6/26/08
By Clint Cox
The Boys Basketball June Summer League at Marianna High School is winding down. This past Tuesday night saw Graceville pick up a 43-30 win over Holmes County and then fall 46-43 to Chipley. Cottondale split on the night, taking a 7-48 win over Holmes County and then falling 52-43 to Chipley. The league wraps up their schedule on Thursday when three county teams will take the floor. Marianna plays Port St. Joe at 4 pm, Sneads takes on Port St. Joe at 5 pm, Marianna and Malone do battle one more time at 6 pm and then Malone and Sneads close out the night at 7 pm. Cost is $1.00 for admission.
Thursday, June 26, 2008
County Teams Make It To Championships
6/26/08
By: Clint Cox
Jackson County was well represented in each of the respective Dixie Girls softball District championship games that concluded this past Monday night at the Optimist Park / M.E.R.E.. The county placed a team in each championship round of the three divisions (Angels, Ponytails 7 Belles). Unfortunately of the three teams that made it to that final round, only one will be headed to the State Tournament as the District Champion. The other two squads battled hard but had to settle for the district runner up spots.
Dixie Angels (8,9, & 10 yr. olds)
The Marianna Angels All Star squad captured the District Championship with a 14-3 win over Franklin County. That sets up a trip to the State Tournament in Belleview, Florida. The tournament starts on July 3rd. Marianna was forced into a second game on Monday night after falling 13-11 to Franklin County earlier in the evening. The Marianna All Stars opened up the tournament with a 24-12 win over Franklin County on Thursday night. They followed that up with a 31-14 win over Sneads on Friday night. That sent them to the championship round on Monday for their eventual two game matchup with Franklin County.
The Sneads All Stars beat Port St. Joe 26-9 on Thursday night. After falling to Marianna on Friday night, Sneads fell to Franklin County 9-2 on Saturday and were eliminated from tournament play.
Dixie Ponytails (11 & 12 yr. olds)
The Marianna All Stars got off to a good start by beating Franklin County by the 10 run rule in four innings. They came back on Friday night to square off against a very good Port St. Joe squad. Jordan Hussey gave Marianna a 2-0 lead in the third inning with a 2 RBI inside the park home run. Port St. Joe rallied though to score two runs in the bottom of the sixth to capture a 3-2 victory. Marianna then took on Sneads on Saturday and posted a win over the Lady Pirates to advance to the Championship round. On Monday they faced a rematch with Port St. Joe and needed to win two games to capture the title. Game one went Marianna’s way by a score of 5-2 as Breanna Willis was the winning pitcher. Game two saw Port St. Joe jump out ahead by a score of 7-0. Marianna battled back to make it 8-3 after five innings. In the bottom of the sixth, still trailing 8-3, Marianna managed to plate two more runs and load the bases. But their rally came up short and they fell by a final of 8-5.
The Sneads All Starts opened up the tournament with a 16-5 loss to Port St. Joe. They bounced back with a 15-9 win over Franklin County on Friday night. Sneads trailed 4-2 before coming back to tie the game at 4-4. They then took a 5-4 lead before Franklin County tied the game at 5-5. From their though Sneads outscored Franklin County 10-4 to post a 6 run victory. On Saturday they fell 10-0 to Marianna and were eliminated from the tournament.
Dixie Belles (13 & 14 yr. olds)
The Grand Ridge Belles got off to a good start with a 18-3 win over Chattahoochee on Thursday night. They took an early 5-0 lead and then added four more in the second inning to lead 9-1. From there they added another 9 runs in the third and fourth inning.
On Friday night they fell to Franklin County by a score of 5-1. Franklin got two quick runs in the first inning and Grand Ridge countered with one in the bottom. From there Franklin added 3 more runs to post the four run victory. Grand Ridge bounced back with a 11-7 win over Port St. Joe on Saturday. Port St. Joe grabbed an early 5-3 lead but Grand Ridge rallied to take a 6-5 lead in the third inning. Another run was plated in the fourth inning to make it a 7-5 game. After Port St. Joe tied the game at 7-7, the Grand Ridge squad posted four runs in the final inning for the 11-7 win.
That set up a rematch on Monday night against Franklin County for the championship. Grand Ridge needed two wins and got the first one with a 8-4 victory. Game two saw Franklin County jump out to an early lead and lead big for much of the game. Grand Ridge began to battle back late in the game and came back to tie the game 13-13 in the bottom of the seventh inning. But in the eighth inning Franklin County posted 3 runs and then held Grand Ridge in the bottom of the inning to claim a 16-13 district championship win.
By: Clint Cox
Jackson County was well represented in each of the respective Dixie Girls softball District championship games that concluded this past Monday night at the Optimist Park / M.E.R.E.. The county placed a team in each championship round of the three divisions (Angels, Ponytails 7 Belles). Unfortunately of the three teams that made it to that final round, only one will be headed to the State Tournament as the District Champion. The other two squads battled hard but had to settle for the district runner up spots.
Dixie Angels (8,9, & 10 yr. olds)
The Marianna Angels All Star squad captured the District Championship with a 14-3 win over Franklin County. That sets up a trip to the State Tournament in Belleview, Florida. The tournament starts on July 3rd. Marianna was forced into a second game on Monday night after falling 13-11 to Franklin County earlier in the evening. The Marianna All Stars opened up the tournament with a 24-12 win over Franklin County on Thursday night. They followed that up with a 31-14 win over Sneads on Friday night. That sent them to the championship round on Monday for their eventual two game matchup with Franklin County.
The Sneads All Stars beat Port St. Joe 26-9 on Thursday night. After falling to Marianna on Friday night, Sneads fell to Franklin County 9-2 on Saturday and were eliminated from tournament play.
Dixie Ponytails (11 & 12 yr. olds)
The Marianna All Stars got off to a good start by beating Franklin County by the 10 run rule in four innings. They came back on Friday night to square off against a very good Port St. Joe squad. Jordan Hussey gave Marianna a 2-0 lead in the third inning with a 2 RBI inside the park home run. Port St. Joe rallied though to score two runs in the bottom of the sixth to capture a 3-2 victory. Marianna then took on Sneads on Saturday and posted a win over the Lady Pirates to advance to the Championship round. On Monday they faced a rematch with Port St. Joe and needed to win two games to capture the title. Game one went Marianna’s way by a score of 5-2 as Breanna Willis was the winning pitcher. Game two saw Port St. Joe jump out ahead by a score of 7-0. Marianna battled back to make it 8-3 after five innings. In the bottom of the sixth, still trailing 8-3, Marianna managed to plate two more runs and load the bases. But their rally came up short and they fell by a final of 8-5.
The Sneads All Starts opened up the tournament with a 16-5 loss to Port St. Joe. They bounced back with a 15-9 win over Franklin County on Friday night. Sneads trailed 4-2 before coming back to tie the game at 4-4. They then took a 5-4 lead before Franklin County tied the game at 5-5. From their though Sneads outscored Franklin County 10-4 to post a 6 run victory. On Saturday they fell 10-0 to Marianna and were eliminated from the tournament.
Dixie Belles (13 & 14 yr. olds)
The Grand Ridge Belles got off to a good start with a 18-3 win over Chattahoochee on Thursday night. They took an early 5-0 lead and then added four more in the second inning to lead 9-1. From there they added another 9 runs in the third and fourth inning.
On Friday night they fell to Franklin County by a score of 5-1. Franklin got two quick runs in the first inning and Grand Ridge countered with one in the bottom. From there Franklin added 3 more runs to post the four run victory. Grand Ridge bounced back with a 11-7 win over Port St. Joe on Saturday. Port St. Joe grabbed an early 5-3 lead but Grand Ridge rallied to take a 6-5 lead in the third inning. Another run was plated in the fourth inning to make it a 7-5 game. After Port St. Joe tied the game at 7-7, the Grand Ridge squad posted four runs in the final inning for the 11-7 win.
That set up a rematch on Monday night against Franklin County for the championship. Grand Ridge needed two wins and got the first one with a 8-4 victory. Game two saw Franklin County jump out to an early lead and lead big for much of the game. Grand Ridge began to battle back late in the game and came back to tie the game 13-13 in the bottom of the seventh inning. But in the eighth inning Franklin County posted 3 runs and then held Grand Ridge in the bottom of the inning to claim a 16-13 district championship win.
….”The Rest of the Story”
6/26/08
Florida Vs. FSU
By Sid Riley
When I wrote the story a couple of weeks ago relating the events of the Chipola Area Gator Club’s annual meeting and banquet I accidently got caught up in the sometimes near-violent emotions that exist in the rivalry between that group and the FSU fans. I will now try to extricate myself from that dangerous position.
At the banquet door prizes were given to lucky ticket holders. The prizes were beautiful serving trays with the Florida logo in vivid display. A well known ex-State Farm rep and avid Florida Booster was in charge of the door prize arrangements.
Knowing that Bill Hopkins, who is a correspondingly avid FSU fan, would be in attendance, this ex-State Farm rep rigged the tickets so that Hopkins would be the winner of the last prize. The trick was to make Hopkins think that he would have to take a Florida decorated serving tray home with him. Actually, they had purchased an almost as attractive Florida State serving tray for the trick.
When Hopkins heard his ticket number called he first tried to get his lovely wife, Omega, to go to the front to claim the prize. When this didn’t work and the prize givers continued to urge him to come claim the prize, Hopkins finally began the long journey to claim the unwanted award. He removed his handkerchief from his pocket in preparation of having to handle the Florida laden object.
As he neared the front they uncovered the tray and displayed the FSU colors and logo that adorned the tray to him, he was surprised and overjoyed. And contrary to information this writer had been given…the tray was spotless and had NOT been soiled, distorted, or marred in any way by overzealous Florida booster. "Hoppy" took the tray home to join his countless other FSU items.
Florida Vs. FSU
By Sid Riley
When I wrote the story a couple of weeks ago relating the events of the Chipola Area Gator Club’s annual meeting and banquet I accidently got caught up in the sometimes near-violent emotions that exist in the rivalry between that group and the FSU fans. I will now try to extricate myself from that dangerous position.
At the banquet door prizes were given to lucky ticket holders. The prizes were beautiful serving trays with the Florida logo in vivid display. A well known ex-State Farm rep and avid Florida Booster was in charge of the door prize arrangements.
Knowing that Bill Hopkins, who is a correspondingly avid FSU fan, would be in attendance, this ex-State Farm rep rigged the tickets so that Hopkins would be the winner of the last prize. The trick was to make Hopkins think that he would have to take a Florida decorated serving tray home with him. Actually, they had purchased an almost as attractive Florida State serving tray for the trick.
When Hopkins heard his ticket number called he first tried to get his lovely wife, Omega, to go to the front to claim the prize. When this didn’t work and the prize givers continued to urge him to come claim the prize, Hopkins finally began the long journey to claim the unwanted award. He removed his handkerchief from his pocket in preparation of having to handle the Florida laden object.
As he neared the front they uncovered the tray and displayed the FSU colors and logo that adorned the tray to him, he was surprised and overjoyed. And contrary to information this writer had been given…the tray was spotless and had NOT been soiled, distorted, or marred in any way by overzealous Florida booster. "Hoppy" took the tray home to join his countless other FSU items.
Marianna All-Stars Go to State
6/26/08
The Marianna 12 and under District 3 All-Stars, will be participating in the Dixie Youth "O" Zone State tournament in Lakeland, Florida. Opening ceremonies will be held on July 4th and games July 5th -10th. The boys have been raising funds to help cover the cost for the tournament. Fund raisers include a Spaghetti Dinner at Madison’s Restaurant on Monday June 30th from 4:30pm-7:00pm CDT, with tickets selling for $7. The meal includes spaghetti, salad, breadstick, and drink. The team is also selling chances to win a $250 gas card from Arrowhead RV Sales with tickets selling for $5. Anyone wishing to make a contribution to the team or purchase tickets can go by any of the following businesses: Rotech Oxygen & Medical Equipment, James & Sikes Funeral Home, Hopkins Pontiac-GMC, or Appraisal Services of NW Florida, all located in Marianna.
The All-Star team has been practicing very hard for several weeks. The team consists of Madison Harrell, Trenton Nobles, Reid Long, Triston Tharpe, Nic Helms, Heath Roberts, Grey Gilmore, Tyler Colson, Ryan Hewett, Kody Bryan, Jonathan Sikes and Andrew Shouse. The coaches are Rick Harrell, John Shouse, and Doug Colson. Thank you for your support and GOOD LUCK MARIANNA!
The Marianna 12 and under District 3 All-Stars, will be participating in the Dixie Youth "O" Zone State tournament in Lakeland, Florida. Opening ceremonies will be held on July 4th and games July 5th -10th. The boys have been raising funds to help cover the cost for the tournament. Fund raisers include a Spaghetti Dinner at Madison’s Restaurant on Monday June 30th from 4:30pm-7:00pm CDT, with tickets selling for $7. The meal includes spaghetti, salad, breadstick, and drink. The team is also selling chances to win a $250 gas card from Arrowhead RV Sales with tickets selling for $5. Anyone wishing to make a contribution to the team or purchase tickets can go by any of the following businesses: Rotech Oxygen & Medical Equipment, James & Sikes Funeral Home, Hopkins Pontiac-GMC, or Appraisal Services of NW Florida, all located in Marianna.
The All-Star team has been practicing very hard for several weeks. The team consists of Madison Harrell, Trenton Nobles, Reid Long, Triston Tharpe, Nic Helms, Heath Roberts, Grey Gilmore, Tyler Colson, Ryan Hewett, Kody Bryan, Jonathan Sikes and Andrew Shouse. The coaches are Rick Harrell, John Shouse, and Doug Colson. Thank you for your support and GOOD LUCK MARIANNA!
Marianna AAA All-Stars Fall in Championship Game
6/26/08
By Clint Cox
The Marianna AAA All Stars experienced the true meaning of "The Agony of Defeat" last Thursday night when they fell 9-8 in the district championship game against Chipley in Chipley. The two squads had already met twice in the tournament, with Chipley taking 10-9 victory earlier in the week.
On Thursday night the squads met in the Championship round with Marianna needing two victories to claim the district title. Game one saw Marianna jump out to an early lead. In the top of the first inning Forrest Melzer doubled and that was followed by a single from Austin Torbett. Jake Daffin then ripped off a 2 RBI triple to score Melzer and Torbett. Daffin then scored on a RBI single from Trent Charles and Matt Shouse singled to score Charles and make it a 4-0 game. Chipley countered to make it 4-1 but that score held for the remainder of the game as Daffin held Chipley in check from the mound. Marianna also got a couple of nice catches for outs in leftfield by Torbett.
That set up a winner take all contest for the night capper. The lead went back and forth as the Marianna squad twice had to rally and tie the game. Entering the final inning Marianna trailed 9-7. Daffin stroked a RBI single that scored Melzer to make it a one run ball game. But the potential tying run of the game was thrown out at home plate when trying to score on a wild pitch.
By Clint Cox
The Marianna AAA All Stars experienced the true meaning of "The Agony of Defeat" last Thursday night when they fell 9-8 in the district championship game against Chipley in Chipley. The two squads had already met twice in the tournament, with Chipley taking 10-9 victory earlier in the week.
On Thursday night the squads met in the Championship round with Marianna needing two victories to claim the district title. Game one saw Marianna jump out to an early lead. In the top of the first inning Forrest Melzer doubled and that was followed by a single from Austin Torbett. Jake Daffin then ripped off a 2 RBI triple to score Melzer and Torbett. Daffin then scored on a RBI single from Trent Charles and Matt Shouse singled to score Charles and make it a 4-0 game. Chipley countered to make it 4-1 but that score held for the remainder of the game as Daffin held Chipley in check from the mound. Marianna also got a couple of nice catches for outs in leftfield by Torbett.
That set up a winner take all contest for the night capper. The lead went back and forth as the Marianna squad twice had to rally and tie the game. Entering the final inning Marianna trailed 9-7. Daffin stroked a RBI single that scored Melzer to make it a one run ball game. But the potential tying run of the game was thrown out at home plate when trying to score on a wild pitch.
W.E.C.A. Profile of the Week – Jerome Wilson
6/26/08
By Clint Cox
As a junior quarterback for the Marianna Bulldogs in 1982 Jerome Wilson electrified the Marianna community by throwing for 21 touchdowns and over 2,000 yards. That set a new record that stood for another 15 years and helped lead the Bulldogs to a 10-1 record, their best in 25 years. Twenty six years later Wilson is still giving back to the community that gave so much to him growing up.
For the past three years Wilson has volunteered his time to assist in mentoring local youth through the West End Community Association. "I think the W.E.C.A. is an outstanding progam. It teaches discipline and skills to these young people that they wouldn’t get sitting at home playing video games," Wilson said recently. "I love working with the youth and developing their talents. I had coaches that did the same for me when I was growing up and now I want to do the same for these kids that I am working with," Wilson added. Asked to name some of those coaches that helped him along when he was a youth Wilson responded with names such as Roger Clay, Jerry Brown, Phillip Clikas, Sonny Hughes and Donny Nichols.
After graduating from Marianna in 1984 Wilson went to Southeastern Louisiana to play football. After two years the school discontinued the football program and he returned to the area and played football one year at FAMU. He then joined the Army and spent three years in the military. After he got out of the Army he got married and lived in Minnesota. It was there that he got a job with the Postal Service. Nine years ago he transferred to the Dothan Post Office and set up residence in Marianna. He now has 15 years services with the Post Office and he and his wife Iva have 5 sons. Delancey (15), Jeremy (13), Jamaal and Jameel (twins – age 10) and Joshua (6) are all active in local sports programs. Three of them (Jamaal, Jameel & Joshua) are on the New Golden Key team that Wilson coaches as part of the summer basketball league of the W.E.C.A.
The Jackson County Times is featuring a weekly profile during the month of June of individuals that work with the West End Community Association (W.E.C.A). The association is a grant funded program that provides a variety of activities and programs to young people in the Marianna and surrounding communities.
By Clint Cox
As a junior quarterback for the Marianna Bulldogs in 1982 Jerome Wilson electrified the Marianna community by throwing for 21 touchdowns and over 2,000 yards. That set a new record that stood for another 15 years and helped lead the Bulldogs to a 10-1 record, their best in 25 years. Twenty six years later Wilson is still giving back to the community that gave so much to him growing up.
For the past three years Wilson has volunteered his time to assist in mentoring local youth through the West End Community Association. "I think the W.E.C.A. is an outstanding progam. It teaches discipline and skills to these young people that they wouldn’t get sitting at home playing video games," Wilson said recently. "I love working with the youth and developing their talents. I had coaches that did the same for me when I was growing up and now I want to do the same for these kids that I am working with," Wilson added. Asked to name some of those coaches that helped him along when he was a youth Wilson responded with names such as Roger Clay, Jerry Brown, Phillip Clikas, Sonny Hughes and Donny Nichols.
After graduating from Marianna in 1984 Wilson went to Southeastern Louisiana to play football. After two years the school discontinued the football program and he returned to the area and played football one year at FAMU. He then joined the Army and spent three years in the military. After he got out of the Army he got married and lived in Minnesota. It was there that he got a job with the Postal Service. Nine years ago he transferred to the Dothan Post Office and set up residence in Marianna. He now has 15 years services with the Post Office and he and his wife Iva have 5 sons. Delancey (15), Jeremy (13), Jamaal and Jameel (twins – age 10) and Joshua (6) are all active in local sports programs. Three of them (Jamaal, Jameel & Joshua) are on the New Golden Key team that Wilson coaches as part of the summer basketball league of the W.E.C.A.
The Jackson County Times is featuring a weekly profile during the month of June of individuals that work with the West End Community Association (W.E.C.A). The association is a grant funded program that provides a variety of activities and programs to young people in the Marianna and surrounding communities.
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Optimist Park June 12, 2008 Last Day of Optimist Club Sponsored Youth Soccer Camp
At Right, Front and Center, Dr. Plinio Tuta, Marianna Optimist Club’s Chairman of The Optimist Youth Sports Committee, and Soccer Camp Facilitator, poses with participants in the last day’s events at the Optimist Park Soccer Field.
Total youth participating in this year’s Soccer Camp totaled eighty-four kids from the age of six to seventeen. According to Dr. Tuta’s statement, "This year’s participation exceeded last year’s participation by approximately twenty kids." Tuta exclaimed, "I’m pleased with this number of kids, however, I always want to see more kids involved in summer sporting type activities."
Dr. Tuta informed the participants and their parents at the beginning of the two week soccer camp that he has been involved in the game of soccer for more than forty years, with most of that time as a professional player on international championship teams. However, nothing in his sporting career gives him more satisfaction than to see the kids that participate in the sport learn to play and enjoy the game he has enjoyed all his adult life.
When asked what he expects to get out of his efforts, he said, "I would really like to see one of these kids turn out to be an international champion in the game of soccer." Also, he said, "I would like to instill in the community the knowledge of the game so that they will enjoy the sport of soccer as much as they do football, or baseball." He went on to say that soccer, once it catches on in a community, becomes a very big event, and is capable of becoming as big as baseball, or football.
Total youth participating in this year’s Soccer Camp totaled eighty-four kids from the age of six to seventeen. According to Dr. Tuta’s statement, "This year’s participation exceeded last year’s participation by approximately twenty kids." Tuta exclaimed, "I’m pleased with this number of kids, however, I always want to see more kids involved in summer sporting type activities."
Dr. Tuta informed the participants and their parents at the beginning of the two week soccer camp that he has been involved in the game of soccer for more than forty years, with most of that time as a professional player on international championship teams. However, nothing in his sporting career gives him more satisfaction than to see the kids that participate in the sport learn to play and enjoy the game he has enjoyed all his adult life.
When asked what he expects to get out of his efforts, he said, "I would really like to see one of these kids turn out to be an international champion in the game of soccer." Also, he said, "I would like to instill in the community the knowledge of the game so that they will enjoy the sport of soccer as much as they do football, or baseball." He went on to say that soccer, once it catches on in a community, becomes a very big event, and is capable of becoming as big as baseball, or football.
Graceville JV Squad Takes Double Header From Marianna
On Monday afternoon Graceville’s Junior Varsity baseball squad came to Marianna on a mission. Their mission was to sweep a double header from the Marianna Bulldogs and go back to Graceville with a prouder pace while enjoying the sweet taste of victory. They accomplished their mission.
The first game began with Marianna taking a two run lead in the bottom of the first inning, with starter Laramie Dryden on the mound. Graceville came back with one run in the top of the second inning to make the score 2-1 until the fifth. Things remained in good shape for Marianna until the top of the fifth inning when Graceville came to life and began to trounce Shane Blanton who had been sent in to pitch by Marianna Coach Andy Shelton. When the dust had settled in the fifth, five more runs had crossed the plate, and Graceville was enjoying a 6-2 lead. That is the way the contest ended with Justin Miles the winning pitcher for Graceville and Shane Blanton the losing pitcher for Marianna.
With a sudden breeze beginning to cool the sweltering crowd as thunderstorms roved nearby, the second game began. The first inning started off as a slugfest and scoring merry-go-round as both teams scored seven runs in the first. Ryan Riley was the starting pitcher for Marianna, but the Graceville bats came to life and boomed five hits resulting in seven runs before the Marianna squad could muster three outs. However, the fears of an impending rout was soon resolved as the starting pitcher for Graceville also encountered first inning woes. A series of walks, errors, and hit batsmen resulted in Marianna also scoring seven runs before three outs were accumulated. The first inning ended 7-7.
The next three innings were scoreless as both teams settled down and began to play at a respectful level. Then came the fifth inning…..
Coach Andy Shelton of Marianna decided to put Kadd Golden in as the "closer" for Marianna. After striking out the first batter and getting the second batter to hit a ground ball to the third baseman for an out…a wheel fell off. The next batter singled, then a walk followed by an error on a throw to first by the Marianna shortstop resulted in two runs being scored by Graceville. This was followed by a three up-three down at bat by Marianna, and Graceville had won the second game 9-7. Chris Willis was the winning pitcher for Graceville and Kadd Golden was the losing pitcher for Marianna.
The first game began with Marianna taking a two run lead in the bottom of the first inning, with starter Laramie Dryden on the mound. Graceville came back with one run in the top of the second inning to make the score 2-1 until the fifth. Things remained in good shape for Marianna until the top of the fifth inning when Graceville came to life and began to trounce Shane Blanton who had been sent in to pitch by Marianna Coach Andy Shelton. When the dust had settled in the fifth, five more runs had crossed the plate, and Graceville was enjoying a 6-2 lead. That is the way the contest ended with Justin Miles the winning pitcher for Graceville and Shane Blanton the losing pitcher for Marianna.
With a sudden breeze beginning to cool the sweltering crowd as thunderstorms roved nearby, the second game began. The first inning started off as a slugfest and scoring merry-go-round as both teams scored seven runs in the first. Ryan Riley was the starting pitcher for Marianna, but the Graceville bats came to life and boomed five hits resulting in seven runs before the Marianna squad could muster three outs. However, the fears of an impending rout was soon resolved as the starting pitcher for Graceville also encountered first inning woes. A series of walks, errors, and hit batsmen resulted in Marianna also scoring seven runs before three outs were accumulated. The first inning ended 7-7.
The next three innings were scoreless as both teams settled down and began to play at a respectful level. Then came the fifth inning…..
Coach Andy Shelton of Marianna decided to put Kadd Golden in as the "closer" for Marianna. After striking out the first batter and getting the second batter to hit a ground ball to the third baseman for an out…a wheel fell off. The next batter singled, then a walk followed by an error on a throw to first by the Marianna shortstop resulted in two runs being scored by Graceville. This was followed by a three up-three down at bat by Marianna, and Graceville had won the second game 9-7. Chris Willis was the winning pitcher for Graceville and Kadd Golden was the losing pitcher for Marianna.
Six Indains Drafted
By Clint Cox
It was a big day for six Chipola Indian baseball players during the recent Major League Baseball Amateur Draft. The top pick for the Indians was Ryan Chaffee, who was selected in the third round at pick 105 by the Los Angeles Angels. Chaffee was a sophomore pitcher for Chipola and was one of the keys to their claiming the first back to back state championship in 10 years. In two outings at the state tournament Chaffee struck out 28 batters.
The next highest pick was center fielder Chris Berroa, who was taken in the 11th round by the Oakland Athletics. Carlos Moncrief, who both pitched and played first base for the Indians, went in the 14th round to the Cleveland Indians. Relief pitcher Ben Jeffers went in the 22nd round to the Brewers of Milwaukee. Catcher Moises Montero followed in the 26th round as he was the second player tabbed by Cleveland. Edmond Sparks was the final Indians selected and he went in the 44th round to the Houston Astros.
Ryan Chaffee Chris Berroa Carlos Moncrief
Picture Not Available
Ben Jeffers Moises Montero Edmond Sparks
It was a big day for six Chipola Indian baseball players during the recent Major League Baseball Amateur Draft. The top pick for the Indians was Ryan Chaffee, who was selected in the third round at pick 105 by the Los Angeles Angels. Chaffee was a sophomore pitcher for Chipola and was one of the keys to their claiming the first back to back state championship in 10 years. In two outings at the state tournament Chaffee struck out 28 batters.
The next highest pick was center fielder Chris Berroa, who was taken in the 11th round by the Oakland Athletics. Carlos Moncrief, who both pitched and played first base for the Indians, went in the 14th round to the Cleveland Indians. Relief pitcher Ben Jeffers went in the 22nd round to the Brewers of Milwaukee. Catcher Moises Montero followed in the 26th round as he was the second player tabbed by Cleveland. Edmond Sparks was the final Indians selected and he went in the 44th round to the Houston Astros.
Ryan Chaffee Chris Berroa Carlos Moncrief
Picture Not Available
Ben Jeffers Moises Montero Edmond Sparks
Sutton Signs
By Clint Cox
A high school basketball team doesn’t win 26 games and make it to the final four without some outstanding players. That was certainly true for this past season’s Marianna Bulldogs and another one of their players has signed a letter of intent to play college basketball. Marcus A. Sutton became the fourth Bulldog to get a scholarship when he signed on Monday with Warner Southern College. "It couldn’t happen to a finer young man," said Sutton’s high school coach Travis Blanton. "Nobody is more deserving than Marcus. He is one of the most outstanding young men that I have ever had the pleasure to coach," said Blanton.
All great teams have their stars and all great teams have their role players. Sutton was one of those role players that did his job, often unnoticed to many except his coach. "He was a wonderful role player. He came off the bench at our guard position and averaged 6 points a ball game," said Blanton. Apparently his teammates noticed as well as Sutton was one of the team captains. In addition to his scoring Sutton averaged 2 assist and 2 rebounds per game. He also shot 90% from the free throw line. Sutton looks forward to becoming a Royal. "Yeah I’m excited. I’ve put in a lot of hard work over the years and it is exciting to be able to go and play at the college level," said Sutton.
Sutton is the son of Keith and the late Sara Sutton. He is the grandson of Melissa Johnson and the late Tom Johnson as well as the late Roscoe and the late Elnora Sutton. Warner Southern College is located in Lake Wales Florida.
A high school basketball team doesn’t win 26 games and make it to the final four without some outstanding players. That was certainly true for this past season’s Marianna Bulldogs and another one of their players has signed a letter of intent to play college basketball. Marcus A. Sutton became the fourth Bulldog to get a scholarship when he signed on Monday with Warner Southern College. "It couldn’t happen to a finer young man," said Sutton’s high school coach Travis Blanton. "Nobody is more deserving than Marcus. He is one of the most outstanding young men that I have ever had the pleasure to coach," said Blanton.
All great teams have their stars and all great teams have their role players. Sutton was one of those role players that did his job, often unnoticed to many except his coach. "He was a wonderful role player. He came off the bench at our guard position and averaged 6 points a ball game," said Blanton. Apparently his teammates noticed as well as Sutton was one of the team captains. In addition to his scoring Sutton averaged 2 assist and 2 rebounds per game. He also shot 90% from the free throw line. Sutton looks forward to becoming a Royal. "Yeah I’m excited. I’ve put in a lot of hard work over the years and it is exciting to be able to go and play at the college level," said Sutton.
Sutton is the son of Keith and the late Sara Sutton. He is the grandson of Melissa Johnson and the late Tom Johnson as well as the late Roscoe and the late Elnora Sutton. Warner Southern College is located in Lake Wales Florida.
Last Week’s Athletes (s): 1970 Optimist Packers –
The Team
The 1970 Optimist Packers won the city league with a record of 6-1-1. They then went 3-0-1 in post season play, including a 28-0 win over Geneva, a 26-0 win over Florala, a 20-0 win over Hartsford. In the final game of the season they tied 0-0 against Dothan. Post season awards (watches) went to David Kent as the offensive player of the year, Vincent Page as the defensive player of the year and Ernie Thomas as the lineman of the year. They finished the season with a 9-1-2 record and outscored their opponents 176-26.
The Players
Ernie Thomas – born in Marianna; son of Col. Leland Thomas (ret. USAF) and Virginia Thomas; graduate of Annandale (VA) High School; Graduated from The Citadel and played football for Bobby Ross his first year. Was a commercial contractor in Charleston S.C. for 25 years, then went back to school for his master’s degree. Now teaches history and economics in the state of Maine.
Jay Pelham – currently lives in Huntsville, Alabama and is a supervisor of the security department at a manufacturing plant.
Kenny Hamm – currently lives in Marianna and is the manager of Century Fire Protection. He is married to the former Kathy Caughran of Marianna
Bill Hamilton – Currently lives in Pensacola and serves as the Athletic Director and Head Baseball Coach at Pensacola Jr. College.
Jim Cheeseborough – Currently lives in South Carolina – retired from the Air Force after 21 years; returned to work for the Air Force as a Civilian employee. Married and has four daughters.
Steve James – currently lives in Clearwater and is in the funeral home business. His two children Andrew and Stephanie still reside in Marianna.
Jimmy Parris - currently lives in Marianna and works at Rahal-Miller car dealership. He is married to the former Vickie Gregg and they have three children.
Carl Jones – lives in the Marianna area
David Kent - Deceased
The Coaches
Phillip Clikas – Currently lives in Marianna – retired educator; coached at Marianna Middle School; Remains active in the Optimist Club, a civic organization dedicated to helping local youth.
Buddy Pelham – passed away in 2005. He was a longtime Brick Mason in this area and spent many years coaching youth football and baseball in this area.
Picture Provided by: Shirley Pelham
Thanks to the following folks for their assistance: Nick Kent, Kenny Hamm, Jim Cheesebrough, Virginia Thomas, Shirley Pelham, Jimmy Parris, Andrew James, Earl Mayhall
The 1970 Optimist Packers won the city league with a record of 6-1-1. They then went 3-0-1 in post season play, including a 28-0 win over Geneva, a 26-0 win over Florala, a 20-0 win over Hartsford. In the final game of the season they tied 0-0 against Dothan. Post season awards (watches) went to David Kent as the offensive player of the year, Vincent Page as the defensive player of the year and Ernie Thomas as the lineman of the year. They finished the season with a 9-1-2 record and outscored their opponents 176-26.
The Players
Ernie Thomas – born in Marianna; son of Col. Leland Thomas (ret. USAF) and Virginia Thomas; graduate of Annandale (VA) High School; Graduated from The Citadel and played football for Bobby Ross his first year. Was a commercial contractor in Charleston S.C. for 25 years, then went back to school for his master’s degree. Now teaches history and economics in the state of Maine.
Jay Pelham – currently lives in Huntsville, Alabama and is a supervisor of the security department at a manufacturing plant.
Kenny Hamm – currently lives in Marianna and is the manager of Century Fire Protection. He is married to the former Kathy Caughran of Marianna
Bill Hamilton – Currently lives in Pensacola and serves as the Athletic Director and Head Baseball Coach at Pensacola Jr. College.
Jim Cheeseborough – Currently lives in South Carolina – retired from the Air Force after 21 years; returned to work for the Air Force as a Civilian employee. Married and has four daughters.
Steve James – currently lives in Clearwater and is in the funeral home business. His two children Andrew and Stephanie still reside in Marianna.
Jimmy Parris - currently lives in Marianna and works at Rahal-Miller car dealership. He is married to the former Vickie Gregg and they have three children.
Carl Jones – lives in the Marianna area
David Kent - Deceased
The Coaches
Phillip Clikas – Currently lives in Marianna – retired educator; coached at Marianna Middle School; Remains active in the Optimist Club, a civic organization dedicated to helping local youth.
Buddy Pelham – passed away in 2005. He was a longtime Brick Mason in this area and spent many years coaching youth football and baseball in this area.
Picture Provided by: Shirley Pelham
Thanks to the following folks for their assistance: Nick Kent, Kenny Hamm, Jim Cheesebrough, Virginia Thomas, Shirley Pelham, Jimmy Parris, Andrew James, Earl Mayhall
Friday, June 13, 2008
W.E.C.A. Profile of the Week – Lester Forrest
Lester Forrest says he was given a gift from God. Forrest now uses that gift, the ability and passion to play basketball, to teach area youngsters about the game of basketball and the game of life. Basketball came natural to Forrest and he loved the game from an early age. Growing up in Malone, Forrest was steeped in the great tradition of Malone Tiger basketball. His high school coach, Marvin Lassiter challenged him to be the best ball player possible. Forrest took that challenge because he loved the game. He also admits to accepting the challenge for another reason. "I saw basketball as a way for me to avoid being a farmer and I felt that I could use this gift from God to make a better life for myself," said Forrest. And he did his part in carrying on the Malone tradition by helping lead the 1981 Tigers to a State Championship. After graduating in 1982 Forrest went to Chipola and played for another outstanding coach, Milton H. Johnson, or Coach "J" as he fondly calls him. Forrest helped lead the Indians to a Conference Championship in 1984 and was the Co-MVP on the squad.
After leaving Chipola Forrest went to Berry College in Rome, Georgia. He left Berry and joined the Army, where he continued his love affair with the game of basketball. He played extensively while in the Army both in Seattle and in Europe. But he did more than just play basketball. He served his country during "Operation Desert Storm" and was stationed in Saudi Arabia for 7 ½ months. He rose to the rank of Staff Sergeant before leaving the military and returning home 15 years ago.
Upon returning home he took a job with the Department of Transportation in Chipley, where he holds the position of Engineer / Architect Assistant. Prior to joining forces with the West End Community Association (W.E.C.A.) Forrest managed Chipley’s Little League Basketball and Gilmore Park (named in honor of Chipley native and NBA legend Artis Gilmore).
Forrest joined up with W.E.C.A. four years ago to continue to use the gift he has been given. "I believe I have been given a gift from God and he wants me to use that gift to help mentor young people. Basketball is a way to instill a lot of things these kids need. Things like discipline, teamwork, social skills and hard work. But it also gives me the opportunity to instill moral values and to encourage them to be the best they can be. I tell them if they put the Lord in front of them and work hard, they can be anything they want to be," said Forrest.
The Jackson County Times is featuring a weekly profile during the month of June of individuals that work with the West End Community Association (W.E.C.A). The association is a grant funded program that provides a variety of activities and programs to young people in the Marianna and surrounding communities.
After leaving Chipola Forrest went to Berry College in Rome, Georgia. He left Berry and joined the Army, where he continued his love affair with the game of basketball. He played extensively while in the Army both in Seattle and in Europe. But he did more than just play basketball. He served his country during "Operation Desert Storm" and was stationed in Saudi Arabia for 7 ½ months. He rose to the rank of Staff Sergeant before leaving the military and returning home 15 years ago.
Upon returning home he took a job with the Department of Transportation in Chipley, where he holds the position of Engineer / Architect Assistant. Prior to joining forces with the West End Community Association (W.E.C.A.) Forrest managed Chipley’s Little League Basketball and Gilmore Park (named in honor of Chipley native and NBA legend Artis Gilmore).
Forrest joined up with W.E.C.A. four years ago to continue to use the gift he has been given. "I believe I have been given a gift from God and he wants me to use that gift to help mentor young people. Basketball is a way to instill a lot of things these kids need. Things like discipline, teamwork, social skills and hard work. But it also gives me the opportunity to instill moral values and to encourage them to be the best they can be. I tell them if they put the Lord in front of them and work hard, they can be anything they want to be," said Forrest.
The Jackson County Times is featuring a weekly profile during the month of June of individuals that work with the West End Community Association (W.E.C.A). The association is a grant funded program that provides a variety of activities and programs to young people in the Marianna and surrounding communities.
Summer Basketball League Heating Up
Most folks may not be thinking basketball during the hot month of June, but that is exactly what area high school basketball coaches and players are working on this month. The Boys Basketball June Summer League is being hosted at Marianna High School. The league includes all five of the counties high school teams as well as Port St. Joe, Chipley and Holmes County.
Week one of the league was last week and all five county schools ended up with splits. Marianna posted a 44-36 win over Holmes County and then fell 40-38 to Graceville. Graceville also took on Port St. Joe and were downed 70-44 by the Tiger Sharks. Malone picked up a 53-46 win over Cottondale and then fell 61-59 to Chipley. Cottondale bounced back from their loss to Malone with a 41-31 win over Sneads. The Pirates got their split with a 52-49 win over Chipley.
They began play in week two of the league this past Tuesday night and Marianna posted two wins. They downed Cottondale 58-38 and then beat county rival Malone 58-42. Malone split on the evening as just prior to the game against Marianna they beat Holmes County 62-28. Cottondale split on the night as well with the loss to Marianna and then a 67-35 win over Holmes County.
Marianna lost 9 seniors from a squad that won 26 games and went to the final four. Head Coach Travis Blanton has his work cut out for him. "It’s difficult to replace the kind of players that we lost but we’ve got a good group of kids coming up from a JV team that won 20 games. But it’s a big jump to the varsity level so I suspect we’ll take our lumps early on. I feel like though when February rolls around that we should be competitive," said Blanton.
Malone’s Steven Welch has a good nucleus of players returning. "I like where we are at much better this year than last. We were really young last year so now we’ve got a few guys that have some experience. Against Marianna we missed too many layups and didn’t keep them off the boards. They (Marianna) lost 9 seniors but they are still very athletic and we didn’t do a very good job against them," said Welch.
The Summer League action will be every Tuesday and Thursday night during the month of June at the Marianna High School gym. Four games are held each night with the first game starting at 4 pm. There is a slight difference in the game format as the clock runs continuously for 20 minutes in each half, stopping only in the final minute of each half. The public is invited to come and admission is $1.00.
Week one of the league was last week and all five county schools ended up with splits. Marianna posted a 44-36 win over Holmes County and then fell 40-38 to Graceville. Graceville also took on Port St. Joe and were downed 70-44 by the Tiger Sharks. Malone picked up a 53-46 win over Cottondale and then fell 61-59 to Chipley. Cottondale bounced back from their loss to Malone with a 41-31 win over Sneads. The Pirates got their split with a 52-49 win over Chipley.
They began play in week two of the league this past Tuesday night and Marianna posted two wins. They downed Cottondale 58-38 and then beat county rival Malone 58-42. Malone split on the evening as just prior to the game against Marianna they beat Holmes County 62-28. Cottondale split on the night as well with the loss to Marianna and then a 67-35 win over Holmes County.
Marianna lost 9 seniors from a squad that won 26 games and went to the final four. Head Coach Travis Blanton has his work cut out for him. "It’s difficult to replace the kind of players that we lost but we’ve got a good group of kids coming up from a JV team that won 20 games. But it’s a big jump to the varsity level so I suspect we’ll take our lumps early on. I feel like though when February rolls around that we should be competitive," said Blanton.
Malone’s Steven Welch has a good nucleus of players returning. "I like where we are at much better this year than last. We were really young last year so now we’ve got a few guys that have some experience. Against Marianna we missed too many layups and didn’t keep them off the boards. They (Marianna) lost 9 seniors but they are still very athletic and we didn’t do a very good job against them," said Welch.
The Summer League action will be every Tuesday and Thursday night during the month of June at the Marianna High School gym. Four games are held each night with the first game starting at 4 pm. There is a slight difference in the game format as the clock runs continuously for 20 minutes in each half, stopping only in the final minute of each half. The public is invited to come and admission is $1.00.
Friday, June 6, 2008
W.E.C.A. Profile of the Week – Travis Ephriam
June 5, 2008
As a former four sport athlete at Marianna High School Travis Ephriam is giving back to the community that gave so much to him. Ephriam serves as the coordinator for the W.E.C.A. McClain After School Program. This program, started by John Walker and Maurice Clay five years ago, has received a grant the last three years from the Department of Juvenile Justice’s Prevention Program. The After School program mentors and tutors young students, ages 7-14, during the school year at the McClain Community Center in Marianna. They are open Monday through Friday from 3-7 pm.
Activities and programs range from assisting students with homework and providing them with school supplies to exercises to help prepare them for FCAT testing. In addition, Patty Melvin comes in once a month to encourage positive development of character based on the "Character First" Program. Lou Roberts, Marianna Police Chief, came out to talk with the students and the Jackson County Sheriff’s Department came out to have a cookout with the students. All this, according to Ephriam, provides positive role models and positive associations for the young people in their program. During the past school year the program averaged 20-25 students a day.
"The program is definitely a plus for the community. The Bible says an idle mind is the devil’s workshop and we give the students an extra four hours a day of structured activities and supervision. We feel like it helps the students to develop positive role models both inside their community and outside their community," Ephriam commented. Ephriam emphasized that without the support of other workers the program would not be possible. Those other workers include Leon Kelly, Marqita Harvey and Belinda Wynn.
Ephriam is a 1998 graduate of Marianna where he participated in football, basketball, track and weightlifting. He is a graduate of Chipola and FAMU and is currently working on a Master’s Degree in Leadership from the University of West Florida. While teaching at Marianna High School he coached JV football for 3 years and JV Basketball for 5 years. He most recently taught at Sneads High School. He has been married for four years to the former D’Leisha Cockerham of Grand Ridge.
The Jackson County Times is featuring a weekly profile during the month of June of individuals that work with the West End Community Association (W.E.C.A). The association is a grant funded program that provides a variety of activities and programs to young people in the Marianna and surrounding communities.
As a former four sport athlete at Marianna High School Travis Ephriam is giving back to the community that gave so much to him. Ephriam serves as the coordinator for the W.E.C.A. McClain After School Program. This program, started by John Walker and Maurice Clay five years ago, has received a grant the last three years from the Department of Juvenile Justice’s Prevention Program. The After School program mentors and tutors young students, ages 7-14, during the school year at the McClain Community Center in Marianna. They are open Monday through Friday from 3-7 pm.
Activities and programs range from assisting students with homework and providing them with school supplies to exercises to help prepare them for FCAT testing. In addition, Patty Melvin comes in once a month to encourage positive development of character based on the "Character First" Program. Lou Roberts, Marianna Police Chief, came out to talk with the students and the Jackson County Sheriff’s Department came out to have a cookout with the students. All this, according to Ephriam, provides positive role models and positive associations for the young people in their program. During the past school year the program averaged 20-25 students a day.
"The program is definitely a plus for the community. The Bible says an idle mind is the devil’s workshop and we give the students an extra four hours a day of structured activities and supervision. We feel like it helps the students to develop positive role models both inside their community and outside their community," Ephriam commented. Ephriam emphasized that without the support of other workers the program would not be possible. Those other workers include Leon Kelly, Marqita Harvey and Belinda Wynn.
Ephriam is a 1998 graduate of Marianna where he participated in football, basketball, track and weightlifting. He is a graduate of Chipola and FAMU and is currently working on a Master’s Degree in Leadership from the University of West Florida. While teaching at Marianna High School he coached JV football for 3 years and JV Basketball for 5 years. He most recently taught at Sneads High School. He has been married for four years to the former D’Leisha Cockerham of Grand Ridge.
The Jackson County Times is featuring a weekly profile during the month of June of individuals that work with the West End Community Association (W.E.C.A). The association is a grant funded program that provides a variety of activities and programs to young people in the Marianna and surrounding communities.
Marianna Junior Varsity Defeats Liberty County in Saturday Baseball Jamboree
Coach Andy Shelton fielded a new pack of bulldogs at Saturday morning’s opening baseball game for the area baseball jamboree that featured school teams from throughout the area. Marianna’s squad was broken into two teams, the Junior Varsity and the Varsity squads. Some of the future games will involve the combined squads.
The Saturday jamboree involved other teams from Liberty County, South Walton, Freeport, Cairo, and Bozeman. It was a full day of baseball starting at 9:00 AM and lasting until after 9:00 PM.
In the opener, the Marianna JV squad squeaked out a victory over Liberty County, 6-5. They scored two runs in their last time at bat to take the win. The winning pitcher for Marianna was Dylan Halstead in relief.
The starting pitcher was Alex Bigale who held Liberty County to one run while the Dogs built a three run lead. In the forth inning Coach Shelton changed pitchers and put Shane Blanton on the mound. Liberty County came to life at this point, and with a series of base hits and a sprinkling of walks soon found the score to be 4-4. At this point Jay Elliott took the mound with bases loaded and one out. Elliott put the fire out with a fly ball that scored a tag-up run for Liberty County, followed by a much needed strike out. Marianna went into the fifth trailing 5-4.
Neither team scored in the fifth inning, and in the top of the sixth Dylan Halstead came in to pitch to close out the Liberty County effort. In the bottom of the sixth Marianna scored the tying run on a single by Kadd Golden with bases loaded. The game ended when Ryan Riley scored on a wild pitch to put Marianna ahead.
The Saturday jamboree involved other teams from Liberty County, South Walton, Freeport, Cairo, and Bozeman. It was a full day of baseball starting at 9:00 AM and lasting until after 9:00 PM.
In the opener, the Marianna JV squad squeaked out a victory over Liberty County, 6-5. They scored two runs in their last time at bat to take the win. The winning pitcher for Marianna was Dylan Halstead in relief.
The starting pitcher was Alex Bigale who held Liberty County to one run while the Dogs built a three run lead. In the forth inning Coach Shelton changed pitchers and put Shane Blanton on the mound. Liberty County came to life at this point, and with a series of base hits and a sprinkling of walks soon found the score to be 4-4. At this point Jay Elliott took the mound with bases loaded and one out. Elliott put the fire out with a fly ball that scored a tag-up run for Liberty County, followed by a much needed strike out. Marianna went into the fifth trailing 5-4.
Neither team scored in the fifth inning, and in the top of the sixth Dylan Halstead came in to pitch to close out the Liberty County effort. In the bottom of the sixth Marianna scored the tying run on a single by Kadd Golden with bases loaded. The game ended when Ryan Riley scored on a wild pitch to put Marianna ahead.
Former Chipola Indian Performs for NBA Executives
June 5, 2008
By: Clint Cox
The NBA Pre-Draft Camp kicked off yesterday outside of Orlando, Florida at Disney’s World Wide of Sports Complex. Every NBA team was in attendance, including a number of very high-profile faces, such as Michael Jordan, Larry Bird, Chris Mullin, Scott Skiles, Patrick Ewing, and Steve Kerr just to know a few.
This is basketball’s version of a meat market – drills and scrimmages being conducted on three courts chaotically at the same time with 65 players of all shapes, colors, and sizes, differentiated by numbers, only trying to stand out in any way possible.
Former Chipola Indian and D-League product Mike Taylor, a 6’2 combo guard with freakish athleticism and terrific scoring instincts, stood out after the first day leading all individuals in scoring with 17 points in the first game. Taylor was able to get to the basket at will, made several nice plays by pulling up from mid-range, finished with a nifty floater, and hit one of his signature 3 pointer (something scouts will be scrutinizing closely). According to those in attendance, Taylor clearly looks like an undersized shooting guard, but might just have the physical tools, scoring ability and overall ability to overcome that and turn into a point guard.
Coach Greg Heiar, who was also in attendance said, "I’m very proud of how hard Mike has worked, his determination and will to never give up. It has finally paid off for him. He has learned from his mistakes and it’s great to watch him performing so well here at the NBA Draft Camp in Orlando. "
Mike Taylor is the second Chipola player in five years to be invited to the invitational-only NBA Pre-Draft Camp in Orlando, Florida. Mario Boggan was the first.
By: Clint Cox
The NBA Pre-Draft Camp kicked off yesterday outside of Orlando, Florida at Disney’s World Wide of Sports Complex. Every NBA team was in attendance, including a number of very high-profile faces, such as Michael Jordan, Larry Bird, Chris Mullin, Scott Skiles, Patrick Ewing, and Steve Kerr just to know a few.
This is basketball’s version of a meat market – drills and scrimmages being conducted on three courts chaotically at the same time with 65 players of all shapes, colors, and sizes, differentiated by numbers, only trying to stand out in any way possible.
Former Chipola Indian and D-League product Mike Taylor, a 6’2 combo guard with freakish athleticism and terrific scoring instincts, stood out after the first day leading all individuals in scoring with 17 points in the first game. Taylor was able to get to the basket at will, made several nice plays by pulling up from mid-range, finished with a nifty floater, and hit one of his signature 3 pointer (something scouts will be scrutinizing closely). According to those in attendance, Taylor clearly looks like an undersized shooting guard, but might just have the physical tools, scoring ability and overall ability to overcome that and turn into a point guard.
Coach Greg Heiar, who was also in attendance said, "I’m very proud of how hard Mike has worked, his determination and will to never give up. It has finally paid off for him. He has learned from his mistakes and it’s great to watch him performing so well here at the NBA Draft Camp in Orlando. "
Mike Taylor is the second Chipola player in five years to be invited to the invitational-only NBA Pre-Draft Camp in Orlando, Florida. Mario Boggan was the first.
Malone’s Smith and Bryan Sign
June 5, 2008
By: Clint Cox
It was a big day in Malone last Friday as two of the Tiger’s standout athletes signed letters of intent to take their game to the next level. In girls basketball Mercedes Smith will head to Americus Georgia to play hoops at South Georgia Tech. Smith has been a four year starter for the Lady Tigers program that made it to the State Championship game last year. Smith helped lead this year’s squad to a district championship and second round playoff berth. During the past season Smith averaged 15.1 points a game and 7.3 rebounds per game.
Her coach, Vernette Skeete, was delighted to see Smith sign. "I am always happy when my kids get a chance to play at the next level. That’s one of the things we’ve tried to do at Malone is try and prepare our players so they have that opportunity," said Skeete, who departs Malone this year to become an assistant coach at Okaloosa Walton College. For her part Smith knows the challenge ahead of her will be demanding. "I’ve put in a lot of hard work here at Malone and there is a lot of hard work to be continued," said Smith. She is the daughter of Lee Smith, Sherry Smith and Anita Crawford. She is the granddaughter of Magalene Smith and Annie Pearl Jackson.
From the diamond the Tiger’s Justin Bryan will travel north to the state of Tennessee to play baseball for Jackson State Community College. Bryan played catcher, shortstop and pitcher for the Malone squad that captured a district championship this past season and finished 14-8. At the plate he batted .352 with 17 RBI and 4 home runs. He went 2-1 on the mound with 4 saves, striking out 32 batters and finishing with an impressive ERA of 1.94. Tiger Head Coach Max Harkrider said Bryan is well deserving of the chance to play at the next level. "He has got the talent and has been starting for our program since he was in the 7th grade," said Harkrider.
Bryan is looking forward to his chance to play college baseball, even if it is a long way from home (8 hours). "I’m happy to be going to Jackson State. Only a handful of players get to go to the next level so to just have the chance is great," said Bryan. He is the son of Doug and Sheila Bryan. His grandparents are Phillip and Shirley McMillan, Hellon Bryan and the late James W. Bryan.
By: Clint Cox
It was a big day in Malone last Friday as two of the Tiger’s standout athletes signed letters of intent to take their game to the next level. In girls basketball Mercedes Smith will head to Americus Georgia to play hoops at South Georgia Tech. Smith has been a four year starter for the Lady Tigers program that made it to the State Championship game last year. Smith helped lead this year’s squad to a district championship and second round playoff berth. During the past season Smith averaged 15.1 points a game and 7.3 rebounds per game.
Her coach, Vernette Skeete, was delighted to see Smith sign. "I am always happy when my kids get a chance to play at the next level. That’s one of the things we’ve tried to do at Malone is try and prepare our players so they have that opportunity," said Skeete, who departs Malone this year to become an assistant coach at Okaloosa Walton College. For her part Smith knows the challenge ahead of her will be demanding. "I’ve put in a lot of hard work here at Malone and there is a lot of hard work to be continued," said Smith. She is the daughter of Lee Smith, Sherry Smith and Anita Crawford. She is the granddaughter of Magalene Smith and Annie Pearl Jackson.
From the diamond the Tiger’s Justin Bryan will travel north to the state of Tennessee to play baseball for Jackson State Community College. Bryan played catcher, shortstop and pitcher for the Malone squad that captured a district championship this past season and finished 14-8. At the plate he batted .352 with 17 RBI and 4 home runs. He went 2-1 on the mound with 4 saves, striking out 32 batters and finishing with an impressive ERA of 1.94. Tiger Head Coach Max Harkrider said Bryan is well deserving of the chance to play at the next level. "He has got the talent and has been starting for our program since he was in the 7th grade," said Harkrider.
Bryan is looking forward to his chance to play college baseball, even if it is a long way from home (8 hours). "I’m happy to be going to Jackson State. Only a handful of players get to go to the next level so to just have the chance is great," said Bryan. He is the son of Doug and Sheila Bryan. His grandparents are Phillip and Shirley McMillan, Hellon Bryan and the late James W. Bryan.
Bell Headed to Chipola
June 5, 2008
By: Clint Cox
Another Bulldog basketball player saw a dream come true last Friday when Derrian Bell publicly announced that he will seek to walk on as a member of the Chipola College Men’s Basketball team. Bell will receive a grant in aid through the Chipola Foundation to attend Chipola. The senior point guard helped lead the Bulldogs to the FHSAA Final Four in Lakeland this past season. The Bulldogs finished the season with a record of 26-4. Bell averaged 10.8 points per game, 4 assist and 2 steals per game during his senior season.
Bell looks forward to being able to continue his basketball career in front of his hometown. "Bulldog basketball has been a big part of my life. We’ve had three players sign to play at the next level and I’m looking forward to being a part of a top program like Chipola," said Bell. Chipola Head Coach Greg Heiar commented, "We are excited to have another young man from our area join our program. During my tenure at Chipola our team has been fortunate to have six members join us from the area schools of Chipley, Cottondale, Graceville, Malone and Vernon. All of these former players have gone on to achieve both academic and athletic success."
Bulldog Head Coach Travis Blanton said Bell is very derserving of the opportunity that lays ahead of him. "Derrian has been one of our leaders in the program for the last four years. He is a hard worker and has been a privilege to have him as part of our program," said Blanton. Bell is the son of Dexter and Vonn Bell. His grandparents include J.D. and Mary Riles, Wade and Mary Williams and Eddie and Cynthia Curry.
By: Clint Cox
Another Bulldog basketball player saw a dream come true last Friday when Derrian Bell publicly announced that he will seek to walk on as a member of the Chipola College Men’s Basketball team. Bell will receive a grant in aid through the Chipola Foundation to attend Chipola. The senior point guard helped lead the Bulldogs to the FHSAA Final Four in Lakeland this past season. The Bulldogs finished the season with a record of 26-4. Bell averaged 10.8 points per game, 4 assist and 2 steals per game during his senior season.
Bell looks forward to being able to continue his basketball career in front of his hometown. "Bulldog basketball has been a big part of my life. We’ve had three players sign to play at the next level and I’m looking forward to being a part of a top program like Chipola," said Bell. Chipola Head Coach Greg Heiar commented, "We are excited to have another young man from our area join our program. During my tenure at Chipola our team has been fortunate to have six members join us from the area schools of Chipley, Cottondale, Graceville, Malone and Vernon. All of these former players have gone on to achieve both academic and athletic success."
Bulldog Head Coach Travis Blanton said Bell is very derserving of the opportunity that lays ahead of him. "Derrian has been one of our leaders in the program for the last four years. He is a hard worker and has been a privilege to have him as part of our program," said Blanton. Bell is the son of Dexter and Vonn Bell. His grandparents include J.D. and Mary Riles, Wade and Mary Williams and Eddie and Cynthia Curry.
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