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06 prepstars06 prepstars

Volume II Issue I

PUBLISHER12th Man Promotions

EditorDell Miller

Art DirectorJames Ledford

Graphic DesignOne Slate Media

Contributing WritersDell MillerShalunda HarrisDemarco WilliamsKeisha WillisStephen Miller

PrepstarsP.O. Box 870491Stone Mountain, GA 30087

678.805.2055www.gaprepstars.com

Hutson Masoncover photo courtesy of

bmwimages.com

Volume II Issue I

06 prepstars

Volume II Issue I

PUBLISHER12th Man Promotions

EditorDell Miller

Art DirectorJames Ledford

Graphic DesignOne Slate Media

Contributing WritersDell MillerShalunda HarrisDemarco WilliamsKeisha WillisStephen Miller

PrepstarsP.O. Box 870491Stone Mountain, GA 30087

678.805.2055www.gaprepstars.com

Hutson Masoncover photo courtesy of

bmwimages.com

08 prepstars

The human body needs water to maintain enough blood and other fluids to function properly.We lose fluids and electrolytes (mineral salts)

when we urinate, sweat, breathe, vomit,

and have diarrhea or fever. Dehydration is

caused by not eating or drinking enough

during strenuous exercise or illness, or, while

certain medications like antihistamines and

cold remedies. Under normal conditions

your body maintains fluid balance through

thirst mechanisms and the kidneys’ ability to

dilute or concentrate your urine. However,

during periods of exercise, especially if there

concomitant illness, the thirst mechanism

alone is often not adequate enough to

maintain good hydration. It is important to

remember that you can become dehydrated

without your even being aware.

Some common symptoms of dehydration

are thirst, dry warm skin, dark urine,

lightheadedness - especially when you stand

from a sitting position, headache, and muscle

cramping,. One must remember that some,

all, or none, of these symptoms may be

present when you are dehydrated.

Preventing dehydration is always better than

trying to cure it. The best preventive measure

is not waiting until you are thirsty to start

to replenish fluids especially when playing

sports or during periods of illness. Drink small

amounts of fluid frequently throughout and

after sporting/training events, and drink extra

fluids to keep up with any ongoing losses.

If you have diarrhea or are vomiting, force

yourself to drink more liquids than you may

crave to avoid becoming dehydrated. Chilling

your fluids may make it easier to drink and

thus stay hydrated.

If you are mildly dehydrated, you need to

take in additional fluids to replace the fluids

and electrolytes you have lost. You can do

this by drinking sips of water, along with

eating foods with salt. There are many over-

the-counter products that help replenish

fluids and electrolytes (e.g. sports drinks,

electrolyte packets). If you don’t have sports drinks or electrolyte packets you can make you own oral rehydration solution (ORS): • 2 tablespoons of sugar or honey

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda

• 1 quart or liter of water

If you don’t have any baking soda, add

another 1/4 teaspoon of salt.

If possible, add 1–2 cup orange juice or some

mashed banana to improve the taste and

provide some potassium.

Take sips every 5 minutes until urination

becomes normal (normal is urinating four or

five times a day). If you are ill, you should

drink at least 3 quarts or liters of ORS a day

until you are well. Even if you are vomiting or

having diarrhea, try to keep to drinking the

ORS because your body will retain some of

the fluids and salts you need even though you

are vomiting and the fluids will not increase

the diarrhea.

When treating dehydration, it is important to

also treat any underlying illness that may be

compounding the issue. Failure to do this can

reduce the body’s ability to dissipate heat,

resulting in elevated core body temperatures,

heat illness, heat stroke, kidney failure coma

or even death. If you have symptoms of

severe dehydration (e.g. decreased urine

output, mental status changes), you need

to go to an emergency room or other health

care facility to be evaluated and possibly get

intravenous (IV) fluids.

Remember, if you wait until you are thirsty

during athletic activity, you may be already too

late to adequately replenish necessary fluids.

TRAINING TIPS DEHYDRATIONDr. R. Amadeus Mason

gaprepstars.com 09

Dr. R. Amadeus Mason

Dr. Mason is a staff member of

Emory Sports Medicine.

He can be reached for

appointments at 404.778.3350

08 prepstars

The human body needs water to maintain enough blood and other fluids to function properly.We lose fluids and electrolytes (mineral salts)

when we urinate, sweat, breathe, vomit,

and have diarrhea or fever. Dehydration is

caused by not eating or drinking enough

during strenuous exercise or illness, or, while

certain medications like antihistamines and

cold remedies. Under normal conditions

your body maintains fluid balance through

thirst mechanisms and the kidneys’ ability to

dilute or concentrate your urine. However,

during periods of exercise, especially if there

concomitant illness, the thirst mechanism

alone is often not adequate enough to

maintain good hydration. It is important to

remember that you can become dehydrated

without your even being aware.

Some common symptoms of dehydration

are thirst, dry warm skin, dark urine,

lightheadedness - especially when you stand

from a sitting position, headache, and muscle

cramping,. One must remember that some,

all, or none, of these symptoms may be

present when you are dehydrated.

Preventing dehydration is always better than

trying to cure it. The best preventive measure

is not waiting until you are thirsty to start

to replenish fluids especially when playing

sports or during periods of illness. Drink small

amounts of fluid frequently throughout and

after sporting/training events, and drink extra

fluids to keep up with any ongoing losses.

If you have diarrhea or are vomiting, force

yourself to drink more liquids than you may

crave to avoid becoming dehydrated. Chilling

your fluids may make it easier to drink and

thus stay hydrated.

If you are mildly dehydrated, you need to

take in additional fluids to replace the fluids

and electrolytes you have lost. You can do

this by drinking sips of water, along with

eating foods with salt. There are many over-

the-counter products that help replenish

fluids and electrolytes (e.g. sports drinks,

electrolyte packets). If you don’t have sports drinks or electrolyte packets you can make you own oral rehydration solution (ORS): • 2 tablespoons of sugar or honey

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda

• 1 quart or liter of water

If you don’t have any baking soda, add

another 1/4 teaspoon of salt.

If possible, add 1–2 cup orange juice or some

mashed banana to improve the taste and

provide some potassium.

Take sips every 5 minutes until urination

becomes normal (normal is urinating four or

five times a day). If you are ill, you should

drink at least 3 quarts or liters of ORS a day

until you are well. Even if you are vomiting or

having diarrhea, try to keep to drinking the

ORS because your body will retain some of

the fluids and salts you need even though you

are vomiting and the fluids will not increase

the diarrhea.

When treating dehydration, it is important to

also treat any underlying illness that may be

compounding the issue. Failure to do this can

reduce the body’s ability to dissipate heat,

resulting in elevated core body temperatures,

heat illness, heat stroke, kidney failure coma

or even death. If you have symptoms of

severe dehydration (e.g. decreased urine

output, mental status changes), you need

to go to an emergency room or other health

care facility to be evaluated and possibly get

intravenous (IV) fluids.

Remember, if you wait until you are thirsty

during athletic activity, you may be already too

late to adequately replenish necessary fluids.

TRAINING TIPS DEHYDRATIONDr. R. Amadeus Mason

gaprepstars.com 09

Dr. R. Amadeus Mason

Dr. Mason is a staff member of

Emory Sports Medicine.

He can be reached for

appointments at 404.778.3350

10 prepstars

HUTSON MASON, a senior at

Lassiter High School is gaining vast attention

as one of the state’s most sought-after

quarterbacks. The 18 year-old has been

playing football since the age of seven and

hopes to continue through college, and

even further. It is his accuracy and precision

that distinguishes Mason from most other

quarterbacks and allows him to excel as a

football player and team leader.

“I think I have good leadership,” he says,

describing his on-field communication. “A

lot of guys can rely on me.” Along with

football, Mason was also influenced to play

basketball by his father, who played the sport

in college. But even after playing on his high

school basketball team, Mason later decided

he wanted to continue on the path of football

and play in college. Since then, he has been

dedicated to the game.

“When I’m on the field, I’m taking care of

business. I try to put up good numbers. But

when I’m off the field, I’m taking things as

they go.”

Mason’s hard work is praised and encouraged

by his family, who impacts his life and

helps him make good decisions. He is also

encouraged by his teammates and coaches.

“I was a Tennessee fan in elementary

school, when Tee Martin won the National

Championship,” he says, which aided his

decision to play football. Tamaurice Martin,

who is now Mason’s quarterback coach,

is very supportive of the young player

and has worked with him to develop his

weaknesses. “He is an easy-going guy and

we work well together.”

One of Mason’s main priorities on the football

field is winning.

“That’s the reason you play hard,” he says.

“You know that people are watching you.”

He deems building relationships that last for

a lifetime as the most important thing about

playing football. Mason is satisfied just with

the privilege to compete.

“It’s a competitive game and I like to compete.”

When he’s not playing football, Mason enjoys

fishing, hunting, and hanging out with his

friends, who describe him as goofy.

“I don’t take a lot of things seriously, but I have

my priorities straight,” he says. “I understand

that schoolwork comes first, then football. I

know that I have to do well in school to be on

the field and to play college ball.”

ACCESS: HUTSON MASONGEORGIA’S TOP GUN

IT’S A COMPETITIVE GAME AND I LIKE TO COMPETE.

- Hutson

gaprepstars.com 11

10 prepstars

HUTSON MASON, a senior at

Lassiter High School is gaining vast attention

as one of the state’s most sought-after

quarterbacks. The 18 year-old has been

playing football since the age of seven and

hopes to continue through college, and

even further. It is his accuracy and precision

that distinguishes Mason from most other

quarterbacks and allows him to excel as a

football player and team leader.

“I think I have good leadership,” he says,

describing his on-field communication. “A

lot of guys can rely on me.” Along with

football, Mason was also influenced to play

basketball by his father, who played the sport

in college. But even after playing on his high

school basketball team, Mason later decided

he wanted to continue on the path of football

and play in college. Since then, he has been

dedicated to the game.

“When I’m on the field, I’m taking care of

business. I try to put up good numbers. But

when I’m off the field, I’m taking things as

they go.”

Mason’s hard work is praised and encouraged

by his family, who impacts his life and

helps him make good decisions. He is also

encouraged by his teammates and coaches.

“I was a Tennessee fan in elementary

school, when Tee Martin won the National

Championship,” he says, which aided his

decision to play football. Tamaurice Martin,

who is now Mason’s quarterback coach,

is very supportive of the young player

and has worked with him to develop his

weaknesses. “He is an easy-going guy and

we work well together.”

One of Mason’s main priorities on the football

field is winning.

“That’s the reason you play hard,” he says.

“You know that people are watching you.”

He deems building relationships that last for

a lifetime as the most important thing about

playing football. Mason is satisfied just with

the privilege to compete.

“It’s a competitive game and I like to compete.”

When he’s not playing football, Mason enjoys

fishing, hunting, and hanging out with his

friends, who describe him as goofy.

“I don’t take a lot of things seriously, but I have

my priorities straight,” he says. “I understand

that schoolwork comes first, then football. I

know that I have to do well in school to be on

the field and to play college ball.”

ACCESS: HUTSON MASONGEORGIA’S TOP GUN

IT’S A COMPETITIVE GAME AND I LIKE TO COMPETE.

- Hutson

gaprepstars.com 11

12 prepstars

From left to Right:Kaycee Gallup, Kate Bell,

Kelsey Chadwick, Lori Spingola,Amalie Erwood, and Cameron Taylor

BACK TO BACKTHE LADY WAR EAGLESWIN ANOTHER STATE TITLE

gaprepstars.com 13

Mike Trapani, head coach of the Marist

School softball team, led his team to

victory as they were again named state

champions in 2009. In his 10 years of

coaching softball at Marist, Trapani and

his team won the state championship

twice and made it to the Final 9 nine of

ten years. He credits the team’s success

to its impressive pitching abilities and

the drive to work hard at winning.

“You have to have great pitching,” he says.

“ We’ve been fortunate for a number of

years to have that, and last year we were

also fortunate enough to have eight

talented young ladies on the team.”

As few goals change each year, the

team’s priority goals remain constant:

first, to win the region championship

and second, to win state.

“When you’ve got great pitching,

you’ve got to make routine plays. There

are a limited number of opportunities in

the field and you’ve got to try to make

them all,” he says. “The key to winning

is getting timely hits. You’ve got to be

able to move runners and get them in

when you have the chance.”

Although Trapani has spent 35 years

of coaching various sports, he names

softball as the most “nerve racking.”

Yet, he became intrigued when his

youngest daughter began to play. “I’ve

always equated softball to starting a

baseball game in extra innings,” he says.

In the end, Trapani hopes the seniors

and the other girls have enjoyed

playing softball.

“It was never meant to be the only and

most important thing we stress. School

work and spirituality are also important.

But we’ve been blessed with great

young ladies, and with their softball

talents aside, we hope they go on to do

great things.”

12 prepstars

From left to Right:Kaycee Gallup, Kate Bell,

Kelsey Chadwick, Lori Spingola,Amalie Erwood, and Cameron Taylor

BACK TO BACKTHE LADY WAR EAGLESWIN ANOTHER STATE TITLE

gaprepstars.com 13

Mike Trapani, head coach of the Marist

School softball team, led his team to

victory as they were again named state

champions in 2009. In his 10 years of

coaching softball at Marist, Trapani and

his team won the state championship

twice and made it to the Final 9 nine of

ten years. He credits the team’s success

to its impressive pitching abilities and

the drive to work hard at winning.

“You have to have great pitching,” he says.

“ We’ve been fortunate for a number of

years to have that, and last year we were

also fortunate enough to have eight

talented young ladies on the team.”

As few goals change each year, the

team’s priority goals remain constant:

first, to win the region championship

and second, to win state.

“When you’ve got great pitching,

you’ve got to make routine plays. There

are a limited number of opportunities in

the field and you’ve got to try to make

them all,” he says. “The key to winning

is getting timely hits. You’ve got to be

able to move runners and get them in

when you have the chance.”

Although Trapani has spent 35 years

of coaching various sports, he names

softball as the most “nerve racking.”

Yet, he became intrigued when his

youngest daughter began to play. “I’ve

always equated softball to starting a

baseball game in extra innings,” he says.

In the end, Trapani hopes the seniors

and the other girls have enjoyed

playing softball.

“It was never meant to be the only and

most important thing we stress. School

work and spirituality are also important.

But we’ve been blessed with great

young ladies, and with their softball

talents aside, we hope they go on to do

great things.”

14 prepstars

Some people may wonder why more and more young people are leaving the state in record

numbers. Why are young kids leaving, taking all their belongings with them, and moving to

nearby states- or better yet, across the nation? Well, the answer is quite simple really. After

graduating high school students are leaving for college. And the majority of them are leaving

the state. Why are they leaving? Students can’t think of any reason why they would like to go

to school in Georgia. However, students leaving the state have to ask themselves; have I really

investigated Georgia Schools? After all, there may be reason to change your mind. All schools

in Georgia have their points of pride which attract different students. And depending on your

personality type; you may find just the school you’re looking for.

DON’T LEAVE HOME, YET!

Georgia State University, for instance, has an amazing business program. As the ninth largest

business school in the United States with approximately 200 full-time faculty, state offers a

wide variety of course offerings in both the graduate and undergraduate programs. The school’s

EMBA is ranked among the best in the world according to Financial Times and our undergraduate

program is also ranked in the top 50 by U.S. News. If your strong suits are in math and you ever

wanted to be a high powered CEO or chief executive this school may be worth looking at.

The Clark Atlanta University is well-known for its band and auxiliary. It is a an huge and exciting

part of campus organization that includes the “Mighty Marching Panther” Band, the Pep Band,

the Symphonic Band, the Essence Dance Team, the CAU Drumline, and the Silver Breeze Dynasty

Flag Corp. The University’s Mighty Marching Panther Band’s many credits include having been

featured in the 20th Century Fox movie Drumline. The school also has many intercollegiate sports

including men’s baseball, basketball, football, tennis, and track and field; women’s basketball,

tennis, track and field, and volleyball in conjunction to their distinguished academic programs.

Georgia Southern is another great school for academics. The US News and World Report

consistently ranks the University’s Family Nurse Practitioner Program among the best in the

nation. And Southern’s College of Business Administration houses the only School of Economic

Development in the southeastern United States. It is also a great school for sports fans as the

Georgia Southern’s Eagles football team is one of the most successful in the NCAA Division I-AA.

It has won six national titles since 1985.

Georgia Tech is without a doubt the best

school for academic achievement in the

south. It has the number one graduate

program in the nation in engineering.

It is the ranks number seven in public

universities in the country, number

four in graduate engineering colleges,

number five in undergraduate engineering

college, number one in its industrial

engineering program, and number nine in

its undergraduate engineering programs.

Their NCAA Division I intercollegiate

athletics program is also one of the oldest

and most renowned in the country. Tech

students are passionate cheerleaders for

the Yellow Jackets. There are also plenty or frats and sororities that hold activities most week-

ends if sports aren’t of any interest at Tech. There is always something to do on the week-

ends at Georgia Tech; whether watching the game or simply hanging out with friends at nearby

bookstores and restaurants.

Valdosta State is large enough to offer more than 90 degree programs of study, yet small

enough to offer the individualized attention students deserve. The average undergraduate class

size is twenty-four. The student faculty ratio is twenty-one to one. This means, unlike many large

schools, students are capable to have meaningful interaction with professors so it will be easier

to learn.

Morehouse is one of the nation’s only male, historically and predominately higher education

institutions for African Americans. Morehouse gives special emphasis to the African American

experiences and the impact that people of the African diaspora have made in a global setting.

Black Enterprise has listed Morehouse College as No. 1 in the nation for educating African

Americans. This school has an enriched environment- where just as much attention is given to

creature comforts.

Lesser known schools like Fort Valley State also have something to offer students. With an

enrollment near 2,500, the school is the perfect size for building lifelong ties that go beyond

race and background-ties that are based on a shared love of learning and thirst for personal

growth. Fort Valley also has more than seventy student organizations and activities range

from a thriving sorority and fraternity system to

conference-leading athletic teams, from honor

societies to student government.

The University of West Georgia also has something

to offer students. It has over one hundred student

organizations and new facilities that provide a

balanced and exciting student life. It is also named by

The Princeton Review as one of the Best Southeastern

Colleges and one of America’s Best Value Colleges,

the University of West Georgia provides exceptional

academic quality. gaprepstars.com 15

14 prepstars

Some people may wonder why more and more young people are leaving the state in record

numbers. Why are young kids leaving, taking all their belongings with them, and moving to

nearby states- or better yet, across the nation? Well, the answer is quite simple really. After

graduating high school students are leaving for college. And the majority of them are leaving

the state. Why are they leaving? Students can’t think of any reason why they would like to go

to school in Georgia. However, students leaving the state have to ask themselves; have I really

investigated Georgia Schools? After all, there may be reason to change your mind. All schools

in Georgia have their points of pride which attract different students. And depending on your

personality type; you may find just the school you’re looking for.

DON’T LEAVE HOME, YET!

Georgia State University, for instance, has an amazing business program. As the ninth largest

business school in the United States with approximately 200 full-time faculty, state offers a

wide variety of course offerings in both the graduate and undergraduate programs. The school’s

EMBA is ranked among the best in the world according to Financial Times and our undergraduate

program is also ranked in the top 50 by U.S. News. If your strong suits are in math and you ever

wanted to be a high powered CEO or chief executive this school may be worth looking at.

The Clark Atlanta University is well-known for its band and auxiliary. It is a an huge and exciting

part of campus organization that includes the “Mighty Marching Panther” Band, the Pep Band,

the Symphonic Band, the Essence Dance Team, the CAU Drumline, and the Silver Breeze Dynasty

Flag Corp. The University’s Mighty Marching Panther Band’s many credits include having been

featured in the 20th Century Fox movie Drumline. The school also has many intercollegiate sports

including men’s baseball, basketball, football, tennis, and track and field; women’s basketball,

tennis, track and field, and volleyball in conjunction to their distinguished academic programs.

Georgia Southern is another great school for academics. The US News and World Report

consistently ranks the University’s Family Nurse Practitioner Program among the best in the

nation. And Southern’s College of Business Administration houses the only School of Economic

Development in the southeastern United States. It is also a great school for sports fans as the

Georgia Southern’s Eagles football team is one of the most successful in the NCAA Division I-AA.

It has won six national titles since 1985.

Georgia Tech is without a doubt the best

school for academic achievement in the

south. It has the number one graduate

program in the nation in engineering.

It is the ranks number seven in public

universities in the country, number

four in graduate engineering colleges,

number five in undergraduate engineering

college, number one in its industrial

engineering program, and number nine in

its undergraduate engineering programs.

Their NCAA Division I intercollegiate

athletics program is also one of the oldest

and most renowned in the country. Tech

students are passionate cheerleaders for

the Yellow Jackets. There are also plenty or frats and sororities that hold activities most week-

ends if sports aren’t of any interest at Tech. There is always something to do on the week-

ends at Georgia Tech; whether watching the game or simply hanging out with friends at nearby

bookstores and restaurants.

Valdosta State is large enough to offer more than 90 degree programs of study, yet small

enough to offer the individualized attention students deserve. The average undergraduate class

size is twenty-four. The student faculty ratio is twenty-one to one. This means, unlike many large

schools, students are capable to have meaningful interaction with professors so it will be easier

to learn.

Morehouse is one of the nation’s only male, historically and predominately higher education

institutions for African Americans. Morehouse gives special emphasis to the African American

experiences and the impact that people of the African diaspora have made in a global setting.

Black Enterprise has listed Morehouse College as No. 1 in the nation for educating African

Americans. This school has an enriched environment- where just as much attention is given to

creature comforts.

Lesser known schools like Fort Valley State also have something to offer students. With an

enrollment near 2,500, the school is the perfect size for building lifelong ties that go beyond

race and background-ties that are based on a shared love of learning and thirst for personal

growth. Fort Valley also has more than seventy student organizations and activities range

from a thriving sorority and fraternity system to

conference-leading athletic teams, from honor

societies to student government.

The University of West Georgia also has something

to offer students. It has over one hundred student

organizations and new facilities that provide a

balanced and exciting student life. It is also named by

The Princeton Review as one of the Best Southeastern

Colleges and one of America’s Best Value Colleges,

the University of West Georgia provides exceptional

academic quality. gaprepstars.com 15

16 prepstars

Albany State’s is known for its cultural, ethnic, racial, and gender diversity in the faculty, staff, and student body. They are supported by practices and programs that embody the ideals of an open, democratic, and global society. Albany State offers comprehensive programs in health care services, community development, human disabilities, cultural enhancement, business and economic development, international trade and even entrepreneurship. And this school’s commitment to a teaching and learning environment, both inside and outside the classroom, offers superior academic assistance to

its students.

And in regards to campus; Savannah state is by far the best. Savannah State’s 173-acre campus

is by far the most picturesque in the state of Georgia. Located near the city of Savannah; the

school offers art, culture, and recreation. There is a river front, fishing, parks, monuments,

cemeteries, and even swimming. There are plenty of things for you and your friends to do in

this small college town.

Shorter College is also well-known for its

programs in the arts. “The Shorter College School

of the Arts is well known for excellence in the

training of both vocal and keyboard musicians,”

said Dr. Alan Wingard of the Baptist university’s

music education faculty.

LaGrange College is also renowned for its programs in

drama, music and art. Affiliated with the United Methodist

Church, LaGrange is ranked by U.S. News & World Report

among the South’s top 10 comprehensive colleges and

among that category’s “best values.”

And Georgia Military’s two-year program is perfect for

commuting students who balance attending college while

maintaining employment and providing for their family.

The GMC Prep School offers small classes with an average

student/teacher ratio of eight-teen to one, providing a

superior academic environment for students to learn. gaprepstars.com 17

Finally, who doesn’t know how great Georgia’s football team is? Coach Bulldog’s coach Richt

was recently presented several pineapples by Athens-Clarke Mayor Heidi Davidson recently to

celebrate the Bulldogs’ victory over Hawaii in the Allstate Sugar Bowl. The University of Georgia

Athletic teams are amazing to say the least. UGA teams have won 27 national championships,

including 17 since 1999 in the sports of women’s gymnastics, men’s tennis, women’s equestrian,

and men’s golf. There is literally a sports team worth watching every week-end at Georgia. And

Georgia students and cheerleaders win for school pride hands down. You will never be bored at

UGA. Nearly thirty percent of UGA undergraduates are involved in some form of international

education each year. UGA ranks ninth among the top twenty research universities in the number

of students studying abroad. And for academic pride; the fall of 2007 entering freshman had

an SAT average of 1233 and a high school grade point average of 3.79. Regarding faulty; nine

active, retired or deceased University faculty members have been elected to the prestigious

National Academy of Sciences, one of the highest honors an American scientist can attain. And

your child’s education will never go unfunded as UGA has received over a total of $153.7 million

in research awards, grants and contracts in the fiscal year of 2007.

After researching schools such as Georgia Tech, Georgia, Georgia State, Albany, and

many more I could find no answer as to why high school students are leaving the state.

From business to art degrees, commuter schools to traditional four year institutions;

there is a wide array of schools to choose from for just about every personality type.

Contact numbers:

Georgia State · P.O. Box 3965 Atlanta, GA 30302-3965 · Contact: (404) 413-2000

University of West Georgia · 1601 Maple St, Carrollton, GA 30118 · Contact: (678)839-5000

Clark Atlanta University · 223 James P. Brawley Drive, SW · Atlanta, Georgia 30314 Contact: 404-880-6605

Georgia Southern University · 225 Forest Drive, Statesboro, GA · Contact: 912.681.5361

Georgia Institute of Technology · Atlanta, Georgia 30332 · Campus Operator 404.894.2000

Albany State University · 504 College Drive · Albany, Georgia 31705 · 229.430.4600

Valdosta State University · 1500 N Patterson St.Valdosta, GA 31698 · Contact: (800)618-1878

The University of West Georgia · 1601 Maple St, Carrollton, GA 30118 · (678)839-5000

Morehouse College · 830 Westview Drive, S.W. Atlanta, GA 30314 · (404) 681-2800

Fort Valley State · 1005 State University Drive · Fort Valley, GA 31030 · 478-825-6211

Savannah State University · 3219 College St. Savannah, GA 31404 · 1-912-356-2181

Shorter College · 315 Shorter Avenue · Rome, Georgia 30165 · Phone: 800-868-6980

LaGrange College · 601 Broad Street, LaGrange, GA 30240 · 706-880-8005

Georgia Military College · Map of 201 E Greene St, Milledgeville, GA 31061 · (478) 445-2700

The University of Georgia · Athens, GA 30602 · UGA Directory Assistance 706/542-3000

16 prepstars

Albany State’s is known for its cultural, ethnic, racial, and gender diversity in the faculty, staff, and student body. They are supported by practices and programs that embody the ideals of an open, democratic, and global society. Albany State offers comprehensive programs in health care services, community development, human disabilities, cultural enhancement, business and economic development, international trade and even entrepreneurship. And this school’s commitment to a teaching and learning environment, both inside and outside the classroom, offers superior academic assistance to

its students.

And in regards to campus; Savannah state is by far the best. Savannah State’s 173-acre campus

is by far the most picturesque in the state of Georgia. Located near the city of Savannah; the

school offers art, culture, and recreation. There is a river front, fishing, parks, monuments,

cemeteries, and even swimming. There are plenty of things for you and your friends to do in

this small college town.

Shorter College is also well-known for its

programs in the arts. “The Shorter College School

of the Arts is well known for excellence in the

training of both vocal and keyboard musicians,”

said Dr. Alan Wingard of the Baptist university’s

music education faculty.

LaGrange College is also renowned for its programs in

drama, music and art. Affiliated with the United Methodist

Church, LaGrange is ranked by U.S. News & World Report

among the South’s top 10 comprehensive colleges and

among that category’s “best values.”

And Georgia Military’s two-year program is perfect for

commuting students who balance attending college while

maintaining employment and providing for their family.

The GMC Prep School offers small classes with an average

student/teacher ratio of eight-teen to one, providing a

superior academic environment for students to learn. gaprepstars.com 17

Finally, who doesn’t know how great Georgia’s football team is? Coach Bulldog’s coach Richt

was recently presented several pineapples by Athens-Clarke Mayor Heidi Davidson recently to

celebrate the Bulldogs’ victory over Hawaii in the Allstate Sugar Bowl. The University of Georgia

Athletic teams are amazing to say the least. UGA teams have won 27 national championships,

including 17 since 1999 in the sports of women’s gymnastics, men’s tennis, women’s equestrian,

and men’s golf. There is literally a sports team worth watching every week-end at Georgia. And

Georgia students and cheerleaders win for school pride hands down. You will never be bored at

UGA. Nearly thirty percent of UGA undergraduates are involved in some form of international

education each year. UGA ranks ninth among the top twenty research universities in the number

of students studying abroad. And for academic pride; the fall of 2007 entering freshman had

an SAT average of 1233 and a high school grade point average of 3.79. Regarding faulty; nine

active, retired or deceased University faculty members have been elected to the prestigious

National Academy of Sciences, one of the highest honors an American scientist can attain. And

your child’s education will never go unfunded as UGA has received over a total of $153.7 million

in research awards, grants and contracts in the fiscal year of 2007.

After researching schools such as Georgia Tech, Georgia, Georgia State, Albany, and

many more I could find no answer as to why high school students are leaving the state.

From business to art degrees, commuter schools to traditional four year institutions;

there is a wide array of schools to choose from for just about every personality type.

Contact numbers:

Georgia State · P.O. Box 3965 Atlanta, GA 30302-3965 · Contact: (404) 413-2000

University of West Georgia · 1601 Maple St, Carrollton, GA 30118 · Contact: (678)839-5000

Clark Atlanta University · 223 James P. Brawley Drive, SW · Atlanta, Georgia 30314 Contact: 404-880-6605

Georgia Southern University · 225 Forest Drive, Statesboro, GA · Contact: 912.681.5361

Georgia Institute of Technology · Atlanta, Georgia 30332 · Campus Operator 404.894.2000

Albany State University · 504 College Drive · Albany, Georgia 31705 · 229.430.4600

Valdosta State University · 1500 N Patterson St.Valdosta, GA 31698 · Contact: (800)618-1878

The University of West Georgia · 1601 Maple St, Carrollton, GA 30118 · (678)839-5000

Morehouse College · 830 Westview Drive, S.W. Atlanta, GA 30314 · (404) 681-2800

Fort Valley State · 1005 State University Drive · Fort Valley, GA 31030 · 478-825-6211

Savannah State University · 3219 College St. Savannah, GA 31404 · 1-912-356-2181

Shorter College · 315 Shorter Avenue · Rome, Georgia 30165 · Phone: 800-868-6980

LaGrange College · 601 Broad Street, LaGrange, GA 30240 · 706-880-8005

Georgia Military College · Map of 201 E Greene St, Milledgeville, GA 31061 · (478) 445-2700

The University of Georgia · Athens, GA 30602 · UGA Directory Assistance 706/542-3000

18 prepstars

With so much to do in such a fast-paced

society, contributing to the education of our

youth is unnoticeably becoming overlooked.

However, there is no charitable donation too

big or too small for some organizations when

it comes to supporting educational causes.

Despite the struggle to stay afloat in today’s

overwhelming economy, some organizations

continue to show acts of kindness towards

our future leaders, while sometimes, unlike

most others, setting aside the command to

beat the current economic crisis.

According to Kroger Co. Mid-South Charitable

Fundraising, in 2007, “Kroger paid out over

$4.1 million in charitable contributions.

Out of this total, over $2.3 million was for

school organizations.” Kroger is just one of

the many local companies that gives back

to our schools through its Earning Plus

Learning program. Similar to the fundraising

efforts of this successful company, Publix

also contributes to local schools through

charitable contributions made by the Publix

Partners organization. Both grocery chains

use memberships and shopping cards that

donate a percentage of the money spent

by customers. The shopper chooses which

school they wish to support and the donation

goes to the selected institution each time the

customer shops. These companies benefit

local schools in a major way by providing

great donations and encouraging members

of our community to participate as well in an

easy and affordable manner.

In addition to the popular grocery chains,

some local restaurants are involved in giving

back to schools. Applebee’s Neighborhood

Grill is another company that supports local

schools. They provide organizations with two

fundraising options: Dining to Donate and the

Flapjack Fundraiser. The Dining to Donate

program allows members of a particular

organization to raise money through the sales

generated of their total bill. Applebee’s grants

the organization with a percentage of the bill

and sends out a check to support their cause.

The Flapjack Fundraiser works in a much

similar way. Through this pancake breakfast

hosted by Applebee’s, a portion of the sales

produced goes back to the organization, to

again, support a particular cause. Applebee’s

has over 40 locations in the greater Atlanta

area, which gives plenty of options to donate

for a special cause.

With a goal to raise $2 million over the next

two years, Georgia Natural Gas’s True Blue

Schools program works to raise money for

schools through the help of its customers.

Customers may sign up at the company’s

fundraiser website and select the school

of their choice to support. Once a school

has been selected, Georgia Natural Gas

will then “provide a one-time $25 donation

per customer to the school and donate $5

for each month the program participant is

an active Georgia Natural Gas customer in

good standing.” This program encourages

members to participate in supporting local

schools while providing extra benefits and

rewards when they sign up. Not only are the

customers interested in reaping the benefits

of the program, they also understand the

importance of educating our youth.

In order to supply the educational needs of

our youth, it is important that we recognize

and appreciate the organizations that work

hard to give back to our schools through

donations and charity events. With a

combined effort and participation in more

than one local educational program, each

school can properly function in educating our

students and bringing out their best.

GIVE ///Shalunda Harris

18 prepstars

With so much to do in such a fast-paced

society, contributing to the education of our

youth is unnoticeably becoming overlooked.

However, there is no charitable donation too

big or too small for some organizations when

it comes to supporting educational causes.

Despite the struggle to stay afloat in today’s

overwhelming economy, some organizations

continue to show acts of kindness towards

our future leaders, while sometimes, unlike

most others, setting aside the command to

beat the current economic crisis.

According to Kroger Co. Mid-South Charitable

Fundraising, in 2007, “Kroger paid out over

$4.1 million in charitable contributions.

Out of this total, over $2.3 million was for

school organizations.” Kroger is just one of

the many local companies that gives back

to our schools through its Earning Plus

Learning program. Similar to the fundraising

efforts of this successful company, Publix

also contributes to local schools through

charitable contributions made by the Publix

Partners organization. Both grocery chains

use memberships and shopping cards that

donate a percentage of the money spent

by customers. The shopper chooses which

school they wish to support and the donation

goes to the selected institution each time the

customer shops. These companies benefit

local schools in a major way by providing

great donations and encouraging members

of our community to participate as well in an

easy and affordable manner.

In addition to the popular grocery chains,

some local restaurants are involved in giving

back to schools. Applebee’s Neighborhood

Grill is another company that supports local

schools. They provide organizations with two

fundraising options: Dining to Donate and the

Flapjack Fundraiser. The Dining to Donate

program allows members of a particular

organization to raise money through the sales

generated of their total bill. Applebee’s grants

the organization with a percentage of the bill

and sends out a check to support their cause.

The Flapjack Fundraiser works in a much

similar way. Through this pancake breakfast

hosted by Applebee’s, a portion of the sales

produced goes back to the organization, to

again, support a particular cause. Applebee’s

has over 40 locations in the greater Atlanta

area, which gives plenty of options to donate

for a special cause.

With a goal to raise $2 million over the next

two years, Georgia Natural Gas’s True Blue

Schools program works to raise money for

schools through the help of its customers.

Customers may sign up at the company’s

fundraiser website and select the school

of their choice to support. Once a school

has been selected, Georgia Natural Gas

will then “provide a one-time $25 donation

per customer to the school and donate $5

for each month the program participant is

an active Georgia Natural Gas customer in

good standing.” This program encourages

members to participate in supporting local

schools while providing extra benefits and

rewards when they sign up. Not only are the

customers interested in reaping the benefits

of the program, they also understand the

importance of educating our youth.

In order to supply the educational needs of

our youth, it is important that we recognize

and appreciate the organizations that work

hard to give back to our schools through

donations and charity events. With a

combined effort and participation in more

than one local educational program, each

school can properly function in educating our

students and bringing out their best.

GIVE ///DeMarco Williams

gaprepstars.com 21

“We always talk about the same thing,” he

says. “We want to play hard and show good

sportsmanship. We want to win, but we also

want to win in the right way, and we want

to play good defense. It’s a formula that’s

worked pretty good for us.”

From his experience, Coach Herron has

gained many values, including joy and

satisfaction, to make him the coach that

he is. “I’ve gained enough as it is,” he says.

However, he hopes to gain and learn more as

his career continues.

“I’ve had the opportunity to be around a lot of

good coaches and good kids. I’ve enjoyed it.

I think the most important thing is enjoying

what you do. That’s in any profession.” To

Coach Herron, coaching high school football

is more than just a profession; it is a lifestyle.

“I enjoy going to work everyday. I don’t feel

that it’s a job. Our profession is a very noble

profession. We are helping mold young men

for the future.”

20 prepstars

With 26 years of coaching experience and

four state championship titles under his

belt, head coach Jeff Herron of the Camden

County Wildcats knows just what it takes to

win football games. “It certainly takes good

players and good community support,” he

says. “It’s not possible unless you have good

players, good coaches, good fan support, and

good administrative support.”

Coach Herron and the Wildcats took home

the most recent title of state champions in

2010, which marked his 10th season as head

coach of the Wildcats. According to Herron,

the key to becoming state champions is

repetition.

“We do the same things we’ve always done.

Expectations are high every year. We stress

to the team that we would like to repeat.”

Repetition, along with practice, is Herron’s

way of encouraging his team to prepare for

the title of the next state championship.

With state championships comes hard work

and encouragement, which are the qualities

he possesses in order to lead a winning

team. Coach Herron believes there is more

than one way to coach and be successful,

but you have to work hard no matter what

your style is.

COACHES CORNER

Head Coach JEFF HERRONCamden County WILDCATS

gaprepstars.com 21

“We always talk about the same thing,” he

says. “We want to play hard and show good

sportsmanship. We want to win, but we also

want to win in the right way, and we want

to play good defense. It’s a formula that’s

worked pretty good for us.”

From his experience, Coach Herron has

gained many values, including joy and

satisfaction, to make him the coach that

he is. “I’ve gained enough as it is,” he says.

However, he hopes to gain and learn more as

his career continues.

“I’ve had the opportunity to be around a lot of

good coaches and good kids. I’ve enjoyed it.

I think the most important thing is enjoying

what you do. That’s in any profession.” To

Coach Herron, coaching high school football

is more than just a profession; it is a lifestyle.

“I enjoy going to work everyday. I don’t feel

that it’s a job. Our profession is a very noble

profession. We are helping mold young men

for the future.”

20 prepstars

With 26 years of coaching experience and

four state championship titles under his

belt, head coach Jeff Herron of the Camden

County Wildcats knows just what it takes to

win football games. “It certainly takes good

players and good community support,” he

says. “It’s not possible unless you have good

players, good coaches, good fan support, and

good administrative support.”

Coach Herron and the Wildcats took home

the most recent title of state champions in

2010, which marked his 10th season as head

coach of the Wildcats. According to Herron,

the key to becoming state champions is

repetition.

“We do the same things we’ve always done.

Expectations are high every year. We stress

to the team that we would like to repeat.”

Repetition, along with practice, is Herron’s

way of encouraging his team to prepare for

the title of the next state championship.

With state championships comes hard work

and encouragement, which are the qualities

he possesses in order to lead a winning

team. Coach Herron believes there is more

than one way to coach and be successful,

but you have to work hard no matter what

your style is.

COACHES CORNER

Head Coach JEFF HERRONCamden County WILDCATS

22 prepstars

EXTRA! EXTRA!

Atlanta’s had good years in high school

hoops before. 2002-03 immediately comes

to mind because of Dwight Howard and Josh

Smith’s above-the-rim antics. And folks are

still picking up jaws from the ground after

watching Derrick Favors go nuts last year.

Still, the things area kids are doing this season,

boys and girls, is nothing short of amazing. At

nearly every corner of the city, prep phenoms

are generating national attention with their

play. Though we’d need another three pages

of editorial to spotlight all the players helping

to make the 2009-10 basketball season one

of the most memorable in recent history, we

have to give props to the city’s five special

headline makers…

Mighty, Mighty Milton- At Christmastime,

Milton High’s boys team was soaring with an

undefeated record, a No. 1 ranking in ESPN’s

South Region and a No. 8 spot on Scout.

com’s national ranking. From the looks of the

focused, David Boyd-coached team, those

won’t just be holiday accolades either. With

super junior Dai-Jon Parker and amazing

sophomore Evan Nolte leading the charge,

the Eagles could be unwrapping its biggest

gift, a state title, in a few more months.

Ryan’s Hope- We’ve had the luxury of

watching Ryan Harrow play a couple of times

over the past year and each time has been

eye-opening. For whatever the 160-pound

Walton High standout lacks in physicality, he

more than makes up for in desire and dazzle.

Harrow, ESPN’s No. 10 ranked point guard,

simply has a grasp for the game that few will

ever know. The North Carolina State signee

shows glimpses of Isiah Thomas when he’s

working the rock. If he bulks up a bit and

keeps his level head, there’s no reason he

can’t follow a similar path.

DeMarco Williams

Give Me Liberty County or Give Me Death-

It’s hard to talk about Georgia’s best players

without putting Liberty County teammates

Jordan McRae and Rion Brown in the

conversation. Brown, who’ll take his smooth

game down to Miami next year, is a certified

problem on the wing. The long and super-

quick McRae is a nightmare on the baseline, in

the lane and on a break. It’s no wonder ESPN

considers the future Tennessee Vol one of

the finest shooting guards in the land. “They

play my type of game,” McRae explained to

us about his college choice. “They run. They

push. I don’t like to walk the ball up the court.”

Norcross Is Not To Be Crossed- If there’s one

team you dread seeing on your basketball

schedule, it’s the Norcross Blue Devils. The

well-rounded school isn’t just a problem

for opposing boy teams either. Though

Connecticut commitment Jeremy Lamb

does lead a male squad that gets it done,

the Diamond DeShields- and Brianna Jordan-

sparked girls group might be even scarier?

Oh, and you know what’s the most frightening

thing of all about the country’s No. 12-ranked

school? Diamond, daughter of former Major

League Baseball player Delino DeShields, is

only a freshman.

Knock’em Down Nia- The Redan Lady Raiders

are special. It’s just that simple. At press time,

the team was an impressive 7-0 and held the

top spot in ESPN’s South Region. Of course,

that’s nothing new for a Redan crew that went

27-0 and won the state title a season ago.

The central reason for the dominance has

been Nia Evans, a relentless forward who’ll

grab boards and swipe at balls with the best

of’em. If she can keep the defensive intensity

burning at Virginia Tech, she’ll be very special

for a very long time.

gaprepstars.com 23

Here are the 2010 headlines from the Atlanta-Area Hardwood

22 prepstars

EXTRA! EXTRA!

Atlanta’s had good years in high school

hoops before. 2002-03 immediately comes

to mind because of Dwight Howard and Josh

Smith’s above-the-rim antics. And folks are

still picking up jaws from the ground after

watching Derrick Favors go nuts last year.

Still, the things area kids are doing this season,

boys and girls, is nothing short of amazing. At

nearly every corner of the city, prep phenoms

are generating national attention with their

play. Though we’d need another three pages

of editorial to spotlight all the players helping

to make the 2009-10 basketball season one

of the most memorable in recent history, we

have to give props to the city’s five special

headline makers…

Mighty, Mighty Milton- At Christmastime,

Milton High’s boys team was soaring with an

undefeated record, a No. 1 ranking in ESPN’s

South Region and a No. 8 spot on Scout.

com’s national ranking. From the looks of the

focused, David Boyd-coached team, those

won’t just be holiday accolades either. With

super junior Dai-Jon Parker and amazing

sophomore Evan Nolte leading the charge,

the Eagles could be unwrapping its biggest

gift, a state title, in a few more months.

Ryan’s Hope- We’ve had the luxury of

watching Ryan Harrow play a couple of times

over the past year and each time has been

eye-opening. For whatever the 160-pound

Walton High standout lacks in physicality, he

more than makes up for in desire and dazzle.

Harrow, ESPN’s No. 10 ranked point guard,

simply has a grasp for the game that few will

ever know. The North Carolina State signee

shows glimpses of Isiah Thomas when he’s

working the rock. If he bulks up a bit and

keeps his level head, there’s no reason he

can’t follow a similar path.

DeMarco Williams

Give Me Liberty County or Give Me Death-

It’s hard to talk about Georgia’s best players

without putting Liberty County teammates

Jordan McRae and Rion Brown in the

conversation. Brown, who’ll take his smooth

game down to Miami next year, is a certified

problem on the wing. The long and super-

quick McRae is a nightmare on the baseline, in

the lane and on a break. It’s no wonder ESPN

considers the future Tennessee Vol one of

the finest shooting guards in the land. “They

play my type of game,” McRae explained to

us about his college choice. “They run. They

push. I don’t like to walk the ball up the court.”

Norcross Is Not To Be Crossed- If there’s one

team you dread seeing on your basketball

schedule, it’s the Norcross Blue Devils. The

well-rounded school isn’t just a problem

for opposing boy teams either. Though

Connecticut commitment Jeremy Lamb

does lead a male squad that gets it done,

the Diamond DeShields- and Brianna Jordan-

sparked girls group might be even scarier?

Oh, and you know what’s the most frightening

thing of all about the country’s No. 12-ranked

school? Diamond, daughter of former Major

League Baseball player Delino DeShields, is

only a freshman.

Knock’em Down Nia- The Redan Lady Raiders

are special. It’s just that simple. At press time,

the team was an impressive 7-0 and held the

top spot in ESPN’s South Region. Of course,

that’s nothing new for a Redan crew that went

27-0 and won the state title a season ago.

The central reason for the dominance has

been Nia Evans, a relentless forward who’ll

grab boards and swipe at balls with the best

of’em. If she can keep the defensive intensity

burning at Virginia Tech, she’ll be very special

for a very long time.

gaprepstars.com 23

Here are the 2010 headlines from the Atlanta-Area Hardwood

24 prepstars

Johns Creek High School Varsity Competition Cheerleaders Win State Cheerleading Championship

The Gladiators Varsity Competition Cheerleaders make history and win the 2009 Georgia High

School AAA State Cheerleading Championship! The team competed against 15 other teams

who qualified for the finals on November 14. This is the first TEAM State Championship for

the school. The team has been working together daily in preparation for the State title -

practicing up to 12 hours a week to perfect their skills which include standing and running

tumbling, stunting, dancing and more. This win follows their Region 5AAA title they acheived

on November 7. “We are honored and thrilled to bring the State title home to Johns Creek”,

said head Varsity Coach, Caren Hudson. “The girls work extremely hard on their skills and have

worked very well together all season long - I am very proud of these girls and excited to make

a name for Johns Creek High School.”

SPIRIT ZONE

Members of the championship team include: Jada Thompkins, Alex Welton, Jenna Nelson, Mariel Moore, Camden Thomas, Lindsay Peterson, Chelsea Jones, Hannah Keeney,Cody Hudson, Sarah Kate Somers, Lindsey Hodges, Tatum Corley, Becca Cessna, Ginny Humphrey, Elle Wilton, Caroline Whorton and Jill Krieger.

Johns Creek High School Varsity Competition Cheerleaders

gaprepstars.com 25

24 prepstars

Johns Creek High School Varsity Competition Cheerleaders Win State Cheerleading Championship

The Gladiators Varsity Competition Cheerleaders make history and win the 2009 Georgia High

School AAA State Cheerleading Championship! The team competed against 15 other teams

who qualified for the finals on November 14. This is the first TEAM State Championship for

the school. The team has been working together daily in preparation for the State title -

practicing up to 12 hours a week to perfect their skills which include standing and running

tumbling, stunting, dancing and more. This win follows their Region 5AAA title they acheived

on November 7. “We are honored and thrilled to bring the State title home to Johns Creek”,

said head Varsity Coach, Caren Hudson. “The girls work extremely hard on their skills and have

worked very well together all season long - I am very proud of these girls and excited to make

a name for Johns Creek High School.”

SPIRIT ZONE

gaprepstars.com 25

photo courtesy of Photographic Arts

26 prepstars

When you have the level of talent walking

through your door like The Factory routinely

has, it’s kind of hard not to bring it up as a

selling point for future clients.

“We had Matthew Stafford in here today,”

says The Factory co-owner Erik Richards

matter-of-factly.

Ian Pemberton, the mighty mouse of a

running back for Grayson High, came by too.

On any given day, you’re liable to see Atlanta

Braves outfielder Jeff Francoeur, 2008

Canadian Football League rookie of the year

runner-up Prechae Rodriguez or half of the

Auburn defensive front line. No lie.

The facility proudly adorns one of its

walls with the jerseys and uniforms of the

aforementioned studs and many others. “If

you take all the athletes that we have under

this roof, it doesn’t even compare to anybody

else,” tells respected trainer and Georgia

Training Alliance co-owner Earl Williams.

“There’s no one else, as a collective group on

a prep level, that comes close. We’ve got 10

D-1 signee possibilities just this year, which

would be our biggest class. That’s certainly

a blessing.”

But more impressive than hosting future

NCAA stars or top picks in the NFL Draft might

DeMarco Williams

be the team’s humility about it all. “Basically,

the key to this business is for everybody to get

along,” explains Richards, who moonlights as an

executive with the esteemed Gwinnett Football

League. “When you have different trainers from

different entities –Some from speed and agility,

others from strength and others are a boxing

coach- it’s important for everybody to mesh

together. There can be a lot of egos. There can

be egos between trainers’ clientele [either]. All

of that has to be checked at the door. When

you come into The Factory, even though we’re

not asking you to put down your school colors

or anything like that, you have to understand

that this isn’t a turf war.”

Williams adds, “We live by the philosophy

of God first, self, family, helping others,

academics, your sport of choice and then

everything else. If [athletes] try to live outside

of that or portray themselves outside of that,

we don’t need their business that bad.”

This has essentially been The Factory’s game

plan since Richards and business partner

Gerald Mitchell opened their Lawrenceville

doors. Provide a structured, morally-

grounded arena for the high school athlete

to get bigger, stronger and faster. Still, Erik

is quick to point out that “We weren’t the

first. CES (Competitive Edge Sports) was

the godfather, doing it for combine athletes.

[They did it for] people that had finished their

college career and going on into the NFL.

Their basic concentration was the college

THE FACTORY Building Better Athletes

Parents out there wondering how their child

can join The Factory needn’t worry too much

either. The exclusive-sounding training center

is more than welcoming to new recruits.

“Just bring’em on out here,” maintains

Richards, who says that distance shouldn’t

be a deterrent, seeing as how UGA football

players regularly make the 45-minute trek to

Gwinnett County. “Garrison Smith, the All-

American defensive tackle at Douglass [High,

in Southwest Atlanta], drives up from time

to time to get in a workout with Ryan. We

got’em from all over.”

Boy, there they go with more name dropping.

But, in actuality, the guys behind this winning

establishment care as much about the

former high school player who’s working for

minimum wages at CVS as they do guys like

Darius Walker and Brandon Braxton who are

earning checks in the NFL. Sure, they want to

build better football players. They just want

to build better young men and women that

much more.

“If they’re doing what they need to do in high school,” Richards continues, “then they’re jammed in with coming here, then they’re jammed in with doing homework, there’s a very little window that they’re going to be out on the street, getting in trouble. Parents appreciate that. They know that if they’re here, they’re acting right. They’re not thugging. They’re not gang banging. We’re not allowing them to [loiter] around the parking lot or anything like that. They’re here to work. And when they leave here, they better be going to

their next stop.”

Thanks to sound principles, super trainers and striking facilities, it just so happens the next stop is often a Division-1 institution.

athlete prepping for the combine to go to the

pros. Ryan [Golden, another highly-regarded

Factory trainer] and Earl had been training

high school athletes for eight to 10 years. So,

the idea came about from bouncing around

different college facilities and bouncing

around to different high school weight

rooms.”

But even though the facility is equipped

with top-shelf trainers and 19,000 square

feet of equipment, a 40-yard football field,

basketball court and boxing ring, its founder

insists it’s nothing like Bally’s (“There isn’t

anybody selling memberships”) nor is it a

knock on high school facilities (“I feel that

varsity and JV teams need to see their leaders

in the weight room”). The Factory is merely

another quality option for athletes looking for

a little more.

“We hold [athletes] accountable for

everything,” explains Golden, himself a five-

time powerlifting champ. “We’ve got a food

plan. They’ve gotta follow the food plan. We

hold them accountable for time. We really

want them here early. While they’re here, we

gotta work in a timely manner. All of the focus

is working towards the activity they’re doing

now and the one that’s next. There won’t be

any fooling around here. That’s what they can

do on their own time. They’re not gonna do

it here.”

And the other fascinating thing about The

Factory is that those rules don’t merely apply

to the football players who frequent the

place, but they’re also meant to be upheld by

the wrestlers, basketball and soccer players

and female cheerleaders that make up the

clientele’s over 25%.

gaprepstars.com 27

26 prepstars

When you have the level of talent walking

through your door like The Factory routinely

has, it’s kind of hard not to bring it up as a

selling point for future clients.

“We had Matthew Stafford in here today,”

says The Factory co-owner Erik Richards

matter-of-factly.

Ian Pemberton, the mighty mouse of a

running back for Grayson High, came by too.

On any given day, you’re liable to see Atlanta

Braves outfielder Jeff Francoeur, 2008

Canadian Football League rookie of the year

runner-up Prechae Rodriguez or half of the

Auburn defensive front line. No lie.

The facility proudly adorns one of its

walls with the jerseys and uniforms of the

aforementioned studs and many others. “If

you take all the athletes that we have under

this roof, it doesn’t even compare to anybody

else,” tells respected trainer and Georgia

Training Alliance co-owner Earl Williams.

“There’s no one else, as a collective group on

a prep level, that comes close. We’ve got 10

D-1 signee possibilities just this year, which

would be our biggest class. That’s certainly

a blessing.”

But more impressive than hosting future

NCAA stars or top picks in the NFL Draft might

DeMarco Williams

be the team’s humility about it all. “Basically,

the key to this business is for everybody to get

along,” explains Richards, who moonlights as an

executive with the esteemed Gwinnett Football

League. “When you have different trainers from

different entities –Some from speed and agility,

others from strength and others are a boxing

coach- it’s important for everybody to mesh

together. There can be a lot of egos. There can

be egos between trainers’ clientele [either]. All

of that has to be checked at the door. When

you come into The Factory, even though we’re

not asking you to put down your school colors

or anything like that, you have to understand

that this isn’t a turf war.”

Williams adds, “We live by the philosophy

of God first, self, family, helping others,

academics, your sport of choice and then

everything else. If [athletes] try to live outside

of that or portray themselves outside of that,

we don’t need their business that bad.”

This has essentially been The Factory’s game

plan since Richards and business partner

Gerald Mitchell opened their Lawrenceville

doors. Provide a structured, morally-

grounded arena for the high school athlete

to get bigger, stronger and faster. Still, Erik

is quick to point out that “We weren’t the

first. CES (Competitive Edge Sports) was

the godfather, doing it for combine athletes.

[They did it for] people that had finished their

college career and going on into the NFL.

Their basic concentration was the college

THE FACTORY Building Better Athletes

Parents out there wondering how their child

can join The Factory needn’t worry too much

either. The exclusive-sounding training center

is more than welcoming to new recruits.

“Just bring’em on out here,” maintains

Richards, who says that distance shouldn’t

be a deterrent, seeing as how UGA football

players regularly make the 45-minute trek to

Gwinnett County. “Garrison Smith, the All-

American defensive tackle at Douglass [High,

in Southwest Atlanta], drives up from time

to time to get in a workout with Ryan. We

got’em from all over.”

Boy, there they go with more name dropping.

But, in actuality, the guys behind this winning

establishment care as much about the

former high school player who’s working for

minimum wages at CVS as they do guys like

Darius Walker and Brandon Braxton who are

earning checks in the NFL. Sure, they want to

build better football players. They just want

to build better young men and women that

much more.

“If they’re doing what they need to do in high school,” Richards continues, “then they’re jammed in with coming here, then they’re jammed in with doing homework, there’s a very little window that they’re going to be out on the street, getting in trouble. Parents appreciate that. They know that if they’re here, they’re acting right. They’re not thugging. They’re not gang banging. We’re not allowing them to [loiter] around the parking lot or anything like that. They’re here to work. And when they leave here, they better be going to

their next stop.”

Thanks to sound principles, super trainers and striking facilities, it just so happens the next stop is often a Division-1 institution.

athlete prepping for the combine to go to the

pros. Ryan [Golden, another highly-regarded

Factory trainer] and Earl had been training

high school athletes for eight to 10 years. So,

the idea came about from bouncing around

different college facilities and bouncing

around to different high school weight

rooms.”

But even though the facility is equipped

with top-shelf trainers and 19,000 square

feet of equipment, a 40-yard football field,

basketball court and boxing ring, its founder

insists it’s nothing like Bally’s (“There isn’t

anybody selling memberships”) nor is it a

knock on high school facilities (“I feel that

varsity and JV teams need to see their leaders

in the weight room”). The Factory is merely

another quality option for athletes looking for

a little more.

“We hold [athletes] accountable for

everything,” explains Golden, himself a five-

time powerlifting champ. “We’ve got a food

plan. They’ve gotta follow the food plan. We

hold them accountable for time. We really

want them here early. While they’re here, we

gotta work in a timely manner. All of the focus

is working towards the activity they’re doing

now and the one that’s next. There won’t be

any fooling around here. That’s what they can

do on their own time. They’re not gonna do

it here.”

And the other fascinating thing about The

Factory is that those rules don’t merely apply

to the football players who frequent the

place, but they’re also meant to be upheld by

the wrestlers, basketball and soccer players

and female cheerleaders that make up the

clientele’s over 25%.

gaprepstars.com 27

28 prepstars

Stephenson High School opened in 1996

and has grown to a current enrollment of

over 1900 students. The school is located

in Dekalb County, in Stone Mountain, GA.

The Stephenson High School mission is to

“Educate and Prepare students to become

productive members of their ever-changing

world”. It is the mission of the Stephenson

High School band program to foster an

appreciation of good music, to create a

positive camaraderie for the students and

community, and to build model citizens

through participation in Art of Music, which is

the greatest of the Arts. Students are offered

musical training via Concert Band, Symphonic

Band, Wind Ensemble, Jazz Band, Marching

Band, Instrumental Chamber Ensembles and

Advanced Placement Music Theory. Band at

Stephenson is a year-round curriculum, and

after football season ends the band is kicking

into third gear for the year. Our students

perform as well on the concert stage as they

entertain at Half-time.

Over the past several years, the entire

Stephenson band Program has garnered local,

state and national awards including: Superior

rating and GMEA district events, being invited

to perform at the 2055 GMEA In-service,

Southeastern Honor Band Clinic, and HBCU-

National band Directors Consortium. The

SOUNDS STEPHENSON HIGH SCHOOL

Stephenson High School Band Wind Ensemble

has also performed at the Dixie Classic Grand

National Adjudicators Invitational in Atlanta in

2009 and received superior ratings and many

accolades from the clinicians. The Stephenson

High School “Sonic Sound: Marching Band has

been seen in 2001 Atlanta Festival of Trees

Parade, in 2002 the nationally televised 113th

Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena,

California, the 2007 national Memorial Day

Parade in Washington DC and the 81st Macy’s

Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City, NY.

The “Sonic Sound” has also participated in

exhibition at the Bands of America Atlanta

Super-Regional and National Championships

in Indianapolis, Indiana.

The accomplishments of the Stephenson High

School music program is a testament to our

students’ resilience and thirst for programs

that continue to challenge their personal

limits. Currently, graduating students from the

Stephenson Band Program have been offered

over 15 million dollars in scholarship offers to

attend various colleges and universities for

post secondary study in music and many

other disciplines. It is our motto within the

Stephenson Band Program to “Strive to make

the Best Students MASTER MUSICIANS”.

Music-Power-Respect

Quentin R. GoinsDirector of Bands

gaprepstars.com 29

28 prepstars

Stephenson High School opened in 1996

and has grown to a current enrollment of

over 1900 students. The school is located

in Dekalb County, in Stone Mountain, GA.

The Stephenson High School mission is to

“Educate and Prepare students to become

productive members of their ever-changing

world”. It is the mission of the Stephenson

High School band program to foster an

appreciation of good music, to create a

positive camaraderie for the students and

community, and to build model citizens

through participation in Art of Music, which is

the greatest of the Arts. Students are offered

musical training via Concert Band, Symphonic

Band, Wind Ensemble, Jazz Band, Marching

Band, Instrumental Chamber Ensembles and

Advanced Placement Music Theory. Band at

Stephenson is a year-round curriculum, and

after football season ends the band is kicking

into third gear for the year. Our students

perform as well on the concert stage as they

entertain at Half-time.

Over the past several years, the entire

Stephenson band Program has garnered local,

state and national awards including: Superior

rating and GMEA district events, being invited

to perform at the 2055 GMEA In-service,

Southeastern Honor Band Clinic, and HBCU-

National band Directors Consortium. The

SOUNDS STEPHENSON HIGH SCHOOL

Stephenson High School Band Wind Ensemble

has also performed at the Dixie Classic Grand

National Adjudicators Invitational in Atlanta in

2009 and received superior ratings and many

accolades from the clinicians. The Stephenson

High School “Sonic Sound: Marching Band has

been seen in 2001 Atlanta Festival of Trees

Parade, in 2002 the nationally televised 113th

Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena,

California, the 2007 national Memorial Day

Parade in Washington DC and the 81st Macy’s

Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City, NY.

The “Sonic Sound” has also participated in

exhibition at the Bands of America Atlanta

Super-Regional and National Championships

in Indianapolis, Indiana.

The accomplishments of the Stephenson High

School music program is a testament to our

students’ resilience and thirst for programs

that continue to challenge their personal

limits. Currently, graduating students from the

Stephenson Band Program have been offered

over 15 million dollars in scholarship offers to

attend various colleges and universities for

post secondary study in music and many

other disciplines. It is our motto within the

Stephenson Band Program to “Strive to make

the Best Students MASTER MUSICIANS”.

Music-Power-Respect

Quentin R. GoinsDirector of Bands

gaprepstars.com 29

30 prepstars

The beauty of high school athletics lies within competition and fan appreciation.

The Gwinnett Heat Adapted Sports Program provides an interesting mix of both. I

was invited to take part in a practice with the team quickly learned that this program

was very important for both athletes and parents. I was invited to a team basketball

practice and learned very quickly that these kids were awesome. Some of the kids

competing in the program are actually working to earn scholarships to college via

athletics. I also learned that the practice sessions and games gave parents a chance

to see their kids in a different light. They get a chance to see them as athletes.

Teamwork, discipline, hard work and overcoming adversity are all lessons that help

us become better people. These student-athletes are working hard not to let their

physical disability be an excuse for them not learning to play a sport

“This program is important because it gives an opportunity to be on a team where

they can learn valuable lessons they can apply in life” says Mike Phillips, Gwinnett

County Coordinator of Adapted Sports.

photo courtesy of Magic Moments Photography

A TEAM OF HEROESGWINNETT HEAT HANDBALL TEAM

SP

OT

LIG

HT

30 prepstars

The beauty of high school athletics lies within competition and fan appreciation.

The Gwinnett Heat Adapted Sports Program provides an interesting mix of both. I

was invited to take part in a practice with the team quickly learned that this program

was very important for both athletes and parents. I was invited to a team basketball

practice and learned very quickly that these kids were awesome. Some of the kids

competing in the program are actually working to earn scholarships to college via

athletics. I also learned that the practice sessions and games gave parents a chance

to see their kids in a different light. They get a chance to see them as athletes.

Teamwork, discipline, hard work and overcoming adversity are all lessons that help

us become better people. These student-athletes are working hard not to let their

physical disability be an excuse for them not learning to play a sport

“This program is important because it gives an opportunity to be on a team where

they can learn valuable lessons they can apply in life” says Mike Phillips, Gwinnett

County Coordinator of Adapted Sports.

photo courtesy of Magic Moments Photography

A TEAM OF HEROESGWINNETT HEAT HANDBALL TEAM

SP

OT

LIG

HT

GE

OR

GIA

GR

IDIR

ON

GU

IDE

2

00

9 E

DIT

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EAA_8.375x10.1876 GA_Gridiron.indd 1 8/20/08 4:03:48 PM