The other day I posted about my Rookie Broadcasting position with the Lake Norman Copperheads. All the things rookies have to put up with to get better. At least, all the things I have to learn being a rookie in the business, anyway.
It seems that some rookies don't have to got through the pain and suffering, the learning curve so to speak, as I've had to endure. I'm talking about the Atlanta Braves Justin Heyward and the Detroit Tigers Brennan Boesch. If you follow baseball at all, you probably remember Heyward's first at bat for the Braves. He hit a booming home run & ESPN turned the camera on fans celebrating with his father in the stands. What a way to break into the major leagues!
Since that initial at bat, Heyward's numbers have been worthy of a National League Rookie of the Year front runner. Of course, there is one Stephen Strasburg who so far has overshadowed Heyward while only taking the mound for the Washington Nationals four times, but that's another story altogether. For an everyday position player, I don't think the Braves or Manager Bobby Cox, who is in his final season of a hall of fame managerial career, could have asked for anything better.
Heyward, only 20 years old, was an expected future superstar before the season began. On the flip side of that, Brennan Boesch, 24, has basically come out of nowhere. There were no big expectations for Boesch within the Tiger's organization. Sure, the kid had some pop in the bat, but wasn't hitting for a high average during his minor league career. After all, the Tigers had several rising young stars who played parts of the last two years with the big club and seemed ready to play every day. Heyward was expected to come up to the big club, while Boesch seemed destined to be trade bait for maybe some insurance for a final push at an American League Central pennant later in the year.
Somehow, Boesch got a chance, due to Carlos Guillen's injury and the left-fielder-of-the-future, Ryan Rayburn, in the midst of a season opening slump. Brennan made the best of his opportunity. Maybe there was a little luck involved, that he just happened to be hot at the plate for the first few games. Manager Jim Leyland was quoted as saying something along the lines of he was going to play him as long as he was contributing. Leyland hasn't taken him out of a full-time left field spot since, except for the occasional day off for a rest.
These two rookies met in Atlanta this week. Bunches of pictures taken of the two. Interviews with both. And everybody on both teams being asked by the media what they think of their chances to become the American and National League Rookies of the Year after the season is over.
Well, my guess is that it's still way, way too early to cast any final votes. It's not even the All-Star break yet. There's a long way to go in a long season. But one thing is for sure; if the season ended tomorrow, they'd get most of the votes (sans Stratusburg). Here are a look at their numbers so far in their rookie campaigns:
____________AB R H HR RBI AVG OB% SLG%
Justin Hayward 251 41 64 11 45 .255 .371 .462
Brennan Boesch 185 24 64 11 39 .346 .399 .632
Sunday, June 27, 2010
Thursday, June 17, 2010
"Nick, I've Got Bad News . . ."
That's what my summer internship boss told me the other day. He said "I'm going to share this with you, but I don't want you to make too much out of it. I think you're doing a good job."
I know most folks haven't followed my exercises in writing over the years, but may have been reading them for a while. I started off contributing game recap articles to the Rocky Mount Evening Telegram when I was at Edwards Middle School, sending them results with short highlight notes on our Thunderbird baseball games. I went on to ihigh.com, covering football games at Rocky Mount High. I started this blog soon after I started my freshman year at UNCP before joining the student newspaper staff. I worked my way into an Assistant Sports Editor position before my freshman year was up. Before I left school for the summer, I had been named Sports Editor and the school's Mass Communication Department awarded me the title and honor of "Rookie of the Year" for my contributions to the department.
I had also landed a spot on the campus radio station doing a weekly sports show on Monday evenings that centered on UNCP athletics. I hope to continue with that show next year as a junior.
I'd like to think that landing my summer job - my first internship for my two majors - was at least partially based on my experience, if not for how well I am progressing in my field. I had never called a game on the radio before, so I was a little nervous when I showed up for my first game behind the mike. New boss, new surroundings, new players, new town, new job. Okay, I was a lot nervous.
I got through the first game, and it was an experience. I felt like I was just talking to myself the entire game. I suppose I actually was, because there was nobody else doing any talking. Nobody answering me, nobody commenting on the call or the play. Just me.
I bear no thought that it was as professionally polished as it could be. Like I said, it was my first time out. I got through it. Dad and I talked not only that game, but the ones since. Maybe I could do this, maybe I could add that. It helps to have somebody give you some advise and have some input. I have since figured out how to retrieve the broadcasts and listen to them myself. I've got a long way to go, for sure, but this is supposed to be a learning experience for me.
Learning experiences come with ups and downs. The good, bad and ugly, I suppose. So getting back to where I started with all this; with all my "experience" on the keyboard and behind the mike, the awards and the "I read you all the time, you're doing a great job" comments, I was floored when my summer boss showed me an e-mail he got. I was the target. Man, was I the target.
The e-mail pointed out, in no uncertain terms, what this guy thought of one of my broadcasts. It was my fourth baseball game call of my oh-so-short-so-far career. At first I was asking myself; is this guy for real? Is this guy some jerk? But it really didn't take long for me to realize that what he was saying was basically true. I'm a rookie and I have a long way to go. I've got a lot to learn. The e-mail pushed me to find out how I could find and listen to the replays I call. I'm doing homework now between games, taking notes on what I think works and what I think doesn't work. I've taken into consideration what the e-mailing guy had to say, sifted through what I can control and what I can't.
So, to the guy who sent the e-mail letting me know you weren't happy with the call that night, thank you. It wasn't exactly constructive criticism, but I used it that way, and I think it will help me become better.
The next time someone says ". . .I've got bad news. . ." maybe we can turn it into good news.
I know most folks haven't followed my exercises in writing over the years, but may have been reading them for a while. I started off contributing game recap articles to the Rocky Mount Evening Telegram when I was at Edwards Middle School, sending them results with short highlight notes on our Thunderbird baseball games. I went on to ihigh.com, covering football games at Rocky Mount High. I started this blog soon after I started my freshman year at UNCP before joining the student newspaper staff. I worked my way into an Assistant Sports Editor position before my freshman year was up. Before I left school for the summer, I had been named Sports Editor and the school's Mass Communication Department awarded me the title and honor of "Rookie of the Year" for my contributions to the department.
I had also landed a spot on the campus radio station doing a weekly sports show on Monday evenings that centered on UNCP athletics. I hope to continue with that show next year as a junior.
I'd like to think that landing my summer job - my first internship for my two majors - was at least partially based on my experience, if not for how well I am progressing in my field. I had never called a game on the radio before, so I was a little nervous when I showed up for my first game behind the mike. New boss, new surroundings, new players, new town, new job. Okay, I was a lot nervous.
I got through the first game, and it was an experience. I felt like I was just talking to myself the entire game. I suppose I actually was, because there was nobody else doing any talking. Nobody answering me, nobody commenting on the call or the play. Just me.
I bear no thought that it was as professionally polished as it could be. Like I said, it was my first time out. I got through it. Dad and I talked not only that game, but the ones since. Maybe I could do this, maybe I could add that. It helps to have somebody give you some advise and have some input. I have since figured out how to retrieve the broadcasts and listen to them myself. I've got a long way to go, for sure, but this is supposed to be a learning experience for me.
Learning experiences come with ups and downs. The good, bad and ugly, I suppose. So getting back to where I started with all this; with all my "experience" on the keyboard and behind the mike, the awards and the "I read you all the time, you're doing a great job" comments, I was floored when my summer boss showed me an e-mail he got. I was the target. Man, was I the target.
The e-mail pointed out, in no uncertain terms, what this guy thought of one of my broadcasts. It was my fourth baseball game call of my oh-so-short-so-far career. At first I was asking myself; is this guy for real? Is this guy some jerk? But it really didn't take long for me to realize that what he was saying was basically true. I'm a rookie and I have a long way to go. I've got a lot to learn. The e-mail pushed me to find out how I could find and listen to the replays I call. I'm doing homework now between games, taking notes on what I think works and what I think doesn't work. I've taken into consideration what the e-mailing guy had to say, sifted through what I can control and what I can't.
So, to the guy who sent the e-mail letting me know you weren't happy with the call that night, thank you. It wasn't exactly constructive criticism, but I used it that way, and I think it will help me become better.
The next time someone says ". . .I've got bad news. . ." maybe we can turn it into good news.
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
The Price Of Athletics - NCHSAA Pod System
It's been a while now since Tony Doughtie posted his distaste for the new NCHSAA Pod Playoffs System for high school football. I have to agree, based on Tony's explanation of how many conference games would go on during the first couple of weeks.
Why doesn't the NCHSAA just send the conference champions to the playoffs? It really makes no sense to me that if Rocky Mount beats Hunt for first place in the conference, they have to play again two weeks later in the first or second round of the playoffs. Tony hit it on the head - yuck. This system reduces the conference championship to just a #1 seed of a conference tournament between the first two or three teams.
I suppose these games will probably make money for each school. Playoff games (at least at Rocky Mount High) will make you some money. But if the point of the playoff system is to find the best team in the state, then just let each of the conference champions play one another. If that reduces the number of games, then add that week back you took away earlier in the year & push back the conference games by a week. What point is there to winning conference if you have to beat the same team again in the first round?
Attempting to put together a playoff system that saves money is OK, I suppose. Travel expenses are high. Did the NCHSAA do any studies on how many times a #16, #15 or #14 seed traveled and beat the #1, #2 or #3 seeds? I would think if they would have done their homework, they would have eliminated the first round games, as many of those teams had no chance to begin with. Instead of spending that money on traveling to a school who will beat you anyway, they could keep the money and stay home.
I would think that if the NCHSAA would have done their homework, they would not have eliminated one game on the regular season schedule, but eliminated that game from the playoff schedule. I wonder if they considered eliminating a hand full of teams, for example 12 teams in, instead of 16, and giving the top seeded teams a bye for the first week?
Why doesn't the NCHSAA just send the conference champions to the playoffs? It really makes no sense to me that if Rocky Mount beats Hunt for first place in the conference, they have to play again two weeks later in the first or second round of the playoffs. Tony hit it on the head - yuck. This system reduces the conference championship to just a #1 seed of a conference tournament between the first two or three teams.
I suppose these games will probably make money for each school. Playoff games (at least at Rocky Mount High) will make you some money. But if the point of the playoff system is to find the best team in the state, then just let each of the conference champions play one another. If that reduces the number of games, then add that week back you took away earlier in the year & push back the conference games by a week. What point is there to winning conference if you have to beat the same team again in the first round?
Attempting to put together a playoff system that saves money is OK, I suppose. Travel expenses are high. Did the NCHSAA do any studies on how many times a #16, #15 or #14 seed traveled and beat the #1, #2 or #3 seeds? I would think if they would have done their homework, they would have eliminated the first round games, as many of those teams had no chance to begin with. Instead of spending that money on traveling to a school who will beat you anyway, they could keep the money and stay home.
I would think that if the NCHSAA would have done their homework, they would not have eliminated one game on the regular season schedule, but eliminated that game from the playoff schedule. I wonder if they considered eliminating a hand full of teams, for example 12 teams in, instead of 16, and giving the top seeded teams a bye for the first week?
The Price of Athletics is going up. It just doesn't seem that the decisions being made to keep the price down are in the best interest of everyone involved.
Thursday, June 3, 2010
Legend Calls It A Career
Junior in his early years inside the Kingdome in Seattle with the Mariners.
(photo - espn.com)
His dad played in the majors and won a couple of world series in the 70's with Cincinnati's "Big Red Machine".
He started playing Major League Baseball at 19 years old. And his dad was on his team.
Matter of fact, he started playing with the Seattle Mariners the year before I was born. All my years following Major League Baseball, he has been playing. No more.
Ken Griffey Jr., or simply "Junior", retired from baseball on Wednesday. He had spent 20 years with the Mariners - his dad's last team - and the Reds - his dad's championship team - and a partial year with Chicago's White Sox. He amassed mind-boggling offensive numbers over those years. Many argue he could have been the greatest home run hitter of all time; possibly the best offensive player of all time, if not for a series of injuries that required him missing many games while still in his prime.
Junior burst on the scene in 1989 as a raw talent and became the city of Seattle's iconic sports figure. He bolted for his father's team when the Cincinnati Reds offered him big bucks as a free agent in 2000. When his swing was fading, and his career winding down, the Mariners and the city of Seattle forgave him, and welcomed him back "home" to play out his final games. Griffey announced yesterday that the time had come for him to step away from the game as a player.
This guy was absolutely absurd in his ability to hit a baseball. A natural talent who stayed away from all the steroid allegations of his peers during his career, Junior is one of the few who can be called a first ballot hall of famer. He never played in the big time markets of New York or Los Angeles. Never won a World Series. But his abilities on the baseball field were never ignored. Here's a look at his career numbers.
630 Home Runs
1,836 RBI
.284 Batting Average
.370 On Base Percentage
2,781 Hits
524 Doubles
1,312 walks
9,801 At Bats
1,662 runs
2,671 games played
5,271 total bases
42,851 total pitches faced
Thanks, Ken Griffey Jr. For all you did for the game of baseball and for it's fans.
Thursday, May 13, 2010
The Price of Athletics...
I'm going to reference Tony Doughtie's Blog from May 7, when he reported that the NCHSAA cut down the football season by a week in order to cut costs. This is supposed to save money on transportation. I'm not sure I get that as a cost savings measure, when most teams will probably give up their bye week and still play eleven games anyway.
Another thought that came across my mind on this measure is that we're talking about eliminating a football game to save money. Really? Football and Basketball seem to be the two sports that actually might make money.
The reason I bring this up is that the cost to high schools and school districts supporting athletic programs has to be increasing at a pretty alarming rate. Any way they can save would probably help. It probably won't be popular, either. Cutting out a week of football season or having girls and boys, jay-vees and varsity teams all playing on the same night at the same school saves money on travel expenses. Not popular, but cost saving.
I was talking with my dad about high school sports and how schools are trying to save money. He told me he could remember there being whispers of possible pay-to-play being put into place during my freshman year at Rocky Mount High. Gas prices back then were probably less than half of what they are now.
While scrolling through my e-mail, I find one from pops that sends me to www.detnews.com. An article on pay-to-play up in Michigan. The article sites several school districts and plans to increase their charges to participate in high school athletics.
Increase the charges? Yes, it seems most are already charging to play high school sports. According to the article, Birmingham School District is proposing raising their charges from $130 to $140. It does not say if that is per sport or for unlimited participation. Farmington Public School District proposes an increase from $100 for unlimited sports to $300.
If that seems like a lot of cash for one of your children to play high school sports, just imagine if you had two or three - at the same time. The article sited no discounts for a second or third child.
Then, of course, there is the Oakland County District. They will vote this month on tripling it's rates. If your child is in Middle School, it would cost $210 to play one sport. (I'm guessing it would cost the same for a second and third sport.) If you are unfortunate enough to have a child in high school, you'll need to come up with $450 for one sport.
As mind-boggling as some of those fees are, there are some fairly grim numbers cited that makes these fees a necessity. The Rochester District is facing a $14.6 million shortfall next year. Birmingham Schools is facing an $8 million shortfall, but says they are committed to sustaining the 53 varsity sports and over 100 teams.
53 varsity sports?
Let's hope the folks from Rocky Mount High don't have to start dolling out that kind of cash for their children to participate on an athletic team. I think most parents would probably rather see $1 increase in ticket prices first. Or have to watch the Freshman basketball game, then the JV Girls, then the JV Boys, then the Varsity Girls before finally getting to the Varsity Boys.
Yes, not the most popular decision, but I'm thinking it still beats paying $450 to participate in one sport.
Another thought that came across my mind on this measure is that we're talking about eliminating a football game to save money. Really? Football and Basketball seem to be the two sports that actually might make money.
The reason I bring this up is that the cost to high schools and school districts supporting athletic programs has to be increasing at a pretty alarming rate. Any way they can save would probably help. It probably won't be popular, either. Cutting out a week of football season or having girls and boys, jay-vees and varsity teams all playing on the same night at the same school saves money on travel expenses. Not popular, but cost saving.
I was talking with my dad about high school sports and how schools are trying to save money. He told me he could remember there being whispers of possible pay-to-play being put into place during my freshman year at Rocky Mount High. Gas prices back then were probably less than half of what they are now.
While scrolling through my e-mail, I find one from pops that sends me to www.detnews.com. An article on pay-to-play up in Michigan. The article sites several school districts and plans to increase their charges to participate in high school athletics.
Increase the charges? Yes, it seems most are already charging to play high school sports. According to the article, Birmingham School District is proposing raising their charges from $130 to $140. It does not say if that is per sport or for unlimited participation. Farmington Public School District proposes an increase from $100 for unlimited sports to $300.
If that seems like a lot of cash for one of your children to play high school sports, just imagine if you had two or three - at the same time. The article sited no discounts for a second or third child.
Then, of course, there is the Oakland County District. They will vote this month on tripling it's rates. If your child is in Middle School, it would cost $210 to play one sport. (I'm guessing it would cost the same for a second and third sport.) If you are unfortunate enough to have a child in high school, you'll need to come up with $450 for one sport.
As mind-boggling as some of those fees are, there are some fairly grim numbers cited that makes these fees a necessity. The Rochester District is facing a $14.6 million shortfall next year. Birmingham Schools is facing an $8 million shortfall, but says they are committed to sustaining the 53 varsity sports and over 100 teams.
53 varsity sports?
Let's hope the folks from Rocky Mount High don't have to start dolling out that kind of cash for their children to participate on an athletic team. I think most parents would probably rather see $1 increase in ticket prices first. Or have to watch the Freshman basketball game, then the JV Girls, then the JV Boys, then the Varsity Girls before finally getting to the Varsity Boys.
Yes, not the most popular decision, but I'm thinking it still beats paying $450 to participate in one sport.
Sunday, May 2, 2010
UNCP tennis unites from around the globe
By Nick Phillips
Asst.Sports Editor
April 29, 2010
Tennis players Maricel Quintero Prieto, Madeline DiNunzio and Mia Winterbottom (left to right) all came to UNCP as international students, and are three players of the seven total players on UNCP’s roster.
When students look at colleges and universities to attend, many look at schools within their state. When students also have athletic potential and are looking at the possibility of an athletic scholarship, the distance and location of the colleges and universities tends to play a less significant role. But coming to an entirely different country?
Madeline DiNunzio, Maricel Quintero- Prieto and Mia Winterbottom are three members of the seven-member UNCP tennis team, and each took an extraordinary approach to arrive in Pembroke.
All three are international students, coming to campus from three different parts of the globe. For one, their first time in America was coupled with stepping on UNCP’s campus, while another frequented Florida several times a year and the third came to Pembroke by way of community college.
Helpful advice
Quintero-Prieto has two years of experience with the Braves under her belt, coming to UNCP from Bogota, Colombia. The junior attended Cowley County Community College in Kansas before moving on to Pembroke.
In two seasons, Quintero-Prieto has compiled a 22-24 record in singles play, while her doubles record stands at 10-34.
This season, Quintero-Prieto also played the role of big sister to DiNunzio and Winterbottom. Having been through the same trials as the two freshmen were experiencing, both freshmen agreed that Quintero-Prieto was a huge help as they transitioned to college and America.
From Down Under
When Winterbottom came to UNCP last fall, it was not only her first time on campus, but her first trip to the United States. The Sydney, Australia, native said she was both nervous and excited in anticipation of coming to school.
“I was nervous and sad to leave my family and friends, but the excitement took away those feelings because I’ve always wanted to study in America,” Winterbottom said.
To be able to do something I love, tennis, at the same time, is icing on the cake,” she added.
While in college, all students have certain moments and experiences that stand above the rest. For Winterbottom, she recalls her first collegiate tennis match as a favorite, yet laughable moment.
“I was so nervous, as a freshman and an international student, with my outfit that was twice the size of me. I was running around everywhere and jumping up in excitement the whole entire match,” Winterbottom said.
Winterbottom won that first singles match, 6-2, 6-0, before her doubles team lost 8-3. She finished with a 10-15 record in singles competition, and a 7-17 overall doubles record in her freshman campaign.
Winterbottom also listed Relay for Life as one of her favorite memories in her short time here, as well as going to Wal-Mart for the first time.
“I took a video camera and plenty of pictures. I’d never seen pizzas so big, or that many flavors of Oreos,” she added about her Wal-Mart trip.
Winterbottom was quick to say that DiNunzio and Quintero Prieto are her “two closest friends here” and that they all “get along really well, it’s the three foreigners that do things a bit different.”
Northern neighbor
DiNunzio hails from Toronto, Ontario, Canada, but is a frequent visitor of Florida and has also been to Georgia, New York, South Carolina and Virgina.
DiNunzio said that it was an honor to be recruited by UNCP, knowing that she was “about to start my new future studying at a great school, but also thrilled knowing how privileged I was to have this opportunity.”
The Taddlecreek Academy graduate was redshirted this year but gained valuable practice time while adjusting to college.
She was nervous about being away from home, family and friends, but also was excited to be on her own and having to take responsibilities on that she never thought about before.
DiNunzio echoed Winterbottom’s opinion of the trio’s friendship.
“We all get along great. It’s hard to find a relationship with someone that you spend from morning to night with and not get sick of them, but with these girls it’s very unique. We are all very close,” she said.
DiNunzio added that “although we were all raised in different environments, with different cultures and morals, we are very similar. We all share similar personalities with a great sense of humor,” she said.
The town of Pembroke and the local community was different for DiNunzio, calling it a ‘culture shock.’
“I never really pictured myself living outside of the city but I needed a change. When I came here as a recruit I knew Pembroke was the right choice for me.”
Another agreement was that a major difference in America is that there are tons of fried food options.
“I’ve never seen so many things fried, and the size of everything. Back home, you could only get fried chicken at KFC. Here, they fry everything from pickles to mushrooms,” Winterbottom said.
DiNunzio added that “Canadian and American culture is quite similar,” but that she had to get used to all the fried food. While their accents remain intact, the three are becoming ‘Americanized’ every day they are on campus.
Winterbottom’s Australian lingo peeks through when she said that she’s “gained heaps of friends,” adding that “everyone is really nice and welcoming here.”
Tennis teammates and other students are all friends that DiNunzio has gained, saying that her “teammates are like sisters” and that she has also “made friendships with many people outside the tennis team” who she is close with.
If you are walking around campus one day, chances are you will run into DiNunzio, Quintero Prieto and Winterbottom somewhere.
Take time to talk and get to know them. You will gain new friends while learning about their culture. More importantly, they will be exposed to another aspect of American culture in their journey as international students here at UNCP.
Saturday, April 24, 2010
Hudgins and Virgil get their calls
Former Gryphons Terrell Hudgins and Stephan Virgil were both passed up in the NFL Draft, but soon after the conclusion of the final picks, both were on the phones finding a team to land with.
Hudgins is expected to fly out to Dallas tomorrow to sign a rookie free agent contract with the Dallas Cowboys, according to multiple sources. These include Dr. Barbara Holt, Hudgins' mom, Leslie, and Elon University's news website, and unofficially through T-Mobile's Facebook, where his wall was splattered with congratulations and "how 'bout them Cowboys?" posts.
(photo - draftinsiders.com)
Virgil's agreement to sign with the Buffalo Bills, has to this point, only been seen by yours truly on Tony Doughtie's blog. Virgil did post a Facebook status confirming that he was signing with Buffalo, and that the "Buffalo Bills just picked up a balla."
(photo - espn.com)
NFL rookie camps begin next week, and hopefully both will be with their aforementioned teams.
Good luck to both of them as they begin the next chapter in their lives. Congratulate their families if you see them, and if you are lucky enough to see the guys this summer, grab their autograph. I know I will. Because you never know.....
Hudgins is expected to fly out to Dallas tomorrow to sign a rookie free agent contract with the Dallas Cowboys, according to multiple sources. These include Dr. Barbara Holt, Hudgins' mom, Leslie, and Elon University's news website, and unofficially through T-Mobile's Facebook, where his wall was splattered with congratulations and "how 'bout them Cowboys?" posts.
(photo - draftinsiders.com)Virgil's agreement to sign with the Buffalo Bills, has to this point, only been seen by yours truly on Tony Doughtie's blog. Virgil did post a Facebook status confirming that he was signing with Buffalo, and that the "Buffalo Bills just picked up a balla."
(photo - espn.com)NFL rookie camps begin next week, and hopefully both will be with their aforementioned teams.
Good luck to both of them as they begin the next chapter in their lives. Congratulate their families if you see them, and if you are lucky enough to see the guys this summer, grab their autograph. I know I will. Because you never know.....
Friday, April 23, 2010
When will the NFL dreams for former Gryphons come true?
Former Rocky Mount High football teammates Terrell Hudgins and Stephan Virgil knew they wouldn't be picked during today's first round of the NFL draft.
Now, the finger-biting begins. Both Terrell and Stephan are worthy of at least getting a shot with an NFL team. When will they get drafted? Will they get drafted? Will they get the shot they both have dreamed about? Will our Rocky Mount community get to boast of two former Gryphons playing in the NFL?
Many of us have had the opportunity to watch Virgil play on National TV during his career at Virginia Tech. We knew he was good when he caught passes and ran for touchdowns during his Gryphon days, but what about that mind-blowing speed from the corner to block field goal attempts during a games against one of the top college teams in the country? The game against ECU in Charlotte a few years ago immediately comes to mind.
Hudgins broke records set by NFL legend Jerry Rice while catching passes at Elon. I didn't get a chance to see Terrell play college ball, but it stands out to me that those who have seem to agree that the guy is a human highlight reel gone wild.
(photo - The Burlington Times-News)
Hudgins caught seemingly every ball his direction while piling up records while at Elon.
T-Mobile, Terrell's nickname on the Elon campus, showed up for many, many Gryphon Friday night football games after graduating, which says a lot about his ties to the Rocky Mount community and Alma mater. He always seemed to have time to stop and give my mom a hug, which has always made him one of mom's favorites.
Virgil sightings happen over the summers right in my neighborhood, where his parents still live and where he grew up. The car horn blowing and that same hand that swatted down the field-goal attempts and many an opposing quarterback throws to his area of the field would get thrown out the window as he passed by my house on his way into or out of the neighborhood.
(photo from Stephan Virgil's Facebook)
Virgil, with his parents, Richard and Sandra, and daughter Imani
A simple Google of either two's name will bring up tons of Draft information, while YouTube brings up videos of each, from highlights to interviews. take the time to watch and read some of these things if you haven't yet.
Here's hoping a couple of good guys, and truly talented football players, get their chance to become NFL players. The next couple of days will tell. Good luck to both of them.
Now, the finger-biting begins. Both Terrell and Stephan are worthy of at least getting a shot with an NFL team. When will they get drafted? Will they get drafted? Will they get the shot they both have dreamed about? Will our Rocky Mount community get to boast of two former Gryphons playing in the NFL?
Many of us have had the opportunity to watch Virgil play on National TV during his career at Virginia Tech. We knew he was good when he caught passes and ran for touchdowns during his Gryphon days, but what about that mind-blowing speed from the corner to block field goal attempts during a games against one of the top college teams in the country? The game against ECU in Charlotte a few years ago immediately comes to mind.
Hudgins broke records set by NFL legend Jerry Rice while catching passes at Elon. I didn't get a chance to see Terrell play college ball, but it stands out to me that those who have seem to agree that the guy is a human highlight reel gone wild.
(photo - The Burlington Times-News)
Hudgins caught seemingly every ball his direction while piling up records while at Elon.
T-Mobile, Terrell's nickname on the Elon campus, showed up for many, many Gryphon Friday night football games after graduating, which says a lot about his ties to the Rocky Mount community and Alma mater. He always seemed to have time to stop and give my mom a hug, which has always made him one of mom's favorites.
Virgil sightings happen over the summers right in my neighborhood, where his parents still live and where he grew up. The car horn blowing and that same hand that swatted down the field-goal attempts and many an opposing quarterback throws to his area of the field would get thrown out the window as he passed by my house on his way into or out of the neighborhood.
(photo from Stephan Virgil's Facebook)
Virgil, with his parents, Richard and Sandra, and daughter Imani
A simple Google of either two's name will bring up tons of Draft information, while YouTube brings up videos of each, from highlights to interviews. take the time to watch and read some of these things if you haven't yet.
Here's hoping a couple of good guys, and truly talented football players, get their chance to become NFL players. The next couple of days will tell. Good luck to both of them.
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Things looking up??
For anyone not familiar with Robeson County, the county is one of the poorest in both the state and country as a whole. Years ago, the county strived as a plant community, with many different companies having plants in the county. But now as more and more companies move overseas, the effect is seen right here.
So while this story may not be of that much interest to you, aside from maybe becoming a stop on the road to Myrtle Beach, think about what it would mean to Robeson County as well as the students of UNCP.
This story is from The Robesonian...
-----
Major development planned next to I-95
LUMBERTON — An ambitious plan to turn 257 acres adjacent to Interstate 95 into a retail, entertainment, dining and hospitality oasis — complete with a baseball stadium — was announced today by a Lumberton businessman and his new partners.
Rob Redfearn, owner of Black Water Grille, has gotten together with a group of private investors in a sweeping project they expect will change the face of Lumberton and Robeson County, according to a statement from Brooks Redfearn Developments.
The 257-acre tract of land located on the west side of I-95 between Exits 19 and 20 is now under contract to be purchased by Brooks Redfearn Developments for an undisclosed amount, according to the statement. The open land is between Carthage Road and Roberts Avenue, west of Lackey Street.
The broker for the property, Kenneth Richardson of KA Richardson Co. in Lumberton, told The Robesonian he cannot comment on the matter. Richardson did confirm that he represents the family that owns the land.
The preliminary plan for Brookstone Landing includes a number of new hotels, outparcels for restaurants, townhomes, apartments, retail shops, offices, big box retailers, a movie theater, a central shopping village, walking trails, bike paths, soccer fields, baseball fields, a skateboard park, rock climbing walls and more.
A 6,500-seat sports facility is also being considered for a Triple A baseball team. The stadium would also be used for concerts and other events.
Total investment in Brookstone Landing is expected to reach $875 million and likely will take years to reach completion, according to the developers.
They hope this collaboration will change the economic face of Robeson County, said Mae Graves of Brooks Redfearn Developments.
“It’s massive — 257 acres — we’re really excited about the project. It will be very good for Lumberton. It will be wonderful,” she said.
Redfearn said he formed a relationship with the developers after they saw a story on him on CNN in which he talked about his Lumberton restaurant and his desire to open a second one in Fayettevile.
“The contract is signed but we haven’t closed on it yet. We’ll close in the next few weeks,” said Redfearn. “... This is the kind of project that will put Lumberton on the map. It will dispel a lot of notions around the state that this area has not got a lot to offer, and will create an excitement that we all hope our local political leaders can parlay to attract even more business and industry to the area.
“The people in the rural parts of Southeast North Carolina have suffered too many job losses and economic hardships over the past 15 years. We feel that is about to change.”
According to Graves, the developers are in discussions with several large chains of restaurants and hotels. Graves said it is important to work together with the city and county officials “to create a vital and active sort of facility that we can all be proud of.”
Redfearn said the location is ideal.
“Believe it or not there are nearly 2 million people living within 60 miles of this location. In addition, there are over 2 million cars per month traveling I-95 and I-74. This development will give more of them a great reason to stop, shop, dine and spend the night.
“This will be a cohesive, planned development that is similar to others found around the country — incorporating residential and office areas with popular retail, entertainment and dining alternatives, all designed to be attractive and functional,” Redfearn said.
The developers say they are designing a project that will be attractive to retirees as well as younger people who they foresee moving to Robeson County as the area grows and new industry requires additional manpower.
There is a shortage of good rental properties in the city, and the project will create mid- to upscale living accommodations adjacent to shopping and entertainment venues, according to the release.
“Attracting new industry to the area has been historically difficult because Lumberton has not had a lot of amenities to offer. This development will change that forever,” Redfearn said.
“Having an abundance of good restaurants, shopping and entertainment alternatives has always been essential to attracting manufacturers and distributors which can provide higher-than-average paying jobs. It’s a symbiotic growth plan where all parties benefit,” he said.
For information call (888) 370-5217, Ext. 300, or visit the Web site at www.brooksredfearn.com.
So while this story may not be of that much interest to you, aside from maybe becoming a stop on the road to Myrtle Beach, think about what it would mean to Robeson County as well as the students of UNCP.
This story is from The Robesonian...
-----
Major development planned next to I-95
LUMBERTON — An ambitious plan to turn 257 acres adjacent to Interstate 95 into a retail, entertainment, dining and hospitality oasis — complete with a baseball stadium — was announced today by a Lumberton businessman and his new partners.
Rob Redfearn, owner of Black Water Grille, has gotten together with a group of private investors in a sweeping project they expect will change the face of Lumberton and Robeson County, according to a statement from Brooks Redfearn Developments.
The 257-acre tract of land located on the west side of I-95 between Exits 19 and 20 is now under contract to be purchased by Brooks Redfearn Developments for an undisclosed amount, according to the statement. The open land is between Carthage Road and Roberts Avenue, west of Lackey Street.
The broker for the property, Kenneth Richardson of KA Richardson Co. in Lumberton, told The Robesonian he cannot comment on the matter. Richardson did confirm that he represents the family that owns the land.
The preliminary plan for Brookstone Landing includes a number of new hotels, outparcels for restaurants, townhomes, apartments, retail shops, offices, big box retailers, a movie theater, a central shopping village, walking trails, bike paths, soccer fields, baseball fields, a skateboard park, rock climbing walls and more.
A 6,500-seat sports facility is also being considered for a Triple A baseball team. The stadium would also be used for concerts and other events.
Total investment in Brookstone Landing is expected to reach $875 million and likely will take years to reach completion, according to the developers.
They hope this collaboration will change the economic face of Robeson County, said Mae Graves of Brooks Redfearn Developments.
“It’s massive — 257 acres — we’re really excited about the project. It will be very good for Lumberton. It will be wonderful,” she said.
Redfearn said he formed a relationship with the developers after they saw a story on him on CNN in which he talked about his Lumberton restaurant and his desire to open a second one in Fayettevile.
“The contract is signed but we haven’t closed on it yet. We’ll close in the next few weeks,” said Redfearn. “... This is the kind of project that will put Lumberton on the map. It will dispel a lot of notions around the state that this area has not got a lot to offer, and will create an excitement that we all hope our local political leaders can parlay to attract even more business and industry to the area.
“The people in the rural parts of Southeast North Carolina have suffered too many job losses and economic hardships over the past 15 years. We feel that is about to change.”
According to Graves, the developers are in discussions with several large chains of restaurants and hotels. Graves said it is important to work together with the city and county officials “to create a vital and active sort of facility that we can all be proud of.”
Redfearn said the location is ideal.
“Believe it or not there are nearly 2 million people living within 60 miles of this location. In addition, there are over 2 million cars per month traveling I-95 and I-74. This development will give more of them a great reason to stop, shop, dine and spend the night.
“This will be a cohesive, planned development that is similar to others found around the country — incorporating residential and office areas with popular retail, entertainment and dining alternatives, all designed to be attractive and functional,” Redfearn said.
The developers say they are designing a project that will be attractive to retirees as well as younger people who they foresee moving to Robeson County as the area grows and new industry requires additional manpower.
There is a shortage of good rental properties in the city, and the project will create mid- to upscale living accommodations adjacent to shopping and entertainment venues, according to the release.
“Attracting new industry to the area has been historically difficult because Lumberton has not had a lot of amenities to offer. This development will change that forever,” Redfearn said.
“Having an abundance of good restaurants, shopping and entertainment alternatives has always been essential to attracting manufacturers and distributors which can provide higher-than-average paying jobs. It’s a symbiotic growth plan where all parties benefit,” he said.
For information call (888) 370-5217, Ext. 300, or visit the Web site at www.brooksredfearn.com.
Of interest to the UNCP area...
This may not be big news to people in Rocky Mount, but I ran across this story in The Robesonian from the other day, which is the daily newspaper for Robeson County and includes Lumberton, Pembroke, and UNCP.
I bet not too many people knew this about down in this area, especially not up in the Twin Counties.
--------
Gracious acceptance: The Robeson County Hall of Fame welcomes six new inductees
PEMBROKE — Ruffin McNeill, one of six new inductees into the Robeson County Sports Hall of Fame, summed up the feelings of the night when he said “I know we think all the same in terms that we are honored and blessed to be a part of this first class event.”
McNeill spoke for the other inductees at the end of the R.A. Jeffreys Installation Banquet Sunday night at the University Annex at The University of North Carolina at Pembroke.
The East Carolina University head football coach added he was proud to have his name mentioned alongside the initial honorees as well as future ones. In addition, McNeill joked the new inductees had to thank one particular group, the Hall of Fame selection committee.
“It really is an honor to be brought in with the first class,” McNeill said. “This is an awesome and first class event. Thanks to the Induction Committee, we’re happy to be here.”
McNeill concluded his brief speech by recognizing the families and friends of this year’s class.
“Surrounding ourselves with family and friends is a reason why things like this happen,” he said. “I know my mother is looking down on this tonight. Every now and then God gives us a wink. I call them God winks. Thank you for the God wink tonight.”
McNeill played three sports at Lumberton High School and continued his football career at East Carolina University. A defensive back, McNeill lettered all four years and was a captain for two seasons. He began his coaching career at Lumberton before moving on to Clemson, North Alabama, Austin Peay, ECU, Appalachian State, Fresno State and Texas Tech. He served as defensive coordinator with the Red Raiders, before he was selected to the ECU post earlier this year.
Joining McNeill to be inducted into the Hall of Fame Sunday night were: Hampton Coleman, Robert “Greasy” Graham, Pauline Bullard Locklear, Lee Vernon McNeill and Roy Vaughn.
A Red Springs native, Coleman pitched professionally for the Brooklyn Dodgers and for several minor league teams. Before that, Coleman led his American Legion team to the national finals in Montana, pitched for Red Springs High School and the Red Robbins, a semi-pro team out of St. Pauls. After two years at The University of North Carolina, Coleman began his professional career with the Boston Red Sox organization. While playing with the Louisville Colonels, the Triple A affiliate of the Red Sox, Coleman’s contract was purchased by the Dodgers. He pitched his team to the Mini-World Series in 1951 and won the title the following year.
Graham is an icon in St. Pauls sports history. He was inducted as a “special contributor” to Robeson County sports. Along with fellow Hall of Fame member Joe Brisson, Graham was “Mr. Baseball” for more than 40 years in the community. Graham was also a Bronze Star recipient in World War II. After the war, he return home to work for Burlington Mills as a mechanic, earning his nickname. After work, he devoted his life to the youth of the town. There is a baseball field named in his honor.
Locklear graduated from Prospect High School in 1950. She attended Pfieffer College and was their starting forward on the basketball team. Locklear was one of the first Lumbee athletes to play collegiately somewhere other than at UNCP. She was also one of the first persons of color to play college sports at an all-white institution in North Carolina.
Lee Vernon McNeill was an outstanding football player and track athlete at St. Pauls High School. He won both the 100- and 200-meter state championships in 1984. At East Carolina University, he was three-time All-American. He teamed with Carl Lewis, Harvey Glance and Robeson County Hall of Fame member Lee McRae to win the 4x100-meter relay at the Pan American Games and was a member of the 1988 U.S. Olympic team that competed in Seoul, South Korea.
Roy Vaughn took over a struggling athletic program at Maxton High School in 1971. In just five years, Vaughn guided Maxton to a state basketball championship in 1974 and a football crown in 1975. In the football championship contest, Maxton won the game 86-8, which remains a state record for the most points scored in a title game. Vaughn earned state coach of the year honors. In addition, Vaughn coached track and served as the athletic director.
I bet not too many people knew this about down in this area, especially not up in the Twin Counties.
--------
Gracious acceptance: The Robeson County Hall of Fame welcomes six new inductees
PEMBROKE — Ruffin McNeill, one of six new inductees into the Robeson County Sports Hall of Fame, summed up the feelings of the night when he said “I know we think all the same in terms that we are honored and blessed to be a part of this first class event.”
McNeill spoke for the other inductees at the end of the R.A. Jeffreys Installation Banquet Sunday night at the University Annex at The University of North Carolina at Pembroke.
The East Carolina University head football coach added he was proud to have his name mentioned alongside the initial honorees as well as future ones. In addition, McNeill joked the new inductees had to thank one particular group, the Hall of Fame selection committee.
“It really is an honor to be brought in with the first class,” McNeill said. “This is an awesome and first class event. Thanks to the Induction Committee, we’re happy to be here.”
McNeill concluded his brief speech by recognizing the families and friends of this year’s class.
“Surrounding ourselves with family and friends is a reason why things like this happen,” he said. “I know my mother is looking down on this tonight. Every now and then God gives us a wink. I call them God winks. Thank you for the God wink tonight.”
McNeill played three sports at Lumberton High School and continued his football career at East Carolina University. A defensive back, McNeill lettered all four years and was a captain for two seasons. He began his coaching career at Lumberton before moving on to Clemson, North Alabama, Austin Peay, ECU, Appalachian State, Fresno State and Texas Tech. He served as defensive coordinator with the Red Raiders, before he was selected to the ECU post earlier this year.
Joining McNeill to be inducted into the Hall of Fame Sunday night were: Hampton Coleman, Robert “Greasy” Graham, Pauline Bullard Locklear, Lee Vernon McNeill and Roy Vaughn.
A Red Springs native, Coleman pitched professionally for the Brooklyn Dodgers and for several minor league teams. Before that, Coleman led his American Legion team to the national finals in Montana, pitched for Red Springs High School and the Red Robbins, a semi-pro team out of St. Pauls. After two years at The University of North Carolina, Coleman began his professional career with the Boston Red Sox organization. While playing with the Louisville Colonels, the Triple A affiliate of the Red Sox, Coleman’s contract was purchased by the Dodgers. He pitched his team to the Mini-World Series in 1951 and won the title the following year.
Graham is an icon in St. Pauls sports history. He was inducted as a “special contributor” to Robeson County sports. Along with fellow Hall of Fame member Joe Brisson, Graham was “Mr. Baseball” for more than 40 years in the community. Graham was also a Bronze Star recipient in World War II. After the war, he return home to work for Burlington Mills as a mechanic, earning his nickname. After work, he devoted his life to the youth of the town. There is a baseball field named in his honor.
Locklear graduated from Prospect High School in 1950. She attended Pfieffer College and was their starting forward on the basketball team. Locklear was one of the first Lumbee athletes to play collegiately somewhere other than at UNCP. She was also one of the first persons of color to play college sports at an all-white institution in North Carolina.
Lee Vernon McNeill was an outstanding football player and track athlete at St. Pauls High School. He won both the 100- and 200-meter state championships in 1984. At East Carolina University, he was three-time All-American. He teamed with Carl Lewis, Harvey Glance and Robeson County Hall of Fame member Lee McRae to win the 4x100-meter relay at the Pan American Games and was a member of the 1988 U.S. Olympic team that competed in Seoul, South Korea.
Roy Vaughn took over a struggling athletic program at Maxton High School in 1971. In just five years, Vaughn guided Maxton to a state basketball championship in 1974 and a football crown in 1975. In the football championship contest, Maxton won the game 86-8, which remains a state record for the most points scored in a title game. Vaughn earned state coach of the year honors. In addition, Vaughn coached track and served as the athletic director.
Sunday, April 18, 2010
Braves honor all-time basketball great
By Nick Phillips
Asst. Sports Editor
Feb. 25, 2010
Asst. Sports Editor
Feb. 25, 2010
Photo by Nick Phillips
Former UNCP men’s basketball player Joe Gallagher was joined at his reception by his wife, Sharon, and family members. Gallagher’s jersey was officially retired by UNCP at the Feb. 13 dinner.
UNCP honored one of its all-time greats on Feb. 13, as Joe Gallagher, who holds the school’s basketball all time scoring record, returned home to a reception in his honor.
Despite the snow that forced the cancellation of the Braves men’s and women’s basketball games, a large number of Gallagher’s former teammates and players, as well as family and friends, were in attendance.
Among the evening’s speakers were UNCP Chancellor Charles Jenkins, UNCP Director of Athletics Dan Kenney and Gallagher. Kenney served as an assistant coach for Gallagher’s teams in the 1970s. Also in attendance were current UNCP head basketball coaches Ben Miller and John Haskins.
The highlight of the night was the presentation of Gallagher’s actual, game-worn jersey, which was framed with UNCP colors and presented to Gallagher by Chancellor Jenkins, Kenney and Miller. The jersey had been sitting in university archives prior to being presented to Gallagher
Along with the presentation of the jersey, Gallagher’s number 24 was officially retired by the university. His jersey had been retired since 1970, but there was never a formal announcement.
On a surprising note, a group of Gallagher’s former teammates announced they would be starting the Joe Gallagher Athletic Scholarship fund to help one of UNCP’s athletes each year.
“Today is one of the great days in the life of the university, celebrating the success of one of our alumni and a great basketball player, but more than anything a great ambassador for the University of North Carolina at Pembroke, since really 1964. The scholarship will continue to be a great part of that tradition,” Chancellor Jenkins said.
“With the turnout, you can see today that this represented so much to so many people and it brought back a time, an era, which is very special for the University,” Chancellor Jenkins added.
Kenney talked about the friendships that were created long ago on the campus of UNCP and how the honoring of Gallagher attests to the friendships that hold strong today.
“Here are some guys that all played and went to school together in the 60s, and that Pembroke bond has never been broken. And, you can see that it’s genuine and it’s all because of how Joe is,” Kenney said.
During his stint as a player from 1964 to 1968, Gallagher set school records with the best scoring average, averaging 25.6 points per game, and the best rebounding average, averaging 14.5 rebounds per game. Gallagher also holds UNCP’s highest basketball honor. With a total of 2,161 points, Gallagher remains the school’s all-time leading scorer.
After being drafted by the Kentucky Colonels of the American Basketball Association upon graduation in 1968, GallagherSunday, February 28, 2010ate coaching experience. He returned to Pembroke to coach his alma mater from 1975 to 1978. Gallagher also previously coached in the National Basketball Association with the Boston Celtics and Philadelphia 76ers.
Gallagher, a Philadelphia native, served four years in the United States Marine Corps and was honorably discharged in 1964. He currently lives in Myrtle Beach, S.C., with his wife, Sharon.
Catching WAY WAY WAY up....
It's been a while. I've been keeping myself too busy to post anything, with school work, Pine Needle writing, setting up my summer internship, Pembroke student ambassador duties, family visits and spending my few minutes of extra time with Mindy. Also having my laptop currently in Texas somewhere getting fixed has hindered me from posting as well.
School work is going well. A double-major within the Mass Com department in Journalism and Broadcasting hasn't been too bad, so far. I've been lucky enough to catch on with the UNCP student newspaper, The Pine Needle, since my freshman year, so I've had the opportunity to learn the ins and outs of the journalism side of my major before actually taking journalism classes. (A big Thank You has to go out to Charles Alston here, too, as his expertise and guidance prepared me while doing Rocky Mount Gryphon football games and contributing to ihigh for four years. His insight and mentorship put me on the right path.)
I was given the title (and work) of Assistant Sports Editor for the Pine Needle while I was still a freshman. In addition to writing the articles for each edition of the paper, I have actually been learning how to plan out the next edition and how to put all the articles, pictures and advertisements together for the finished product. I'm looking forward to the possibility of moving into the Sports Editor's role next year as a junior at UNCP.
I have also been working for the University as a student ambassador since my freshman year. I take prospective students on tours of our campus, field questions from them and their parents, give them the history of the University and fill them in on it's future plans. I do this during the school year and also throughout the summer. The ambassador role has given me the opportunity to speak to hundreds of these students and parents whenever we do Family Days, Open House, or whenever we have large groups visiting during other special days. Although I didn't know it at the time I agreed to get in front of all these people and talk about my experiences here at Pembroke, this has also given me the opportunity to hone my speaking skills, which has helped me in my Broadcasting Major and on my Monday night sports show here on campus.
Recently, as an ambassador, I had the opportunity to show Rocky Mount senior Chandler Phillips around the UNCP campus. Being my brother, he had been here several times during visits with my parents, but he really didn't get around to the entire campus. He had wrestled inside the English E. Jones Center, been to my dorm, and into the student center, which houses the cafeteria. Other than the bookstore and football field, that was all he had seen.
Chandler plans to major in Criminal Justice. During his official visit, he met with one of the department heads and sat in on a class in the Criminal Justice Building.
He also met with UNCP wrestling coach Jamie Gibbs.
Chandler's second (maybe first) reason for going to college includes Army ROTC. My brother wants to go into the military, and the ROTC program will give him the opportunity to go into the Army as an officer. If he can finish high enough, he would have the job he chooses when he graduates. Going to UNCP, he could opt to use his Criminal Justice degree to do something else if the military life doesn't suit him.
Chandler and coach Gibbs will talk again soon. Right now, we're not certain that Chandler will continue his wrestling career at Pembroke (who sent four to NCAA Division II National Championships and returned two All-Americans). There is a big conflict between the ROTC and being a member of the wrestling team. Both groups demand loads of commitment and even more time. Only Chandler can determine if he can put forth the physical effort to do both. I will update you on his decision as he works through it. (Chandler narrowed his choices to UNCP and Appalachian State before choosing Pembroke).
I'm looking forward to my summer away from school, although a good portion of it will include doing my first summer internship. I can't believe I have to pay for a summer class because I'm working over the summer. I'm paying for a class and I won't be at school OR at home with my family. In order to get credit for an internship, I had to register for a summer class and pay for it. At least I'm getting credit hours towards my degree in return.
After moving all my stuff back home at the end of the school year, I'm planning to do next to nothing for about a week. Addison Teachey and I will then drive down to Tampa, Florida to take in a three game set between the Rays and the Red Sox at Tropicana Field. Unfortunately, our "Baseball Road Trip" was canceled last summer, but we are continuing the tradition that began after graduation from RMHS in '08, when we traveled to Baltimore, Maryland to watch the Orioles and Astros play. I'm pretty stoked that we can get this Road Trip back on track this year.
Upon returning from Tampa, I'll head to Charlotte, North Carolina, where I'll spend a good portion of my remaining summer days. My internship will be behind the microphone of the Lake Norman Copperheads' summer league baseball broadcasts. The Copperheads are a baseball team made up of college players, competing in the Southern Collegiate Baseball League. The league consists of teams from North and South Carolina and Tennessee. I'll be doing the Copperhead home game broadcasts a couple times a week. You can catch my play-by-play on the internet by going to the Lake Norman Copperheads Home Page, then clicking on the "listen at Teamline" icon. I'll also be working on revamping their webpage, Twitter and Facebook pages while I'm not calling games.
I'm pretty excited about the opportunity to do live radio/internet broadcasts. Please feel free to send me your comments, if you get the chance to listen in for a few innings over the summer. Hopefully, my experience doing the Monday night sports radio show at the UNCP radio station will help get me through the games. Since I've never actually sat in the booth and called a game, it will be an interesting summer of learning for me.
Speaking of live radio, we have experienced some technical difficulty the past couple of weeks on the show, but you will hopefully be able to listen to the last last few of the year. You can listen in on the 'net by going to UNCP.com, then clicking the scroll down bar on the right side of the page and scrolling down to UNCP Radio. Once on the Radio page, click on "Live Broadcasts". We are live for about an hour, starting about 6 PM on Monday evenings. We discuss and recap the previous week's sporting events that involve Braves teams and a little bit of the sports world outside the campus.
Looking forward to sharing my thoughts during my upcoming Summer Experience '10,
Nick.
School work is going well. A double-major within the Mass Com department in Journalism and Broadcasting hasn't been too bad, so far. I've been lucky enough to catch on with the UNCP student newspaper, The Pine Needle, since my freshman year, so I've had the opportunity to learn the ins and outs of the journalism side of my major before actually taking journalism classes. (A big Thank You has to go out to Charles Alston here, too, as his expertise and guidance prepared me while doing Rocky Mount Gryphon football games and contributing to ihigh for four years. His insight and mentorship put me on the right path.)
I was given the title (and work) of Assistant Sports Editor for the Pine Needle while I was still a freshman. In addition to writing the articles for each edition of the paper, I have actually been learning how to plan out the next edition and how to put all the articles, pictures and advertisements together for the finished product. I'm looking forward to the possibility of moving into the Sports Editor's role next year as a junior at UNCP.
I have also been working for the University as a student ambassador since my freshman year. I take prospective students on tours of our campus, field questions from them and their parents, give them the history of the University and fill them in on it's future plans. I do this during the school year and also throughout the summer. The ambassador role has given me the opportunity to speak to hundreds of these students and parents whenever we do Family Days, Open House, or whenever we have large groups visiting during other special days. Although I didn't know it at the time I agreed to get in front of all these people and talk about my experiences here at Pembroke, this has also given me the opportunity to hone my speaking skills, which has helped me in my Broadcasting Major and on my Monday night sports show here on campus.
Recently, as an ambassador, I had the opportunity to show Rocky Mount senior Chandler Phillips around the UNCP campus. Being my brother, he had been here several times during visits with my parents, but he really didn't get around to the entire campus. He had wrestled inside the English E. Jones Center, been to my dorm, and into the student center, which houses the cafeteria. Other than the bookstore and football field, that was all he had seen.
Chandler plans to major in Criminal Justice. During his official visit, he met with one of the department heads and sat in on a class in the Criminal Justice Building.
He also met with UNCP wrestling coach Jamie Gibbs.
Chandler's second (maybe first) reason for going to college includes Army ROTC. My brother wants to go into the military, and the ROTC program will give him the opportunity to go into the Army as an officer. If he can finish high enough, he would have the job he chooses when he graduates. Going to UNCP, he could opt to use his Criminal Justice degree to do something else if the military life doesn't suit him.
Chandler and coach Gibbs will talk again soon. Right now, we're not certain that Chandler will continue his wrestling career at Pembroke (who sent four to NCAA Division II National Championships and returned two All-Americans). There is a big conflict between the ROTC and being a member of the wrestling team. Both groups demand loads of commitment and even more time. Only Chandler can determine if he can put forth the physical effort to do both. I will update you on his decision as he works through it. (Chandler narrowed his choices to UNCP and Appalachian State before choosing Pembroke).
I'm looking forward to my summer away from school, although a good portion of it will include doing my first summer internship. I can't believe I have to pay for a summer class because I'm working over the summer. I'm paying for a class and I won't be at school OR at home with my family. In order to get credit for an internship, I had to register for a summer class and pay for it. At least I'm getting credit hours towards my degree in return.
After moving all my stuff back home at the end of the school year, I'm planning to do next to nothing for about a week. Addison Teachey and I will then drive down to Tampa, Florida to take in a three game set between the Rays and the Red Sox at Tropicana Field. Unfortunately, our "Baseball Road Trip" was canceled last summer, but we are continuing the tradition that began after graduation from RMHS in '08, when we traveled to Baltimore, Maryland to watch the Orioles and Astros play. I'm pretty stoked that we can get this Road Trip back on track this year.
Upon returning from Tampa, I'll head to Charlotte, North Carolina, where I'll spend a good portion of my remaining summer days. My internship will be behind the microphone of the Lake Norman Copperheads' summer league baseball broadcasts. The Copperheads are a baseball team made up of college players, competing in the Southern Collegiate Baseball League. The league consists of teams from North and South Carolina and Tennessee. I'll be doing the Copperhead home game broadcasts a couple times a week. You can catch my play-by-play on the internet by going to the Lake Norman Copperheads Home Page, then clicking on the "listen at Teamline" icon. I'll also be working on revamping their webpage, Twitter and Facebook pages while I'm not calling games.
I'm pretty excited about the opportunity to do live radio/internet broadcasts. Please feel free to send me your comments, if you get the chance to listen in for a few innings over the summer. Hopefully, my experience doing the Monday night sports radio show at the UNCP radio station will help get me through the games. Since I've never actually sat in the booth and called a game, it will be an interesting summer of learning for me.
Speaking of live radio, we have experienced some technical difficulty the past couple of weeks on the show, but you will hopefully be able to listen to the last last few of the year. You can listen in on the 'net by going to UNCP.com, then clicking the scroll down bar on the right side of the page and scrolling down to UNCP Radio. Once on the Radio page, click on "Live Broadcasts". We are live for about an hour, starting about 6 PM on Monday evenings. We discuss and recap the previous week's sporting events that involve Braves teams and a little bit of the sports world outside the campus.
Looking forward to sharing my thoughts during my upcoming Summer Experience '10,
Nick.
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Sights from the 3A Boys Basketball Championship
- All photos by Nick Phillips -
Great to see that Tony and Wes were able to call the game for everyone back in Rocky Mount.
Members of the RockyMount basketball team huddle prior to pregame intros and tipoff.
The Gryphon student section and band anticipate the final minute of action.
Rocky Mount head coach Mike Gainey embraces senior Tyshawn Mabry as the starters exit the floor in the final minute of play to a standing ovation.
Gryphon players celebrate at midcourt moments after the final buzzer sounds.
Gryphon players and Gainey salute the Gryphon faithful during the celebration.
Gryphon players and coaches gather around the NCHSAA 3A State Championship trophy.
Great to see that Tony and Wes were able to call the game for everyone back in Rocky Mount.
Members of the RockyMount basketball team huddle prior to pregame intros and tipoff.
The Gryphon student section and band anticipate the final minute of action.
Rocky Mount head coach Mike Gainey embraces senior Tyshawn Mabry as the starters exit the floor in the final minute of play to a standing ovation.
Gryphon players celebrate at midcourt moments after the final buzzer sounds.
Gryphon players and Gainey salute the Gryphon faithful during the celebration.
Gryphon players and coaches gather around the NCHSAA 3A State Championship trophy.
Monday, March 15, 2010
Gryphons are 3-A State Basketball Champs
Rocky Mount High School earns second title in three years
The Rocky Mount faithful came out in droves to support their Gryphons Saturday night at the Dean Dome in Chapel Hill. They stood. They danced. They clapped. They jumped up and down. They were LOUD. The student section behind the basket was pumped up before their team took the floor and were crazy all night.
This was a crowd of folks who were going to will their Gryphons to a state championship. You could feel it in the air. There was going to be nothing to stop the Rocky Mount basketball team from winning the school's second state title in three years, and first on the hardwood since 1982.
Except maybe the Gryphons themselves.
The talk before the game was how their Concord High opponents would full court press all night. The worry was if the Gryphons could match the Spider's intensity and if the Gryphons could handle the pressure.
Rocky Mount answered those questions and fears early in the contest, seemingly breaking the press with ease. The Gryphons built an early lead during the first quarter and those in the seats were happy and cheering.
But the Gryphons suddenly went cold. They couldn't make shots from under the basket. They couldn't make free throws. And their early lead during the first quarter dwindled to just a couple by the horn ending the first half.
The wild jubilation of being in the state championship game gave way to the reality of playing against a worthy opponent. The Gryphon cheering section was still loud and fully behind their team, but you could feel the tension building by the start of the second half.
The Gryphons got by the pressing Spiders for the most part and slowly inched ahead on the scoreboard as the teams battled through the third period. The Gryphon nation started sniffing victory when Rocky Mount put on a spurt to go up by double digits midway through the final quarter of play.
Concord knuckled down on defense to force a couple of turnovers, and Rocky Mount did not take advantage of their own defensive stops. A couple of baskets by the Western side, a couple of fouls from the Eastern side. The Spiders seemingly hit every free throw they were given, and with just about two minutes to go, the game suddenly was undecided.
The Western faithful were making all the noise, Concord's coaching staff was pumped up. The Gryphon faithful seemed to be nervous and the team not so confident.
But just as Concord somehow stayed within shooting distance of the Gryphons, Rocky Mount took a deep breath and imposed their will. They pounded the boards on the offensive end and cashed in on second chance opportunities. They broke the Spider press over and over again. The defense turned Boa Constrictor and tightened on the Spider offense.
All the while being willed on by those folks in the stands, the students and the band.
In the end, the Gryphons played well enough. They took the Concord Spiders' best shot & they turned them away.
They showed the heart of a championship team. They played with the will of a championship team.
And today, they are a championship team.
The 2010 NCHSAA 3-A State Champions - the Rocky Mount High School Gryphons Basketball Team.
The Rocky Mount faithful came out in droves to support their Gryphons Saturday night at the Dean Dome in Chapel Hill. They stood. They danced. They clapped. They jumped up and down. They were LOUD. The student section behind the basket was pumped up before their team took the floor and were crazy all night.
This was a crowd of folks who were going to will their Gryphons to a state championship. You could feel it in the air. There was going to be nothing to stop the Rocky Mount basketball team from winning the school's second state title in three years, and first on the hardwood since 1982.
Except maybe the Gryphons themselves.
The talk before the game was how their Concord High opponents would full court press all night. The worry was if the Gryphons could match the Spider's intensity and if the Gryphons could handle the pressure.
Rocky Mount answered those questions and fears early in the contest, seemingly breaking the press with ease. The Gryphons built an early lead during the first quarter and those in the seats were happy and cheering.
But the Gryphons suddenly went cold. They couldn't make shots from under the basket. They couldn't make free throws. And their early lead during the first quarter dwindled to just a couple by the horn ending the first half.
The wild jubilation of being in the state championship game gave way to the reality of playing against a worthy opponent. The Gryphon cheering section was still loud and fully behind their team, but you could feel the tension building by the start of the second half.
The Gryphons got by the pressing Spiders for the most part and slowly inched ahead on the scoreboard as the teams battled through the third period. The Gryphon nation started sniffing victory when Rocky Mount put on a spurt to go up by double digits midway through the final quarter of play.
Concord knuckled down on defense to force a couple of turnovers, and Rocky Mount did not take advantage of their own defensive stops. A couple of baskets by the Western side, a couple of fouls from the Eastern side. The Spiders seemingly hit every free throw they were given, and with just about two minutes to go, the game suddenly was undecided.
The Western faithful were making all the noise, Concord's coaching staff was pumped up. The Gryphon faithful seemed to be nervous and the team not so confident.
But just as Concord somehow stayed within shooting distance of the Gryphons, Rocky Mount took a deep breath and imposed their will. They pounded the boards on the offensive end and cashed in on second chance opportunities. They broke the Spider press over and over again. The defense turned Boa Constrictor and tightened on the Spider offense.
All the while being willed on by those folks in the stands, the students and the band.
In the end, the Gryphons played well enough. They took the Concord Spiders' best shot & they turned them away.
They showed the heart of a championship team. They played with the will of a championship team.
And today, they are a championship team.
The 2010 NCHSAA 3-A State Champions - the Rocky Mount High School Gryphons Basketball Team.
Monday, March 1, 2010
Takedown Report announces All-Area Wrestling Team
Martin Fleming of The Takedown Report announced the all-area wrestling team Sunday night on WHIG's Stretchlon Sports Show. Three Gryphons were included on the 2010 edition.
Gathering his first of what should become many accolades during his high school wrestling career, Mason Holt earned TDR 103 pound All-Area Honorable Mention. Mason had a rock solid freshman campaign, forging a 26-11 record.
Janicento Williamson was named to the TDR All-Area first team at 171 pounds. This is the second year J.K. was named to the first team. Last year he gathered the 160 pound first team honors. Williamson had a stellar year, going 30-12 and becoming a two time state qualifier as a sophomore.
Chandler Phillips ends his Rocky Mount career being named to the TDR All-Area first team for the fourth year in a row. The last two years he was named the area's top ranked 135 pounder, while being awarded the top spot at 125 his sophomore year and at 112 pounds his freshman campaign.
Chandler started his senior season with 20 wins in a row, picked up his fourth Conference Championship and capped it off becoming a two time state qualifier with a 33-6 record.
Wrestling for the Gryphons in the team state tournament all four years, he finishes his high school wrestling career with 123 wins and a .727 winning percentage.
Gathering his first of what should become many accolades during his high school wrestling career, Mason Holt earned TDR 103 pound All-Area Honorable Mention. Mason had a rock solid freshman campaign, forging a 26-11 record.
Janicento Williamson was named to the TDR All-Area first team at 171 pounds. This is the second year J.K. was named to the first team. Last year he gathered the 160 pound first team honors. Williamson had a stellar year, going 30-12 and becoming a two time state qualifier as a sophomore.
Chandler Phillips ends his Rocky Mount career being named to the TDR All-Area first team for the fourth year in a row. The last two years he was named the area's top ranked 135 pounder, while being awarded the top spot at 125 his sophomore year and at 112 pounds his freshman campaign.
Chandler started his senior season with 20 wins in a row, picked up his fourth Conference Championship and capped it off becoming a two time state qualifier with a 33-6 record.
Wrestling for the Gryphons in the team state tournament all four years, he finishes his high school wrestling career with 123 wins and a .727 winning percentage.
Sunday, February 28, 2010
Life is more important than wrestling
Normally, Gryphon senior wrestler Chandler Phillips would wake up Saturday morning still fuming over losing a wrestling match the previous evening. Phillips has been a fierce competitor on the mat since his first match six years ago at Edwards Middle.
Rocky Mount teacher and Gryphon wrestling and baseball supporter P.R. Ford tagged Chandler early in his freshman wrestling season as "Pitbull" because of his relentless and fierce competitive style.
Phillips had lost his second match at the State Tournament on a controversial call by the referee on the mat. He was pretty steamy when he came back into the stands to sit with his parents and former Gryphon teammates Francisco Alfaro and Guy Williamson, according to his dad.
"As usual, Chandler didn't complain about the call, but he was pretty mad. His windpipe was pretty sore and he was coughing for 20 minutes from the kid choking him," said the elder Phillips.
When Chandler arrived at the Coliseum Saturday morning, his dad expected to see him still in a sour mood. But that wasn't the case. He donned a home made T-shirt with RM Rock-N-Roll Express on the front, his and teammate J.K. Williamson's names on the back (made by yours truly) then made his way down to the mat Williamson would be wrestling on.
When returning to the seats directly behind his parents after the Williamson match, Chandler told the story of his swimming adventure the night before.
He and Janicento went down to the Hotel's indoor pool to take a dip and relax a little on Friday evening. Other than three young children, they had the pool to themselves.
One of the children, a boy of around 5 or 6 years old, went underwater near where Chandler was at in the 5 foot end of the pool. Chandler said the kids could swim pretty good, so he didn't think anything of it. Until the boy popped up gasping for breath, barely able to get a "help" out of his mouth before he went back under.
The boy pushed off the bottom of the pool and popped up again, this time flailing in the water before quickly going down again. Chandler realized that this boy was in trouble and went under to get him.
Chander pulled the boy to the top of the water and brought him over to the side of the pool, all while the parents were in a conversation with themselves, never seeing what was going on.
That Saturday morning, while telling the story to his parents, Chandler's lost wrestling match from the night before never came up. With a look of satisfaction on his face, he told his mom and dad, "You know, I saved some little kid's life last night in the pool. That's a pretty good feeling. I feel really good."
After suffering a heartbreaking loss in Friday night's match that ended his high school wrestling career, he made no mention of it Saturday morning.
He made no mention during his telling of the story that he got no thank you from the parents of the boy.
Just the satisfaction that he was in the right place at the right time to give help to someone who desperately needed it.
Much more satisfying than winning a wrestling match.
Rocky Mount teacher and Gryphon wrestling and baseball supporter P.R. Ford tagged Chandler early in his freshman wrestling season as "Pitbull" because of his relentless and fierce competitive style.
Phillips had lost his second match at the State Tournament on a controversial call by the referee on the mat. He was pretty steamy when he came back into the stands to sit with his parents and former Gryphon teammates Francisco Alfaro and Guy Williamson, according to his dad.
"As usual, Chandler didn't complain about the call, but he was pretty mad. His windpipe was pretty sore and he was coughing for 20 minutes from the kid choking him," said the elder Phillips.
When Chandler arrived at the Coliseum Saturday morning, his dad expected to see him still in a sour mood. But that wasn't the case. He donned a home made T-shirt with RM Rock-N-Roll Express on the front, his and teammate J.K. Williamson's names on the back (made by yours truly) then made his way down to the mat Williamson would be wrestling on.
When returning to the seats directly behind his parents after the Williamson match, Chandler told the story of his swimming adventure the night before.
He and Janicento went down to the Hotel's indoor pool to take a dip and relax a little on Friday evening. Other than three young children, they had the pool to themselves.
One of the children, a boy of around 5 or 6 years old, went underwater near where Chandler was at in the 5 foot end of the pool. Chandler said the kids could swim pretty good, so he didn't think anything of it. Until the boy popped up gasping for breath, barely able to get a "help" out of his mouth before he went back under.
The boy pushed off the bottom of the pool and popped up again, this time flailing in the water before quickly going down again. Chandler realized that this boy was in trouble and went under to get him.
Chander pulled the boy to the top of the water and brought him over to the side of the pool, all while the parents were in a conversation with themselves, never seeing what was going on.
That Saturday morning, while telling the story to his parents, Chandler's lost wrestling match from the night before never came up. With a look of satisfaction on his face, he told his mom and dad, "You know, I saved some little kid's life last night in the pool. That's a pretty good feeling. I feel really good."
After suffering a heartbreaking loss in Friday night's match that ended his high school wrestling career, he made no mention of it Saturday morning.
He made no mention during his telling of the story that he got no thank you from the parents of the boy.
Just the satisfaction that he was in the right place at the right time to give help to someone who desperately needed it.
Much more satisfying than winning a wrestling match.
Wrestling season closes for Gryphon Duo
The Rock and Roll Express, Janicento Williamson and Chandler Phillips, pulled back into Rocky Mount for the last time late Saturday night. The long season ended in disappointment for the two Gryphon wrestlers this weekend at the Greensboro Coliseum.
Philllips dropped his first two matches on Friday night and was eliminated much earlier than he anticipated. In his first match, he was defeated by Lucas Dutch from Northwest Cabarrus, who came into the Championships with a 49-2 record. Dutch went on to place second.
On a controversial call by one referee with less than a minute in his second match, Philllips was slapped with a technical violation that gave James Farthing of Orange a single point victory. Phillips was called for pulling a finger as he tried to remove Farthing's hand from his throat. The ref could see the single finger, but must not have seen the choke hold of the remaining hand. Phillips could not score the takedown he needed in the final seconds and lost 8-7.
Williamson also fell in his first match on Friday, to Ryan Daining (35-3) of West Iredell. In order to survive to wrestle Saturday, he needed to win his second match.
Wrestling against Adam Purgason(22-8) of Rockingham County, Williamson won his first ever match at the state level. Easily handling Purgason with a decision victory, Williamson advanced to wrestle Saturday morning.
Williamson dropped his third match to eventual fourth place finisher Nick Shriner (48-9) of Orange.
Orange placed second in the NCHSAA 3-A Team State Tournament, and also knocked out the two Gryphons in the Individual.
The Rock and Roll Express has now been officially put to rest, as both wrestlers' seasons are over. Just as the Gryphon Six from last year went in separate directions at season's end, so will Phillips and Williamson.
Phillips looks to be attending either Appalachian State or UNC-Pembroke to take up studies in Criminology, where he says he may wrestle at either school. Williamson will return next year as a Gryphon wrestler for his junior year.
Williamson finishes the season with a 30-12 record, while Phillips rests at 33-6.
At a combined 63-18, the duo Coach Thomas dubbed The Rock-N-Roll Express rolled hard, fast and long this year for the Gryphons.
Philllips dropped his first two matches on Friday night and was eliminated much earlier than he anticipated. In his first match, he was defeated by Lucas Dutch from Northwest Cabarrus, who came into the Championships with a 49-2 record. Dutch went on to place second.
On a controversial call by one referee with less than a minute in his second match, Philllips was slapped with a technical violation that gave James Farthing of Orange a single point victory. Phillips was called for pulling a finger as he tried to remove Farthing's hand from his throat. The ref could see the single finger, but must not have seen the choke hold of the remaining hand. Phillips could not score the takedown he needed in the final seconds and lost 8-7.
Williamson also fell in his first match on Friday, to Ryan Daining (35-3) of West Iredell. In order to survive to wrestle Saturday, he needed to win his second match.
Wrestling against Adam Purgason(22-8) of Rockingham County, Williamson won his first ever match at the state level. Easily handling Purgason with a decision victory, Williamson advanced to wrestle Saturday morning.
Williamson dropped his third match to eventual fourth place finisher Nick Shriner (48-9) of Orange.
Orange placed second in the NCHSAA 3-A Team State Tournament, and also knocked out the two Gryphons in the Individual.
The Rock and Roll Express has now been officially put to rest, as both wrestlers' seasons are over. Just as the Gryphon Six from last year went in separate directions at season's end, so will Phillips and Williamson.
Phillips looks to be attending either Appalachian State or UNC-Pembroke to take up studies in Criminology, where he says he may wrestle at either school. Williamson will return next year as a Gryphon wrestler for his junior year.
Williamson finishes the season with a 30-12 record, while Phillips rests at 33-6.
At a combined 63-18, the duo Coach Thomas dubbed The Rock-N-Roll Express rolled hard, fast and long this year for the Gryphons.
Monday, February 22, 2010
Big East heading West
Rocky Mount wrestlers Chandler Phillips and Janicento Williamson are headed West. As in Greensboro. As in the NCHSAA Individual Wrestling Championships. They will join ten other Big East 3-A wrestlers at the event. The Big East Conference will send a total of 12 wrestlers to the Championships, including eleven from Nash County.
Northern Nash qualified five wrestlers, while Rocky Mount, Southern Nash and Nash Central qualified two each. Wilson Fike added another qualifier.
Looking over the qualifiers by team across the state and across each of the four divisions, there was an amazing fact that stood out above all others. Parkland High School qualified all 14 of their wrestlers for the state tournament. Parkland has been a 3-A power for years, winning several team state championships. They moved up to 4-A this year and unseated Cary as team state champions.
Speaking of Cary, they qualified 11 wrestlers, to match 3-A Union Pines. Croatan qualified 13 and Trinity 12 in the 2-A ranks. Orange, 3-A team state runners-up, qualified 10.
Out of the 3-A East, where the Gryphons are located, Havelock and South Brunswick each qualified 9 wrestlers.
Here are the Big East Conference State Qualifiers by team:
Rocky Mount: Chandler Phillips, Janicento Williamson
Southern Nash: Buddy Tom, Steven Murray
Nash Central: Josh Taylor, Jacob Robinson
Wilson Fike: John Messer
Northern Nash: Tavis Richardson, Kris Horton, Bryan Sweet, Denzel Perry, Joe Young
Northern Nash qualified five wrestlers, while Rocky Mount, Southern Nash and Nash Central qualified two each. Wilson Fike added another qualifier.
Looking over the qualifiers by team across the state and across each of the four divisions, there was an amazing fact that stood out above all others. Parkland High School qualified all 14 of their wrestlers for the state tournament. Parkland has been a 3-A power for years, winning several team state championships. They moved up to 4-A this year and unseated Cary as team state champions.
Speaking of Cary, they qualified 11 wrestlers, to match 3-A Union Pines. Croatan qualified 13 and Trinity 12 in the 2-A ranks. Orange, 3-A team state runners-up, qualified 10.
Out of the 3-A East, where the Gryphons are located, Havelock and South Brunswick each qualified 9 wrestlers.
Here are the Big East Conference State Qualifiers by team:
Rocky Mount: Chandler Phillips, Janicento Williamson
Southern Nash: Buddy Tom, Steven Murray
Nash Central: Josh Taylor, Jacob Robinson
Wilson Fike: John Messer
Northern Nash: Tavis Richardson, Kris Horton, Bryan Sweet, Denzel Perry, Joe Young
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Sights from the 3A Eastern Regional
All photo credits - Nick Phillips
Wrestlers, parents and other spectators packed the gym at South Central High School, host school.
Rocky Mount freshman Mason Holt attempts to keep his opponent down in 103-lb action.
Rocky Mount High School teacher P.R. Ford and wrestling mother Georgia Phillips look on in Chandler Phillips' 135-lb match-up.
Gryphon senior Chandler Phillips works to flip his opponent in his 135-lb weight class Friday night.
Rocky Mount coaches Elbert Thomas and J.J. Jones look on as Elliot Whitehead wrestles on Saturday.
Gryphon Alex Knight works to get free from his opponent in Saturday's action.
Jeffrey Henderson attempts to pin his South Central opponent on Saturday in the Consolation bracket.
Gryphon sophomore J.K. Williamson listens to instruction from Coach Jones during a brief break in his 189-lb match-up.
Chandler Phillips in action against his opponent from Southern Nash. Phillips' 2-1 victory sent him to the State Tournament for the 2nd straight year.
State Qualifiers Williamson (left) and Phillips stand with Coach thomas as they await their final matches of the tournament.
Wrestlers, parents and other spectators packed the gym at South Central High School, host school.
Rocky Mount freshman Mason Holt attempts to keep his opponent down in 103-lb action.
Rocky Mount High School teacher P.R. Ford and wrestling mother Georgia Phillips look on in Chandler Phillips' 135-lb match-up.
Gryphon senior Chandler Phillips works to flip his opponent in his 135-lb weight class Friday night.
Rocky Mount coaches Elbert Thomas and J.J. Jones look on as Elliot Whitehead wrestles on Saturday.
Gryphon Alex Knight works to get free from his opponent in Saturday's action.
Jeffrey Henderson attempts to pin his South Central opponent on Saturday in the Consolation bracket.
Gryphon sophomore J.K. Williamson listens to instruction from Coach Jones during a brief break in his 189-lb match-up.
Chandler Phillips in action against his opponent from Southern Nash. Phillips' 2-1 victory sent him to the State Tournament for the 2nd straight year.
State Qualifiers Williamson (left) and Phillips stand with Coach thomas as they await their final matches of the tournament.
Rock and Roll Express headed to Greensboro
Phillips and Williamson punch second-straight ticket to the Big Show
Coach Elbert Thomas joined Head Coach Jermaine Jones as an assistant for the Gryphon wrestling team last fall. Sometime late in the season, he dubbed teammates Chandler Phillips and Janicento Williamson the "Rock and Roll Express".
The Rock and Roll Express will be pulling out of Rocky Mount and heading to Greensboro for the NCSAA State Individual Tournament next weekend. Williamson placed third, while Phillips took fourth at the Regional at South Central Saturday evening. They are among the top 16 wrestlers in the state in their wight classes.
The eight other Gryphons who competed at the Regional had a front row seat to witness just how tough it can be to advance to the state tournament. One by one, eventually all being eliminated in the two-day event.
The first two rounds of the championship bracket were contested on Friday. Only Phillips, Williamson and Mason Holt advanced to wrestle in the Quarterfinals. Holding lower seeds, seven Gryphons fell in the first round and would have to wait until Saturday morning to wrestle in consolations.
After Friday night's championship bracket Quarters, only Phillips and Williamson were left. They were one win away from qualifying for the state tournament. The eight remaining Gryphons would need to work from the Consolation bracket.
Nick Westcott, Elliot Whitehead, Justin Atkinson and Jemor Parker were eliminated after the Consolation Pre-Quarterfinal round on Saturday morning. That's not to say there wasn't some good wrestling going on.
Westcott went the distance in his first match, only to fall by close 5-3 decision to an eventual state qualifier in the 125 division.
Whitehead lost by a 10-6 decision in his second match, narrowly missing a chance to advance into the next round.
There were several Gryphons who tasted victory at the Regional level for the first time on Saturday. Alexander Knight, Jeffrey Henderson and Nathan Barbour each won in the Pre-Quarters of consolations, before falling the Quarterfinal round.
On Saturday, Holt took a decisive 16-5 decision win in the Cons Quarterfinal round over the #8 seed from Hertford County. In the Pre- Semifinal, he was ousted by an eventual state qualifier.
Both Phillips and Williamson fell in their first attempt to qualify, each dropping decisions in the championship Semifinal round. Phillips by the eventual Regional Champion, and Williamson to the eventual runner-up. Each would have a win-or-go-home match to qualify for the state tournament from the consolation bracket.
Phillips was up first in the consolation Semifinal round. With a two-point reversal early in the final period of a scoreless match, he had enough to get it done. Phillips qualified with a 2-1 decision victory.
Within 10 minutes, Williamson was on the mat for his shot. In a grueling match that mirrored the nail-bitter of Phillips' victory just minutes before, Williamson was down 1-0 going into the third period. With a two-point reversal of his own, Williamson also qualified with a 2-1 decision victory.
Teammates. Friends. And now, Two-Time State Qualifiers. The Rock and Roll Express is moving on.
Coach Elbert Thomas joined Head Coach Jermaine Jones as an assistant for the Gryphon wrestling team last fall. Sometime late in the season, he dubbed teammates Chandler Phillips and Janicento Williamson the "Rock and Roll Express".
The Rock and Roll Express will be pulling out of Rocky Mount and heading to Greensboro for the NCSAA State Individual Tournament next weekend. Williamson placed third, while Phillips took fourth at the Regional at South Central Saturday evening. They are among the top 16 wrestlers in the state in their wight classes.
The eight other Gryphons who competed at the Regional had a front row seat to witness just how tough it can be to advance to the state tournament. One by one, eventually all being eliminated in the two-day event.
The first two rounds of the championship bracket were contested on Friday. Only Phillips, Williamson and Mason Holt advanced to wrestle in the Quarterfinals. Holding lower seeds, seven Gryphons fell in the first round and would have to wait until Saturday morning to wrestle in consolations.
After Friday night's championship bracket Quarters, only Phillips and Williamson were left. They were one win away from qualifying for the state tournament. The eight remaining Gryphons would need to work from the Consolation bracket.
Nick Westcott, Elliot Whitehead, Justin Atkinson and Jemor Parker were eliminated after the Consolation Pre-Quarterfinal round on Saturday morning. That's not to say there wasn't some good wrestling going on.
Westcott went the distance in his first match, only to fall by close 5-3 decision to an eventual state qualifier in the 125 division.
Whitehead lost by a 10-6 decision in his second match, narrowly missing a chance to advance into the next round.
There were several Gryphons who tasted victory at the Regional level for the first time on Saturday. Alexander Knight, Jeffrey Henderson and Nathan Barbour each won in the Pre-Quarters of consolations, before falling the Quarterfinal round.
On Saturday, Holt took a decisive 16-5 decision win in the Cons Quarterfinal round over the #8 seed from Hertford County. In the Pre- Semifinal, he was ousted by an eventual state qualifier.
Both Phillips and Williamson fell in their first attempt to qualify, each dropping decisions in the championship Semifinal round. Phillips by the eventual Regional Champion, and Williamson to the eventual runner-up. Each would have a win-or-go-home match to qualify for the state tournament from the consolation bracket.
Phillips was up first in the consolation Semifinal round. With a two-point reversal early in the final period of a scoreless match, he had enough to get it done. Phillips qualified with a 2-1 decision victory.
Within 10 minutes, Williamson was on the mat for his shot. In a grueling match that mirrored the nail-bitter of Phillips' victory just minutes before, Williamson was down 1-0 going into the third period. With a two-point reversal of his own, Williamson also qualified with a 2-1 decision victory.
Teammates. Friends. And now, Two-Time State Qualifiers. The Rock and Roll Express is moving on.
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