gain the momentum early and keep it in a dominating 27-0 victory.
Clarksdale Lee defeats Starkville Academy 10/20/2009 9:47:00 AM STARKVILLE — Senior running back Devyn Shing had 166 yards and three touchdowns Friday night to lead the Clarksdale-Lee Academy football team to a 33-14 victory against Starkville Academy.
Hamilton edges East Webster in district matchup 10/20/2009 9:46:00 AM MABEN — The mud that collected on the back of Hamilton High School senior receiver Kevin McCartney might have obscured the jersey number so it couldn’t be seen.
That didn’t keep sophomore quarterback Austin Welch from finding McCartney at a critical part of Friday night’s 12-6 victory against East Webster.
Aberdeen defeats Mooreville on homecoming 10/20/2009 9:45:00 AM ABERDEEN — A tradition that dates back nearly a century, homecoming is an annual event designed to be a joyous occasion that brings a town or community together as they welcome back friends and former students.
Hamilton softball team shows it can win title on bigger field 10/18/2009 12:18:00 AM JACKSON — The question whispered Saturday morning at the V.A. Fields was a good one.
Could a Hamilton High School slow-pitch softball team that used so many home runs to get to the state title series generate enough offense on a field with a fence 300 feet away?
Hamilton coach Lewis Earnest wondered the same thing as his team warmed up to face Enterprise.
New Hope softball team wins state title for three-peat 10/18/2009 12:13:00 AM JACKSON — Tabitha Beard was concerned.
After watching her New Hope High School slow-pitch softball team blitz Brookhaven 10-0 in game one of its Mississippi High School Activities Association Class 5A state title series, Beard and the Lady Trojans had to wait 50 minutes before the start of game two.
Beard grew a little more anxious as she watched New Hope struggle at the plate and fall behind by three runs midway through the second game.
While Beard’s concern was justified, it proved to be unnecessary.
Loftis will realize dream on Aberdeen football field 10/16/2009 9:08:00 AM ABERDEEN — The dreams come a little slower to Don Loftis these days.
The landscape around town has changed some, too, but the memories remain.
It’s easy to recall many of them when Loftis thinks about former Aberdeen High School football coach Thomas Pierce’s name affixed to the wall of the football team’s dressing room/weight room.
Win would push New Hope closer to playoff berth 10/16/2009 9:06:00 AM One week isn’t enough to satisfy Michael Bradley.
Yes, the New Hope High School coach was pleased that the Trojans blocked better Saturday in a 32-21 Class 5A Region 1 victory at Lake Cormorant.
Bradley also enjoyed watching his team overcome less than ideal playing conditions to execute a game plan that helped the Trojans improve to 5-1 and 2-1 in the region.
But Bradley has been fond of saying this year that “no win is more important than another.”
Davis believes time is coming for Columbus High football team 10/16/2009 9:04:00 AM Bubba Davis knows the time is coming.
Unfortunately, the Columbus High School football coach can’t give his players and all of the school’s fans the exact date.
The “date” in this instance is when the Columbus High football program will reverse its fortunes.
The Falcons’ losing streak stretched to six last week with a 53-7 loss to South Panola. The loss generated a little more negativity on Internet chat rooms from people who don’t think the Columbus High football program is on the right track.
Hamilton softball team advances to state championship series 10/16/2009 9:02:00 AM HAMILTON — While the Hamilton High School slow-pitch softball team was gleefully chanting “Going to the ’ship, going to the ’ship” after its impressive sweep Thursday in the Class 2A North State, championship series, Baldwyn softball coach Jessica Taylor and her Lady Bearcats couldn’t help but wonder why the Lady Lions have proven to be such a formidable roadblock in their quest to reach the state championship series in Jackson.
Hamilton took the series with 12-3 and 12-1 victories.
Starkville's Armstead changes attitude to become better player 10/16/2009 9:00:00 AM STARKVILLE — No one can convince Starkville High School senior linebacker Craig Armstead the offseason doesn’t make a difference.
It wasn’t always that way.
Starkville High’s coaches pushed Armstead to get better, but he wasn’t always open to their suggestions.
Frustrated he wasn’t getting the playing time he wanted, Armstead decided to do something about it. He dedicated himself to football in January and he has become the strong arm of the Starkville High defense.
Aberdeen's Andrews overcomes injury to hear cheers again 10/16/2009 8:58:00 AM ABERDEEN — All Aaron Andrews hears now is applause.
It wasn’t always that way for the Aberdeen High School senior quarterback.
After suffering an ankle injury in the Bulldogs’ season-opening loss to Columbus High, Andrews jumped right back into the fray against Pontotoc in week three of the season.
A 21-14 loss to Class 4A Pontotoc didn’t sit well with the people of Aberdeen, who had dreamed in the preseason of a possible undefeated run and a march to a Class 3A state title.
Hebron Christian needs win to enhance playoff chances 10/16/2009 8:56:00 AM Greg Watkins isn’t going to hide the truth from his players.
Instead, the Hebron Christian football coach has been upfront with the Eagles and told them they have to beat Immanuel Christian at 7:30 tonight in a Mississippi Association of Independent Schools A District 3 game if they want to make the playoffs.
The Eagles’ job still wouldn’t be done if they accomplish that goal.
Hebron Christian (2-5, 0-1) then would have to beat Winona Christian, which is 2-0 in the district, to force a possible three-way tie atop the district with Central Holmes.
New Hope, Hamilton will play for North Half State titles 10/15/2009 8:11:00 AM The New Hope High School slow-pitch softball team has picked the right time of the season to break out the big bats.
Now the Lady Trojans have to find a way to keep it going for two more series.
Lamar County will try to set up showdown for region title 10/15/2009 8:08:00 AM The Lamar County Bulldogs can do their part at 7 p.m. Friday to set up a showdown for the Alabama High School Athletic Association Class 2A, Region 7 championship when they play host to the Oakman Wildcats.
Heritage Academy will try again to snap skid 10/15/2009 8:07:00 AM The season isn’t over for the Heritage Academy football team.
A five-game losing streak has erased a lot of the optimism from the Patriots’ 3-0 start, but coach Brad Butler doesn’t want his players to pack up the gear just yet.
Louisville football team establishing its identity on defense 10/14/2009 8:34:00 AM LOUISVILLE — Even before the season kicked off, Louisville High School head football coach Brad Peterson said his team was looking for its identity, especially on defense.
Now, nine weeks into the season, the 6-2 Wildcats may finally be finding themselves.
“We knew we were gong to have a young defense,” Peterson said. “We only had three true starters coming back and a lot of those guys back there are so young.”
Starkville's Johnson putting pieces together 10/13/2009 10:45:00 AM STARKVILLE — Jaquez Johnson knew the Starkville High School football team’s first four games this season were going to be a challenge.
Johnson never imagined, though, that he and the Yellow Jackets would be as frustrated as they were after losses to Noxubee County, Louisville, Meridian, and West Point.
Overconfidence not a problem for Noxubee County football team 10/13/2009 10:08:00 AM MACON — Overconfidence never has been a problem for the Noxubee County High School football team.
Instead of talking about what they’re going to do, the Tigers rely on a swarming defense that is lightning quick and an offense that can strike from anywhere at anytime to produce results.
The return of senior wide receiver/quarterback Vincent Sanders from a broken jaw last week figures to give the Tigers the missing piece that could help them defend their Class 4A state title.
Defense shines again for Noxubee County 10/13/2009 10:07:00 AM MACON — The Noxubee County High School football team used its speed on defense Saturday night to post another shutout.
Noxubee County registered its third consecutive shutout, and sixth of the season, in a 30-0 victory against Amory in a Mississippi High School Activities Association Class 4A, Region 4, District 4 game.
Pickens County gets by without Jones 10/11/2009 3:24:00 PM REFORM, Ala. — No one wanted Dominique Jones to go down.
But a hush came over G.S. Spruill Stadium when the Pickens County High School senior running back/wide receiver went down with a hip pointer in the second quarter against American Christian Academy.
Houston hands Caledonia another shutout loss 10/11/2009 3:22:00 PM CALEDONIA — The building process continues for Buz Boyer.
The good thing about playing in Class 4A, Region 4, District 4 is Boyer, the Houston High School football coach, can test his Hilltoppers against some of the state’s premier programs.
Hamilton softball slugs way to North Half State final 10/11/2009 3:18:00 PM HAMILTON — The Lady Lions love the long ball.
Buoyed by an eight-home run evening, the Hamilton High School slow-pitch softball team defeated East Union 15-8 and 14-5 in a best-of-three Mississippi High School Activities Association Class 2A North Half State playoff series.
New Hope's McCrary moving on after losing her father 10/10/2009 11:40:00 PM It starts with a special mark in the dirt.
Anna McCrary’s bat touches the earth and draws the sign of a cross. She then touches the center of it to remind herself of her bond with God.
She also remembers her father.
Walters' interceptions help New Hope hold on 10/10/2009 11:35:00 PM LAKE CORMORANT — Raymond Walters intercepted two passes in the fourth quarter to help the New Hope High School football team hold off Lake Cormorant 32-21 in a Mississippi High School Activities Association Class 5A, Region 1, District 2 game on Saturday.
J.Z. George beats West Lowndes in final minute 10/10/2009 11:34:00 PM The West Lowndes High School football team lost to J.Z. George 14-8 in the final 25 seconds of a rescheduled game Saturday night.
Starkville High's Perkins commits to So. Miss 10/10/2009 11:30:00 PM STARKVILLE — Rashad Perkins has worked on every part of his game in the offseason to become a better basketball player for Starkville High School.
He hopes those improvements also will help him at the next level.
On Thursday, Perkins gave a verbal commitment to play basketball at the University of Southern Mississippi.
Jackson Academy blanks Heritage Academy 10/10/2009 11:29:00 PM Payne Kellum rushed for 102 yards and Michael Martin rushed for three touchdowns Friday to lead the Jackson Academy football team to a 33-0 victory against Heritage Academy in a Mississippi Association of Independent Schools Class AAA, District 1 game.
Aberdeen misses tornado, beats Water Valley 10/10/2009 11:28:00 PM WATER VALLEY — Not even a tornado could stop the Aberdeen High School football team.
After driving through thunderstorms and just missing a tornado on the ride to Water Valley, the Bulldogs stormed past the Blue Devils 42-13 Friday night at Bobby Clark Field for their fifth consecutive victory and second consecutive Class 3A, Region 2 road win.
Starkville beats Horn Lake to go to 3-0 in district 10/10/2009 11:28:00 PM STARKVILLE — Despite wet and slippery field conditions, the Starkville High School football team found confidence in its passing game Friday.
After trailing 6-3 in the first quarter, Starkville scored 31 unanswered points en route to a 34-6 victory against Horn Lake in a Class 6A, Region 1, District 2 game.
Starkville Academy shows fight against MRA 10/10/2009 11:26:00 PM STARKVILLE — Kyle Henson had to make a decision at halftime.
Trailing 34-0 to Madison-Ridgeland Academy at the intermission, the Starkville Academy junior quarterback and his teammates had to find a source of motivation.
Columbus football team dismantled in loss to South Panola 10/9/2009 9:30:00 AM It didn’t take the Nick Parker-led South Panola High School football team long to convince Columbus Falcons why it remains one of the most high-profile programs in the Magnolia State.
The Tigers, ranked No. 3 in this week’s Clarion-Ledger Super 10 rankings and fresh off a 34-6 dismantling of then-No. 4 Olive Branch last Friday, scored early and often against the Falcons en route to a 53-7 win here Thursday evening.
New Hope football team will play game Saturday 10/9/2009 9:28:00 AM There’s not much routine about a three-hour, 200-mile trip for a high school football game.
So when you change a season’s worth of plans and move the date for that trip back a date, there are bound to be problems.
Coach Michael Bradley and the New Hope High School Trojans will hope to avoid those potential pitfalls at 5 p.m. Saturday when they take on Class 5A, Region 1, District 2 rival Lake Cormorant.
West Point football team rallies to beat Oxford 10/9/2009 9:27:00 AM OXFORD — After a slow offensive start Thursday night, it didn’t look like the West Point High School football team would pull out its sixth-consecutive victory at Bobby Holcomb Field.
The Green Wave trailed by 16 with 10 minutes 7 seconds to go in the third quarter to district rival Oxford, but instead of sputtering along, they scored 26 unanswered points to outlast the Chargers 33-30.
“Sometimes you got to crank up and go, and that is what we did,” West Point coach Chris Chambless said. “We told them at halftime we had to get the job done. We were sluggish at first and didn’t get the job done. We weren’t playing hard.
Rogers goes the extra mile for Starkville football team 10/9/2009 9:24:00 AM STARKVILLE — Justin Rogers never knows where he might line up.
Whether at defensive back on defense, or at wide receiver, running back or quarterback on offense, the Starkville High School senior is ready to contribute.
With a roster of only 58 players, Rogers knows he has to go the extra mile for the Yellow Jackets.
Hamilton football team dominated in loss to Eupora 10/9/2009 9:22:00 AM HAMILTON — The Eupora High School football team put the Lions of Hamilton down Thursday night with a dominating 44-10 victory in a Class 2A, Region 2, District 4 matchup.
Eagles’ perfect record of 7-0 and 2-0 in division remains in tact, for now.
The victory helped Eupora coach Junior Graham, whose team improved to 7-0 and 2-0 in the district, solidify its hold on first place in the district with games remaining against West Lowndes and J.Z. George.
Brantley helps New Hope softball team advance in state playoffs 10/9/2009 9:18:00 AM Brandi Brantley knows she doesn’t hit the middle of the softball every at-bat.
But the junior first baseman/pitcher has come a long way since last season when she only played defense on the New Hope High School slow-pitch softball team’s run to another state title.
This year, Brantley has hit her way into the lineup — as cleanup hitter — and hopes to help the Lady Trojans add a 12th state crown to their resume.
Brooks emotional to see Caledonia volleyball team's season end 10/9/2009 9:16:00 AM CALEDONIA — Caledonia High School volleyball coach Samantha Brooks came to the school three years ago and got attached to a group of sophomores.
When the Lady Confederates saw their season come to an end Thursday night in the second round of the Mississippi High School Association Class I State tournament, Brooks had a right to be a little emotional.
Brooks hated to see the careers of seniors Shaina Cruse, Kori Hankins, Stephanie Hopper, Whitney Pounders, Sunnie Rushing, and Kara Von Kanel end in a 3-1 loss to Lafayette, but Brooks was proud they went out after a run deep into the playoffs.
Seniors pave way for Victory Christian volleyball team 10/9/2009 9:14:00 AM Senior leadership is particularly valuable when you’re not sure if your team is going to have a coach.
That’s the situation seniors Erin Williams, Caitlin Osterman, Kathryn Scarbrough, Sarah Simpson, Heather Wells, and newcomer Nicky Croft faced in August as they faced the start of another season.
The seniors did their best to keep everyone working and focused on the start of the season until Dale Latham was chosen as a volunteer coach to replace David Johnson.
Columbus will take on South Panola tonight 10/8/2009 10:26:00 AM Tonight or Friday doesn’t matter to Columbus High School football coach Bubba Davis.
Either way, the Falcons were going to have to be ready to play state power South Panola, so why not take care of it one day earlier.
“My feeling is that we will play them right now,” Davis said Wednesday morning.
Right attitude has been key for Caledonia volleyball 10/8/2009 10:24:00 AM It’s all about the attitude for the Caledonia High School volleyball team.
Defending a 30-foot section of court with six players doesn’t sound like a difficult proposition.
But if the players don’t know the details that go into playing each position it’s likely they won’t be able to work as a unit.
Victory Christian won't play for fourth week in a row 10/8/2009 10:23:00 AM Bowl season doesn’t begin for another two months.
But the past four weeks have lasted just as long for Chris Hamm and his Victory Christian football team.
Pickens County will try to take command in region 10/8/2009 10:22:00 AM Scott Marchant has the Pickens County High School football team in contention for a region championship in his first season as head coach.
Pickens County can take a step toward winning the Alabama High School Athletic Association Class 2A, Region 4 championship Friday night when it plays host to American Christian Academy.
Aberdeen volleyball team eliminated from state playoffs 10/7/2009 11:21:00 AM ABERDEEN –– In a perfect world, the third time is always the charm.
Too, in a perfect world, a resounding 25-10 first-set triumph on your home court should be enough to kick-start your team to a straight-set win.
And again, in a perfect world, a 2-1 set advantage and holding serve with a 24-22 lead in the fourth and what should be the deciding set should be a good indication your team had a better than even chance of advancing to the Class I North Half finals.
Pope fondly recalls when New Hope ended Hamilton's winning streak 10/7/2009 11:19:00 AM Streaks are part of Northeast Mississippi’s football history.
But before South Panola High School football team claimed the honor of holding the state’s longest winning streak, that honor belonged to coach Jimmie Moore’s Hamilton Lions.
Moore’s Lions, who accomplished the unbelievable feat of going through the 1977 season without allowing a point, went on two years later to start a winning streak that stretched to 51 games until Oct. 7, 1983, when coach Rudy Pope’s New Hope High Trojans ended the run with a 35-14 victory in Columbus.
CHS football game moved to Thursday 10/7/2009 10:04:00 AM Due to expected bad weather in the area, the Columbus High School football team’s game against South Panola has been moved to 7 p.m. Thursday at Falcon Field.
Curry shines on both sids of field for Pickens County 10/6/2009 11:19:00 AM REFORM, Ala. — Scott Marchant has a dilemma.
The Pickens County High School football coach has a talented quarterback to direct his team’s high-powered passing offense.
The former defensive coordinator also has an athlete versatile enough to play a hybrid safety-linebacker position.
Problem is, that player is Deion Curry.
Defense helps West Point beat New Hope in district matchup 10/5/2009 2:59:00 PM Their jerseys are old school.
The big, bold green numbers 30 and 66 on white jerseys stare down opponents.
It’s simple and clean, even without the players’ names on the back of the jerseys.
On Friday night, Jamal Petty and Vontarrius Dora made a statement wearing those numbers.
Magnolia Heights hands Heritage Academy another loss 10/5/2009 2:58:00 PM It took about half a quarter for the Magnolia Heights football team to find the rhythm it last displayed in a 3-0 start to the season.
After that, the Chiefs marched all over the Heritage Academy Patriots 45-14 to snap a three-game losing streak.
West Lowndes capitalizes on mistakes to beat Hamilton 10/5/2009 2:57:00 PM HAMILTON — The West Lowndes High School football team stopped a late surge by Hamilton Friday night en route to a 26-20 victory in its Class 2A, Region 2, District 4 opener.
The Panthers (5-1) also snapped the Lions’ three-game winning streak.
Amory beats Caledonia for first victory 10/5/2009 2:56:00 PM AMORY — Forest Williams used something Friday night he didn’t know he had.
When the Amory High School sophomore quarterback broke through the line of scrimmage in the third quarter, he outran the Caledonia High School defense on his way to a 55-yard touchdown.
Aberdeen volleyball wins in first round of Class I tournament 10/5/2009 2:55:00 PM ABERDEEN — It might be simplistic, but it all starts with the serve for the Aberdeen High School volleyball team.
But when the Lady Bulldogs serve as well as they did Saturday, they’re bound to have success.
Pickens Academy rolls to victory on homecoming 10/5/2009 2:54:00 PM CARROLLTON, Ala. — When Sam Pearson took over as head football coach at Pickens Academy, his goal was to return the program to its winning ways.
The Pirates won five undefeated state championships in the late 90s but haven’t earned a title in 10 years, which is something Pearson hopes to change.
Aberdeen's Love commits to play football at Mississippi State 10/5/2009 9:06:00 AM Jamerson Love didn’t need another game to help him make his decision.
The Aberdeen High School senior running back had already decided on a college before attending Mississippi State’s game against No. 25 Georgia Tech in Starkville on Saturday.
All Love had to do then was wait to make his announcement.
Georgia Tech’s 42-31 victory didn’t deter Love from informing MSU coach Dan Mullen that he wanted to make a verbal commitment to become a Bulldog.
Hamilton's Tucker has positive outlook on life, effect on kids 10/2/2009 8:33:00 AM HAMILTON — Change doesn’t faze Robert Herman Tucker.
Whether it has been as a teacher, coach, or parent, Tucker has seen offenses and defense come and go. He has worked his share of jobs, including stints in the auto parts manufacturing business and in the insurance industry. He also has had his share of health issues, including a quintuple-bypass heart surgery last February.
Central Academy softball team meets Wayne in state playoffs 10/2/2009 7:54:00 AM MACON — Marion Colvin didn’t back down.
After playing four games at the Mississippi Association of Independent Schools Class A State tournament, Colvin didn’t have time to be tired — or nervous.
The only thing Colvin thought about was beating Delta Academy.
“Mr. Pres (Dawkins) said, ‘You have got the mound this game. Are you ready? I told him, ‘Yes sir,’ ” Colvin said. “I told him I was going to pitch my best and get us to state.”
Caledonia volleyball team benefits from working hard 10/2/2009 7:52:00 AM CALEDONIA — Kara Von Kanel and Sunnie Rushing wondered if all of the work was worth it.
Through the start of preseason in the summer and a season filled with long practices and work on fundamentals, the members of the Caledonia High School volleyball never really considered the payoff that would result from all of their hard work.
But when the Lady Confederates started having fun and piling up the victories, they soon discovered why coach Samantha Brooks had put them through the paces earlier in the season.
Rain motivates Starkville High School football team 10/2/2009 7:50:00 AM STARKVILLE — Some high school football teams hate to practice in the rain.
But the poor weather last week motivated the Starkville High School football team.
Junior linebacker D.J. Jordan said it was hard to explain, but when it started raining the Yellow Jackets worked harder.
“It hyped us up,” Jordan said. “We knew it was going to be wet on Friday, so we just went out and got the job done.”
Columbus football team still learning on the job 10/2/2009 7:46:00 AM Each step is a learning process for the Columbus High School football team.
Last week, the Falcons experienced an especially painful lesson in a 10-6 home loss to Tupelo in their Class 6A, Region 1, District 2 season opener.
Columbus coach Bubba Davis said the loss hurt his players so much because he felt they went into the game thinking they were good enough to win and that they should win.
Things didn’t turn out that way.
New Hope's Wells turns life around to help football team 10/2/2009 7:43:00 AM The “thug” life was the life for Jeremy Wells.
As a freshman at New Hope High School, trouble found Wells much too often.
Without his brother, Jonquez, a running back on the New Hope High football team, around to help look after him, Jeremy admitted to falling in with the wrong group.
It wasn’t until his sophomore year when Wells discovered he was academically ineligible to play football that he realized he needed to change.
Running attack fuels Green Wave 10/1/2009 9:59:00 AM WEST POINT — West Point High School has what senior running back Xavier Hogan calls the three-headed monster.
“You stop one head and you still have the other two to deal with,” Hogan said. “It is really hard to stop that.”
Hamilton's Reeves commits to Ole Miss 10/1/2009 9:25:00 AM HAMILTON — Chase Reeves didn’t have a plan in mind last weekend.
The Hamilton High School junior was content to visit Mississippi State and the University of Mississippi and to listen to what the coaches had to say about their schools and their baseball programs.
But after shaking off the initial surprise of receiving a scholarship offer, Reeves’ plan changed immediately.
Aliceville will try to take over top spot 10/1/2009 9:24:00 AM Robin Tyra’s goal as coach of the Aliceville High School football team is to win region and state championships.
Aliceville can take a step toward winning the Alabama High School Activities Association Class 3A, Region 4 championship Friday when it travels to Cordova.
Central Academy softball team earns state tournament berth 9/30/2009 7:57:00 AM CLEVELAND — It took nearly 12 hours and five consecutive games, but the Central Academy fast-pitch softball team earned a spot in the Mississippi Association of Independent School Class AA State tournament.
Central Academy rebounded from a loss in its second game of the North Half State tournament Tuesday to win three games in a row before losing 8-0 to Bayou Academy.
That game ended shortly after 10 p.m. Tuesday, nearly 12 hours before the Lady Vikings took the field against Tri-County for their first game of the day at 10:30 a.m.
Starkville, Heritage see seasons end at North Half tournament 9/29/2009 10:50:00 AM STARKVILLE — Slower was better for Lyndsey Haynes.
The Starkville Academy senior pitcher’s use of the changeup nearly helped make Monday an all-day affair for the Lady Volunteers.
As it turned out, Haynes almost pitched Starkville Academy out of the losers’ bracket and into a berth in the Mississippi Association of Independent Schools AAA state tournament.
East Webster's Patterson Player of Week 9/29/2009 10:49:00 AM MABEN — Ledrick Patterson is a fast learner.
Even though Patterson has been a member of the East Webster High School varsity football program for four years, he never played quarterback before this season.
Aberdeen volleyball beats Caledonia for title 9/26/2009 10:10:00 PM CALEDONIA –– The Aberdeen High School volleyball team won the MHSAA Class 1, Division 1 Tournament on Saturday by sweeping Caledonia in straight sets.
Aberdeen won the first set 25-20 and the second 25-15 to claim the division championship.
Thrasher, New Hope beat Oxford 9/26/2009 10:09:00 PM OXFORD — A balanced offensive attack led by junior quarterback Zak Thrasher and a defensive unit that delivered big stops when necessary Friday night propelled the New Hope High School football team to a 21-11 victory against Oxford in its Class 5A, Region 1 opener at the University of Mississippi’s Vaught-Hemingway Stadium.
Tupelo holds on to beat Columbus 9/26/2009 10:08:00 PM The Columbus High School football team came out to win Friday night.
But after several fourth-quarter drives fizzled against Tupelo, frustrations started to build on the field.
These frustrations boiled over to the locker room after a 10-6 loss, as several players went back in tears vowing to make a change to better represent the city of Columbus.
Presbyterian Christian defeats Heritage Academy 9/26/2009 10:08:00 PM Presbyterian Christian quarterback David Roberts likes to throw the football.
But Roberts knew Friday night that the field conditions at Heritage Academy’s C.L. Mitchell Field in Columbus would make that difficult.
Roberts completed only 4 of 10 attempts, but he made up for it with his legs, rushing 13 times for 69 yards to help the Bobcats earn a 20-7 victory on the Patriots’ homecoming.
Troupe's return sparks Hamilton 9/26/2009 10:07:00 PM HAMILTON — Latedrick Troupe knew he had to make something happen.
Problem was, he didn’t have the football and he was running away from his end zone.
To make matters worse, the Hamilton High School running back was tracking back on a wet field and being chased by a handful of Caledonia High players eager to make a game-changing play.
Starkville's defense key in victory 9/26/2009 10:06:00 PM STARKVILLE — The Starkville High School football team used a stingy effort from its defense Friday night to beat DeSoto Central 9-3 for its first victory of the season.
Starkville (1-4, 1-0 Class 6A, Region 1, District 2) allowed less than 100 yards total and 1 yard rushing to win the district opener for both teams at Yellow Jacket Field.
West Point tested in victory against Gentry 9/26/2009 10:05:00 PM WEST POINT — The West Point High School football team received a bit of a scare from Gentry on Friday night in West Point before putting the brakes on surging Rams 39-20.
Aberdeen throttles Houston 9/26/2009 10:04:00 PM ABERDEEN — The Houston High School football team made a game of it for the first five minutes here Friday in a non-division matchup. But the rest of the night proved to be a long one for the Hilltoppers, as Aberdeen scored 73 unanswered points and rolled to a 73-7 victory at Lester Miley Stadium.
Pickens County shuts out Aliceville 9/26/2009 10:03:00 PM REFORM, Ala. — Pickens County High School football coach Scott Marchant knew it would be important for his team to score early on a sloppy surface at G.S. Spruill Field.
The Tornadoes did just that, scoring touchdowns on their first two possessions Friday night to beat county rival Aliceville 13-0.
Oak Hill softball team loses to be No. 2 seed in district 9/25/2009 8:15:00 AM WEST POINT — Memrie Corley didn’t waver.
Clinging to a one-run lead, the Carroll Academy sophomore pitcher had just allowed a double to Maegen Ellis in the top of the sixth inning.
She then uncorked a wild pitch that allowed Ellis to move to third base with only one out.
The jam was right where Corley wanted to be.
Central Academy, Hebron Christian softball teams in North State tournament 9/25/2009 8:11:00 AM The Central Academy fast-pitch softball team has accomplished one of its goals.
Now it’s time for the Lady Vikings to take the next step.
Fresh off an undefeated district run, Central Academy will travel Saturday to Cleveland to play in the Mississippi Association of Independent Schools North Half A tournament at Bayou Academy.
Hebron Christian, which earned the No. 2 seed out of District 3A, will join Central Academy (17-4) at the tournament, which kicks off with games at 10:30 a.m.
Caledonia's Boykin deals with having an under-manned staff 9/25/2009 8:07:00 AM CALEDONIA — David Boykin is a positive person who loves football.
One of the things he enjoys most about coaching is the camaraderie members of a staff develop breaking down film, working at practice, or developing new schemes and strategies.
While there are formations and plays sketched out on the dry erase board to his left, Boykin often finds himself alone in the coaches office in the Caledonia High School field house.
Starkville football team begins district play without Tillery 9/25/2009 8:00:00 AM STARKVILLE — It still could be a couple of weeks or more before wide receiver Chuck Tillery returns from a broken leg to help Starkville High School football tam’s offense.
Until then, the Yellow Jackets will enter the Class 6A, Region 1, District 2 schedule without him.
Starkville High coach Bill Lee said players like Dennis Thompson, Justin Rogers, Perez Young, and Martavius Foster will have to emerge for tonight’s home game against Desoto Central (7).
Despite an 0-4 start, Lee still sees hope as division play begins.
Loss causes Noxubee County football team to make changes 9/25/2009 7:57:00 AM The time to be disappointed at Noxubee County High School has ended.
A week ago, West Point defeated Noxubee County 20-12 to end the Tigers’ 18-game winning streak.
The rain-soaked loss featured an inconsistent performance by the offense that left coach M.C. Miller open to changes for his team’s game against Memphis (Tenn.) Sheffield.
Heritage football team looks to bounce back from MRA loss 9/25/2009 7:54:00 AM Sometimes the results don’t show on the scoreboard.
Brad Butler and the Heritage Academy football team felt that way last week after a 28-10 loss to Madison Ridgeland Academy.
Heritage Academy held MRA to negative yards in the first quarter and had several scoring chances on short fields, but it couldn’t convert.
The loss left Butler and his players wondering what could have been.
Columbus football team hosts Tupelo in district opener 9/25/2009 7:52:00 AM It’s time for the Columbus High School football team to prove their coach right.
Bubba Davis has said repeatedly through the first five weeks of the season that the Falcons are improving and that it is a matter of time before they put things together.
No time could be better than at 7:30 tonight when Columbus kicks off its Class 6A, Region 1, District 2 schedule against Tupelo.
Columbus (1-3) has lost three in a row since a season-opening home victory against Aberdeen.
New Hope will travel to Oxford for district opener 9/24/2009 11:09:00 AM Michael Bradley can’t wait for Friday night.
Through the offseason and the preseason, Bradley developed more and more confidence that the New Hope High School football team could have a special season in 2009.
Starkville Academy softball beats Heritage Academy 9/24/2009 11:08:00 AM STARKVILLE — The softball field at Starkville Academy has been a second home for Lyndsey Haynes.
Ever since she arrived at the school as a seventh-grader, Haynes has been a fixture in the circle.
Aliceville, Pickens County to battle for bragging rights 9/24/2009 11:07:00 AM Bragging rights always are at a premium when Pickens County and Aliceville high schools football teams meet.
The rivalry will feature an added dimension at 7 p.m. Friday in Reform, Ala., when Pickens County and Aliceville enter the game with 4-0 records.
Trojans' Dentry working back to '08 form 9/22/2009 9:18:00 AM Terrance Dentry is trying to find himself.
The New Hope High School junior running back isn’t experiencing an identity crisis.
Instead, he is attempting to return to the form that helped him rush for more than 1,000 yards and nearly score 20 touchdowns.
Aberdeen will name gym for Hazzle 9/22/2009 9:14:00 AM Roy Hazzle is synonymous with Aberdeen High School.
He graduated from the school in 1971 and returned there six years later to work as a teacher.
Hazzle has impacted the lives of thousands of teenagers in his more than 30 years at Aberdeen High.
Hebron Christian softball wins district championship 9/22/2009 9:11:00 AM PHEBA — Cass Tapley was at a loss for words a month ago.
The Hebron Christian fast-pitch softball team had just lost to Heritage Academy 8-1 in a lackluster effort that left Tapley wondering if his players would realize their potential.
Second-quarter spurt sparks New Hope 9/19/2009 11:34:00 PM On most Friday night football games between county rivals New Hope and Caledonia high schools, the stadium exudes excitement and features packed bleachers, the aroma of charcoal grills permeating the air, bands playing fight songs, and cheerleaders keeping the spirit and enthusiasm alive.
The 2009 version of this contest was anything but normal.
Wraggs, Louisville beat Columbus 9/19/2009 11:33:00 PM Louisville High School quarterback Chris Wraggs said his team’s game Friday night against Columbus was exciting because it was sloppy.
Wraggs meant the playing field, as rain delayed the start of the game an hour due to the rain, and continued through the first half.
The field wasn’t the only aspect of the game that was sloppy.
MRA too much for Heritage Academy 9/19/2009 11:32:00 PM MADISON — It’s called “The Blind Side.”
The book has been made into a soon-to-be-released movie about former University of Mississippi left tackle Michael Oher.
The left tackle position is one of the highest paid in the NFL because he protects the quarterback’s blind side.
On Friday night late in the third quarter, Heritage Academy senior quarterback Will Swedenburg had the Patriots on the move trailing Madison-Ridgeland Academy 21-3.
West Point ends Noxubee County's streak 9/19/2009 11:30:00 PM MACON — Michael Carr couldn’t look up.
With teammate Curtis Virges pensively looking on by his side, standing guard to prevent anyone from entering their space, Carr stared at the turf at Shannon High School.
Around him, members of the West Point High School football team tried to digest a 27-20 loss in their season opener Aug. 21.
West Lowndes overcomes rain, Wheeler 9/19/2009 11:29:00 PM It is a football game that no West Lowndes player will soon forget.
The Panthers won’t forget their 20-0 victory against Wheeler on Friday night not because there were so many storylines.
Rain forced the school’s homecoming festivities to be moved into the gym. Then, a two-hour rain delay forced West Lowndes and Wheeler to wait it out and to wonder if they would play.
Aberdeen shuts out Okolona 9/19/2009 11:28:00 PM OKOLONA — Despite a 24-0 lead, Aberdeen High School football team offensive coordinator Kris Pickle had a spirited meeting with his offense late in the third quarter Friday night.
Unhappy with his offensive line in particular after three unproductive offensive possessions in the quarter, Pickle didn’t mince words with his charges.
Oak Hill Academy blanks Hebron Christian 9/19/2009 11:27:00 PM WEST POINT — The Oak Hill Academy football team finally found someone it could push around, and it just happened to be the other private school in Clay County.
After rain forced Oak Hill Academy to hold its homecoming ceremonies in its gym, the Raiders defeated Hebron Christian 14-0 Friday night in sopping conditions.
Noxubee County to be tested again by larger school 9/19/2009 9:52:00 PM The defending Mississippi High School Activities Association Class 4A state champions have survived every test this season against teamss that are in higher classifications.
The Noxubee County High School football team will get another chance to extend that streak at 7:30 tonight against Class 5A West Point High School.
The Tigers (4-0) have swept Class 6A schools Starkville, Columbus, Jackson Murrah, and Greenville-Weston.
Immanuel, Victory Christian seek momentum from wins 9/18/2009 8:35:00 AM Coming off big wins last week, the Immanuel Christian and Victory Christian football teams will try to keep their momentum going tonight.
Immanuel (1-3) will play host to Winona Christian, while Victory Christian (4-0) will play host to Victory Baptist. Both games will start at 7 p.m.
Immanuel coach Shawn Gates, who earned his first career victory as a head coach last week, said everybody on the team, including the coaches, has been doing their part to try to help the team continue its winning ways.
Heritage, West Lowndes look to atone for bad games 9/18/2009 8:30:00 AM Bobby Berry and Brad Butler had nights they would like to forget last Friday.
The Philadelphia High School football team broke out to a 48-0 halftime lead en route to a 48-16 victory against West Lowndes, while the Lamar School used its passing attack to torch Heritage Academy 49-12.
Both coaches will try to get their programs back on track tonight.
The West Lowndes Panthers (3-1) will play host to Wheeler at 7:30, while the Heritage Academy Patriots travels to Madison Ridgeland Academy (7).
New Hope puts win streak against rival Caledonia on the line 9/18/2009 8:26:00 AM The New Hope High School football team will get back to work tonight against an opponent that is sure to get it primed for the start of district play.
The Trojans (2-0) return from a bye week at 7:30 tonight looking to extend a winning streak when they take on county rival Caledonia (0-3).
New Hope has won the past four meetings in the series.
Caledonia’s 14-10 victory in 2004 is the program’s only victory in the series, dating back to 1995.
Lann helps Lamar County prevail against Sulligent 9/18/2009 8:21:00 AM SULLIGENT, Ala. — Jimmy Lann delivered his best effort on one of the best nights to be a Lamar County Bulldog.
The senior had a sack that led to a touchdown and two more key defensive plays in the final five minutes Friday night to help Lamar County defeat Sulligent 21-20 in a Class 2A, Region 7 matchup at Brown Stadium.
The victory was the first for the Bulldogs (4-0) against the Blue Devils (2-2) since a 45-20 victory in 2005.
It also marks the program’s best start in more than 15 years.
CHS returns to field to take on Louisville 9/17/2009 12:00:00 PM The “preseason” is nearly over.
That’s why Columbus High School football coach Bubba Davis is excited about his team’s matchup at 7:30 p.m. Friday against Class 4A Louisville High.
Aberdeen, Amory clash again for the A-Trophy 9/17/2009 11:26:00 AM ABERDEEN — Fernando Davis has a good memory when it comes to football scores.
Davis recalls plenty of results from his playing days at the University of Alabama.
But Davis can go back even before that and show off an impressive ability to recall the smallest details from his career as a linebacker at Aberdeen High School.
Lamar County, Sulligent renew rivalry Thursday night 9/16/2009 8:07:00 AM Three weeks after kicking off the season against one rival, the Lamar County High School football team will play another Thursday night.
Lamar County beat South Lamar 61-20 in its season opener and is completing its game plan for its matchup at 7 p.m. Thursday against Sulligent.
“It kind of gets you started off right,” Lamar County coach Ken Adams said of the rivalry games. “There’s always a respect factor with either team, but there’s probably more intensity when it comes to the Sulligent game. Nobody here wants to lose to South Lamar, but the community gets even more intense when it comes to the Sulligent game.”
Timberwolves' Poe plays key role in first victory 9/15/2009 11:39:00 AM MABEN — A clogged running lane or a solitary tackler isn’t enough to stand in Josh Poe’s way.
If he wants to get to the end zone, he will find a way.
Such was the dilemma for the West Oktibbeha High School running back Friday night in overtime against Noxapeter.
West Point uses ground game to beat Starkville 9/12/2009 11:59:00 PM STARKVILLE — Black, blue, and green.
If West Point High School football coach Chris Chambless had his way, he would rely on a handful of plays and his offensive line and pound away on opponents.
When you have a stable of running backs and a shifty quarterback, it’s easy to keep the ball on the ground.
On Friday night, West Point used a bruising first-half effort and rolled up 269 yards rushing en route to a 33-13 victory against Starkville.
Nettleton gets physical in beating Caledonia 9/12/2009 11:56:00 PM CALEDONIA — The Nettleton High School football team approached its game Friday against Caledonia with a game plan.
Coach Jack Clark knew coming in that the Tigers to wear out the Confederates up front before they could run the football. He said he drilled his team harder on being physical to help his players move the Confederates up front.
The strategy paid off in the third quarter as the Tigers shut down the Confederates’ momentum en route to a 29-7 victory.
Oak Hill has game get away in second half 9/12/2009 11:53:00 PM WEST POINT — The Oak Hill Academy football team held its own against Leake Academy on Friday night, trailing by 12 points at halftime.
But the Rebels exploded in the third quarter to quell any thoughts of a Raider comeback and went on to a 38-7 victory.
“We came out and played with a sense of urgency,” said Leake Academy coach Billy Pickens, who felt his team was satisfied with a two-touchdown lead. “That’s what we talked about at halftime, coming out with urgency and the impact play.”
Heritage Academy has one of those days against Lamar School 9/12/2009 11:50:00 PM MERIDIAN — Heritage Academy first-year football coach Brad Butler walked up to a fan after Friday night’s game against the Lamar School and said, “Mama said there were going to be days like this.”
Friday night was a day Butler would just as soon forget, as the Patriots suffered a 49-12 thrashing at the hands of top-ranked Lamar School at Grey Cobb Field.
Senior quarterback Witt Haggard and wide receiver Bo Bidgood combined for four touchdown passes to hand the Patriots their first loss in four games this season.
Aberdeen rolls past Amory for A-Trophy 9/12/2009 11:48:00 PM AMORY — There’s nothing like a blowout against a traditional county rival to silence the boo birds.
That was the case here Friday as the Class 3A Aberdeen Bulldogs rolled to an impressive 36-3 victory against the Class 4A Amory Panthers.
Coming off a 10-3 finish a year ago and ranked No. 3 in The Clarion-Ledger Class 3A preseason poll, Bulldog fans had visions of an unbeaten season and the school’s first state championship.
West Lowndes hit by Tornadoes 9/12/2009 11:45:00 PM If the Philadelphia High School football team keeps this up, it might have to change its mascot.
The Tornadoes came to Lowndes County for a battle of undefeated teams, but it felt more like a Category-5 hurricane hit the area after they took a 48-0 halftime lead en route to a 48-16 victory against West Lowndes.
It took Philadelphia (4-0) 18 seconds to find the end zone, as junior Tyriq Patrick returned the opening kickoff 85 yards to give the Tornadoes a 7-0 lead.
New Hope softball team wins doubleheader from Quitman 9/12/2009 11:40:00 PM The New Hope High School slow-pitch softball team remains a work in progress.
But if the Lady Trojans play defense like they did Saturday afternoon, they just might get another opportunity to play for another state title.
Even with only three players getting more than one hit on the day, New Hope still earned 1-0 and 5-2 victories against Quitman in a doubleheader at Lady Trojan Field.
Burnett picks up slack to lead Aberdeen volleyball team past Caledonia 9/11/2009 9:46:00 AM ABERDEEN — With go-to player Jameika Hoskins slowed by a knee injury, senior Sommer Burnett picked up the slack and led the host Aberdeen High School volleyball team to a 3-1 win against Caledonia here Thursday evening.
Burnett, who also is the sister of Aberdeen High coach Marquis Burnett, turned in an outstanding performance in a matchup of unbeaten (4-0) division rivals.
Storm gives Heritage soccer team needed break en route to win 9/11/2009 9:42:00 AM STEENS — There are no timeouts in soccer.
The fluidity in the action forces coaches to rely on players to adjust tactics and styles of play in the flow of a match.
Sometimes, though, it doesn’t hurt to receive a little assistance.
Mother Nature provided just the respite the Heritage Academy girls soccer team needed Thursday night.
A stoppage of play due to lightning in the area late in the first half gave the Lady Patriots a chance to regroup.
Noxubee County's defense never rests 9/11/2009 9:38:00 AM MACON — The defense doesn’t rest at Noxubee County High School.
After losing seven starters to graduation from a unit that played a key role in a run to the Class 4A state title, the Tigers’ 2009 defense is out to show it can build a resume that is even more impressive.
Noxubee County (3-0) is coming off a 28-0 shutout against Murrah last week. The shutout was the Tigers’ second this season. They will try for No. 3 at 7:30 tonight when they to Greenville Weston.
Central Academy makes most of having a bye week 9/11/2009 9:35:00 AM MACON — Ronnie Sciple didn’t plan on having a week off this early in the season.
But after a less than scintillating performance in a season-opening victory against Immanuel Christian, Sciple found plenty for his Central Academy football team to do last week in an off week.
The Vikings will try to implement what they worked on in that off week at 7 tonight when they play host to The Veritas School.
Victory Christian anticipates first challenge of the season 9/11/2009 9:11:00 AM After soaring to victory the first three games of the season, the Victory Christian Eagles anticipate their first challenge of the season tonight (7) when they travel to Gardendale, Ala., to play Tabernacle Christian
Victory Christian coach Chris Hamm expects Tabernacle Christian to be the Eagles’ first test of the season after beating Flint Hill Christian (57-16), Central Christian Academy (62-6), and New Life Christian (69-16).
“I expect it to be a tough game,” Hamm said. “That’s always a tough place to play. I know they beat Tuscaloosa Christian the first week of the season, and Tuscaloosa has a pretty good team this year.
“We need a tough game. We’re going to see what we’re made of this week. We’ve won some games already, but we’ve played young and inexperienced teams, so we look forward to the challenge.”
West Lowndes anticipates first test of the season 9/11/2009 9:08:00 AM Bobby Berry hopes to make it two in a row this week.
A week ago, the West Lowndes High School football team went on the road and defeated Class 4A Caledonia.
The Class 2A Panthers improved to 3-0 with the victory and set the stage for this week’s game against Class 3A Philadelphia (3-0).
And while Berry credits Boykin and the Confederates, he believes tonight’s (7:30) home game should be a bigger test against another higher classification opponent.
Heritage Academy engages in battle of undefeated teams 9/11/2009 9:04:00 AM Brad Butler and Mac Barnes agree on one thing: Their teams will face their toughest tests of the season tonight.
The coaches are eager to find out which team’s strength will win out tonight (7) when Heritage Academy (3-0) goes on the road to take on The Lamar School (3-0).
The size and the experience of the Patriots’ line play figures to be a strength Butler’s team will try to exploit against an opponent that has only one player who weighs more than 200 pounds on its defensive line and one two who tip the scales at more than 200 pounds on the offensive line.
Morgan brothers on opposite sidelines of Starkville, West Point rivalry 9/11/2009 9:01:00 AM The matchup between the Starkville and West Point High School football teams pits friend against friend, neighbor against neighbor, and brother against brother.
That will be the case at 7:30 tonight when Starkville offensive coordinator and quarterback coach Rob Morgan and West Point wide receiver coach Brett Morgan stand on opposite sidelines.
Brett, who has been on the Green Wave staff since January, anticipates a fun night and hopes to enjoy it more than his big brother.
Strong line play has helped Lamar County start 2-0 9/10/2009 11:04:00 AM Ken Adams isn’t going to allow the Lamar County High School football team to get overconfident.
Adams wants his players to forget the team’s 2-0 start to the season and focus on each day leading up to the next game.
Victory Christian's Ellis chosen Player of the Week 9/9/2009 7:56:00 AM Landon Ellis was a little embarrassed.
The Victory Christian junior was enjoying one of the best games of his career Friday night against New Life Academy, but he felt bad his teammates weren’t getting in on the fun.
Ellis rushed for 190 yards and three touchdowns, returned two interceptions for touchdowns, and caught a touchdown pass from quarterback Parker Eaves to help the Eagles improve to 2-0.
For his accomplishments, Ellis is The Commercial Dispatch Prep Player of the Week.
Lockhart preserves win for Starkville Academy softball team 9/9/2009 7:54:00 AM MACON — Kylie Lockhart didn’t want to be late.
She also didn’t want to give the Central Academy fast-pitch softball team an opportunity to send Tuesday’s game into extra innings.
So the Starkville Academy center fielder took care of two problems at the same time.
Lockhart’s running catch in right-center field to open the bottom of the seventh inning helped snuff out a potential rally and allowed Starkville Academy to hold on for a 4-3 victory in a non-district game.
Carr sparks West Point's victory against Columbus 9/5/2009 11:13:00 PM WEST POINT — The West Point High School football team had two weeks to think about letting its opening-week game against Shannon slip away in the final minute.
The Green Wave had a bye in week two, used the time to correct their mistakes, and went out Friday and got back on track with a 24-6 victory against Columbus.
Thrasher helps New Hope go to 2-0 9/5/2009 11:12:00 PM Zak Thrasher looks different.
At 6-foot-2, 185 pounds, Thrasher appears physically to be the same quarterback who helped lead the New Hope High School football team to the third round of the Class 4A North Half state playoffs.
Swedenburg, Heritage Academy beat Starkville Academy 9/5/2009 11:11:00 PM Heritage Academy football coach Brad Butler trusts senior quarterback Will Swedenburg.
That trust was rewarded Friday night as Swedenburg ran an efficient offense and rushed for two touchdowns in the second quarter in a 46-23 victory against Starkville Academy at C.L. Mitchell Field.
West Lowndes gets better of Caledonia 9/5/2009 11:10:00 PM CALEDONIA — The West Lowndes High School football team capitalized on three first-half turnovers to build a big halftime lead en route to a 34-9 victory Friday night.
Meridian does enough to beat Starkville 9/5/2009 11:09:00 PM STARKVILLE — It was not the prototypical game for the defending state champion Meridian Wildcats, but they’ll take a victory anytime they can get one.
Despite 11 penalties and four turnovers, the Wildcats did enough to defeat the Starkville Yellow Jackets 27-10 on Friday night.
Ellis has career night for Victory Christian 9/5/2009 11:08:00 PM When the lights went up Friday, Landon Ellis never expected he would double his personal touchdown record.
But Ellis did just that as he scored six touchdowns to lead the Victory Christian football team to a 69-16 victory against New Life Academy.
Indianola shuts down Oak Hill Academy 9/5/2009 11:07:00 PM WEST POINT — Any thoughts the Oak Hill Academy football team might have had about exploiting the one team they beat last year disappeared in the first 10 minutes of Friday night.
The Indianola Academy Colonels used a blocked punt by Dalton Deloach in the Raiders’ end zone as a spark and went on to a 28-6 victory.
Late score lifts Hebron Christian 9/5/2009 11:05:00 PM PHEBA — The homestanding Hebron Christian Eagles picked up their first win of the season Friday night with a 35-30 victory against the West Memphis Black Knights.
Quitman surprises Louisville 9/5/2009 11:04:00 PM QUITMAN — All eyes were on Markese Triplett on Friday night.
Many believed the Louisville High School senior wide receiver would be the playmaker to watch against Quitman High.
Perhaps a couple of those eyes should have been watching speedy Quitman junior wideout Dyar Ealie.
Starkville sweeps volleyball match from Columbus 9/4/2009 9:07:00 AM Volleyball is a lot more than a recreational sport to Lauren Love and Shay Ashford.
But it takes time to change the culture at schools that don’t have the tradition in sports like volleyball, which is still relatively new in the state of Mississippi.
That challenge doesn’t faze Lauren Love or Shay Ashford.
The first-year coaches both have played sports in college and now are focused on bringing their love for volleyball to Starkville and Columbus high schools.
Meridian's Weems respects Starkville's history, potential 9/4/2009 9:03:00 AM Meridian High School coach Larry Weems believes he could use the services of quarterback Tyler Russell and wide receiver Chris Smith in Starkville tonight.
Although that’s not possible, that’s how much respect Weems has for the Yellow Jackets.
Russell and Smith, two Mississippi State freshmen, told Weems they would be available if needed at 7:30 tonight when Meridian plays Starkville. MSU plays host to Jackson State on Saturday.
Heritage, Starkville Academy meet in district opener for both teams 9/4/2009 9:01:00 AM Rivalry games always are intense.
But as much as Heritage Academy football coach Brad Butler is looking forward to tonight’s matchup (7) against Starkville Academy, he is more excited that the game will be the Class AAA, District 1 opener for both teams.
To Butler, that fact is crucial for the Patriots (2-0), who will try to build on the momentum they earned last week in a come-from-behind 13-12 victory at Winston County.
Flu bug affects New Hope's preparation for Amory game 9/4/2009 8:59:00 AM Coaches can prepare for spread offenses or dart-quick running backs.
They also can devise schemes to frustrate even the strongest pass rush.
But New Hope High School football coach Michael Bradley discovered another opponent this week that is even tougher: Sickness.
The Trojans (1-0) had 24 players miss practice at some point this week as they prepared to take on Amory (0-2) at 7:30 tonight.
The flu bug that is affecting the state played a role in more than 100 students being absent Thursday from New Hope High.
Boykin believes in Confederates going into game with West Lowndes 9/4/2009 8:57:00 AM David Boykin admits his football team doesn’t have anything to gain tonight.
If the Class 4A Caledonia High School Confederates beat the Class 2A West Lowndes Panthers, no one will raise an eyebrow because it is what is expected.
But if the Panthers travel to Caledonia and earn the victory, people will be surprised.
Boykin hopes his players will be ready to prevent that from happening.
West Point's Carr seeks redemption after loss to Shannon 9/4/2009 8:54:00 AM WEST POINT — Michael Carr doesn’t need a DVD player.
He doesn’t need a remote control for a VCR.
The West Point High School senior has all the pictures and replays he needs in his head.
They’re one he would like to forget.
Carr has had two weeks to relive the memory of Shannon’s 27-20 season-opening victory against West Point.
Return to West Point all business for Columbus coach Davis 9/4/2009 8:52:00 AM The colors he was wearing were different, but it was impossible not to recognize the face.
So as Bubba Davis climbed the bleachers on the home side of West Point High School’s Hamblin Stadium, he stopped to greet multiple well-wishers.
Davis smiled as he talked to the fans who were there on that May evening to watch the spring game between Louisville and West Point.
Sneak attack propels Central Academy softball team past Heritage 9/2/2009 10:11:00 AM Beware the sneak attack.
The Central Academy fast-pitch softball team can’t pinpoint its origin.
The Lady Vikings never know when it’s going to come.
But when the sneak attack arrives, hits are sure to follow.
On Tuesday, scorekeeper/assistant coach Pam Dawkins provided the fuse and Corey Dawkins, Kellie Hailey, and Blake Rigdon helped light the fire that sparked the Lady Vikings’ sneak attack.
Aberdeen's Love keeps improving 9/1/2009 11:51:00 AM ABERDEEN — Jamerson Love knew something needed to be done.
The Aberdeen High School football team’s dream of a perfect season ended in week one at Columbus, but Love knew the season wasn’t over.
Still, the senior running back realized the Bulldogs needed someone to provide a spark to help get the team rolling again.
Returns help Central Academy beat Immanuel Christian 8/30/2009 12:21:00 AM STEENS — Immanuel Christian football coach Shawn Gates said he noticed some positives in Friday night’s 36-22 loss to the Central Academy Vikings.
The biggest positive, Gates said, is sophomore running back Michael Tate.
“There was a lot of courage out of Michael Tate,” he said. “When he was hurt he stepped it up and went back in.”
Tate, who scored one touchdown, was instrumental in setting up all three of the Rams’ scores.
Bell, O'Briant propel East Webster past West Oktibbeha 8/30/2009 12:18:00 AM MABEN — Timakis Bell had 66 rushing yards and two touchdowns, and Demetrius Obriant added 16 yards with two touchdowns Friday night to help the East Webster High School football team defeat West Oktibbeha 40-0.
East Webster’s defense sparked the victory. The Wolverines had four interceptions — two by Miguel Graham and one each by Obriant, and Ryan Johnson.
Brennan Sparks and Obriant also helped East Webster recover two fumbles to give it excellent field position.
Oak Hill's rally comes up short in loss to Pillow Academy 8/30/2009 12:12:00 AM GREENWOOD –– The Oak Hill Academy Raiders rallied in the second half, but lost to Pillow Academy 48-21 on Friday night.
Oak Hill Academy outscored Pillow Academy 21-7 in the second half after trailing 41-0 at halftime.
Quarterback Davis Clayton got the Raiders (0-2) on the scoreboard in the third quarter when he scored on a 10-yard run.
Jake Orman scored twice for the Raiders in the final quarter on runs of 12 and 15 yards.
Pickens County's Marchant gets first win as a head coach 8/30/2009 12:07:00 AM REFORM, Ala. –– The Pickens County Tornadoes made a winner of Scott Marchant in his debut as head coach Friday night by doubling up Greensboro 48-24.
The victory helped Pickens County atone for a 26-21 loss to Greensboro in its season opener last season.
“It’s thrilling,” Marchant said of his getting his first win as a head coach. “It’s good to get that first one out of the way. I feel blessed. We’ve got a lot of good kids, a lot of good football players, and a great football staff helping me. I’m glad I could be a part of it.”
Love scores five touchdowns to lead Aberdeen to victory 8/30/2009 12:04:00 AM ABERDEEN — Valentine’s Day is still months away, but Ray Brooks’ defense left Lester Miley Stadium with ‘Love’ on their minds.
Aberdeen senior running back Jamerson Love accumulated 316 all-purpose yards and scored five touchdowns Friday night in the Bulldogs’ 52-14 blowout.
“I knew the team was depending on me, so I just put them on my back,” Love said. “I just try to practice hard and play hard. That’s the best game I have ever had since I’ve played at Aberdeen High School.”
Love, a 5-foot-11, 175-pounder, picked up 238 yards on 16 carries and four touchdowns. He caught a pair of passes for 78 yards and another score.
Lamar County gets better of South Lamar in rivalry 8/30/2009 12:01:00 AM VERNON, Ala. — Lance Bobbitt, Carson Chiquito, and Marquis Plant are going to try to bring the mohawk back to Lamar County High School.
The seniors didn’t have much luck in the preseason convincing their teammates the hairdo was the way to go.
Things just might change after Friday night.
Plant caught two touchdown passes from Michael Bradford, Bobbitt rushed for another score, and Chiquito played a key role up front to help the Lamar County football team defeat South Lamar 61-20 in the season opener for both teams at George Bell Stadium.
Henderson's touchdown lifts Heritage Academy past Winston 8/29/2009 11:59:00 PM LOUISVILLE — It was a double dose of déja vu for the Winston Academy Patriots and their fans Friday night.
When Heritage Academy backup fullback Stance Henderson broke three tackles and raced 54 yards for a game-winning touchdown with 3 minutes, 27 seconds to play in the game, Winston Academy fans had to think back to memories of Henderson’s father, Joey, who starred at running back for the school’s undefeated 1975 state championship team and also wore No. 5.
Winston Academy’s 13-12 loss to Heritage Academy also was eerily similar to its last-minute meltdown last week against Leake Academy, when it dominated the first half but surrendered the lead late in the second half.
West Lowndes capitalizes on East Oktibbeha's mistakes 8/29/2009 11:55:00 PM The final statistics Friday night indicated the West Lowndes High School football team’s game against East Oktibbeha was a close one.
But the score, 26-0 in favor of the Panthers, told a different story.
Subplot A was the four interceptions the Panthers made against quarterback Chris Hunter.
Subplot B was the Titans’ ability to move the football between the 20s, racking up 173 total rushing yards to West Lowndes’ 159, before seeing their drives stall or end in turnovers.
Triplett leads Louisville past Starkville 8/29/2009 11:51:00 PM STARKVILLE — Senior wide receiver Markese Triplett caught five passes for 173 yards and two touchdowns to lead the Louisville High School football team to a 26-21 victory against the Starkville Yellow Jackets.
The 6-foot-4 receiver and University of Southern Mississippi commitment had an 87-yard touchdown reception on the second play from scrimmage to give the Wildcats a 7-0 lead. He added a 60-yard touchdown in the second quarter.
“He’s just a playmaker,” Starkville coach Bill Lee said. “Louisville did a great job coaching tonight and getting the ball to the right guys.”
Noxubee County Tigers run past Columbus 8/29/2009 11:49:00 PM MACON — Noxubee County High School football coach M.C. Miller still has some offensive weapons to put on the field while quarterback/wide receiver/free safety Vincent Sanders recovers from a fractured jaw.
Running backs Patreon Hopkins and Jontae Skinner each scored a touchdown Friday night to help the defending Class 4A state champions beat Columbus 23-12.
The Tigers (2-0) prefer the passing game, but Miller has no problem going to the running game while sophomore quarterback Jared Johnson gets used to the system.
New Hope starts season right by beating Tupelo 8/29/2009 11:47:00 PM Football coaches drill the importance of the fourth-quarter effort into their teams.
Many will pace the sidelines holding up four fingers and shouting “fourth quarter.”
The last 12 minutes sometimes involves a team blowing a lead due to exhaustion or sloppy play or players emerging to make a big play.
The latter happened Friday night for the New Hope High School football team in a 28-17 victory against Tupelo in the season opener for both teams.
Starkville Academy soccer team claims first win by beating Heritage 8/29/2009 11:38:00 PM STARKVILLE — Records sometimes don’t tell the entire story.
Artie Cosby has been around sports long enough to know that.
Now his goal is to help the Starkville Academy girls soccer team put a few more victories on the left side of the ledger.
Haley Jenkins, Jessica Dennis, and Sallie Kate Richardson each scored two goals Saturday to help the Starkville Academy girls soccer team defeat Heritage Academy 8-0.
Caledonia, Hamilton QBs will be center of attention 8/27/2009 1:17:00 PM HAMILTON — Brandon Bell admits he is still figuring everything out.
You can’t blame the Caledonia High School sophomore. He has had to move to a new position, he has had to adjust to a new coach and a new offense, and he had had to shoulder the expectations and the responsibility for being a team leader.
That’s a lot to digest, even for the most experienced player.
Contrast in styles for Heritage, Winston 8/27/2009 1:16:00 PM If the first week of the season is any indication, it will be a game of contrasting styles when Heritage Academy plays at Winston Academy on Friday.
Tigers will make do without Sanders 8/27/2009 1:15:00 PM MACON — Programs don’t win state championships with one player.
Standouts can play key roles, but the labors of one player will take a team only so far.
The Noxubee County High School football team intends to show people in the state of Mississippi it is more than one player.
New Hope makes strides at plate to beat Eupora 8/26/2009 9:26:00 AM A program develops constants in winning 11 state titles.
Defense has been one of the benchmarks for the New Hope High School slow-pitch softball team.
But as stingy as the Lady Trojans have been defensively, their hitting has adapted to the strengths of the players from title to title.
Some years New Hope has relied on its power hitters to fuel the offense. In other seasons — like in 2008 — it has blended line drive hitters with speed to deliver a consistent attack.
South Lamar plays rival Lamar County in Harper's debut 8/26/2009 9:25:00 AM Josh Harper has a lot on his mind.
The South Lamar High School football coach is about to embark on his first season as a head coach at his alma mater, and he’s faced with the task of preparing for the team’s archrival his first game.
The Harper era at South Lamar begins at 7 p.m. Friday when the Stallions kick off their season at Lamar County in Vernon, Ala.
Tigers' Sanders will miss time 8/25/2009 12:33:00 PM The Noxubee County High School football team stayed relatively healthy last season in its run to the Class 4A state title.
Things will be a little tougher this season in the Tigers’ quest to repeat.
Noxubee County High coach M.C Miller said Monday that senior wide receiver/quarterback/free safety Vincent Sanders will be out an undetermined length of time with a fractured jaw.
Pirates' Acker does it all in opener 8/25/2009 12:30:00 PM CARROLTON, Ala. — Jacob Acker doesn’t have a preference.
He doesn’t even have to have the ball in his hands.
When you’re running an offense that is as much fun as the spread option, the points just have a way of piling up on the scoreboard.
It also helps to have a versatile array of players.
Blocked PATs help Columbus edge Aberdeen 8/23/2009 12:42:00 AM Columbus High School junior defensive lineman Ian Williams was thankful to be in the right place at the right time.
Even though it took a while to determine who blocked the extra point that enabled Columbus beat Aberdeen 27-26 in double overtime Friday night, Williams was glad he could be a difference maker.
Heritage Academy controls Oak Hill Academy 8/23/2009 12:41:00 AM The soggy conditions Friday night couldn’t stop Heritage Academy’s Will West from discovering where his passion on the football field lies.
Heritage Academy coach Brad Butler said West has played nearly every position but has finally found his role as a senior.
“I asked him earlier in the fall, ‘Do you like being a wide receiver or do you feel like a tight end?’ ” Butler said. “(Will) said, ‘Well, I feel weird about it, but coach, I like being a wide receiver.’ ”
Noxubee County shuts out Starkville 8/23/2009 12:40:00 AM MACON — The Noxubee County High School football team picked up where it left off last season.
The Tigers pitched seven shutouts in 2008 en route to the Class 4A State championship.
On Friday night, the Tigers notched their first shutout of 2009 with a 30-0 victory against Starkville in the season opener for both teams.
Shannon uses late score to beat West Point 8/23/2009 12:39:00 AM SHANNON — Someone had to make one more play.
Michael Carr appeared to have what the West Point High School football team needed.
But Keon McGaughy snatched what Carr couldn’t hold to give Shannon High exactly what it wanted.
McGaughy caught a ball that tipped off Carr’s hands for a 29-yard touchdown pass with 12 seconds remaining to lift Shannon to a 27-20 victory in the season opener for both teams.
Wilson, West Lowndes run past West Oktibbeha 8/23/2009 12:37:00 AM MABEN — The West Lowndes High School football team began its season Friday with a 30-6 road victory against West Oktibbeha in a game that involved plenty of hard hits.
Victory Christian beats Flint Hill to extend streak 8/23/2009 12:36:00 AM Intermittent downpours of rain throughout the day failed to dampen anticipation for Victory Christian School’s Friday night opening home football game against Bessemer’s Flint Hill Christian School. Enjoying an 11-game winning streak, including two 2008 playoff wins, the Eagles’ big-play offense dominated en route to a 57-16 Christian Football Association (eight-man) division victory in the season opener for both teams.
Ackerman capitalizes on Starkville Academy's mistakes 8/23/2009 12:35:00 AM STARKVILLE — Ackerman High School senior running back Shawn Stricklin delivered a lights-out performance in more ways than one Friday night in the season opener against Starkville Academy.
Stricklin rushed for a career-high four touchdowns and 124 yards to lead the Indians to a 55-2 victory.
Hatley used ground game to roll past Immanuel 8/23/2009 12:34:00 AM STEENS — Tyler Edwards had 107 yards rushing and Cody Taylor added 91 Friday night to lead the Hatley High School football team to a 60-0 victory against Immanuel in the season opener for both teams.
Cunningham leads Louisville past NW Rankin 8/23/2009 12:33:00 AM LOUISVILLE — It wasn’t quite the way Louisville High School junior running back Blake Cunningham envisioned starting the 2009 football season.
Cunningham, who is being counted on to shoulder a lot of the ball-toting load vacated by the departure of Dandy Dozen Mississippi State signee Dennis Thames, fumbled the ball away on Louisville’s first play of the game.
Nettleton rallies to defeat Amory 8/23/2009 12:32:00 AM AMORY — All things being equal, execution, effort, and experience more times than not will decide the outcome of a football game.
That was the case here Friday night, as the Nettleton Tigers capitalized on a pair of fourth-quarter turnovers to grab a 19-15 non-division victory against the Amory Panthers.
Pickens Academy wins first for coach 8/23/2009 12:31:00 AM NEWNAN, Ga. –– The Pickens Academy Pirates scored their most points in a game in three seasons to make Sam Pearson a winner in his debut Friday as the team’s coach.
Pickens Academy turned a defensive first half into a rout, defeating the Heritage School 56-36.
Caledonia volleyball team wins as it continues to improve 8/22/2009 11:35:00 PM CALEDONIA — Shaina Cruse feels like she is part of history.
With each practice and match she plays, the senior setter grows a little more comfortable with her Caledonia High School volleyball teammates.
Cruse, who also plays goalkeeper on the school’s girls soccer team, has been playing volleyball for only two years, but she dives on the floor to keep loose balls alive with the same hustle she throws her body at soccer balls.
To watch Cruse play volleyball, you wouldn’t know she is a newcomer to the sport.
Delta State coach observes talent at softball tournament 8/22/2009 11:33:00 PM STARKVILLE — It wasn’t really all about winning Saturday at the Starkville Sportsplex softball fields.
Although scores were kept, the main purpose of the sixth-annual College Exposure Tournament was to showcase the talent of the 14 Mississippi Association of Independent School teams participating.
The tournament was directed by the Delta State softball team, and it gave coach Kasey Charles and her staff a front-row seat to watch potential recruits.
Coaches don't believe in scheduling easy openers 8/21/2009 9:26:00 AM So much for scheduling a cream puff in your season opener.
Columbus High School’s Bubba Davis, West Point High’s Chris Chambless, and Noxubee County’s M.C. Miller all have high hopes for their football teams this season.
They agree there is no better way to put those hopes to the test than to schedule a difficult opponent in the first game of the season.
Each coach will get to do that tonight when Columbus plays host to Aberdeen, West Point travels to Shannon, and Noxubee County plays host to Starkville.
Public, private schools schedule games to reduce travel 8/21/2009 9:25:00 AM High school football programs are looking for ways to deal with the struggling economy.
So when teams can schedule non-conference games close to home that’s what they’re going to do.
That’s the main reason Immanuel Christian of Columbus will play host to Hatley High School, while Ackerman High School will travel to Starkville Academy.
Aug. 21 Prep Football Capsules 8/21/2009 9:21:00 AM A capsule preview look at the Oak Hill Acadademy-Heritage Academy, West Lowndes-West Oktibbeha, and Hatley-Immanuel games.
Oak Hill Academy, West Oktibbeha continue building processes 8/21/2009 9:13:00 AM One coaches at a private school, and the other coaches at a public school.
One coaches at an academy that has a student body that is nearly all white, while the other works at a predominately black school.
But when it comes to coaching high school football, the coaches face similar situations.
Amory, Nettleton will renew rivalry 8/21/2009 9:07:00 AM The Nettleton High School and the Amory High football teams hope to use a rivalry game to start the season with a victory.
Nettleton coach Jack Clark and Amory coach Pat Byrd believe the rivalry will be good for their boys.
“(The rivalry) has a positive impact for our kids. We’ve played each other 15 times in the last 20 years,” Clark said. “They have probably won 13 of those games, but even though it is one-sided it is always a competitive game.”
Immanuel girls soccer team looks to return to playoffs with young team 8/18/2009 9:33:00 AM STEENS — Just about everything will be new for the Immanuel Christian girls soccer program in 2009.
The hope for this season is that all of the new players who have joined the program will help the Lady Rams make a return trip to the playoffs.
Fifth-year coach Ray Campbell and the Lady Rams will kick off the season at 4 p.m. today when they play host to Indianola.
Heritage soccer player Fields atones for what she considered lack of effort 8/18/2009 9:30:00 AM Consider the apology accepted.
Krisi Boren is only in her second year as girls soccer coach at Heritage Academy, but she has been around soccer and student-athletes long enough to have seen plenty of things.
Boren faced something after her team’s season-opening victory against Marshall Academy she didn’t expect.
After the game, freshman forward Tori Fields apologized to Boren for not giving her best effort.
The apology was unsolicited and caught Boren off guard.
High school football teams tune up for season in jamborees 8/15/2009 11:05:00 PM Nearly all the coaches contacted Saturday night were pleased with their teams’ performances Friday night in jamboree/scrimmage action across the state.
Some, like Immanuel first-year Shawn Gates, might have gotten a little hoarse from all of the excitement.
But many of the coaches and teams won’t have a lot of time to spend fine-tuning things. The majority of Mississippi High School Activities Association schools in the area will play classic games Friday, while Mississippi Association of Independent Schools also will kick off the season Friday.
Starkville football team doesn't show much in scrimmage 8/14/2009 9:08:00 AM STARKVILLE — The Starkville High School football team showed its fans Thursday night what it can do in a one-hour scrimmage.
The scrimmage was part of “Meet the Players Night,” and Starkville High football coach Bill Lee was careful not to show too much because Noxubee County coach M.C. Miller was one of several coaches at the game.
The Yellow Jackets will take on the defending Class 4A state champions Aug. 21 in Macon.
New Hope softball team set to begin defense of state title 8/14/2009 9:06:00 AM The New Hope High School slow-pitch softball team is going to have a little bit of everything this season.
The Lady Trojans are young and inexperienced at several positions.
Coach Tabitha Beard’s team also has an assortment of “older” players who have been with the program for two to three years and who are used to advancing deep into the playoffs and competing for state titles.
Last season was no exception.
Starkville Academy softball pitcher Haynes finds her groove 8/11/2009 9:15:00 AM STARKVILLE — A year ago, Lyndsey Haynes was trying to find her groove.
A torn anterior cruciate ligament in her left knee forced her to wear a brace that affected her delivery.
The injury also left the right-handed pitcher on the Starkville Academy fastpitch softball team wondering whether she would regain her form.
But last weekend Haynes showed she has found her groove again.
Haynes pitches Starkville Academy softball team to tournament title 8/9/2009 12:12:00 AM STARKVILLE -- Before wrapping her arm in ice after pitching four games on Saturday, Starkville Academy’s Lyndsey Haynes got to wrap her hands on a championship trophy.
The Lady Volunteers remained in the winner’s bracket throughout and won the Starkville Invitational Tournament for the first time. The event was held at the Mississippi State Recreation Complex.
Starkville Academy (8-1) defeated Winston Academy 6-3, Central Academy 8-7 and Pillow Academy 8-0 and 5-4 in eight innings to claim the title.
Heritage softball team wins despite having run taken away 8/7/2009 9:33:00 AM WEST POINT –– The Heritage Academy Lady Patriots had a run taken off the scoreboard Thursday afternoon, but didn’t need it to claim a 5-3 victory against Oak Hill Academy.
The Lady Patriots (2-1) scored three runs in the second inning and would have scored four if one hadn’t been taken away.
The Lady Patriots thought they tied the score 2-2 in the second when Logan Waggoner crossed the plate on a fielder’s choice and the home plate umpire extended his arms to signal safe.
Cosby takes over Starkville Academy girls soccer team 8/7/2009 9:28:00 AM STARKVILLE –– The girls who make up the Starkville Academy soccer team weren’t born when Artie Cosby was a record-breaking kicker at Mississippi State.
All they know is he one day he could lead them to a championship.
Cosby takes over the reins as soccer coach at Starkville Academy, and he’s enjoyed preparing for the season.
Heritage Academy soccer team ready for challenge 8/7/2009 9:26:00 AM The championship feeling still lingers in Krisi Boren’s mind.
A year ago, the Heritage Academy girls soccer team had a season to remember, falling to River Oaks (Monroe, La.) in its first appearance in a Mississippi Private School Association (now MAIS) state title match.
The landscape will be different this season for the Lady Patriots.
Heritage Academy, which finished 11-4 last season, will move from Division II to Division I this season. The transition means tougher divisional games against the likes of Starkville Academy, Pillow Academy,Washington School, and Magnolia Heights.
CHS boys basketball players sign with East Central C.C. 8/6/2009 12:45:00 PM Josh Carothers and Kendall Jackson have learned to trust Sammy Smith.
The Columbus High School boys basketball players believed their coach when he said he would do his best to find them a college where they could continue their careers.
The only thing Smith asked his players to do was to stay patient and to believe.
The wait ended Wednesday afternoon.
Starkville Academy pitcher Haynes baffles Central Academy 8/5/2009 8:58:00 AM STARKVILLE –– Starkville Academy’s Lyndsey Haynes mixed her pitches to mix up the Central Academy Lady Vikings at the plate.
Haynes scattered four hits Tuesday afternoon to lead Starkville Academy to a 9-1 victory at home.
“I didn’t throw one pitch in the same place the whole time,” said Haynes, who allowed three bunt singles. “If I threw outside and she’d foul it off, I’d go inside and high. Every pitch changed completely. It messed them up. The game (against Kemper Academy on Monday) I threw too much in the same place and I messed up and they would hit it.”
Atkins pitches Heritage softball team past Hebron Christian 8/5/2009 8:55:00 AM There’s something to be said for sure-handedness.
For Heritage Academy’s Kristyn Atkins, all it took Tuesday was a rosin bag to help her feel more comfortable.
The senior pitcher used rosin to keep her right hand dry en route to a complete-game three-hitter in an 8-1 victory against Hebron Christian.
Atkins (1-1) struck out four, walked one, and never was in any serious trouble.
Starkville Academy uses small ball to beat Oak Hill 8/4/2009 11:16:00 AM STARKVILLE —Randy Haynes likes robust boxscores.
The Starkville Academy fast-pitch softball coach would prefer to have his players swing away and pile up the doubles, triples, or home runs.
Sometimes, though, you need to switch gears.
Butler will demand more from Patriots 8/2/2009 12:37:00 AM Brad Butler knows the Heritage Academy football program can accomplish big things.
He was a member of the football team’s coaching staff in 2005 when it advanced to the Class AAA Division II title game.
Now it’s Butler’s job to help the Patriots get back to that level.
New facility will give Starkville Academy a boost 8/2/2009 12:36:00 AM STARKVILLE — Starkville Academy believes it’s getting just the boost its athletic program needs to be competitive.
A $300,000 on-campus locker room and training facility is under construction and is excepted to provide something that is considered to be overdue.
Heritage Academy softball looks to build on success 7/31/2009 12:24:00 PM The 2008 season was just the first step for the Heritage Academy fast-pitch softball season.
The Lady Patriots made history last season, advancing to the North South State Tournament for the first time.
With many of the key players from that team back this season, Heritage Academy coach Ginny Lowery is confident Heritage Academy can build on last season and begin to build a tradition.
Starkville Academy softball expects to be stronger 7/30/2009 1:58:00 PM Starkville Academy softball coach Randy Haynes expects to have a stronger team on the field this season.
There were signs in the summer league at the Starkville Sportsplex that the Lady Volunteers could be better than last year’s 18-17 record.
Central Academy wants to build on slow-pitch title 7/30/2009 1:56:00 PM MACON — One title isn’t enough for the Central Academy softball program.
In May, the Lady Vikings ended a drought when they defeated Kemper Academy to win the Class A Mississippi Private School Association slow-pitch state title.
Funk hired to be head football coach at Marion County 7/23/2009 9:14:00 AM When the South Lamar football team released its schedule for the upcoming season, the only significance of its game against Marion County was it was a matchup of region rivals.
But in June, the encounter between South Lamar and Marion County took on a much more significant meaning.
That’s because Marion County, which is located in Guin, Ala., hired Rusty Funk to be its head football coach.
Funk was South Lamar’s coach last season before being relieved of his duties and replaced by his assistant, Josh Harper.
Byrd happy to 'come home'; NHHS baseball adds Taylor 7/19/2009 Jerry Byrd doesn’t know if he, his wife, or his children are happier.
Getting an opportunity to stay home to teach and to coach usually can put a smile on anybody’s face.
The Byrds will smile a lot more this year after the Lowndes County School Board approved Friday the hiring of Byrd as the new boys soccer and tennis coach at New Hope High School.
Putnam, Byrd expected to be named at NHHS 7/17/2009 Justin Putnam realized a dream Monday.
Today, the Lowndes County School Board is expected to make it official.
Putnam accepted an offer Monday to become the new girls track and field coach at New Hope High School.
Jerry Byrd, the older brother of former New Hope High boys basketball coach Robert Byrd, said Thursday he has accepted the job to become the school’s new boys soccer coach.
Locals will play in Bernard Blackwell Classic 7/16/2009 Josh Ferguson was pleased when he first learned he was selected to participate in the annual Bernard Blackwell Classic.
The football game, which will be at 7 tonight at Hale-Robinson Stadium on the campus of Mississippi College, pits some of the state’s top outgoing seniors from the South against the North. It is a final opportunity for high school standouts to take the field before they play their first games in college.
CMSD names Greene its AD 7/15/2009 The timing proved to be perfect for Rusty Greene.
The veteran teacher and coach transitioned eight years ago into a role as an assistant principal at Caledonia Middle School.
But Greene recently decided he wanted to try something new, so he searched the area for another job as an administrator.
Boyd's goal is to keep New Hope baseball tradition going 7/12/2009 Lee Boyd is ready to accept the challenge of being the next baseball coach at New Hope High School.
As a player, Boyd spent five years in a New Hope High program that has earned a reputation as one of the state’s best.
As a coach, Boyd has spent the past three years in the dugout against New Hope High, and has watched the Trojans maintain that tradition.
Now as New Hope High School’s new baseball coach, Boyd, 26, is confident he can be the leader who keep that tradition going for many more years.
McBrayer realizes a dream of becoming New Hope basketball coach 7/12/2009 Drew McBrayer admits he dreamed of one day becoming the boys basketball coach at New Hope High School.
He never imagined that day would come so soon.
The Lowndes County School Board on Friday approved the hiring of McBrayer as New Hope High’s boys basketball coach.
McBrayer, 30, replaces Robert Byrd, who announced his resignation Tuesday after 11 years as the school’s head coach.
Boyd set to be new NHHS baseball coach 7/9/2009 Former New Hope High School baseball player Lee Boyd is expected to be named the school’s new baseball coach.
Boyd, who spent five years as a player in the New Hope High baseball program, said Wednesday he had accepted a job offer to be the Trojans’ new coach. He declined to comment further pending the approval Friday of his hiring by the Lowndes County School Board.
Byrd resigns as NHHS boys basketball coach 7/9/2009 Robert Byrd is looking ahead.
After years working to raise the children of other people and toiling as a basketball coach, Byrd said Wednesday it is time for a change.
Byrd on Tuesday resigned as boys basketball coach at New Hope High School, citing a desire to spend more time with his family and to focus on the pursuit of a master’s degree.
Holman returns to New Hope as girls basketball coach 7/8/2009 The timing proved to be perfect for Laura Lee Holman.
As a result, the former New Hope High School softball and girls basketball standout likely will return to her alma mater as a coach.
Holman last week accepted a job offer to replace Tim Vaughan as New Hope High’s girls basketball coach.
Holman’s hiring is expected to be finalized Friday when the Lowndes County School Board convenes its monthly meeting.
USA basketball trials beneficial to New Hope's Hollivay 7/8/2009 Rachel Hollivay isn’t letting a little disappointment slow her down.
In fact, the New Hope High School sophomore girls basketball player is using her experiences this summer to take her game to new heights.
In May, Hollivay was one of 34 players invited to travel to Colorado Springs, Colo., to attend the team trials for the 2009 USA Basketball Women’s Under-16 National Team.
Fondren hired as East Webster girls basketball coach 7/8/2009 Mandy Fondren believes there is no place better to learn than close to home.
Fondren’s decision to accept a job offer to become East Webster High School’s new girls basketball coach is even more appealing because she grew up in Sherwood, a small community in Choctaw County, and she will have an opportunity to join a school with a tradition-rich athletic department.
Wilkerson turns down offer to be New Hope baseball coach 7/8/2009 Another day didn’t change things enough for Clint Wilkerson and his family.
The St. Aloysius High School baseball coach Monday morning declined a job offer to be the new head baseball coach at New Hope High School.
Administrators from New Hope High then spoke with Wilkerson later that day and asked him to give them more time to try to work out a better situation for him and his family.
Hester won't appeal decision 7/7/2009 Former New Hope High School baseball coach Stacy Hester said Monday he won’t appeal the decision of Lowndes County School District Superintendent Mike Halford not to retain him as the school’s baseball coach.
Heat index on mind of high school football coaches 6/24/2009 The heat index is a number on the mind of more and more high school football coaches.
With temperatures and heat indices in the state reaching into the upper 90s and 100s, respectively, in the past two weeks, football coaches around the state are trying to identify the best times and ways to get their players in condition for the start of the season.
When state schools and football teams reconvene Aug. 3 for the 2009-10 school year, coaches might have another item to consider.
Passes bring high school football teams closer together 6/24/2009 Each pass brings teams closer to the start of the 2009 high school football season.
That’s why more and more teams are trying to get as many repetitions as they can in the next two months before school reconvenes in August.
Columbus High School football coach Bubba Davis is going to do his best to make sure his team and others in the area are busy.
Davis and the Falcons played host Tuesday to the first of what he hopes are several evenings of 7-on-7 passing competition.
New Hope softball players play in all-star games 6/24/2009 The school colors have been worn for the final time.
But New Hope High School graduates Victoria Culpepper, Kristen Harvey, and DeShuni Sanders wouldn’t have closed their careers any other way.
The former Lady Trojans closed their high school careers last weekend with a host of other local players at the Mississippi Association of Coaches All-Star games at Newton County High School in Decatur.
Hester will appeal firing as New Hope baseball coach 6/19/2009 Stacy Hester said Thursday he plans to appeal the recommendation of Lowndes County School District Superintendent Mike Halford and the vote of the county’s school board that he not be retained as New Hope High School baseball coach.
“I want them to man up and tell me why,” Hester said. “It is just amazing (this has happened after) all of the things I have done and have been a part of out in that program. (It is a shame that after) one little incident all of this stuff kind of blows up and you’re gone. I think they are hiding the fact that I had an at-will contract and they don’t have to tell me a thing.”
Bivens named new girls basketball coach at Aberdeen High 6/18/2009 Latorrence Bivens is an easy-going guy.
But don’t confuse Bivens’ quiet demeanor with an inability to set high expectations and an unwillingness to push his players to reach those goals.
Bivens hopes that mix of qualities can be part of what will help him transition to coaching girls basketball.
Hester out as New Hope baseball coach 6/14/2009 Stacy Hester is still confused, and now he apparently is out of a job he loves.
On Friday, Lowndes County School District Superintendent Mike Halford recommended Hester not be retained as New Hope High School’s baseball coach.
None of the five school board members asked to have the issue of Hester’s status pulled from the consent agenda, where it could have been up for an open vote.
The board then voted 5-0 to accept Halford’s recommendation.
New Hope's future in baseball uncertain 6/14/2009 The blank Web page might be an omen for the New Hope High School baseball program.
At 3 p.m. Saturday, the www.newhopebaseball.com page on the New Hope High sports and school booster site carried a message “Nothing to See Here Move Along.”
The absence of any information on the baseball program’s page comes after Lowndes County School District Superintendent Mike Halford recommended Friday that New Hope High baseball coach Stacy Hester not be retained after his at-will agreement ends June 30.
Boykin returns to Caledonia to be football coach 6/14/2009 David Boykin is back at Caledonia High School to see if he can complete some unfinished business.
The Lowndes County School Board approved Boykin’s hiring Friday as the football coach at Caledonia High School.
Boykin, who coached Caledonia to 3-7 records in 2006 and 2007, replaced Jason Forrester, who resigned his position last month.
Boykin served as a volunteer offensive line coach last season under Mark Hudspeth at the University of North Alabama.
Noxubee County wins Ole Miss 7-on-7 camp 6/14/2009 MACON — M.C. Miller’s cupboard at Noxubee County High School has plenty left in stock.
The veteran football coach will have to find a way to replace 12 starters (five on offense, seven on defense) from last season’s Class 4A state championship team.
And while the losses of All-State wide receiver Patrick Patterson, wide receiver Teddy Young, and quarterback Termarcus Conner will be some of the toughest to fill, don’t think for a minute that the Tigers won’t throw the ball a lot in 2009.
Simsiriwong goes home to work on her golf game 6/14/2009 STARKVILLE -- Starkville Academy golfer Korakot Simsiriwong has returned to her native Thailand for rest and relaxation before schools starts again in August.
She took her golf clubs with her.
Simsiriwong wants to keep her game sharp so she can have more success on the course when she returns to the United States.
“My dad (Pramoth) got me started playing golf and I love it,” Simsiriwong said. “I definitely want to keep playing.”
Heritage Academy gets face-lift 6/11/2009 Heritage Academy has a new face that lights up the night.
The private, independent school in Columbus is putting the finishing touches on a $250,000 construction project that has added more than 3,000 square feet to the school’s gymnasium.
Columbus chooses Esquivel as soccer coach 6/10/2009 Javier Esquivel and A.J. Foster want to build something.
As veteran soccer players and coaches, Esquivel and Foster understand boys and girls can’t become world-class players with the snap of two fingers.
But the new Columbus High School boys soccer coaches want players, parents, and fans to know they plan to put a process in place that will help the Falcons learn how to play the game and to develop into better players.
Caledonia's Aldridge to play in all-star game 6/5/2009 Tyler Aldridge is on the road back to 100 percent.
Even though arm problems prevented the Caledonia High School baseball standout from having an ideal senior season, Aldridge still was recognized as one of the area’s top players.
On Saturday, Aldridge will take the field one more time as a high schooler when he and six other area players participate in the Mississippi High School Activities Association’s Crossroads Diamond Club All-Star games at Trustmark Park in Pearl.
East Webster names Ferguson, Williamson to replace Brand 6/5/2009 The East Webster High School softball program didn’t have to look far to find a replacement for coach Bill Brand.
Former East Webster High fast-pitch softball coach Dallas Ferguson and assistant football and fast-pitch softball coach Ken Williamson were recently named to replace Brand as the school’s slow-pitch and fast-pitch coaches.
Fedora, Eagles come to town 6/5/2009 The Southern Mississippi football program already has made an impression on Rickey Knox.
Wednesday afternoon was an opportunity for Knox and more than 70 other football players from the region to get to know the Golden Eagles’ coaches and program even better.
Coach Larry Fedora and members of his coaching staff worked out players from Lowndes County, Mississippi, Alabama, and Tennessee for more than two hours Wednesday at Columbus High School.
Sanders, West chosen all-state 5/29/2009 DeShuni Sanders is old school.
But the New Hope High School senior standout showed this season that even old schoolers can succeed in a faster environment.
Sanders and Hamilton High senior standout Kelle West added honors to their resumes earlier this week when they were chosen second-team All-State by The Clarion Ledger in Jackson.
Sanders didn’t learn of the honor until Wednesday when her father, Donnie, told her.
Herring, Tice plan meeting in support of Hester 5/24/2009 Chris Herring and Kenny Tice never imagined they would have to be spokespeople.
But the former New Hope High School baseball player and NHHS parent believe it is time to speak out.
After remaining quiet throughout the season and watching momentum build against New Hope High baseball coach Stacy Hester, Herring and Tice said Saturday they believe people in the community are on a “personal vendetta” and “crusade” to remove Hester as the school’s coach.
Coaches defend Hester's coaching tactics 5/24/2009 Billy Ray Lee knows there is a fine line in coaching.
In more than 30 years as a coach, Lee has learned some players respond to one style of coaching while others need to be motivated another way.
Lee has seen that dynamic play out in his two years with the New Hope High School baseball program.
In that time, Lee has seen New Hope High coach Stacy Hester is a lot like him.
Vaqughan resigns as New Hope's girls basketball coach 5/24/2009 New Hope High School will have a new girls basketball coach for the 2009-10 school year.
Tim Vaughan resigned for personal reasons Tuesday as coach at his alma mater to be an assistant girls basketball coach for Yvonne Hairston at Columbus High School.
Vaughan, who led the Lady Trojans to a 31-18 record the past two seasons, said Saturday he hasn’t signed a contract to make the move official, but that he expects to be a full-time social studies teacher in the fall at Columbus High.
West Point football player Wallace dies in his sleep 5/24/2009 The West Point High School football team lost one of its offensive lineman of the future Thursday when Tyler Wallace passed away in his sleep.
An autopsy report has yet to reveal the cause of death of the 15-year old Wallace, who would have been a sophomore on West Point’s football team this fall.
“Everybody is doing as well as can be expected,” said West Point coach Chris Chambless. “We were shocked. The response from the community as far as helping and praying has been greatly appreciated.”
Garth wants to remain girls basketball coach at Aberdeen 5/22/2009 Cloyd Garth said he hasn’t officially submitted his application, but that he would like to remain the Aberdeen High School girls basketball coach.
Aberdeen High School Athletic Director Hansel Gunn said earlier this week that the opening for the girls basketball job hasn’t been posted. He said he expects it to be listed in the next few weeks.
Still, word of the opening has been circulating on the Internet and through the high school coaching ranks.
New Hope baeball players in the mix at EMCC 5/22/2009 Two more New Hope High School baseball players will have opportunities to play that sport in college.
Third baseman T.J. Upton and left fielder Josh Ferguson performed well enough Tuesday at a tryout at East Mississippi Community College that coach Tony Montgomery has invited them to join the program
Ferguson, who already has signed a football scholarship to attend EMCC, will try to work with the team at least twice a week in the fall to keep his baseball skills sharp.
Spring football finales please coaches 5/21/2009 Progress won’t be measured for real until at least three months — and for some teams it will be even longer than that.
But Chris Duncan, Bubba Davis, and M.C. Miller all came away impressed Saturday with the performances of their football teams in their spring finales.
MPSA honors Starkville Academy's McKenzie 5/21/2009 Johnathan McKenzie received more than a diploma Friday when he graduated from Starkville Academy.
In a special presentation at graduation, McKenzie was honored with the Don Souder Award for being the outstanding male student-athlete in the Mississippi Private School Association.
Box wins his third-straight state title at Jackson Prep 5/20/2009 Chuck Box and Brad Mitchell might not have won state championships as high school baseball players, but they have made up for it as coaches.
Box, a graduate of former Caldwell High School in Columbus, won his third consecutive Mississippi Private School Association Class AAA state title at Jackson Prep on Saturday, while Mitchell, from Starkville, led Ackerman High to its first Mississippi High School Activities Association Class 2A state championship on Monday.
Winning championships is nothing new to Box, who earned a state crown at Itawamba Community College in 1999 and a conference title at Freed-Hardeman University in 1997.
Kelsey sees Howard fitting in at Belhaven 5/20/2009 Tom Kelsey knows how to find players that fit his system.
When you like to play a 94-foot game like the Belhaven men’s basketball team, a coach needs versatile players who can play multiple roles.
Kelsey believes Woodie Howard fits that description.
Listed at 6-foot-2, the former Starkville High School product isn’t the tallest player on the court. He’s not the best scorer on the floor, and he won’t dazzle fans with eye-popping dunks.
But Howard can do everything a coach asks well, which is why Kelsey wanted Howard to join his program.
New Hope left to wonder what could have been 5/17/2009 Missed opportunities aren’t any less frustrating in the spring.
The only solace for New Hope coach Michael Bradley, Starkville coach Bill Lee, and Amory coach Pat Byrd is that their results in the New Hope High School Jamboree won’t count against them in the 2009 season.
New Hope, Starkville and Amory completed its spring seasons Friday in action that also featured Pontotoc and Shannon.
Starkville defeated Amory 21-7 and lost 10-7 to Pontotoc. Pontotoc defeated Amory 7-0. Those results were two-quarter games.
Columbus' Hayward, Caledonia's Pounders sign with EMCC 5/17/2009 Junior Noel continues to mine the Golden Triangle for its top soccer talent.
The East Mississippi Community College men’s soccer coach landed two more standouts Friday when he signed Caledonia High School’s Tyler Pounders and Columbus High’s Mike Hayward to national letters of intent.
Martin stepping down as Columbus soccer coach 5/17/2009 Richard Martin had the Columbus High School boys soccer program on the verge of making the Class 5A playoffs this season.
In his three seasons as coach, the Falcons improved from three, to nine to 11 victories.
Now someone else will have to take the team to the next level.
Martin recently announced he was stepping down as boys soccer coach at Columbus High to spend more time with his family.
Brand to become East Webster principal again 5/17/2009 MABEN — East Webster High School is losing three coaches and gaining a principal in one man.
Bill Brand, who coached girls basketball and slow- and fast-pitch softball at the school this year, recently accepted a job offer to return to work as East Webster High School’s principal.
Brand will take over for Phil Ferguson effective July 1.
East Webster's Allen, Halterman sign with MCC 5/17/2009 MABEN — Wanda McPhail admitted Friday morning she was the lucky one.
It was easy to see why McPhail used that word after listening to her read the resumes of Kaley Allen and Jessica Halterman.
After reading an impressive set of accomplishments, McPhail watched as the East Webster High School academic and athletic standouts signed national letters of intent to play tennis at Meridian Community College.
Louisville holds on to beat West Point 5/15/2009 WEST POINT — Big plays usually are few and far between in spring football games.
Like many sports, defenses typically get the better of offenses in preseason or games early in the season.
That wasn’t the case Thursday night at McCallister Field at Hamblin Stadium.
Tajh Ford had three touchdowns, including a 92-yard kickoff return for a score, to help Louisville High School defeat West Point 32-24 in the spring finale for both teams.
Noxubee County looks to silence critics again 5/15/2009 MACON — Vincent Sanders and Gussie Lane already can hear the haters.
They likely are some of the same people who said the Noxubee County football team got lucky in 2007 when it advanced to the Class 4A state title game.
Those doubters rejoiced when Laurel edged Noxubee County 19-16 to win the 2007 championship.
The chatter kicked up again last year as the Tigers set out on a mission to finish the drill and win a Class 4A state title.
Their hard work and team unity silenced the critics and D’Iberville in a 12-10 victory that gave the Tigers their elusive crown.
Harris leaves Noxubee County for first head coaching job 5/15/2009 MACON — Reggie Harris couldn’t pass up this opportunity.
As much as the former Noxubee County High School football player and coach wanted to remain at his alma mater, he felt he was ready to take a chance on becoming a head coach.
It didn’t take long for someone to agree.
Sunflower County School Superintendent Peirce McIntosh hired Harris last month to become the new football coach at Ruleville Central High School.
Loss fuels Central's run to winning state championship 5/15/2009 MACON — One loss can change a season.
It can also test the resolve of a team that believes it is destined to win a state championship.
The Central Academy slow-pitch softball team faced that challenge after it saw a double-digit lead vanish against Russell Christian en route to a 27-24 loss in the regular season.
The players called the result “amazing.”
Coaches Sammy Lindsey and Pres Dawkins called the defeat “mind boggling” and wondered if it would rattle their players and ruin the title dreams in an otherwise promising start to the season.
There was no need to be concerned.
West Oktibbeha's Bedford signs with EMCC 5/15/2009 MABEN — West Oktibbeha High School boys basketball coach Joseph Landfair said a strong work ethic turned Deon Bedford into one of the better players in this area.
East Mississippi men’s coach Mark White hopes to get more of that from Bedford in the future.
Landfair talked about the past, while White looked ahead Thursday as Bedford signed a national letter of intent to play basketball at EMCC.
Starkville High quarterback continues to develop 5/13/2009 STARKVILLE — Spring is a time for growth, especially for quarterbacks.
Jaquez Johnson showed signs of being a promising quarterback last season as a sophomore at Starkville High School.
After securing the starting job early in the schedule, Johnson had his ups and downs. In his first year leading the Yellow Jackets, he threw 15 interceptions and nine touchdowns, but he has committed to improving in the offseason.
Starkville High's Tate closes career in style 5/12/2009 STARKVILLE — There was a gasp in the crowd at Pearl High School last Saturday afternoon when Starkville High School senior sprinter Tavaris Tate took the baton for the final leg in the 4x400 relay, rallied from third place and ran away from the pack in the final race of the Class 5A state track meet.
New Hope can't solve West Lauderdale's McWilliams 5/10/2009 COLLINSVILLE — The New Hope High School baseball team always seemed to have the answer.
Whether it was timely hitting, clutch pitching, or sparkling defense, the Trojans put everything together in the past month to sweep their first three playoff series.
But one solution eluded them all season: How to solve Dustin McWilliams.
McWilliams hurls West Lauderdale past New Hope 5/8/2009 COLLINSVILLE — Dustin McWilliams wiped out all of the New Hope High School baseball team’s momentum Thursday night.
Wes Stokes will try to finish the job tonight.
McWilliams pitched a complete-game five-hitter and West Lauderdale scored six unearned runs in an 11-4 victory in game one of the best-of-three Mississippi High School Activities Class 4A North Half state title series at Jerry Boatner Field.
Game two will be at 4 p.m. today in Columbus.
Tate, Rogers bid for seven gold medals 5/8/2009 STARKVILLE — It seems improbable that one team would have two runners with a chance to combine to win seven state championship gold medals?
But that’s what can happen Saturday for Starkville High School’s Tavaris Tate and Quartez Rogers at the Class 5A State Meet at Pearl High School.
West Point's Portera will get chance at EMCC 5/7/2009 WEST POINT — East Mississippi Community College baseball coach Tony Montgomery first saw Oak Hill Academy’s Lance Portera as someone who could help the Lions as a outfielder.
Montgomery likes Portera’s arm so much he chose to recruit him as a pitcher.
South Lamar softball wins first area tournament 5/7/2009 The South Lamar High School softball team established a new standard Tuesday by winning the Alabama High School Athletic Association Class A, Area 10 Tournament.
New Hope will try to keep run going against West Lauderdale 5/7/2009 The New Hope High School baseball team has found new life in the postseason.
Whether it has been solid pitching, timely hitting, or sparkling defense, coach Stacy Hester’s Trojans (24-9) are playing their best baseball of the season entering game one of today’s (6 p.m.) best-of-three series against West Lauderdale for the North Half state title.
MSMS' Powers, Patterson defend state title 5/6/2009 Zachary Patterson and Adam Powers thought everything was going just fine.
Up a set and leading 3-0 in the second set, Patterson and Powers felt confident about their chances to repeat as Class 3A No. 1 doubles champions.
But an old kick serve called momentum turned against them.
Corinth’s Austin McElwain and Charlie Curtis rallied to win the second set and forced Patterson and Powers to regroup.
The Mississippi School for Mathematics and Science duo used the 10-minute break between sets to analyze their mistakes and to formulate a game plan that would help them rally.
Caledonia golf team makes state tournament 5/6/2009 CALEDONIA — The Caledonia High School boys golf team is ahead of schedule.
That’s fine with coach Bradley Tate and his players because their success this season has extended their season to the State Tournament.
Zac Taylor will lead district champion Caledonia next week when it plays at the Class 4A state tournament May 12-13 at River Birch Country Club in Amory.
The team will use Monday as a practice round to familiarize itself with the course. Play in the 16-team event begins at 8:30 a.m. Tuesday.
Starkville's Bonner motivated to get back on track 5/6/2009 STARKVILLE –– There is a special motivation for Shay Bonner, of Starkville High School, to get back on the track for the Class 5A state meet.
After injuring her knee during hurdles competition at North State, Bonner missed practice early this week in preparation for the state that takes place Saturday in Pearl.
Bonner, who qualified for state in the 100 and 300 hurdles, is also a leg in Starkville’s 4x200 relay team that has a chance to break a state record.
Starksville High's Keel signs with Holmes C.C. 5/5/2009 STARKVILLE — Jayson Keel has accomplished quite a bit as a four-year starter on the Starkville High School baseball team.
After signing Monday to play baseball at Holmes Community College, Keel knows there is plenty more ahead for him.
Stringer rallies in seventh to eliminate East Webster baseball 5/5/2009 MABEN — East Webster High School baseball coach Wes Johnson preached all season to his pitchers about the importance of throwing strikes.
The inability to do that Monday cost the Wolverines.
East Webster took a 5-1 lead into the seventh inning only to lose to Stringer 7-5 in game two of the Mississippi High School Activities Association best-of-three Class 1A South playoff series.
East Webster's Williamson lets bat do talking 5/5/2009 MABEN — Caitlyn Williamson knows how to make an exit.
Down to what could have been the next-to-last at-bat in her prep career, the East Webster High School standout didn’t go to the plate looking to hit a home run.
Heritage Academy baseball looks to continue turnaround 5/5/2009 By Steve Hancock’s count, the Heritage Academy baseball team was 2-52 in Mississippi Private School Association AAA games the past three seasons.
Still, the veteran coach was optimistic heading into his first season in MPSA.
Playoff magic continues for New Hope 5/5/2009 SALTILLO — The New Hope High School baseball team’s magical playoff run added enough highlights Monday night to fill an installment of SportsCenter.
Brent Younger and Phillip Tice played the roles of defensive stalwarts, diving to make run-saving plays.
East Webster softball team joins elite status 5/3/2009 RIDGELAND — Champions make you pay for your mistakes.
Whether it is a pitch in the wrong location, an errant throw, or a missed groundball, the East Webster fast-pitch softball team has capitalized all season on miscues by its opponents.
The Mississippi High School Activities Association Class A state title series was no different.
East Webster took advantage of two critical errors in a five-run third inning Saturday and then rode the pitching of Jessica Halterman to an 8-2 victory against Smithville to clinch the best-of-three series at Freedom Ridge State Park.
East Webster's Halterman goes out in style 5/3/2009 Jessica Halterman was in a zone.
The East Webster High School senior pitcher was so focused Saturday afternoon she didn’t appear ready to celebrate after recording the final out in an 8-2 victory against Smithville in the Mississippi High School Activities Association Class 1A best-of-three championship series.
While some of her teammates tossed their gloves into the air, Halterman left the circle and moved toward her team’s dugout. She appeared to mouth the word, “Wow.”
Hamilton softball team comes up short for state title 5/3/2009 RIDGELAND — The miracle rally turned out to be incomplete.
Three singles in the top of the seventh inning by the Hamilton High School fast-pitch softball team gave it hope.
Brooke Delaughter and her Loyd Star High teammates ended the Lady Lions’ dream with a bang-bang play.
Delaughter retired Caitlyn Atkins on a close play at first base to help preserve Loyd Star’s 3-2 victory in game two of the Mississippi High School Activities Association best-of-three Class 2A state championship series at Freedom Ridge State Park.
Columbus High celebrates Morris' signing with special day 5/3/2009 Phillip Morris isn’t the best 3-point shooter.
He didn’t have eye-popping numbers as a senior point guard for the Columbus High School boys basketball team.
But the key for coaches when they recruit is to identify players who have the intangibles, are willing to buy into a team concept, and who are willing to listen and to be coached.
Morris gets a perfect score in those categories, which is why Friday was a special day for him and his family.
Tate proving Jamison right by signing to run at MSU 5/3/2009 STARKVILLE — Gloria Jamison has a special perspective on Tavaris Tate.
As minister at Columbus’ Maranatha Faith Center, Jamison has known for some time that Tate is destined for great things.
She became convinced of that one day when she was standing at the altar and Tate approached her. At that moment, Jamison said, God showed her Tate would excel as a track and field athlete.
Tate is proving Jamison’s vision correct.
Hamilton has season come to end with loss to Water Valley 5/3/2009 HAMILTON — The “freebies” the Hamilton High School baseball team allowed Friday night turned out to be even more costly than anyone would have imagined.
Shonquayle Jenkins pitched six strong innings Saturday to lead the Water Valley High School baseball team to a 2-0 victory against Hamilton in game two of its Mississippi High School Activities Association best-of-three Class 2A third-round series.
The victory sends Water Valley (20-9) into the next round where it will face the winner of the Belmont-Ackerman series. Game two of that series was rained out Monday.
Hamilton ends its season at 21-7.
West Lowndes eliminated with a loss to St. Aloysius 5/3/2009 The West Lowndes High School baseball team didn’t want or expect its season to end the way it did Saturday.
Losing two-straight games in the third round of the Mississippi High School Activities Association Class 1A playoffs wasn’t what the Panthers had in mind.
Vicksburg St. Aloysius opened the series with a 10-1 victory at West Lowndes on Friday and then defeated the Panthers 4-2 at home Saturday to clinch the series.
Rain denies East Webster chance to even series with Stringer 5/3/2009 MABEN –– The East Webster High School baseball team believes it can defeat Stringer two-straight games and advance in the Mississippi High School Activities Association Class 1A playoffs.
Beating the weather was a different story on Saturday, however.
After an estimated two inches of rain fell in approximately 10-to-15 minutes, the second game of the series was suspended in the top of the second inning. It will resume at 6 p.m. Monday.
East Webster (27-4) was looking to bounce back a day after losing the first game of the series to Stringer 4-3 in nine innings.
New Hope bid to sweep series put on hold by the rain 5/3/2009 The New Hope High School baseball team’s quest to sweep its third consecutive series in the Mississippi High School Activities Association Class 4A playoffs was put on hold Saturday.
New Hope was scheduled to play at Saltillo in the second game of the best-of-three third-round series, but the game was postponed due to rain.
The game has been rescheduled for 6 p.m. Monday at Saltillo.
The Trojans are seeking another sweep after beating Hernando and Pontotoc in the first two rounds.
New Hope took a 1-0 lead in the series Friday with an 8-3 victory at Trojan Field.
Stowers brothers cover West Lowndes' outfield 5/1/2009 If baseballs are going out to left or right field the Stowers brothers have them covered.
West Lowndes High School’s Ryan and Trevor Stowers have provided the defense necessary to keep the Panthers in games and have delivered key contributions to help them make the third round of the Mississippi High School Association Class A playoffs against Vicksburg St. Aloysius.
Trevor said he never knows when a play he makes in the outfield might be a difference in a game.
Starkville's Shed focusing on track season 5/1/2009 STARKVILLE — Spring football practice started this week at Starkville High School, but Billy Shed isn’t ready to take that field just yet.
As the football team worked out on a nearby field, Shed and fellow members of Starkville’s 4x400-meter relay team were preparing on the track for Saturday’s Mississippi High School Activities Association Class 5A North State meet at Madison Central High School.
Shed will be a returning safety for coach Bill Lee this fall, but right now track and field is a priority.
Hamilton softball team seeks title with fire and desire 5/1/2009 HAMILTON — This weekend is the Hamilton High School fast-pitch softball team’s chance to shine.
The Lady Lions will try to do it with fire and desire.
“Fire and desire” was the slogan on a sign taped to the wall in Hamilton’s dugout Saturday when it faced Hatley in game two of its Class 2A North Half title series.
Hamilton (15-10) won that game 7-6 to earn the opportunity to play Loyd Star at 6 p.m. today in the first game of the Mississippi High School Activities Association best-of-three Class 2A state championship at Freedom Ridge State Park in Ridgeland.
East Webster softball team goes for fourth-straight title 5/1/2009 MABEN — Another championship walk would suit the East Webster High School fast-pitch softball team just fine.
Last week, the three-time defending champion Lady Wolverines concluded their most recent South Half state title with a 7-0 victory against Bogue Chitto.
After the final out was recorded in senior Jessica Halterman’s no-hitter, East Webster coach Bill Brand talked to his team and then had seniors Halterman, Iyeshia Thomas, Jordan Sisk, Darlynda Wilson, and Caitlyn Williamson had join arms and walk from the center field fence to the backstop.
Earnest, Reeves give Hamilton a potent punch 5/1/2009 HAMILTON — Part of the beauty of sports can be found in the numbers.
Some statistics are hard to comprehend, regardless of how many times you look at them.
Chase Reeves still finds it difficult to believe he owns one of those numbers: Zero.
The junior left-hander has allowed 11 runs this season — all unearned.
West Lowndes' Malone signs to play baseball at Coahoma 5/1/2009 Sometimes, for whatever reason, players who appear to have an unlimited upside go unnoticed.
Devin Malone is one of those players.
The West Lowndes High School senior showcased his skills on the court earlier this year as he helped lead the school’s boys basketball team to the Class 1A state tournament in Jackson.
Malone hopes to play a similar role with the West Lowndes High’s baseball team.
Caledonia's Hackman sprints from standing position 5/1/2009 CALEDONIA — Jelisha Hackman has explosion.
Typically, though, when you compete in the 100 meters you’re pushing off a block fastened to the track at the start of a race.
Hackman’s propulsion in the sprint comes from a standing start, in part because of the lack of track and field facilities at Caledonia High School.
But Hackman, just like many of her teammates, has learned to live and to succeed with what she doesn’t have.
MSMS tennis team two steps from winning state championship 5/1/2009 Sindhu Shivaji knew she could believe Zachary Patterson.
After all, it’s easy to listen to someone who has won a state championship.
So when senior Zachary Patterson said at the beginning of the season that the Mississippi School for Mathematics and Science tennis team could be “awesome,” Shivaji knew she had to do her part to make that goal a reality.
Columbus High enjoying hard-hitting spring 4/30/2009 The Columbus High School assistant football coaches already are in midseason form.
The CHS players are doing their part to join them.
Judging from the players’ performance Friday in an intrasquad scrimmage, the Falcons have made the most of their offseason workouts and are attacking spring football with enthusiasm.
New Hope baseball building on regular season 4/30/2009 Philip Tice doesn’t hesitate when asked what qualities make a clutch hitter.
“Confidence,” Tice said.
In his first year as a varsity starter, Tice is showing confidence beyond his years.
Pitching will key for East Webster vs. Stringer 4/30/2009 MABEN — East Webster High School baseball coach Wes Johnson knows good pitching when he sees it.
As a pitcher who played for coach Ron Polk at Mississippi State, Johnson understands the importance of commanding the strike zone.
Starkville's Tate commits to run track at MSU 4/29/2009 STARKVILLE -- Tavaris Tate will stay home to run track collegiately.
The Starkville High School senior has committed to Mississippi State to remain close to family and friends. He will officially sign Friday.
The sprinter had many choices to consider, but said he couldn’t go wrong with Mississippi State.
South Lamar softball team hopes to have pitching intact 4/29/2009 South Lamar softball coach Tony Seals hopes to have a full compliment of pitchers when his team hosts the Alabama High School Athletic Association Class A, Area 10 Tournament.
South Lamar’s pitching staff has been decimated by injuries and sickness in recent weeks and Seals hoped the Lady Stallions would be at full strength when the tournament began this morning.
Seals had to pitch seventh-grader Kayla Jones for the first time in a varsity game against Gordo on Friday because Brittany Sanford has been sick, and Laken Hancock and Kendra Wilson have been injured.
West Lowndes baseball team uses speed to advance in playoffs 4/26/2009 Speed and athletic ability are keys to winning baseball games at West Lowndes High School.
In the 12 years that Todd Stanley has been the baseball coach at West Lowndes, the Panthers have tried to use an aggressive style on the basepaths to score runs.
That was the case Friday night when West Lowndes manufactured a pair of runs to beat the Edinburg Eagles 2-0 and advance to the third round of the Class A state playoffs.
East Webster baseball team makes most of second chances 4/26/2009 MABEN –– Tanner Roberson, of the East Webster High School baseball team, didn’t need nine lives Saturday afternoon.
Two of them turned out to be very beneficial, however.
Roberson’s good fortune began an offensive outbreak for East Webster as the Wolverines defeated the Bogue Chitto Bobcats 14-4 in six innings to clinch the second round Mississippi High School Association South Class A playoff series. East Webster (27-3) won the first game 17-2 Thursday.
New Hope baseball team sweeps playoff series 4/26/2009 Some players would have lost focus the moment they didn’t get the job done.
But when you have been locked in at the plate like Philip Tice has been this season, no situation is too overwhelming.
Stuck in an 0-2 hole after missing two bunt attempts, Tice lined a two-run triple down the right-field line Friday night to lift the New Hope High School baseball team to a 7-6 victory against Pontotoc in game two of its Mississippi High School Activities Association Class 4A second-round best-of-three playoff series at Trojan Field.
Hamilton softball team prevails as best in the North 4/26/2009 HAMILTON — A bloop proved to be just the spark the Hamilton High School fast-pitch softball team needed.
Katie Beth Dahlem’s bloop single paved the way for key hits by Miranda McCormick and Kelle West in the bottom of the sixth inning Saturday afternoon and helped Hamilton defeat Hatley 7-6 in game two of the Class 2A North State best-of-three state playoff series.
With the victory, Hamilton (15-10) advances to the Class 2A best-of-three state title series Friday to play the winner of Enterprise and Loyd Star at Freedom Ridge State Park in Ridgeland.
Halterman pitches no-hitter for East Webster softball team 4/26/2009 MABEN — Jessica Halterman didn’t need to make any adjustments Saturday.
One game after hurling a complete-game, four-hitter, the East Webster senior was even more dominating — and nearly perfect.
Halterman pitched a no-hitter, struck out 14, and allowed only four baserunners to lead East Webster to a 7-0 victory against Bogue Chitto in game two of its Class A South State best-of-three state title series.
Heritage golf team plays North tournament on home course 4/26/2009 Will Swedenburg wants to do more at 10 a.m. Monday than help the Heritage Academy golf team just qualify for the Mississippi Private School Association Class AAA State Tournament.
Playing on their home course at Columbus Country Club, Swedenburg and his Heritage Academy golf teammates feel they have a shot to challenge Pillow Academy and the rest of the top teams at the North AAA Tournament.
Heritage salvages split with Starkville Academy 4/24/2009 The beauty of the game of baseball is you will see something different every day if you watch enough games.
The Starkville Academy and Heritage Academy baseball teams did their best Thursday night to ensure all the fans at Trip Carson Field doubled their pleasure and saw plenty of things they might never see again.
At 11:08 p.m., more than six hours after the first pitch of game one, Cole Vaughan retired Jim Beasley on a fielder’s choice to help Heritage Academy earn a 12-10 victory in game two and salvage a split of their doubleheader.
Caledonia's Gonzalez perseveres in pole vault 4/24/2009 CALEDONIA — Stephanie Gonzalez started pole vaulting in less than ideal circumstances.
The then-Caledonia High School sophomore ran on grass and fell into a pole vault pit made up of mattresses.
She probably still has the scrapes on her legs from the experience.
Hamilton provides Earnest with run support 4/24/2009 HAMILTON — Kevin McCartney’s solo home run in the bottom of the first inning Thursday got the Hamilton High School baseball team off to a good start.
The rest of the Lions did their part, too.
McCartney’s fourth homer of the season was the first of 12 hits for Hamilton in its 11-1 victory against East Union in six innings.
McCartney hit his home run to center field on the first pitch by Craig Bullock.
Starkville track team bidding for another title 4/24/2009 STARKVILLE — Cleveland Hudson is in his 30th year as Starkville High School’s boys track coach.
The Yellow Jackets rewarded Hudson for his years of service last season by winning the Class 5A state championship.
In his milestone year, the team would like nothing better than to win another title.
Starkville senior sprinter Tavaris Tate appreciates the guidance and support Hudson has provided him in his track career.
New Hope responds without its coach 4/24/2009 PONTOTOC –– The New Hope Trojans responded to playing without coach Stacy Hester on Thursday by beating Pontotoc 15-5 in five innings in game one of their best-of-three Mississippi High School Activities Association Class 4A second-round state playoff series.
New Hope (21-9) played without Hester, who was suspended for three days by Lowndes County Superintendent Mike Halford and New Hope Principal Lynn Wright for unspecified reasons.
Hester, who is in his 17th season as New Hope’s coach, was suspended after an alleged incident during the Trojans’ playoff game at Hernando this past Saturday.
Starkville's Carlisle will face former player 4/23/2009 STARKVILLE — Starkville High School baseball coach Danny Carlisle will see a familiar face in the opposing dugout tonight in his team’s first game of the Class 5A playoffs.
Lamar County High softball will try to earn right to be at home 4/23/2009 A chance to play host to the Alabama High School Athletic Association Class 2A, Area 11 Tournament will be on the line for the Lamar County High School softball team Monday when it plays Oakman.
New Hope's Hester suspended for three days 4/23/2009 New Hope High School baseball coach Stacy Hester was suspended Wednesday for three days and will miss his team’s Mississippi High School Activities Association Class 4A second-round playoff series against Pontotoc.
New Hope baseball team grows stronger 4/22/2009 Hilton Gibson and the New Hope High School baseball team haven’t had a perfect season.
Routine plays haven’t been made, pitchers have missed locations, and hitters haven’t delivered in clutch situations.
In many ways, New Hope’s season hasn’t been any different than countless other teams across the nation.
But what the Trojans haven’t done has made them stronger.
Liggins emerges as East Webster leader 4/22/2009 MABEN — Jermaine Liggins’ nickname doesn’t do him justice.
Growing up, Liggins earned the moniker “half pint” because of his size.
Liggins has matured into a senior leader for the East Webster High School baseball team, and the ping of the baseball off his bat sounds more like someone nicknamed “pint.”
Liggins and classmates Blake Love and Reggie O’Briant are just three of the hard-hitting Wolverines who will lead the team Thursday into its best-of-three Class 1A playoff series against Bogue Chitto.
Hamilton softball team looks to keep run going 4/22/2009 HAMILTON — One bad game was all the Hamilton High School fast-pitch softball team needed.
A missed opportunity, an error, or a pitch in the wrong spot could have have ended the Lady Lions’ season too soon.
But faced with the prospect of turning in their jerseys for the final time, Hamilton responded and appears to have rediscovered its rhythm.
Hamilton (13-10) will try to keep its run going Thursday when it travels to Hatley for game one in the best-of-three series that will determine the Class 2A North Half state champion.
East Webster's Hollenhead apt to get uniform dirty 4/22/2009 MABEN — A clean uniform just doesn’t feel right to Swayze Hollenhead.
The East Webster High School fast-pitch softball standout considers it a badge of honor if she can soil her school colors with a dive to knock down a line drive or a slide into second base to beat a throw.
If you have seen the sophomore third baseman play, you know she’s apt to have several layers of the infield on her uniform by the end of a game.
Each day, though, Hollenhead washes that dirt from her clothes and returns to practice and games to do it all over again.
Immanuel Rams have new football coaches 4/22/2009 STEENS — A new football season has brought a new sense of excitement at Immanuel Christian School.
The Immanuel players have two more reasons to look forward to the 2009 season: Shawn Gates and Daniel Merchant.
Gates and Merchant took the field Tuesday looking to bring a new energy to the football program on its first day of spring workouts.
Gates, 24, takes over for Billy Thomas as the football team’s new coach, while Merchant, who was an assistant football coach at the school last season, will work as defensive coordinator and special teams coach.
New Hope's Hollivay receives national invitation 4/21/2009 Rachel Hollivay’s spring recently got a little busier.
The New Hope High School freshman was invited last week on behalf of USA Basketball and the Women’s Developmental National Team Committee to participate in the 2009 Under-16 National Team Trials.
Magic ends for New Hope softball 4/21/2009 Small ball helped the Cleveland High School fast-pitch softball team earn the right Monday night to keep its season alive.
Lindsey Mullins’ bases-loaded walk tied the game in the top of the seventh inning, and Cleveland used three fielder’s choices to tack on three insurance runs to rally for a 5-2 victory against New Hope in game three of the Class 4A third-round playoffs at Lady Trojan Field.
East Webster's Halterman plays with poise in circle, on court 4/21/2009 MABEN — Don’t expect a reaction from Jessica Halterman.
Whether she allows a hit or a walk or if a batter strikes out or reaches on an error, Halterman’s countenance won’t change.
Starkville High's Tate gearing up for more firsts 4/21/2009 STARKVILLE — Starkville High School senior sprinter Tavaris Tate is on track to do something that has never been accomplished in Class 5A.
Tate is trying to become the first prep runner in that class to win state titles in the 100, 200, and 400 meters.
West comes through at plate for Hamilton softball team 4/19/2009 HAMILTON — Hamilton High School’s Kelle West didn’t let the struggles of one part of her game affect the other Saturday.
West put aside a tough pitching outing to deliver offensively and help the Hamilton fast-pitch softball team beat Eupora 9-7 in the third round of the Class 2A playoffs.
After allowing four runs on four hits in the first inning and facing six batters, West got all of the runs back with her bat with a pair of two-run singles.
New Hope baseball team sweeps series from Hernando 4/19/2009 The New Hope High School baseball team wrapped up its opening round series in the Class 4A playoffs with Hernando in two games Saturday.
New Hope (20-9) won game two 7-4 at Hernando on Saturday after winning the opener 6-1 at home Friday.
If New Hope would have lost game two, the teams would have had to play the final game of the series Saturday.
Starkville basketball player signs with EMCC 4/19/2009 STARKVILLE — Mark White has come to expect certain qualities from boys basketball players at Starkville High School.
In only two seasons as men’s basketball coach at East Mississippi Community College, White has marveled at the contributions former Yellow Jackets have made to his program.
Whether it has been Woodie Howard, John Harris, or Coco Ware, the former Starkville High players have brought high skill levels and even better work ethics to Scooba.
White feels Jeff Jernagin can do the same.
Lucious hurls no-hitter for West Lowndes baseball team 4/19/2009 Tyquan Lucious has made clutch and game-winning shots for the West Lowndes High School boys basketball team.
But nothing Lucious has done on the basketball court compares to what he did Saturday night on the diamond.
The sophomore right-hander pitched his first career no-hitter to lead West Lowndes to an 11-0 victory against Mount Olive in the deciding game of the best-of-three first-round Class 1A state playoff series.
McCartney helps Hamilton baseball team sweep O'Bannon 4/19/2009 HAMILTON — Kevin McCartney doesn’t do always do things according to plan.
But the Hamilton High School right fielder showed Saturday afternoon that as much as he likes to take his hacks at the plate he can show a little restraint.
McCartney’s leadoff walk in the bottom of the first inning set the tone for another productive day and helped Hamilton beat O’Bannon 12-2 in five innings to help it sweep the first-round Class 2A state playoff series.
East Webster baseball team claims playoff victory 4/19/2009 MABEN — The little things make a big difference for teams that have the talent to win a state title.
So even with his team leading by six runs in the third inning Friday afternoon, East Webster High School baseball coach Wes Johnson was concerned.
After cruising through the first two innings, starting pitcher Blake Love suddenly lost his command, surrendering a double, walk, single, and walk that helped Puckett cut its deficit to four runs.
East Webster’s loss of emotion and energy was equally troubling.
But things didn’t stay that way for long, which is why the Wolverines have the potential to win their second consecutive Class 1A state title.
Stringer takes opener from East Webster 4/17/2009 MABEN — Aaron Herrington isn’t the hardest thrower in the state of Mississippi.
But the junior right-hander has learned to make up for what she doesn’t have by enticing hitters to swing at her pitches.
New Hope, Hamilton baseball hope for fast start 4/17/2009 Stacy Hester knows his New Hope High School baseball team has plenty of confidence.
Comments from senior outfielder/catcher Will McReynolds last week highlighted how much the Trojans believe in themselves.
Starkville Academy soccer players sign with MGCCC 4/17/2009 STARKVILLE — Nick Klaskala and Josh Senter wanted to keep their options open.
Klaskala considered a number of schools and debated which one was the best fit for him academically.
Heritage Academy baseball ends streak against Jackson Academy 4/17/2009 The Heritage Academy baseball team won two games in its last at-bat Thursday to sweep a Mississippi Private School Association Class AAA District 1 doubleheader from Jackson Academy.
West Alabama baseball teams gearing up for playoffs 4/16/2009 The South Lamar High School baseball team hasn’t lost to a team in its classification this season.
South Lamar will attempt to keep that trend going Friday when it begins play in the Alabama High School Athletic Association Class A playoffs.
West Lowndes, East Webster baseball open series 4/16/2009 The West Lowndes High School baseball team wants to make a deeper run in the Class A playoffs than it did last year.
After being eliminated in the first round by Natchez Cathedral, the Panthers believe they have a team that can go far if things fall into place.
East Webster, Hamilton softball play today in third round 4/16/2009 MABEN — Bill Brand isn’t feeling any pressure.
The East Webster High School fast-pitch softball coach has earned a degree of confidence after helping lead the program to Class 1A state titles the past two seasons.
Stratton pitches Tupelo to victory against Columbus 4/15/2009 Chris Stratton used a little help from Uncle Charlie on Tuesday night to make things look easy.
The Mississippi State signee struck out 10 in five innings to lead the Tupelo High School baseball team to a 15-0 victory against Columbus in a Class 5A, Division 2, District 4 game at Sammy Fletcher Field.
The victory coupled with South Panola’s 15-5 victory against Starkville on Tuesday helped put Tupelo (19-5, 6-2 division) in the driver’s seat for the district title. A victory at South Panola at 7 p.m. Thursday would give the Golden Wave the district championship.
Lady Trojans' Petty excels on two fields 4/14/2009 Kelli Petty doesn’t want any debate.
As much success as she and the New Hope High School softball program have on the diamond, the junior standout says track and field is her No. 1 sport.
Starkville baseball gears up for Class 5A playoff run 4/14/2009 The Starkville High School baseball team didn’t find anything magical at the end of the rainbow Monday night, only another victory.
After the clouds that brought a late-inning shower moved south, a rainbow formed just as Starkville third baseman Todd Phillips ran toward it to catch the baseball for the game’s final out in a 16-6 victory against West Lowndes.
East Webster's Harris, Bell win state championships 4/12/2009 MABEN -- Senior Jacob Harris showed what four years of hard work could do as a powerlifter at East Webster High School, and sophomore Timakis Bell is following the same path.
Harris and Bell both won Class A state powerlifting championships in their weight class and gave East Webster quite a lift.
Bell said it was the effort and support of the entire team that made individual success possible.
McReynolds propels New Hope past Columbus 4/12/2009 Will McReynolds doesn’t want his senior season to end with a whimper.
On Thursday, he had two doubles and scored two runs against Donnie Tabb and did everything he could to get his teammates pumped up.
Unfortunately, the New Hope High School baseball team lost to Neshoba Central and dropped to third place in Class 4A, Region 4, District 4.
On Saturday, McReynolds added two hits in the first three innings to help propel New Hope to an 11-5 victory against Columbus on Senior Day at Trojan Field.
Moore sparks playoff win for New Hope softball team 4/12/2009 Jessica Moore admits she had butterflies.
The sophomore outfielder arrived Saturday morning at Lady Trojan Field to discover teammate and starting right fielder Haley Tutor was suffering from an ulcer in her right eye and wouldn’t be able to play against Hernando.
Moore accepted the news with concern for her teammate and excitement that she would get a chance to play.
Henry leaving Columbus for New Site 4/10/2009 Paul Henry is going home to realize a dream.
The Columbus High School athletic director and assistant principal was hired Monday night to be the principal at New Site High School in Prentiss County.
Henry will start June 1 at the Class 2A school that has a little less than 300 students.
New Hope misses chance to clinch second place 4/10/2009 The Neshoba Central High School baseball team could be hitting its stride at the perfect time.
New Hope High School coach Stacy Hester hopes he will be able to say the same for his team.
Unfortunately, the Trojans will have to go on the road next week to play the deciding games of their first-round playoff series on the road.
New Hope’s 5-2 loss to Neshoba Central on Thursday night at Trojan Field cost it a chance to clinch second place in Class 4A, Region 4, District 4.
West Point's Calvert feels fine with EMCC 4/9/2009 WEST POINT — Demontez Calvert believes he will realize his potential in Scooba.
At 6-foot-4, 215 pounds, the West Point High School senior baseball standout already has the physical tools to be an impact player on the diamond.
In two years, Calvert hopes he can become what his soon-to-be coach first saw in him.
Comer off to fast start for Caledonia 4/9/2009 CALEDONIA — It’s all in the pacing for Jessica Comer.
As a freshman last year, the Caledonia High School distance runner learned about heartbreak when she was nudged out at the tape in the 800 meters at the Class 4A state meet.
This season, Comer is using that third-place finish as motivation as she builds toward another run at a state title.
Heritage Academy's Vaughan going to EMCC 4/9/2009 Perseverance and commitment are words Cole Vaughan lives by every day.
Through family tragedies, injuries, and life-changing diseases, Vaughan has used sports as an escape and a way to reinvigorate himself to face the challenges that life has thrown at him.
Columbus' Barry, Tate select EMCC 4/9/2009 There is no substitute for hard work.
That might sound like a cliché coaches and players trot out in an effort to explain their success.
But that mentality has served Nashedra Barry and Natalie Tate well for the past four years, so they don’t see any reason to stop now.
SHS girls basketball players pick Meridian C.C. 4/9/2009 STARKVILLE — Starkville High School’s Tay Odneal and Kierra Jones kept it within the family when it came to choosing their basketball future.
As cousins, the Lady Yellow Jackets wanted to go down the same path together.
They joined coaches, family members, and friends in the school library Wednesday afternoon in a ceremony in which they signed national letters of intent to play basketball at Meridian Community College.
White off to fast start with Pickens Academy baseball 4/9/2009 Once upon a time, Brach White didn’t like it when Central Academy lost a baseball game.
It was a different story Tuesday.
White didn’t mind when Central Academy lost to Pickens Academy (Ala.) 12-1.
Starkville's Olsen beats Columbus on Senior Night 4/8/2009 STARKVILLE — Senior Night is usually reserved for the final regular season home game.
However, the Starkville High School baseball team decided to recognize its senior class Tuesday against Columbus in its second-to-last home game.
That was just fine with Starkville starting pitcher Colin Olsen, who pitched a complete-game five-hitter to help beat the Falcons 9-4.
Key leads Lamar to EMCC tourney win 4/8/2009 Easton Key used to be a distraction on the golf course.
Unable to control his emotions, the Lamar School golfer was apt to throw his clubs if a shot didn’t break his way.
The outburst would unravel even the most successful round and force his parents to threaten to or to take away his golf clubs.
But Key has changed.
If something goes wrong these days, he pauses, takes a breath, and chalks the experience up to the highs and lows of the game of golf.
Key exhibited that new-found maturity Tuesday when he earned medalist honors with a 73 to lead Lamar School to the team championship at the East Mississippi Community College Invitational at Columbus Country Club.
Tate strives to win every time he runs 4/6/2009 STARKVILLE -- Finishing second doesn’t exist in Tavaris Tate’s vocabulary.
The goal for the Starkville High School senior sprinter is to win every race, whether it is the 100, 200 or 400 meters, or as a member of the 4x400 relay team.
Tate stepped up his competitive drive after finishing second to Ja’Vell Bullard in the 400 meters at the 2008 Nike Outdoor Nationals last June.
New Hope, Columbus beat Caledonia in baseball 4/5/2009 Dillon Hawkins and Austin Stovall gave their baseball teams exactly what they needed Saturday.
Unfortunately, Caledonia High School was on the receiving ends of both efforts.
In the afternoon, Hawkins threw a six-inning, one-hitter, and Philip Tice had three hits and two RBIs in New Hope’s 11-1 victory against Caledonia in a Class 4A, Region 4, District 4 game at Trojan Field.
In the evening, Stovall survived a 12-hit attack and pitched a complete game to lead Columbus to a 13-7 victory.
Area well represented at powerlifting meet 4/3/2009 Alex Sherrod doesn’t want to settle for second place this year.
One season after being the runner-up in his weight class at the Mississippi High School Activities Association State Powerlifting meet, Sherrod has his sights set Saturday on a championship.
A stint with the Caledonia High School boys basketball team might have delayed his training, but he has regrouped and made significant progress and said he is ready to win a state title.
New Hope turns attention to state tourney 4/3/2009 Now that the New Hope High School fast-pitch softball team has taken care of its Senior Night festivities, it can focus on adding another state title to the program’s list of accomplishments.
New Hope (17-2) still has a game at 5 p.m. today against Neshoba Central, weather permitting, before it can focus on the state tournament.
As of Friday morning, the Lady Trojans still didn’t know their opponent. New Hope coach Tabitha Beard said New Hope will play Lafayette County or Center Hill at 2 p.m. Saturday in the first two games of a best-of-three series.
McWilliams pitches Knights past Trojans 4/2/2009 Dustin McWilliams likes to talk to himself on the mound.
The West Lauderdale left-hander feels his verbal repartee helps keep him focused and prepared for any situation.
That’s why a one-out, bases-loaded jam in the bottom of the third inning Wednesday night didn’t faze him.
Tutor helps seniors win in style 4/2/2009 Haley Tutor isn’t ready to say goodbye to her senior teammates.
That’s why she is going to do everything in her power to see that the New Hope High School fast-pitch softball team’s season ends, fittingly, with a state title.
Tutor had a home run, two singles, and six RBIs Wednesday to lead New Hope to a 12-2 victory against West Point in a Class 4A-District 4 game at Lady Trojan Field.
Status of Lamar County tournament uncertain 4/1/2009 The Lamar County softball tournament is scheduled for Friday and Saturday at South Lamar High School in Millport, Ala.
But after a tragic car accident Monday took the life of South Lamar seventh-grader Madison Orr, South Lamar coach Tony Seals doesn’t know when the tournament will be played.
Surgery doesn't sidetrack Roberts 3/31/2009 There wasn’t a defining pop.
A piercing pain didn’t course through the elbow.
Instead, Blake Roberts saw a dispiriting loss in velocity on his fastball and control that signaled something wasn’t right.
Caledonia's Jenkins going to EMCC 3/31/2009 CALEDONIA — Justine Jenkins won’t lie.
The Caledonia High School standout wanted to play softball in college but she didn’t know if she was good enough.
It wasn’t until Jenkins started to relax and to have fun on the softball field that her confidence blossomed.
Columbus splits pair of games 3/29/2009 Bad things aren’t happening once a game this season for the Columbus High School baseball team.
In some cases, like in Columbus’ 16-6 victory against West Point in five innings Saturday afternoon, the Falcons make enough positive things happen to outweigh the negatives.
But the momentum doesn’t last.
In other instances, like in a 12-2 loss in five innings to South Panola on Saturday night, the Falcons can’t overcome mistakes that seem to snowball out of control.
Starkville outlasts New Hope in baseball 3/29/2009 STARKVILLE –– The Starkville Yellow Jackets experienced another walk-off victory at home on Saturday afternoon.
For the New Hope Trojans, it was a another disappointing loss.
After Blake Dawkins singled in the winning run last Tuesday to help Starkville defeat Tupelo 3-2, it was R.J. Johnson’s turn to do the same.
This time the game-winning hit came in the 10th inning as Starkville beat New Hope 2-1.
Starkville Akins signs with Harding 3/29/2009 STARKVILLE –– Starkville High School wide receiver Kasey Akins played the waiting game to make sure he found the right place for him to continue his football career.
More than a month after watching two of his teammates sign scholarships on National Signing Day, Akins has made his choice.
Akins decided to take his talents to Harding University in Searcy, Ark., and made it official on Friday by putting his name on the dotted line.
Malones help West Lowndes outlast Caledonia 3/27/2009 Lil’ Wayne and Lump proved to be a difficult tandem to contain Thursday night.
It’s a good thing, too, because the Caledonia and West Lowndes High School baseball teams could have played all night.
Better known as Demetrius and Devin Malone, the Panthers played key roles in the bottom of the ninth inning to help West Lowndes earn a 5-4 victory.
Vaughan escapes trouble to pitch Heritage to win 3/25/2009 WEST POINT — The ability to work out of trouble is essential for any pitcher.
Sometimes that trouble materializes after a bloop single or an error.
Other times, an ill-timed walk quickly can put a pitcher in a jam that is difficult to escape.
Cole Vaughan showed Tuesday afternoon he’s capable of living dangerously and then finding a way to avoid the big inning.
Vaughan scattered six hits in a complete-game effort to help the Heritage Academy baseball team defeat Oak Hill Academy 6-3.
Dawkins makes most of second chance 3/25/2009 STARKVILLE — Blake Dawkins hoped for another opportunity.
The Starkville High School catcher struck out with the bases loaded in the fifth inning against Tupelo on Tuesday night, and the Yellow Jackets left three on base that inning.
In the seventh, the bases were loaded again with Dawkins at the plate. This time he singled in Jayson Keel to lift Starkville to a 3-2 victory.
Tupelo (6-3, 1-1 Class 5A, Division 2) walked Daniel Forde in front of Dawkins twice. Starkville (10-2, 3-0) didn’t take advantage of the first situation, but did on the second.
Freshmen lead Starkville past West Lowndes 3/24/2009 STARKVILLE — It was a good night to get a one-hitter from two freshmen.
Frustrated that his Yellow Jackets left 12 runners on base, Starkville High School baseball coach Danny Carlisle liked that Nick Brooks and Hayden Higginbotham combined to give up only one hit Tuesday night in a 5-1 victory against West Lowndes.
New approach helps Heritage Academy's Braddock 3/24/2009 Austin Braddock is branching out to all fields.
Always considered a dead pull hitter, Braddock has discovered this season that hitting is a lot easier when you change your approach at the plate.
Hollivay invited to Nike Skills Academy 3/22/2009 Rachel Hollivay’s circle of basketball contacts is growing.
The New Hope High School freshman on Wednesday received an invitation to attend the Nike Girls Regional Skills Academy event at Norcross High School in Atlanta on April 25-26.
Lamar County baseball striving for consistency after Classic 3/12/2009 Going into the Blue Devil Classic at Sulligent, Ala., the Lamar County High School baseball team hoped to build confidence for the rest of the season.
The Bulldogs accomplished that goal by winning two of three games, beating county rivals South Lamar and Sulligent.
Blaylock uses 'junk' to be effective on mound 3/10/2009 WEST POINT — Junk-baller is a term of affection for Brody Blaylock.
For other pitchers with less self-confidence, the term might be a negative moniker.
Sulligent High School baseball will play host to Blue Devil Classic 3/5/2009 When the Sulligent High School baseball team plays host to its annual Blue Devil Classic, the event will have the look of a Lamar County tournament.
Sulligent will play host to the tournament that includes county rivals Lamar County and South Lamar as well as to Phil Campbell on Friday and Saturday.
Hard work in cage has helped West Lowndes' Stowers improve 3/3/2009 Ryan Stowers used to be like a lot of high school baseball players.
Some players can hit home runs in practice or in a scrimmage, but hitting one in a game is the real deal.
No. 1 Raymond ends Aberdeen's season 3/3/2009 JACKSON — The sigh said it all.
Jameika Hoskins walked the length of the Aberdeen bench with her back turned as Raymond’s Valencia McFarland went to the free-throw line.
The Aberdeen junior standout took a breath, exhaled, and shook her head, not wanting to turn to face the clock and the prospect the Lady Bulldogs’ season was nearly over.
Aberdeen has task of playing No. 1 Raymond 3/2/2009 TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — From Kayla Robinson’s perspective, the Aberdeen High School girls basketball team will have its work cut out for it at 8 tonight when it takes on Raymond in the Class 3A Mississippi High School Activities Association Cellular South State Basketball Championships at Mississippi Coliseum.
The Lady Rangers are ranked No. 1 in Class 3A and are riding a state-best 24-game winning streak.
Hill, Carr commit to play at MSU 3/2/2009 Mississippi State football coach Dan Mullen and his staff are making quite an impression on local athletes.
After signing players like Deontae Skinner from Noxubee County High School in Macon, Johnthan Banks from East Webster High in Maben, Johnathan McKenzie from Starkville Academy, and Dennis Thames from Louisville High, Mullen has gotten off to a quick start on identifying area prospects for next year’s class.
Seals feels SLHS softball will be improved 2/26/2009 South Lamar softball coach Tony Seals feels good about the depth of his team’s pitching staff.
The pitching staff has gotten deeper this season with the addition of Laken Hancock, a transfer from Caledonia High School.
Aliceville baseball will return to field 2/20/2009 After not fielding a baseball team a year ago, Aliceville High School will try it again this season.
But budget restraints will mean Aliceville will only play district games.
The first pitch for Aliceville is scheduled for March 22 against Pickens County rival Gordo.
Campbell leads Noxubee County girls past Clarksdale 2/17/2009 MACON — A seven-point first-quarter deficit proved to be child’s play for the Noxubee County High School girls basketball team.
Those kind of leads evaporate quickly when you can press teams like the Lady Tigerettes.
It also helps to have propulsion from guards Jeraldine Campbell and Shanteria Tate.
Focused Jones helps Starkville girls win title 2/17/2009 Kierra Jones was in a zone.
Shooters know the place. When you’re there, your shooting stroke is perfect, the ball has the ideal rotation, and every shot you take is nothing but net.
The Starkville High School girls basketball standout wasn’t quite in that zone, although she did have two productive evenings last week at the Class 5A-Division 2 tournament at South Panola High School.
Hoskins sparks Aberdeen girls basketball 2/17/2009 ABERDEEN — A championship basketball team’s competitive spirit must trickle down from the top.
Nowhere was this spirit more evident Monday night than with Aberdeen High School girls basketball coach Cloyd Garth.
Pickens County boys basketball in unusual situation 2/12/2009 The Pickens County High School boys basketball team will encounter a peculiar predicament at 7 p.m. Friday when it plays at R.C. Hatch in the Alabama High School Athletic Association Class 2A Central Sub-Regional Tournament.
It will be the first time in 15 years that the Pickens County Tornadoes will have to travel for a sub-regional tournament game.
Caledonia's Aldridge will play baseball at EMCC 2/12/2009 CALEDONIA — Tyler Aldridge is honest when he looks back at his athletic career.
He always had confidence in whatever sport he played — football, soccer, or baseball — but he feels something was missing.
“When I was a freshman and a sophomore, I broke down mentally,” Aldridge said. “The physical part was always there, but I wasn’t thinking.
Heritage Academy names new football coach 2/10/2009 Heritage Academy has promoted Brad Butler to be its new football coach.
The 31-year-old Butler accepted the promotion Monday after being Heritage Academy’s offensive line coach this past season.
NHHS basketball teams take court for district openers 2/10/2009 Robert Byrd hopes a week off is the recipe for success this week for the New Hope High School boys basketball team.
A little home cooking won’t hurt the Trojans, either.
New Hope's Hollivay learning patience 2/10/2009 A more patient Rachel Hollivay is a scary proposition for opponents who dare to venture into the lane.
The Caledonia High School girls basketball team discovered just how dominating the 6-foot-4 freshman center can be last week when she scored 22 points and blocked 17 shots in a 49-32 victory.
Fundamentals magnified at Caledonia Jamboree 2/8/2009 CALEDONIA –– It’s never too early to execute the fundamentals.
The little things like baserunning, communicating on catching high pop ups, throwing strikes, and knowing what you’re supposed to do when fielding a bunt were magnified Saturday in the Caledonia Jamboree at Tommy Smith Field.
Hebron Christian wins district championships 2/8/2009 STEENS — The Hebron Christian basketball teams will have to make room for new hardware in the trophy case on Monday.
The Hebron Christian girls used a balanced scoring attack to beat Calhoun Academy 46-38 in the Class 1A-District 3 championship game at Immanuel Christian on Saturday.
The Hebron boys then had to work overtime Saturday night to earn a 53-47 victory against Immanuel.
Earnest returns following surgery 2/6/2009 After having open heart surgery two months ago, Hamilton High School baseball coach Lewis Earnest will get a chance Saturday to see if he’s ready to return to coaching this season.
Earnest’s Hamilton Lions are scheduled to play in a jamboree at Caledonia High School’s Tommy Smith Field. The games will prepare the Lions for their season opener Feb. 13 against Hatley in the Monroe County Tournament.
Aliceville's Prince to Jacksonville State; Hood signs with MSU 2/5/2009 ALICEVILLE, Ala. — When Donald Prince suffered a season-ending injury, he didn’t know what the future would hold for him on a football field.
The running back from Aliceville High School in Aliceville, Ala., wondered if he would get a scholarship after he tore the anterior cruciate ligament in his knee during the first quarter of the fourth game of the season.
Starkville's Archie to Jackson State; Ware to EMCC 2/5/2009 Starkville High School defensive end Johnathan Archie is ready for a fresh start.
Archie is prepared to take full advantage of the chance after he signed Wednesday to play football for the Jackson State Tigers of the Southwestern Athletic Conference.
Tigers send 10 to college 2/5/2009 MACON — The Noxubee County football team has enjoyed many accolades after winning the Class 4A state title.
Standout senior wide receiver Patrick Patterson participated in the Mississippi/Alabama All-Star game and The Army All-American Game.
West Point has four sign LOIs; Oak Hill's Collins to EMCC 2/5/2009 WEST POINT — The West Point High School football team was well represented Wednesday on National Signing Day.
Four Green Wave players signed letters of intent to take their skills and talents to the next level.
West Lowndes' Griggs off to MVSU 2/5/2009 Antonio Griggs prefers to take a positive approach.
But even someone who has a reputation for being a hard worker and for setting a good example had to be a little concerned that there weren’t a lot of schools recruiting him to play football.
Columbus High's Autrey, Cockrell off to EMCC 2/5/2009 One opportunity was enough for Johnny Cockrell.
Picking one destination proved to be a little tougher than Billy Autrey imagined.
New Hope sends two to EMCC, one to USM 2/5/2009 Each story on National Signing Day is unique.
And even though Jonathan Guerry, Josh Ferguson, and Tamicdrius Davis took different paths to realize their dreams Wednesday, each started out with at least a little doubt that they would be able to continue their football careers in college.
ICC right pick for East Oktibbeha's Williams 2/5/2009 CRAWFORD — East Oktibbeha High School’s Jimmie Williams Jr. didn’t worry when he received a phone call from East Mississippi Community College informing him the school wasn’t protecting him.
Even though it was only a month or so before National Signing Day, Williams Jr. had enough confidence in what he has accomplished on the football to know he would get an opportunity to continue his football career in college.
Caledonia defense clicks in playoff run 1/30/2009 Entering the 2008-09 season, the Caledonia High School boys soccer team and first-year coach Morgan Mansfield had to find a way to figure out how to solidify the defense.
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