By Clint Cox
The Chipola Men’s and Women’s basketball squads opened up the 2010 Panhandle Conference season against Gulf Coast this past Saturday night at the Milton H. Johnson Health Center in Marianna. The two squads split their openers as the Lady Indians fell and the men held on for an exciting win over the Commodores.
The Lady Indians hit the floor first and Gulf Coast showed everyone why they are ranked #1 in the nation and state. They jumped out to a early lead and held Chipola scoreless for the first five minutes of the game. Ance Celmina finally got the Lady Indians on the scoreboard with fifteen minutes left in the first half. Gulf Coast held a 23-2 lead at one point in the half and then led 44-15 at the half. Chipola played better in the second half but Gulf Coast went on to a 91-43 win. Ty O’Neal was the only Lady Indian in double figures as she hit 12 points. The Lady Indians fell to 10-7 on the year and 0-1 in conference play.
In men’s action the Indians saw Gulf Coast come out fired up and quickly take a lead. Graceville native Willie Kirkland Jr., now playing for the Commodores helped Gulf Coast keep a lead through the first ten minutes of the half. Chipola finally battled back and tied the game on a 3 pointer by Marvin Fitzgerald. John Taylor gave the Indians their first lead of the game, 24-22, with a basket at the seven minute mark of the first half. Taylor’s 7 first half points help Chipola grab a slim 36-33 at the half.
The Indians came out popping in the second half and went up by 9 points before Gulf Coast began to fire back. The Commodores managed to tie the game at 60-60 with five minutes to play and that is when the Indian’s Lashay Page lit up the boards. Page scored 11 of the Indians 13 points in a 3 ½ minute span. That enabled Chipola to go back up by six twice, but each time Gulf Coast would get back to within 2 points. The Commodores, down 71-69, had one last shot to win or tie the game at the buzzer. But their long 3 point attempt bounced off the rim, much to the relief of the Chipola faithful
Chipola was led by Page with 15 points. Dexter Ellington and Keith DeWitt both added 10 points. Kirkland led Gulf Coast with 21 points. Chipola, ranked #5 in the Nation and #2 in the State, improved to 16-1 overall and 1-0 in the conference play. Both the men and women traveled to Pensacola on Wednesday night for a matchup against the Pirates. Results of that contest were not available at press time.
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Bulldogs Sweep Tigers; Down Pirates
Clint Cox
Marianna pulled off the trifecta this past Friday night at the ‘Dog House as they sweep all three games from Malone, in local high school basketball action. The lid lifter, the girl’s game, turned out to be the closest game of the night as Marianna edged Malone by a score of 45-39. The Lady Bulldogs held a slim 8-7 lead at the end of the first quarter and then led by 3 at the half. The Lady Tigers hung close though and trailed 31-30 going into the fourth quarter. That final quarter proved to be the difference as Marianna outscored the Lady Tigers 14-9 to notch the 6 point victory. Sharhae Williams led the Lady Bulldogs with 10 points while Samiqua Davies chipped in 8 points. Christina Wynn and Derrika Fitzpatrick both added 6 each for Marianna. The win over Malone, coupled with a Lady Bulldog win over Walton the night before improved Marianna to 10-4 on the season. Malone was led by Autumn Speigner with 14 points, Vanessa Olds with 12 and Shakira Smith with 9.
The varsity boys took the floor for the final game of the evening and Marianna beat their Jackson County rivals 68-56. The Bulldogs shot out the gates in hot fashion as they jumped out to a 16-0 lead in the first quarter. Malone did not manage a basket until the final minute of the quarter. Ladarius McElroy broke the drought and then helped the Tigers run off four more points to make it 16-6. But a 3 pointer by Tre Jackson at the buzzer gave the Bulldogs a 21-6 lead going into the second quarter. Marianna did not let up in the second quarter and Kendall Leeks hit a 3 pointer to make it a 29-7 lead with five minutes left in the half. Malone’s T.J. Smith and the Tiger gang finally heated up some, but not nearly enough to dig out of the big hole they had dug themselves. Malone trailed the Bulldogs 41-21 at the half.
The second half saw Leeks continue to pace the Bulldogs and McElroy and Smith pacing the Tigers. The third quarter was more evenly played with Marianna outscoring Malone 17-13 to take a 58-34 lead as the fourth quarter began. Malone took advantage of some Bulldog substitutions in the fourth quarter to lessen the blow but the damage had long been done. Marianna got a stellar performance from Leeks who finished with a game high of 26 points. Other Bulldogs in double figures included Tre’Jackson with 14 points and Tre Long with 12. McElroy had a hot night for Malone as he burned the nets for 24 points. Smith followed with 18 for the Tigers.
The sandwich lid game for the evening was the boy’s junior varsity contest and the Bulldogs captured a 47-24 win over the Tigers Qua Royster led the Pups with 13 points while Antonio Holmes and Devin Smith each hit 6 points for the Cubs. The win was special for Bulldog JV Coach Rico Williams as it was his 50th win in just his 3rd season as Head Coach.
Marianna followed that game up with a convincing win on Monday night over the visiting Pirates of Sneads. Marianna posted a 69-43 win over Sneads as Kruize Pinkins and Leeks led the way. Marianna took a 17-9 lead after one quarter and led 40-15 at the half. With the win Marianna improved to 13-2 while Sneads fell to 11-5. The Sneads loss came on the heels of a close 58-56 district win over Blountstown last Friday. Delvin Oliver led the Pirates in the win over Blountstown with 14 points.
Marianna pulled off the trifecta this past Friday night at the ‘Dog House as they sweep all three games from Malone, in local high school basketball action. The lid lifter, the girl’s game, turned out to be the closest game of the night as Marianna edged Malone by a score of 45-39. The Lady Bulldogs held a slim 8-7 lead at the end of the first quarter and then led by 3 at the half. The Lady Tigers hung close though and trailed 31-30 going into the fourth quarter. That final quarter proved to be the difference as Marianna outscored the Lady Tigers 14-9 to notch the 6 point victory. Sharhae Williams led the Lady Bulldogs with 10 points while Samiqua Davies chipped in 8 points. Christina Wynn and Derrika Fitzpatrick both added 6 each for Marianna. The win over Malone, coupled with a Lady Bulldog win over Walton the night before improved Marianna to 10-4 on the season. Malone was led by Autumn Speigner with 14 points, Vanessa Olds with 12 and Shakira Smith with 9.
The varsity boys took the floor for the final game of the evening and Marianna beat their Jackson County rivals 68-56. The Bulldogs shot out the gates in hot fashion as they jumped out to a 16-0 lead in the first quarter. Malone did not manage a basket until the final minute of the quarter. Ladarius McElroy broke the drought and then helped the Tigers run off four more points to make it 16-6. But a 3 pointer by Tre Jackson at the buzzer gave the Bulldogs a 21-6 lead going into the second quarter. Marianna did not let up in the second quarter and Kendall Leeks hit a 3 pointer to make it a 29-7 lead with five minutes left in the half. Malone’s T.J. Smith and the Tiger gang finally heated up some, but not nearly enough to dig out of the big hole they had dug themselves. Malone trailed the Bulldogs 41-21 at the half.
The second half saw Leeks continue to pace the Bulldogs and McElroy and Smith pacing the Tigers. The third quarter was more evenly played with Marianna outscoring Malone 17-13 to take a 58-34 lead as the fourth quarter began. Malone took advantage of some Bulldog substitutions in the fourth quarter to lessen the blow but the damage had long been done. Marianna got a stellar performance from Leeks who finished with a game high of 26 points. Other Bulldogs in double figures included Tre’Jackson with 14 points and Tre Long with 12. McElroy had a hot night for Malone as he burned the nets for 24 points. Smith followed with 18 for the Tigers.
The sandwich lid game for the evening was the boy’s junior varsity contest and the Bulldogs captured a 47-24 win over the Tigers Qua Royster led the Pups with 13 points while Antonio Holmes and Devin Smith each hit 6 points for the Cubs. The win was special for Bulldog JV Coach Rico Williams as it was his 50th win in just his 3rd season as Head Coach.
Marianna followed that game up with a convincing win on Monday night over the visiting Pirates of Sneads. Marianna posted a 69-43 win over Sneads as Kruize Pinkins and Leeks led the way. Marianna took a 17-9 lead after one quarter and led 40-15 at the half. With the win Marianna improved to 13-2 while Sneads fell to 11-5. The Sneads loss came on the heels of a close 58-56 district win over Blountstown last Friday. Delvin Oliver led the Pirates in the win over Blountstown with 14 points.
Thank You Dear Editor,
Hope School hosted our first basketball tournament on December 10, 2009 at Grand Ridge School. Many people and community support helped make this possible and I would like to officially thank each one who contributed to our first and very successful tournament. Thanks to our thirty-one sponsors whose monetary contributions helped defray the cost of t-shirts and lunches for all players and coaches. Thanks to Kindel Lanes for donating the beautiful trophies, to G.R. School and Randy Ward, Principal, we thank you for housing the tournament. Thanks to Darren Gammons for officiating the games. To all others who contributed in some way, please accept our gratitude. As a result of its success, the Hope School Christmas Invitational Tournament will become an annual event.
Sincerely,
Sharon Macaluso - Principal
Sincerely,
Sharon Macaluso - Principal
Chattahoochee Red Bird Baseball
For anyone interested in being a member of the 2010 Chattahoochee Red Birds Baseball Club that plays in the Big Bend Baseball League of Florida, sign ups are tentatively set for:
Saturday, January 30, and Saturday, February 2, 2010 12:30 P.M. EST; at Therrell Field, Chattahoochee, Florida- Highway 90 East
There are no tryouts; no fees to play, but only serious and dedicated players, ages 17 and up are urged to sign up.
More details will be available at the sign ups. If information is needed sooner, contact Quitman Varn at 850-209-4759 (leave message). First practice is tentatively set for Saturday, February 13, at Therrel Field, home of the Chattahoochee Red Birds.
Saturday, January 30, and Saturday, February 2, 2010 12:30 P.M. EST; at Therrell Field, Chattahoochee, Florida- Highway 90 East
There are no tryouts; no fees to play, but only serious and dedicated players, ages 17 and up are urged to sign up.
More details will be available at the sign ups. If information is needed sooner, contact Quitman Varn at 850-209-4759 (leave message). First practice is tentatively set for Saturday, February 13, at Therrel Field, home of the Chattahoochee Red Birds.
Jackson County Jays Baseball
The Jackson County Jays Baseball Club, a 2009 franchised member of the Big Bend Baseball League of Florida, will seek to again franchise a team within the league for the 2010 baseball season. Graduating seniors and former graduates from Jackson County schools, and other adults who desire to play more organized baseball in a highly competitive league, should contact the following for more details, ASAP: (please give name and contact number):
Raymond Bentley, Manager
Jackson County Jays 334-479-2350
Harold W. Bailey, Promotions and Publicity
229-662-2066 or 850-524-2151
Should sufficient interest be shown in franchising the Jays in the Big Bend Baseball League of Florida for the 2010 baseball season, an organizational meeting will be held the first part of January, date, time, and place to be announced at a later date.
Raymond Bentley, Manager
Jackson County Jays 334-479-2350
Harold W. Bailey, Promotions and Publicity
229-662-2066 or 850-524-2151
Should sufficient interest be shown in franchising the Jays in the Big Bend Baseball League of Florida for the 2010 baseball season, an organizational meeting will be held the first part of January, date, time, and place to be announced at a later date.
Marianna Grapplers Compete at Bay; Gearing Up for Home Match
By Clint Cox
The Marianna wrestling squad traveled to Panama City this past Saturday to take part in the annual Bay Invitational Tournament held at Bay High School. Several of the Bulldogs finished in the top five of their respective weight classes. Three of those wrestlers finished third including Angel Candalaria (119) who went 2-1 with two pins; Brandon “Rudy” Robinson (160) went 3-1 with 3 pins; Dylan “Red” Reed (189) went 3-1 with 2 pins. Dalton Hendrix (171) finished forthgoing 2-2 with 1 pin. Brendan Ramsey (140) went 2-2 with two pins to finish fourth as well. Blaine Hansford picked up a win in the 130 weight class.
Other wrestlers that made the trip were Chesten Goodman (112), Jay Phelps (125), Patrick Cox (135), Mike Sawyer (145), Ren Stewart (152) and Will Collier (Heavy Weight). Marianna will be busy over the next couple of weeks as on Thursday they travel to Wewahitchka for a Quad Meet against the Gators. They are back in action again on Saturday as they travel to Pace for Dual Meet. On January 20th they go to Tallahassee for the BJ Fletcher Duals and then the following night, Thursday January 21st they host Wewahitchka in their only home match of the season.
The Marianna wrestling squad traveled to Panama City this past Saturday to take part in the annual Bay Invitational Tournament held at Bay High School. Several of the Bulldogs finished in the top five of their respective weight classes. Three of those wrestlers finished third including Angel Candalaria (119) who went 2-1 with two pins; Brandon “Rudy” Robinson (160) went 3-1 with 3 pins; Dylan “Red” Reed (189) went 3-1 with 2 pins. Dalton Hendrix (171) finished forthgoing 2-2 with 1 pin. Brendan Ramsey (140) went 2-2 with two pins to finish fourth as well. Blaine Hansford picked up a win in the 130 weight class.
Other wrestlers that made the trip were Chesten Goodman (112), Jay Phelps (125), Patrick Cox (135), Mike Sawyer (145), Ren Stewart (152) and Will Collier (Heavy Weight). Marianna will be busy over the next couple of weeks as on Thursday they travel to Wewahitchka for a Quad Meet against the Gators. They are back in action again on Saturday as they travel to Pace for Dual Meet. On January 20th they go to Tallahassee for the BJ Fletcher Duals and then the following night, Thursday January 21st they host Wewahitchka in their only home match of the season.
Friday, January 8, 2010
Yesteryear – 1971 Jets Marianna City League Basketball Team
If our readers recall our yesteryear feature on December 24, 2009 listed the above team mates of the 1971 Marianna City League Jets as follows: front row (left to right) Richard Bell, John Toman, Sean Donofro and Eric Stephens. Back row (left to right), Dennis Keeman, Bryan Craven, Ronald Mitchell and Coach Don Moore.
The December 24th feature also listed the current whereabouts of these teammates. The lone exception to their whereabouts was Eric Stephens, which at the time his whereabouts was unknown. Contact has now been made with Eric (through Facebook) and he is living in Plano, Texas (a suburb of Dallas). Eric is currently working for Nestle Ice Cream, Dreyers/Edy’s Division as the Senior National Distribution and Warehouse Manager for their 50 plus locations in the US.
Send or drop off any pictures of your favorite sports memories to the Jackson County Times. E-mail: clintcox@jacksoncountytimes.net Fax: (850) 526-1505 Phone: (850) 209-7319 Office: 2866 Madison St. Mariann, Fl. 32446
The December 24th feature also listed the current whereabouts of these teammates. The lone exception to their whereabouts was Eric Stephens, which at the time his whereabouts was unknown. Contact has now been made with Eric (through Facebook) and he is living in Plano, Texas (a suburb of Dallas). Eric is currently working for Nestle Ice Cream, Dreyers/Edy’s Division as the Senior National Distribution and Warehouse Manager for their 50 plus locations in the US.
Send or drop off any pictures of your favorite sports memories to the Jackson County Times. E-mail: clintcox@jacksoncountytimes.net Fax: (850) 526-1505 Phone: (850) 209-7319 Office: 2866 Madison St. Mariann, Fl. 32446
Chipola Begins Conference Play on Saturday
By Clint Cox
The Chipola Men’s and Women’s basketball squads will get down to the real business starting this Saturday when they open up play in the always tough Panhandle Conference. Gulf Coast comes to the Milton H. Johnson Health Center in Marianna on Saturday with the ladies tipping off at 5:30 pm and the men following at 7:30 pm
The Lady Indians got back to action after the Christmas break with a 88-78 win over Central Florida in Ocala this past Saturday night. Chipola held a 9 point lead at the half but Central Florida rallied to take a 5 point lead in the second half. Lindsey Carr reeled off 8 straight points and Ty O’Neal hit a big 3 pointer as the Lady Indians fought back to reclaim the lead. Down the stretch Chipola hit some key free throws to seal the victory. Bianca Jarrett led the way with 24 points and Carr followed with 17. Also in double figures was Malesha Petterson with 12 points and Kendra Powell with 10.
With that win Chipola, ranked #8 in the Sate, improved to 10-6 on the season. They open up in tough fashion as Gulf Coast is ranked #1 in the Nation and State. The Lady Commodores enter the contest 14-0. The other Panhandle Conference squads are nationally ranked as well including Northwest Florida State (#5, 13-0) Pensacola (#8, 15-1) and Tallahassee (#11, 12-2).
On the men’s side of the street the Indians came back after the Christmas break by going 4-0 in four straight days last week. Last Wednesday they traveled to Pensacola to take part in the Collegiate Sports Shootout and beat USC-Salkehatchie 80-70. They followed that up with a 76-62 win over Albany Tech 76-62 on Thursday night. On Monday and Tuesday they were in Panama City and picked up a 80-51 win over Georgia Perimeter and a 96-76 win over Northwest Mississippi. Those four wins improved the Indians record to 15-1.
Chipola, ranked #5 in the Nation and #2 in the State, will open up against a Gulf Coast team that is 13-4. Like the ladies, the men’s conference looks again to be very strong. Northwest Florida State is currently 15-1 (#1 in the State and #10 in the Nation), Tallahassee is 14-2 (#3 in the State and #22 in the Nation). Pensacola is 10-7 and unranked.
The Chipola Men’s and Women’s basketball squads will get down to the real business starting this Saturday when they open up play in the always tough Panhandle Conference. Gulf Coast comes to the Milton H. Johnson Health Center in Marianna on Saturday with the ladies tipping off at 5:30 pm and the men following at 7:30 pm
The Lady Indians got back to action after the Christmas break with a 88-78 win over Central Florida in Ocala this past Saturday night. Chipola held a 9 point lead at the half but Central Florida rallied to take a 5 point lead in the second half. Lindsey Carr reeled off 8 straight points and Ty O’Neal hit a big 3 pointer as the Lady Indians fought back to reclaim the lead. Down the stretch Chipola hit some key free throws to seal the victory. Bianca Jarrett led the way with 24 points and Carr followed with 17. Also in double figures was Malesha Petterson with 12 points and Kendra Powell with 10.
With that win Chipola, ranked #8 in the Sate, improved to 10-6 on the season. They open up in tough fashion as Gulf Coast is ranked #1 in the Nation and State. The Lady Commodores enter the contest 14-0. The other Panhandle Conference squads are nationally ranked as well including Northwest Florida State (#5, 13-0) Pensacola (#8, 15-1) and Tallahassee (#11, 12-2).
On the men’s side of the street the Indians came back after the Christmas break by going 4-0 in four straight days last week. Last Wednesday they traveled to Pensacola to take part in the Collegiate Sports Shootout and beat USC-Salkehatchie 80-70. They followed that up with a 76-62 win over Albany Tech 76-62 on Thursday night. On Monday and Tuesday they were in Panama City and picked up a 80-51 win over Georgia Perimeter and a 96-76 win over Northwest Mississippi. Those four wins improved the Indians record to 15-1.
Chipola, ranked #5 in the Nation and #2 in the State, will open up against a Gulf Coast team that is 13-4. Like the ladies, the men’s conference looks again to be very strong. Northwest Florida State is currently 15-1 (#1 in the State and #10 in the Nation), Tallahassee is 14-2 (#3 in the State and #22 in the Nation). Pensacola is 10-7 and unranked.
Graceville Takes Two of Three From Blountstown
By Clint Cox
It was a triple header Cat fight in Graceville Tuesday night as Blountstown traveled to northwestern Jackson County for action on the hardwood. Graceville captured wins in the first two games but could not pull off the sweep, though they battled valiantly, they fell in the final game of the night. Game one featured Junior Varsity boys action and Graceville downed Blountstown by a score of 36-29. Rasheed Campbell and Isam Britt led Graceville with 10 points each.
The sandwich game was the girl’s varsity contest and Graceville cruised to a 49-29 victory. The Lady Tigers led 26-16 at the half and then doubled that 10 point margin in the second half. Mychea Williams led the way with 16 points and was followed by Jessica McClendon with 10 points. Zay Henderson also chipped in 9 points. The win followed a very successful trip for the Lady Tigers during the Christmas holidays as they traveled to Orlando to participate in the Lyman Holiday Classic. Graceville picked up 3 wins to advance to the Championship game where they fell to unbeaten Ocala Vanguard. After Tuesday night’s win Graceville improved to 14-2 on the season.
The night capper pitted the varsity boys and the first quarter was race horse basketball with Blountstown taking a slim 13-11 lead at the end of the quarter. Blountstown reeled off 6 unanswered points to start the second quarter and took a 19-11 lead. Graceville turned up the defensive pressure and Cameron Dozier’s basket with 4 ½ minutes in the second quarter narrowed the Blountstown lead to 21-16. But again Blountstown went on a run with 7 unanswered points to lead 28-16. Blountstown expanded that double digit lead by halftime to 39-21
Graceville kept fighting though in the second half and began to pick up some steam late in the third quarter. A basket at the end of the third quarter by Jacky Miles pulled Graceville back to within 12 points. Cameron Dozier opened the fourth quarter with a basket and Graceville keep on coming at Blountstown. They managed to cut the Blountstown lead down to 4 points with 5 ½ minutes to play on a basket and free throw by Byron Lasiter. Kevin Potts made it a two point game with a basket with 4 ½ minutes to play. Blountstown began to battle back midway through the final quarter as the teams began trading baskets. A Dozier basket with 2:30 left made it a 3 point game. 61-58, but that was as close as Graceville could get as Blountstown pulled back away in the final two minutes for a 71 – 63 victory. Dozier led Graceville with 24 points while Lasiter finished with 9 and Potts added 8.
The girls and boys will double date again this coming week as both will be in Panama City on Thursday to take on Bozeman and then both head to Cottondale on Friday night.
It was a triple header Cat fight in Graceville Tuesday night as Blountstown traveled to northwestern Jackson County for action on the hardwood. Graceville captured wins in the first two games but could not pull off the sweep, though they battled valiantly, they fell in the final game of the night. Game one featured Junior Varsity boys action and Graceville downed Blountstown by a score of 36-29. Rasheed Campbell and Isam Britt led Graceville with 10 points each.
The sandwich game was the girl’s varsity contest and Graceville cruised to a 49-29 victory. The Lady Tigers led 26-16 at the half and then doubled that 10 point margin in the second half. Mychea Williams led the way with 16 points and was followed by Jessica McClendon with 10 points. Zay Henderson also chipped in 9 points. The win followed a very successful trip for the Lady Tigers during the Christmas holidays as they traveled to Orlando to participate in the Lyman Holiday Classic. Graceville picked up 3 wins to advance to the Championship game where they fell to unbeaten Ocala Vanguard. After Tuesday night’s win Graceville improved to 14-2 on the season.
The night capper pitted the varsity boys and the first quarter was race horse basketball with Blountstown taking a slim 13-11 lead at the end of the quarter. Blountstown reeled off 6 unanswered points to start the second quarter and took a 19-11 lead. Graceville turned up the defensive pressure and Cameron Dozier’s basket with 4 ½ minutes in the second quarter narrowed the Blountstown lead to 21-16. But again Blountstown went on a run with 7 unanswered points to lead 28-16. Blountstown expanded that double digit lead by halftime to 39-21
Graceville kept fighting though in the second half and began to pick up some steam late in the third quarter. A basket at the end of the third quarter by Jacky Miles pulled Graceville back to within 12 points. Cameron Dozier opened the fourth quarter with a basket and Graceville keep on coming at Blountstown. They managed to cut the Blountstown lead down to 4 points with 5 ½ minutes to play on a basket and free throw by Byron Lasiter. Kevin Potts made it a two point game with a basket with 4 ½ minutes to play. Blountstown began to battle back midway through the final quarter as the teams began trading baskets. A Dozier basket with 2:30 left made it a 3 point game. 61-58, but that was as close as Graceville could get as Blountstown pulled back away in the final two minutes for a 71 – 63 victory. Dozier led Graceville with 24 points while Lasiter finished with 9 and Potts added 8.
The girls and boys will double date again this coming week as both will be in Panama City on Thursday to take on Bozeman and then both head to Cottondale on Friday night.
Jackson County Jays Baseball
The Jackson County Jays Baseball Club, a 2009 franchised member of the Big Bend Baseball League of Florida, will seek to again franchise a team within the league for the 2010 baseball season. Graduating seniors and former graduates from Jackson County schools, and other adults who desire to play more organized baseball in a highly competitive league, should contact the following for more details, ASAP: (please give name and contact number):
Raymond Bentley, Manager
Jackson County Jays 334-479-2350
Harold W. Bailey, Promotions and Publicity
229-662-2066 or 850-524-2151
Should sufficient interest be shown in franchising the Jays in the Big Bend Baseball League of Florida for the 2010 baseball season, an organizational meeting will be held the first part of January, date, time, and place to be announced at a later date.
Raymond Bentley, Manager
Jackson County Jays 334-479-2350
Harold W. Bailey, Promotions and Publicity
229-662-2066 or 850-524-2151
Should sufficient interest be shown in franchising the Jays in the Big Bend Baseball League of Florida for the 2010 baseball season, an organizational meeting will be held the first part of January, date, time, and place to be announced at a later date.
Magnificent Seven Greatest Games of The Decade for Chipola Men’s Basketball
By Joc Calloway
As Chipola Nation rings in the new year, we take time to look back on the top games from the 2000’s for the Chipola Men’s Basketball Teams. From the historical #1 Indian Hills vs. #2 Chipola game, to the epic 2006 State Championship Game versus Tallahassee, the Indians have been involved in several great battles this decade. After reviewing this list, it is no surprise that Basketball Times Magazine voted Chipola as the top JUCO Program of the decade.
Chipola vs. Tallahassee (96-98 3OT)
2006 State Championship Game
March 11, 2006
In what is probably the greatest game ever played within the confines of the Milton H. Johnson Health Center, nationally-ranked #6 Chipola battled #14 Tallahassee for the opportunity to advance to the 2006 NJCAA National Tournament in Hutchinson, KS. Coming into the game, Chipola held a record of 29-3 with their last loss coming in their final game before the state tournament versus these very Eagles of Tallahassee, 66-67. Therefore the atmosphere was electric inside the Health Center as both teams battled for 40 minutes. During the second half, the two mighty titans exchanged blows with Michael Taylor scoring five three-pointers within a matter of eight possessions and the eagles answering each basket with one of their own.
After 40 minutes, the game was tied at 73-73. After the first overtime, the game was tied 81-81 and after the second extra session, the score was knotted at 88 apiece. However, the third overtime would prove to be the deciding period. In the final 20 seconds, with Chipola leading 96-95, Indian point guard Stefhon Hannah intercepted an eagle pass near half-court and drove to the basket for the lay-up. However, as a T.C.C. defender slid between Hannah and the rim, Hannah dished the ball to nearby teammate Ryan Hamblet as he made contact with the defender. Hamblet would lay the ball up as the official blew his whistle to wave the basket off and, to the astonishment of the sold-out crowd, call an offensive charging foul on Hannah. Tallahassee brought the ball down the floor and contacted on a contested three-pointer by Nigel Johnson with less than three seconds to play. Stefhon Hannah led Chipola with 25 points before fouling out. All five of Chipola’s starters fouled out in the 65-minute marathon.
#2 Chipola vs. #1 Indian Hills (62-61)
Preseason #1 vs. #2
November 3, 2008
The motto used often during the Greg Heiar era at Chipola was simply “Play Anybody, Anywhere, Anytime.” This game stood at the very core of that motto. The Indians would start the season playing nine of their first ten games on the road and when the opportunity to pit preseason #1 vs. #2, the Indians relished the chance to prove their dominance in JUCO basketball. Before the game, a fan was seen walking around the arena at Indian Hills with a shirt that said “This Could Be a Big One.” Oh, how true that statement was. Chipola was coming off a defeat at historical powerhouse Three Rivers C.C. and with less than 48 hours to prepare, they stepped into a packed house in Ottumwa, IA with the #1 ranking on the line.
A constant battle back and forth during the first half gave Chipola a 35-30 favor going into the intermission. During the second half, Indian Hills slowly pulled back but were still down eight with five minutes to go in the game. The game tighten as IHCC made a pair of free throws, converted a three-point play, and scored another basket with just under a minute to go to tie the game at 60. After a missed shot, Casey Mitchell retrieved the offensive rebound and scored to give Chipola the 62-60 lead. But Indian Hills was fouled with less than 20 seconds left and converted one of two free throws to trim the lead to 62-61. Chipola’s Jeremy Jacob was then fouled with seven seconds left and missed the front end of a one-and-one. The Warriors of Indian Hills raced the ball up the floor and shot a contested 3-pointer that was offensively rebounded and scored. However, the buzzer had already sounded and the officials waved the basket off. Chipola escaped with a 62-61 victory and the number #1 ranking in the country.
Chipola vs. Okaloosa-Walton (71-59)
2004 State Championship Game
March 6, 2004
If there was any question as to the changing of the tide within the Panhandle Conference and Region VIII, this game held all the answers. Chipola headed into the regional championship game against bitter rival Okaloosa-Walton in hopes of claiming their first regional title since 1988. Chipola Head Coach Chris Jans’ Indians, who had dominated the Raiders from Niceville in their previous three meetings, vowed not to lose this critical game on their home floor. By halftime, the outcome was all but decided with Chipola leading 42-23. However, the Raiders became red hot while the Indians suddenly grew cold in the second half. When the Chipola lead dwindled to only 13 points, Coach Jans rallied his team during a timeout and stressed the importance of finishing the task at hand. But the night would belong to the Indians as Chipola captured their first State Championship since 1988 by a final score of 71-59. This would begin a streak of 5 State Championships over the next 6 years.
Chipola vs. College of Southern Idaho (96-90)
2007 NJCAA Final Four
March 22, 2007
For fans and enthusiasts, this was the dream match-up for the NJCAA National Champion. However, because the national tournament is not seeded, very rarely do the nation’s top two teams advance to the finals. Therefore, this game occurred during the semi-final game and will live on forever in the grand allures of tournament history.
With over a dozen D-1 players on the floor between both teams, athleticism and pure talent were on display as long-range three pointers rained from the sky and thunderous dunks echoed through the building. Chipola lead by 8 after the first 20 minutes before scoring on their first six possessions of the second half and increasing the lead to 16 points with 17:22 to go. But the Indians knew the lead was anything but safe.
C.S.I. then went on a 18-4 run that slashed the Indians’ lead to two. Both teams looked for a knockout blow in the middle of the half. Chipola threw an alley-oop to Johnnie Harris and C.S.I. answered with a 3-point play from Juan Pattillo. Chipola beat the 35-second clock with a layup before C.S.I. drained another 3-pointer. Down 90-88, Southern Idaho had a chance to tie in the final minute as their post player pivot through traffic and his off-balance jumper clanged off the rim. C.S.I. fouled with 24 seconds left and Ed Berrios made the fist and missed the second, but thanks to Ellis’s tip, grabbed the rebound, and was fouled again. After another made basket by C.S.I., Chipola was fouled and made all their free throws down the stretch to win 96-90.
Chipola vs. Okaloosa-Walton (68-48)
Major Victory Sets Stage for Magical Run
February 8, 2005
Upon losing to conference rival Okaloosa-Walton in their first meeting, the Indians and Coach Greg Heiar knew that they must win this game at home to continue their drive for a second consecutive Panhandle Conference Championship. Chipola trounced O.W. 68-48, in front of the season’s first sell-out of the Milton H. Johnson Health Center. With combination of four Indians scoring in double figures and forcing 25 turnovers, Chipola improved to 6-1 in conference play and would retain the conference title. The Indians would string together 10 straight victories on their way to the NJCAA Final Four.
Chipola vs. Okaloosa-Walton (90-81)
Former Coach Milton H. Johnson is Honored
February 16, 2008
In a game that was advertised as a celebration of the rich basketball history of Chipola College and Milton H. Johnson, the Indians bounced back from a 35-34 halftime deficit to put themselves in the driver’s seat for their fifth consecutive Panhandle Conference crown. Coach Milton H. Johnson was surrounded by over 100 former players during halftime as a special presentation was made on his behalf. At the conclusion of his speech, Coach Johnson brought the crowd to their feet with a simple statement that would set the tone for the second half: “Now if you’ll excuse me, me and my boys are going to go back to our seats and help Chipola win this game!” And indeed they did. Chipola went on a four-minute tear that included connecting on three-pointers on five of six possessions. Mario Little, Kansas signee, had a team high 23 points; while Gary Flowers added 15 points. A total of 5 Indians scored at least 9 points on the night as Chipola captured the 90-81 victory over the Raiders.
Chipola vs. South Georgia Tech (50-57)
Indians Lose, But Set Tone For Future
November 6, 2003
In only his second game at Chipola, Coach Chris Jans hosted the Jets of South Georgia Tech in what would turn into a tremendous defensive battle. Although the Indians would be defeated 50-57, this game set the tone for the upcoming season and sent a loud message to Chipola Nation that a new style of leadership was in town. Chipola’s star player, Je’kel Foster was held to his season-low as he scored only 4 points on the night while going 1 for 12 from the field, including 0 for 6 from 3 point land. Although Chipola was not successful, fans were witnessed to Jans’ new style of play as the Indians took twelve charges during the game. After the game, the Indians would continue to use Jans’ defensively-minded system as they finished 32-5 on the season. The five losses on the season were by an average of fewer than eight points per game. The Indians would capture the Panhandle Conference Championship, first time since 1998, and the school’s first Region VIII Championship since 1988.
As Chipola Nation rings in the new year, we take time to look back on the top games from the 2000’s for the Chipola Men’s Basketball Teams. From the historical #1 Indian Hills vs. #2 Chipola game, to the epic 2006 State Championship Game versus Tallahassee, the Indians have been involved in several great battles this decade. After reviewing this list, it is no surprise that Basketball Times Magazine voted Chipola as the top JUCO Program of the decade.
Chipola vs. Tallahassee (96-98 3OT)
2006 State Championship Game
March 11, 2006
In what is probably the greatest game ever played within the confines of the Milton H. Johnson Health Center, nationally-ranked #6 Chipola battled #14 Tallahassee for the opportunity to advance to the 2006 NJCAA National Tournament in Hutchinson, KS. Coming into the game, Chipola held a record of 29-3 with their last loss coming in their final game before the state tournament versus these very Eagles of Tallahassee, 66-67. Therefore the atmosphere was electric inside the Health Center as both teams battled for 40 minutes. During the second half, the two mighty titans exchanged blows with Michael Taylor scoring five three-pointers within a matter of eight possessions and the eagles answering each basket with one of their own.
After 40 minutes, the game was tied at 73-73. After the first overtime, the game was tied 81-81 and after the second extra session, the score was knotted at 88 apiece. However, the third overtime would prove to be the deciding period. In the final 20 seconds, with Chipola leading 96-95, Indian point guard Stefhon Hannah intercepted an eagle pass near half-court and drove to the basket for the lay-up. However, as a T.C.C. defender slid between Hannah and the rim, Hannah dished the ball to nearby teammate Ryan Hamblet as he made contact with the defender. Hamblet would lay the ball up as the official blew his whistle to wave the basket off and, to the astonishment of the sold-out crowd, call an offensive charging foul on Hannah. Tallahassee brought the ball down the floor and contacted on a contested three-pointer by Nigel Johnson with less than three seconds to play. Stefhon Hannah led Chipola with 25 points before fouling out. All five of Chipola’s starters fouled out in the 65-minute marathon.
#2 Chipola vs. #1 Indian Hills (62-61)
Preseason #1 vs. #2
November 3, 2008
The motto used often during the Greg Heiar era at Chipola was simply “Play Anybody, Anywhere, Anytime.” This game stood at the very core of that motto. The Indians would start the season playing nine of their first ten games on the road and when the opportunity to pit preseason #1 vs. #2, the Indians relished the chance to prove their dominance in JUCO basketball. Before the game, a fan was seen walking around the arena at Indian Hills with a shirt that said “This Could Be a Big One.” Oh, how true that statement was. Chipola was coming off a defeat at historical powerhouse Three Rivers C.C. and with less than 48 hours to prepare, they stepped into a packed house in Ottumwa, IA with the #1 ranking on the line.
A constant battle back and forth during the first half gave Chipola a 35-30 favor going into the intermission. During the second half, Indian Hills slowly pulled back but were still down eight with five minutes to go in the game. The game tighten as IHCC made a pair of free throws, converted a three-point play, and scored another basket with just under a minute to go to tie the game at 60. After a missed shot, Casey Mitchell retrieved the offensive rebound and scored to give Chipola the 62-60 lead. But Indian Hills was fouled with less than 20 seconds left and converted one of two free throws to trim the lead to 62-61. Chipola’s Jeremy Jacob was then fouled with seven seconds left and missed the front end of a one-and-one. The Warriors of Indian Hills raced the ball up the floor and shot a contested 3-pointer that was offensively rebounded and scored. However, the buzzer had already sounded and the officials waved the basket off. Chipola escaped with a 62-61 victory and the number #1 ranking in the country.
Chipola vs. Okaloosa-Walton (71-59)
2004 State Championship Game
March 6, 2004
If there was any question as to the changing of the tide within the Panhandle Conference and Region VIII, this game held all the answers. Chipola headed into the regional championship game against bitter rival Okaloosa-Walton in hopes of claiming their first regional title since 1988. Chipola Head Coach Chris Jans’ Indians, who had dominated the Raiders from Niceville in their previous three meetings, vowed not to lose this critical game on their home floor. By halftime, the outcome was all but decided with Chipola leading 42-23. However, the Raiders became red hot while the Indians suddenly grew cold in the second half. When the Chipola lead dwindled to only 13 points, Coach Jans rallied his team during a timeout and stressed the importance of finishing the task at hand. But the night would belong to the Indians as Chipola captured their first State Championship since 1988 by a final score of 71-59. This would begin a streak of 5 State Championships over the next 6 years.
Chipola vs. College of Southern Idaho (96-90)
2007 NJCAA Final Four
March 22, 2007
For fans and enthusiasts, this was the dream match-up for the NJCAA National Champion. However, because the national tournament is not seeded, very rarely do the nation’s top two teams advance to the finals. Therefore, this game occurred during the semi-final game and will live on forever in the grand allures of tournament history.
With over a dozen D-1 players on the floor between both teams, athleticism and pure talent were on display as long-range three pointers rained from the sky and thunderous dunks echoed through the building. Chipola lead by 8 after the first 20 minutes before scoring on their first six possessions of the second half and increasing the lead to 16 points with 17:22 to go. But the Indians knew the lead was anything but safe.
C.S.I. then went on a 18-4 run that slashed the Indians’ lead to two. Both teams looked for a knockout blow in the middle of the half. Chipola threw an alley-oop to Johnnie Harris and C.S.I. answered with a 3-point play from Juan Pattillo. Chipola beat the 35-second clock with a layup before C.S.I. drained another 3-pointer. Down 90-88, Southern Idaho had a chance to tie in the final minute as their post player pivot through traffic and his off-balance jumper clanged off the rim. C.S.I. fouled with 24 seconds left and Ed Berrios made the fist and missed the second, but thanks to Ellis’s tip, grabbed the rebound, and was fouled again. After another made basket by C.S.I., Chipola was fouled and made all their free throws down the stretch to win 96-90.
Chipola vs. Okaloosa-Walton (68-48)
Major Victory Sets Stage for Magical Run
February 8, 2005
Upon losing to conference rival Okaloosa-Walton in their first meeting, the Indians and Coach Greg Heiar knew that they must win this game at home to continue their drive for a second consecutive Panhandle Conference Championship. Chipola trounced O.W. 68-48, in front of the season’s first sell-out of the Milton H. Johnson Health Center. With combination of four Indians scoring in double figures and forcing 25 turnovers, Chipola improved to 6-1 in conference play and would retain the conference title. The Indians would string together 10 straight victories on their way to the NJCAA Final Four.
Chipola vs. Okaloosa-Walton (90-81)
Former Coach Milton H. Johnson is Honored
February 16, 2008
In a game that was advertised as a celebration of the rich basketball history of Chipola College and Milton H. Johnson, the Indians bounced back from a 35-34 halftime deficit to put themselves in the driver’s seat for their fifth consecutive Panhandle Conference crown. Coach Milton H. Johnson was surrounded by over 100 former players during halftime as a special presentation was made on his behalf. At the conclusion of his speech, Coach Johnson brought the crowd to their feet with a simple statement that would set the tone for the second half: “Now if you’ll excuse me, me and my boys are going to go back to our seats and help Chipola win this game!” And indeed they did. Chipola went on a four-minute tear that included connecting on three-pointers on five of six possessions. Mario Little, Kansas signee, had a team high 23 points; while Gary Flowers added 15 points. A total of 5 Indians scored at least 9 points on the night as Chipola captured the 90-81 victory over the Raiders.
Chipola vs. South Georgia Tech (50-57)
Indians Lose, But Set Tone For Future
November 6, 2003
In only his second game at Chipola, Coach Chris Jans hosted the Jets of South Georgia Tech in what would turn into a tremendous defensive battle. Although the Indians would be defeated 50-57, this game set the tone for the upcoming season and sent a loud message to Chipola Nation that a new style of leadership was in town. Chipola’s star player, Je’kel Foster was held to his season-low as he scored only 4 points on the night while going 1 for 12 from the field, including 0 for 6 from 3 point land. Although Chipola was not successful, fans were witnessed to Jans’ new style of play as the Indians took twelve charges during the game. After the game, the Indians would continue to use Jans’ defensively-minded system as they finished 32-5 on the season. The five losses on the season were by an average of fewer than eight points per game. The Indians would capture the Panhandle Conference Championship, first time since 1998, and the school’s first Region VIII Championship since 1988.
Cottondale Splits With Tiger Sharks
By Clint Cox
The Cottondale Lady Hornets and Hornets played host to Port St. Joe this past Saturday night. The Lady Hornets notched a solide 45-26 win over the Lady Tiger Sharks. Kiki Paul led the way with 15 points, all coming from beyond the three point line. Jakia Grimsley followed with 14 points and Shay Wright chipped in 11 points. The Lady Hornets improved to 5-7 on the season with the win.
The Hornets were not so fortunate as Port St. Joe pulled away from Cottondale in the third quarter and then fought off a Hornet rally in the fourth quarter for a 64-60 victory. Marcus Humose led the Hornets with 24 points and Drew Bellamy added 14 points. The Hornets held a four point lead at the half but the Tiger Sharks came out hot in the second half and took a four point lead into the final quarter. They went up by as many as 9 points before Cottondale made a run. But the Hornet rally fell short in the four point loss.
Both the boy’s and girl’s were in action on Tuesday in Panama City against Bozeman. Results of those games were not available at press time. The girls are back in action Thursday in Ponce De Leon and the back home on Friday for a double date with the boys against Graceville.
The Cottondale Lady Hornets and Hornets played host to Port St. Joe this past Saturday night. The Lady Hornets notched a solide 45-26 win over the Lady Tiger Sharks. Kiki Paul led the way with 15 points, all coming from beyond the three point line. Jakia Grimsley followed with 14 points and Shay Wright chipped in 11 points. The Lady Hornets improved to 5-7 on the season with the win.
The Hornets were not so fortunate as Port St. Joe pulled away from Cottondale in the third quarter and then fought off a Hornet rally in the fourth quarter for a 64-60 victory. Marcus Humose led the Hornets with 24 points and Drew Bellamy added 14 points. The Hornets held a four point lead at the half but the Tiger Sharks came out hot in the second half and took a four point lead into the final quarter. They went up by as many as 9 points before Cottondale made a run. But the Hornet rally fell short in the four point loss.
Both the boy’s and girl’s were in action on Tuesday in Panama City against Bozeman. Results of those games were not available at press time. The girls are back in action Thursday in Ponce De Leon and the back home on Friday for a double date with the boys against Graceville.
Pirates Notch Two More Wins
By Clint Cox
The Sneads Pirates boy’s basketball squad started off the new year in fine fashion as they picked up two wins this past Saturday and Monday night. On Saturday they traveled to South Walton to take on the Seahawks and got a big fourth quarter from Delvin Oliver to secure a 65-52 win. It was a nip and tuck contest for 3 quarters as neither team held more than a 1 point lead at the end of the quarter. Sneads held a 10-9 lead after the first quarter but trailed 22-21 at the half. The Pirates came back to take a one point lead, 40-39, going into the fourth quarter. Oliver had lead Sneads with 14 points through three quarters and then he burned the nets for 16 points in the last quarter to set the Pirates sails. Sneads outscored South Walton 25-13 in the final quarter as Oliver finished with 30 points on the night. Jeff Davis added 11 points in the Pirates district road win.
They followed that game up with a home contest on Monday night as the Eagles of North Florida Christian flew into Sneads. The Pirates set their sails early in this contest as they led 14-8 at the end of the first quarter and then 33-14 at the half. The third quarter was more even as Sneads outscored the Eagles 15-13 and held a 48-27 lead as the fourth quarter began. The Pirates showed no mercy to the visitors as they racked up 28 fourth quarter points to finish with a 76-45 victory. Darryl Johnson, who missed the first part of the season with an ankle injury, is back in action and led the Pirates with 20 points. Three other Pirates were in double figures as Josh Rogers hit 12 points and Oliver and Jamar White each chipped in 11 points.
With these two wins Sneads improved to 9-4 on the season. They were scheduled to travel to Vernon on Tuesday night to take on the Yellow Jackets. Results of that contest were not available at press time.
The Sneads Pirates boy’s basketball squad started off the new year in fine fashion as they picked up two wins this past Saturday and Monday night. On Saturday they traveled to South Walton to take on the Seahawks and got a big fourth quarter from Delvin Oliver to secure a 65-52 win. It was a nip and tuck contest for 3 quarters as neither team held more than a 1 point lead at the end of the quarter. Sneads held a 10-9 lead after the first quarter but trailed 22-21 at the half. The Pirates came back to take a one point lead, 40-39, going into the fourth quarter. Oliver had lead Sneads with 14 points through three quarters and then he burned the nets for 16 points in the last quarter to set the Pirates sails. Sneads outscored South Walton 25-13 in the final quarter as Oliver finished with 30 points on the night. Jeff Davis added 11 points in the Pirates district road win.
They followed that game up with a home contest on Monday night as the Eagles of North Florida Christian flew into Sneads. The Pirates set their sails early in this contest as they led 14-8 at the end of the first quarter and then 33-14 at the half. The third quarter was more even as Sneads outscored the Eagles 15-13 and held a 48-27 lead as the fourth quarter began. The Pirates showed no mercy to the visitors as they racked up 28 fourth quarter points to finish with a 76-45 victory. Darryl Johnson, who missed the first part of the season with an ankle injury, is back in action and led the Pirates with 20 points. Three other Pirates were in double figures as Josh Rogers hit 12 points and Oliver and Jamar White each chipped in 11 points.
With these two wins Sneads improved to 9-4 on the season. They were scheduled to travel to Vernon on Tuesday night to take on the Yellow Jackets. Results of that contest were not available at press time.
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