Throw Down In O-TownFAAZ Magazine High School Slam Dunk Champion

Got Milk and an AwardPlayers and Coaches of the Year

The Nationalsfaazmagazine.com

Presenting The ChampsHigh School State Champions

BASKETBALL/VOLLEYBALL EDITION

P R E M I E R I S S U E

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Presenting The Champs

• 2008 FHSAA Boys Basketball State Champs 10-15• 2008 FHSAA Girls Basketball State Champs 18-23• 2008 FHSAA Volleyball State Champs 28-34

Got Skills, Milk and an Award 16

Training FAAZ

• Off Season Training 24-25• ShootNet 44-45• Bryan Myer Training 46-47 • Professional Training Program in High School 48-49

The NationalsNot only does Florida have some of the best talent in the nation, but we have the bragging rights to say that to become a youth sports National Champion, the road goes through the great State of Florida.

• AAU Volleyball 36-37• YBOA 58-59• AAU Basketball 62-63

Seniors Showcased 54-55

We have partnered with four very respectable tournaments for the upcoming season; each of which, can hold it down on their own. But this year they will offer something no other tournaments in the State can-they will be a host

qualifying event for the 2009 FAAZ Magazine High School Slam Dunk Championship.

Tournaments

2008 FAAZ Magazine High School Slam Dunk Championship

Marcus Capers and Chris Watson take flight in an NBA arena and bring down the house,

in the Throw Down in O-Town!

Running Off At The Lens 66An expanded look through the lens of FAAZ Magazine! A small sample from the thousands of pictures we peel off at various youth sporting events! Whether rocking the kicks on the court, bringing the noise with big “N Yo FAAZ” style jams and kills, or just hanging out in the crowd; You may not have spotted us, but we spotted you!

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Tournaments

At The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, some of our scientists have proven what many thought impossible --- adult human nerve cells can regenerate. Others are learning to repair nerve fibers that have lost their insulation at the point of injury. Your donation will bring us even closer to a cure. It all comes down to millions who can’t move. Depending on the millions of us who can.

The Buoniconti Fund to Cure ParalysisThe National Fundraising Arm of The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis

Send your tax-deductible contribution to:The Buoniconti Fund • 1095 NW 14th Terrace • Miami, FL 33136

1-888-STAND UP -- www.thebuonicontifund.com

5faazmagazine.com

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE.

faazmagazine.com6

“We have been given an opportunity, so it is our obligation to give an opportunity.”

On The Cover – photo by Orlando Magic/Fernando Medina

Lyman High graduate, Chris Watson completes spectacular jam in the FAAZ Magazine High School Slam Dunk Championship. Over 10,000 fans witnessed the competition which took place during halftime of Orlando Magic/LA Clippers game

Boost Mobile Elite 24 Classic at Rucker ParkA-Rod Classic

FHSAA Class 6A Championship Football Game

Under Armour All America Softball GameUnder Armour All America Football Game

Throw Down In O-TownFAAZ Magazine High School Slam Dunk Champion

Got Milk and an AwardPlayers and Coaches of the Year

The Nationalsfaazmagazine.com

Presenting The ChampsHigh School State Champions

BASKETBALL/VOLLEYBALL EDITION

P R E M I E R I S S U E

Publisher/CEO: Sean Russell

Managing Editor/CFO: Donnie Russell

Executive Editor/VP Development: Thomas Rascoe

Senior Art Director/VP Creative Production: Karrie Morris

Contributing Writers

Vincent Carter, SrBryan Myer

Charles Richardson.

Staff PhotographySean Russell

Contributing PhotographyMarquis Campbell,

Marquis Campbell Photography

To subscribe to FAAZ Magazine, call 561-386-5148.

FAAZ Magazine Basketball/Volleyball Edition is published six times annuallySubscription rate for FAAZ Magazine

Basketball/Volleyball Edition is $15.00 (US) per year (6 issues).

Just For Sports Media, Inc.2307 Dresden TrailApopka, FL 32712

For sponsorship and advertising, call

561-386-5148

Printed by Browning Communications, Debary, FL

All rights reserved. Any reproduction in whole or in part without the express written consent of FAAZ Magazine or

Just For Sports Media, Inc. is prohibited.

Website is: www.faazmagazine.com

Welcome to Florida Amateur Athletic Zone (FAAZ) Magazine!

Pronounced like “phase,” FAAZ Magazine is published by Just For Sport Media, Inc. which consists of individuals with diverse backgrounds with one major thing in common – A passion for youth sports.

The concept of starting FAAZ Magazine derived from the overall experiences we encountered throughout our years of involvement with youth sports. We identified an opportunity to further develop the future of our youth, through in depth professional coverage and promotion of organized youth sports. As part of our goals, we intend to assist in educating individuals and parents on what options in sports are available to them. In some instances, this may be the catalyst to help them overcome social obstacles. In others, it may give them the added support and exposure they need to help get them to the next level.

When we comprised the goals of FAAZ Magazine, our staff members focused on our two main objectives – to provide additional opportunities to youth and to provide additional charitable support through sports. We then brainstormed for different ways to reach our objectives. We came up with a very large list, some ideas very basic, while others are very creative. Throughout the course of our growth and upcoming issues, we will reveal the numerous ways in which we set out to achieve these goals.

An estimated 41 million kids participate in organized youth sports. The support and following of youth sports, however, reaches far more than just the kids. From the beginning youth athlete to the high school elite, their parents, and organization officials, youth sports has a broad based and dedicated appeal through many different age groups and genders. This was further confirmed through our Introductory Issue of FAAZ Magazine, which was strictly a “preview issue.” With the distribution of our Introductory Issue, we received tremendous support from all of these groups that support youth sports both in and out of Florida.

FAAZ Magazine will continue to cover youth basketball/volleyball as we introduce other sport groupings with separate editions (magazines). Accompanying FAAZ Magazine Basketball/Volleyball Edition, we will introduce FAAZ Magazine Football/Cheer Edition in fall 2008. By the end of 2009 we will have five separate editions, each running six times annually, dedicated to cover and promote youth sports throughout the State of Florida.

In anticipation of our launch of FAAZ Magazine, we covered and hosted some great events over the course of eight months. The majority of these are included within this issue, some were part of our Introductory Issue, and others will be utilized in future editions. For those that are not included in this issue, we decided to provide a sample of what FAAZ has in store for the future (facing page).

All in all, our staff has worked tirelessly preparing for the launch of FAAZ Magazine. I am extremely proud and appreciatively in awe of all of their extraordinary dedication and efforts to bring FAAZ Magazine to the Florida sports scene.

From the youngest entry level athlete to the high school elite preparing to enter college, FAAZ Magazine will give complete coverage in the sports FAAZ of youth athletes in Florida

Without further delay, WE proudly present - FAAZ Magazine!

Thank you and enjoy!

7faazmagazine.com

* Arthur Jackson Midnight Basketball of Florida Home Court100 W. Columbia StreetOrlando 407.245.0014Monday-Friday 9 am to 5 pm

Orange County LocationsDowntown Recreation Complex649 Livingston StreetOrlando 407.246.2288Friday & Saturday 9 pm to 1 amDr. James R. Smith Center1723 Bruton BoulevardOrlando 407.291.7308Saturday 8 pm to 12 amNorthwest Community Center3955 Country Club DriveOrlando 407.521.6231Saturday 8 pm to 12 amWinter Park Community Center9721 New England AvenueWinter Park 407.623.3275Saturday 8 pm to 12 amDover Shores Community Center1400 Gaston Foster RoadOrlando 407.381.2708Friday 9 pm to 1 am

Englewood Community Center6123 La Costa DriveOrlando 407.298.0680Saturday 9 pm to 1 amTangelo Park YMCA Family Center7101 Nectar DriveOrlando 407.351.3584Saturday 9 pm to 1 amDr. Phillips YMCA Family Center7000 Dr. Phillips BoulevardOrlando 407.351.9417Saturday 9 pm to 1 amWayne Densch YMCA Family Center870 N. Hastings StreetOrlando 407.299.4350Saturday 9 pm to 1 amPhyllis Wheatley Elementary School2 West 18th StreetApopka 407.884.2250Friday 8 pm to 12 amFirst Baptist Church of Winter Garden125 E. Plant StreetWinter Garden 407.656.2352Saturday 8 pm to 12 amSphaler Activity Center Taft1001 4th Street 407.251.2434Friday 8 pm to 12 am

Brevard County LocationsHealth-First Health-Plex255 Borman Drive Merritt Island 321.455.9330Saturday 6 pm to 10 pmGrant Street Community Center2547 Grant Street Melbourne 321.633.1987Friday 8 pm to 12 amEau Gallie Civic Center1551 Highland AvenueMelbourne 321.757.7117Saturday 8 pm to 12 amPalm Bay Parks & Recreation Center1502 Port Malabar Road NEPalm Bay 321.952.3443 Saturday 8 pm to 12 am

Osceola County LocationsOsceola County YMCA Family Center2117 West Mabbette Street Kissimmee 407.847.7413Friday 9 pm to 1 amSt. Cloud Civic Center3001 17th Street St. Cloud 407.957.7243Friday 6 pm to 12 am

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*Sites are subject to being closed due to holidays and special events as determined by Midnight Basketball and facilities’ management.Please call the Midnight Basketball Office to verify if a site is open, especially during a holiday period.

Arthur Jackson Midnight Basketball of Florida is a Prevention Program that was designed in 1991 by

The Center For Drug-Free Living, Inc. in partnership with The City of Orlando to provide youth with positive, alternative

late night activities. Goals of Midnight Basketball include strengthening relations between law enforcement and local youth, improving

self-esteem of youth, enhancing their interpersonal skills and providing youth with mentors who will have a positive role in their lives.

Boys and girls, families and adults are welcome to attend the weekend program for free regardless of race, age, sex or athletic abilities.

Midnight Basketball...More Than Just A Game!

Weekend Midnight Basketball Program: Over 1500 participants ages 12 and up play “pick-up” 5-on-5 basketball games between 6:00 pm and 1:00 am at com-munity and recreation centers located in Brevard, Orange and Osceola Counties on Friday and Saturday nights. Participants must attend mandatory educa-tional and drug prevention pre-sentations every night at each lo-cation. This is a free, year-round program with the exception of holidays and special events.

Midnight Basketball High School Summer League: Boys’ and girls’ high school basketball teams compete in a 6-week season dur-ing June and July for the presti-gious Mayor’s Championship Cup. The top 4 boys’ teams and top 4 girls’ teams attend the Midnight Basketball Anniversary Luncheon.

Basketball Camps: Children ages 5-17 participate in 5-day ses-sions during June and July. The camps are sponsored by NBA player Darrell Armstrong and feature fellow players Bo Outlaw, Chucky Atkins and several oth-ers. Character building, good be-havior, individual skills and team play are taught throughout the camps. Some Midnight Basket-ball participants receive schol-arships to attend the camps.

Midnight Basketball Anniversary Luncheon: The Luncheon serves as a medium to recognize the many partners, participants and employees of Midnight Basket-ball. Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer attends and presents the event welcome. Several awards are

distributed to our supporters such as the Community Leader-ship Award and the Community Partner Award.

In addition, our youth participants are recognized for their commit-ment to academics, leadership and good sportsmanship with the Stephen M. Brooks, M.D. Academ-ic Excellence Award and the Dis-tinguished Performance Award.

Midnight Basketball Scholarships: An exciting opportunity offered through Midnight Basketball is the scholarship program. Students who are interested in continuing their education can apply for the Midnight Basketball Paul Snead Jr. Scholarship or the Midnight Bas-ketball SeifertMiller, LLC Scholar-ship. There are a limited number of scholarships awarded to Mid-night Basketball participants and certain criteria must be met. The scholarships are awarded dur-ing the Anniversary Luncheon.

Midnight Basketball Invitational: The NFHS (National Federation of State High School Associations) and FHSAA (Florida High School Athletic Association) sanctioned Midnight Basketball Invitational hosts 8 boys’ and 8 girls’ high school teams during Decem-ber and January, providing high school players and their families with recreational activities during the holiday season. For 7 years this tournament has showcased some of the best high school bas-ketball in Florida and the South-east United States with teams traveling from Tennessee, Geor-gia and as far as Canada to play.

The Eighth Annual Midnight Basketball Invitational

Edgewater High SchoolGirl’s Champion

Montverde AcademyBoy’s Champion

Photos courtesy of Midnight Basketball

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Although they were State Champions in 2006, the Miami Norland Vikings were not considered to be the favorites to be in Lakeland for the 2008 FHSAA 6A State Championships. In fact, they were not even favored to be in Lakeland at all.

The regular season for Norland was up and down. The longest winning streak that they could put together was seven. At one point, they lost four of eight games. Then they made a run at the end of the regular season, winning five before being edged out by Dr. Krop High for the second time.

Norland remained confident in them all year, even when others doubted them. The team knew that to make it out of the South in 6A and to Lakeland for the Final Four, the road would have to pass through them. And in playoff formats, winning championships does not mean that you have to be the best team all the time - just the right time.

Coach Lawton Williams, recipient of the 2008 Florida Dairy Farmer’s Boy’s Basketball Coach of the Year award, believed that the playoffs would be their time. He didn’t care what everyone else believed, only that his team believed. Their belief served them right.

In the playoffs, Norland avenged two regular season narrow losses to Krop, with an impressive twenty point win. Four more victories granted them passage to the championship game, yet once again they faced being the underdogs. The team didn’t care, they still believed it was their time; the right time.

Their opponents would be top ranked Boyd Anderson High, a team that suffered only one loss and was virtually impossible to stop all year. The first half of the championship match up, seemed no different.Norland had a tough time keeping up with them. Then came the second half and it was time, the right time.

Norland’s guard play lit up the three point arc like the Fourth of July, hitting three point shot after three point shot. The defense became almost impenetrable and when the final horn sounded, the Miami Norland Vikings were State Champions.

In celebration and with tears of joy, one player exuded to his teammates, “I told you dog, I told you!” They believed they would be champions. And indeed it was their time - the right time!

2008 6A State Champion

Miami NorlandPresenting the Champs

No. Name Pos. Height Class College4 Tony Mincy G 5’10” 2009

5 Andre Jackson G/F 6’2” 2009

10 Emmanuel Sourin G 5’11” 2009 FIU/football

11 Andre Thomas G/F 6’2” 200812 Amir Celestine G 6’0” 2008 Campbell Univ

14 Tauriac Brunson G 5’6 2009

20 Marvyn Joseph G 6’0” 2009

22 Jerry Jones G 6’1” 2008 Bethune Cookman

23 Anthony Jervis F 6’5” 2008 Florida Memorial

35 Jerome Lynch G 5’8” 2011

42 Antonio Hester F 6’4” 200844 Timothy Cornelius C/F 6’5” 2008 St. Thomas Univ

45 Marvin Baynham C 6’6” 2011

2008 State Champion Team Roster

Head Coach: Lawton Williams III

Asst Coach: Cleveland Roberts III Willie Curry

Athletic Director: Ira Fluitt

Athletic Trainer:Pete Martz

Business Manager: Carlos Ochoa

Score Keeper: Gail Thomas

Stats: Christopher Jarret

Trainers: Farah Bossicot, Tiondria CooperVonshae Ingraham, Alexis Wilson

The Right Time

faazmagazine.com10Photos Courtesy of Miami Norland

2008 5A State Champion

Dillard High Presenting the Champs

Head Coach: Darryl BurrowsAssistant Coach: Louis Wright William Heastie Dwayne Nelson Marty Seidlin Juan Urbina DeAna’e DeSadier

Athletic Director: Tracie Latimer

2008 State Champion Team RosterNo. Name Pos. Height Year College1 Javier Frazier Point

Guard5’8” 2008

3 Rubyne Burrows Wing 6’2” 2010

5 Sherman Gammage

Point Guard

5’7” 2009

11 Courtney Ojeda Wing 6’1” 200912 Eric Francis Point

Guard5’9” 2008

21 Alen Hardy Wing 6’2” 200824 Robert Burger Wing 6’0” 2009

32 Jarrett Dieudonne Wing 6’1” 200933 Fred Landers Post 6’5” 2011

34 Xiangdre Reliford Wing/Post

6’7” 2008 FSU Football

42 Jabari Caldwell Wing 6’4” 200844 Clarence Doe Wing 6’0” 200945 Ben Dinkins Wing 6’0” 200950 Nigel Spikes Post 6’9” 2008 Marshall Univ52 Kore White Post 6’8” 2008 Marshall Univ

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The boy’s basketball team at Fort Lauderdale Dillard High were a dominate force from 2000 to 2003, winning four consecutive state championships. Five years later, they earned number five and One For The Thumb.

The dominance that the Dillard High Panthers displayed in 2008 was very reminiscent of their championship years. They had a confident, but not arrogant swagger about them. From the season tip off, it was obvious to everyone they were definitely the team to beat in the 5A Division, if a team was to be called State Champions.

Voted Florida Dairy Farmer’s Boy’s Basketball 5A Coach of the Year, Darryl Burrows developed his team into a strong cohesive unit and their team was virtually unstoppable. Their only two losses came from nationally ranked, Miami Norland and Boyd Anderson, of which earlier in the season they defeated Boyd Anderson by six points.

In the 2008/2009 season, they will be looking to find some key contributors to replace their talented six graduated seniors. Coach Burrows will be looking toward his incoming seniors, particularly Sherman Gammage and Robert Burger, to step in and help lead their team to another state championship.

Looking at Coach Burrows’ record, it is a safe bet to anticipate seeing Dillard High in Lakeland in March 2009. While you are looking at his record, keep a look out for his fifth State Championship ring. It won’t be too hard to spot. It’s the One For The Thumb!

Photos Courtesy of Dillard

One For The Thumb

2008 4A State Champion

Monsignor Pace

2008 State Champion Team RosterNo. Name Position Height Class College2 Darius Perkins Guard 6’2” 2011

3 Avery Hall Guard 5’10” 2009

4 Terrance Saintil Forward 6’7” 2008 Virginia Commonwealth

5 Reggie Chambers Guard 5’10” 2008 Florida Gulfcoast Univ.

10 Chris Martinez Guard 5’11” 2009

11 Ralph Martorell Guard 6’0” 2009

12 Charles Fashaw Forward 6’6” 2010

15 Gammy Cilien Forward 6’1” 2009

20 Jabari Gorman Guard 6’0” 2011

21 Rakeem Buckles Forward 6’8” 2009 Committed to Louisville

22 Darren Stewart Forward 6’5” 2009 SMU, Centenary College

23 Ray Shipman Guard 6’5” 2008 Univ of Florida

34 Michael Franquiz Forward 6’2” 2008

Monsignor Pace is arguably the most consistent program over the last decade in the FHSAA Boys Basketball 4A Class. In the eleven years that Head Coach Mark Leiberman has been guiding them, they have been to six consecutive Final Fours, and won four of their school’s five State Basketball Championships. Included is Pace’s most recent accomplishment of Back To Back State Titles.

For their 2008 run, return starting seniors Ray Shipman, Terrance Saintil, and Junior Rakeem Buckles were joined by newcomers senior Reggie Chambers, junior Darren Stewart, and freshman Darius Perkins. The trio helped give them added depth and offensive lift to go along with the teams’ existing athleticism.

Together all three proved to be unmatched at the Lakeland Center and the end result is in the trophy case.

It is not all about the titles for Coach Leiberman. As he puts it, “Our basketball program prepares our players to be successful on and off the court, we are involved at all times with them, therefore, we can help them mature into young adults that can handle their various life experiences.”

Shipman who was awarded the Florida Dairy Farmers Boys Basketball Player of the Year, as well as Saintil and Chambers, should get some of the experiences Coach is talking about. This fall Ray will be at University of

Florida, Terrance at Virginia Commonwealth University, and Reggie at Florida Gulfcoast University.

In graduating these three key players, many of Pace’s foes question whether the Spartans will have what it takes to complete the Three Peat. But rest assured that Coach Leiberman and his team will definitely be around the Lakeland Center in March 2009!

The real question is – Can anyone keep Pace?

Presenting the Champs

Head Coach: Mark LiebermanAsst Coach: Courtney Bloom

Phillip LiAnthony SerroReid Stevenson

Athletic Dir: Joe Zaccheo

Keeping Pace!

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Photos Courtesy of Monsignor Pace

including the State Championship against the team that beat them in the Finals the previous year. In addition to the ultimate team accomplishment, Pine Crest racked up some very impressive individual achievements:● Jeff Pelage: 103 blocks in season, 305 rebounds in a season, All Tournament A-Rod Tournament, State All Tournament Team, Sun Sentinel Second Team All County● Brandon Reese: 450 career assists (two years only), All Tournament Team Mayor’s Cup The Kreul Classic,

Sun Sentinel Second Team All County● Ed Waite: MVP –A-Rod Tournament, MVP State Tournament,

Sun Sentinel and Miami Herald First Team All County, NCAA Team Winner Selection.

● Brandon Knight: 16 assists in a single game, MVP-Basketball Hall Of Fame Hoop Hall Classic, State All Tournament Team. Florida Dairy Farmer’s State 3A Player of the Year, Sun Sentinel Player of the Year, Miami Herald First Team All County, NCAA Team Winner Selection, and ranked in the Top 25 nationally

● Coach David Beckerman: Florida Dairy Farmer’s State 3A Coach of the Year and Sun Sentinel Coach of the Year

Congratulations Pine Crest - Mission Accomplished!

2008 3A State Champion

Pine Crest Presenting the Champs

After falling short in the 2007 State Finals by seven points, Pine Crest regrouped and made their objective for the 2007-2008 season simple - “We’re On A Mission.”

The team was confident they could get back to Lakeland in ’08, and bring the 3A Boys Basketball State Championship trophy back to Fort Lauderdale for the first time in school history. They had the talent, but some doubted they had what it took. Pine Crest had never won a championship, so why should anyone get on their bandwagon.

At the beginning of the season, the doubters were strutting there stuff. The “threads” were burning up that Pine Crest was done because their “only” player, sophomore guard Brandon Knight, was hurt. Without Knight, the team lost two of their first four games, then went on to win six straight. The doubters had to yell louder – “It was just luck, Pine Crest doesn’t have it, you’ll see!” And after the next two games, one could just hear the doubters at work boasting, “See, I told you. Back to back losses, they’re done!”

Now, Pine Crest’s fourth year Head Coach, David Beckerman is a pure fundamentalist and is

very passionate in his teachings. He instills f u n d a m e n t a l s , team chemistry, and defense. One does not exist without the other and he mandates that “defense wins championships.” He has a coaching record to back it up. Prior to coaching at Pine Crest, his record included 8 New England Championships and six league championships. So he should know if they were done-and he knew they were far from being done. In fact, he knew it was about to just begin.

In almost every championship season for a team, there seems to be that turning point and those two losses seemed to be it. Pine Crest, with their man to man defensive principles and up tempo style of play, went on to win the next two by eight and twenty-two points, respectively. Then, Knight came back and the team chemistry was whole again. Not because Knight carried the team, but because the team chemistry that Coach Beckerman preached was realized. Knight was part of their team – they needed him and he needed them. Together, they wanted to win – and they did just that.

Pine Crest went on to win the next eighteen games straight

Head Coach: David Beckerman 4th yearAsst. Coaches: Jeff Foster Ian Singer Isaac SmithAthletic Dir.: Jim Foster

Mission Accomplished!

No. Name Pos. Height Class College1 Jeremiah Bell G/F 6’3” So

2 Chris Higgins G 6’1” Jr

3 Brandon Reese G 5’11” Sr5 Evan Brovender F 6’3” Fr

10 Trey Henry G 5’11” 8th

11 Brandon Knight G 6’3” So Major D1 Recruit14 Marvin Pierre F 6’3” Jr

15 Ed Waite (C) F 6’5” Jr

20 Jimmy Jordan F 6’3” So

23 Billy Thompson F 6’3” Fr

25 Greg Drozdow G 5’11” Sr

32 Trevin Westbrook F 6’5” Fr

34 Jeff Pelage (C) C 6’9” Sr Boston University41 Zach Perlman F 6’5” Sr Univ of Penn42 Rory Dietz C 6’6” Jr

2008 State Champion Team Roster

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Photos Courtesy of Pine Crest

2008 2A State Champion

Arlington Country DayPresenting the Champs

2008 State Champion Team RosterNo. Name Position Height Class College2 Ronald Wright Guard 6’4” 2008

4 Delron Summey Forward 6’5” 2011

5 Dietrick Payne Guard 5’10” 2010

10 Anthony Moseley Guard 6’1” 2009

11 Brandon Boyd Guard 2010

20 Roderick Vails Guard 6’4” 2009

22 Emari Bailey Guard 6’6” 2009 Clemson

24 Ryan Blue Guard 6’3” 2008

32 James Bell Guard 6’5” 2010 Villanova

33 Wallace Judge Center 6’10” 2009 Kansas St

50 Gerard Wheat Forward 2008

52 David Kaunitz Guard 2008

Head Coach: Rex Morgan Asst Coach: Taylor Morgan Dale Lowe Athletic Dir. Kevin Wright

Strive For Five

Winning a State Championship is a big accomplishment, back to back titles are impressive, a three peat is amazing, and a four peat is unfathomable. Over the last four seasons, Arlington Country Day School has accomplished all of those. In 2009, they will strive for five!

Arlington Country Day (ACD) has won four consecutive FHSAA Boy’s Basketball 2A State Championships under head coach Rex Morgan. Only four other teams in the history of FHSAA Boy’s Basketball have ever accomplished winning four consecutive state titles and one of them went on to win five.

ACD, during the course of the 2008 season, ran into some consistency of play during the regular season, but they always managed to get it done when it counted, especially during the playoffs and the state tournament. All teams have their critics and ACD is no different. However, when it comes to closing the deal and winning state championships, ADC has proven to be undeniable.

The upcoming 2009 season for ACD will undoubtedly be a highly anticipated one. The school faced some adversity toward the end of the 2008 school year, and Coach Morgan would like to do nothing more than to get back in the gym. In there, they have an opportunity to put all the talk behind them and let their play answer all their critics’ questions.

They have an opportunity to tie the record for the most consecutive state championships and claim their share as “Program of the Decade” in the 2A Division, and arguably in all of FHSAA boy’s basketball.

As the old saying goes, “When you are number one, you always wear a target on your back.” Arlington Country Day School embraces that fact and has been wearing the same target since the beginning of the 2006 season. Since then, the only difference each year is the target gets bigger.

The old saying, however, is usually from the perspective of those behind number one and it leaves out the rest of the phrase. Champions know how the saying really goes, “When you are number one, you always wear a target on your back, but so does everyone else. The difference is we’ve proven our aim is better!”

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2008 1A State Champion

Orlando Christian Prep Presenting the Champs

No. Name Pos. Height Class College1 Kaleb Clyburn Guard 5’8” 2010 Clemson, FSU, UCF, USF

15 Isaac Cohen Forward 6’2” 2012

21 Kiel Lewis Forward 6’0” 200922 Tyshawn Patterson Guard 6’1” 2009 E. Tenn. St., FAU,

Jacksonville Univ., Liberty, Penn State, UNF

25 Adam Jones Forward 6’8” 2010

33 Keith Clanton Forward 6’8” 2009 Auburn, Miami, UCF, USF, SMU, South Carolina

43 Orlando Parker Forward 6’6” 2010

2008 State Champion Team Roster

Head Coach: Darrell Moody Asst Coach: Treig Burke Athletic Dir. Jereme Cadorette

Third Time’s A Charm

In 2006 & 2007, Orlando Christian Prep made great runs in the playoffs, but came up just short of the Final Four each year. Then for the 2008 season, a young team with a roster of only seven players, suited up and set out to make school history.

First year coach Darrell Moody, voted the 2008 Florida Dairy Farmer’s Boys Basketball 1A Coach of the Year, led a remarkably small but very talented roster to a stellar year. Orlando Christian Prep Warriors finished with only two losses, of which

both came on the road to out of state teams by a combined total of three points. No team they faced in Florida was able to overcome their team chemistry and pure talent.

Anchored by the 2008 Florida Dairy Farmer’s Boy’s Basketball 1A Player of the Year, Keith Clanton, they a boasted a team with no seniors. Although young, their overall talent and team chemistry gave the impression they were seasoned upper classmen. The Warriors faced other teams with much bigger rosters and made it seem as though their opponents were short on depth. Their foes would utilize a fast paced game plan in an attempt to wear down Orlando Christian Prep, but just the opposite would occur. Every game plan they faced was countered with incredibly poise and calmness, including the two very close losses.

The top three scorers averaged double digits and as a team, they averaged over 50% shooting from the field and from the arc. They had a great ability finding the open shooter, with the team averaging over 18 assists per game. They played team basketball.

The 2008 Orlando Christian Prep Boy’s Basketball team had many factors weighing against them in just getting to the Final Four, let alone winning the State Championship. They lacked experience as a team, had a new coach, a small roster, and a history of two previous unfulfilled attempts. However, this group of young men was special. And for them, the “third time’s a charm!”

Photos Courtesy of Orlando Christian Prep

2008 Florida Dairy Farmers Mr. BasketballRay Shipman, GuardMonsignor Pace High School, Class of 2008

2008 Season Stats25.2 pts/game6.1 rebs/game3.5 assists/gameClass 5A State Championship MVP of the Class 5A State tournamentUniversity of Florida

Got Skills, Milk and an Award

Div. Name School6A Antonio Hester Miami Norland 5A Shaquille Johnson Jacksonville Robert E. Lee4A Ray Shipman Monsignor Pace High 3A Brandon Knight Ft. Lauderdale Pine Crest2A Kyle Petersen Naples Community School 1A Keith Clanton Orlando Christian Prep

2008 Florida Dairy Farmers Boys Basketball Players of the Year

Div. Name School6A Shawnta Snakovsky Tampa Sickles 5A Tiffany Hayes Winter Haven High 4A Bianca Lutley Pensacola High 3A Riquina Williams Pahokee High2A Natalie Land Mayo Lafayette High1A Ashley Hampton Ocala St. John Lutheran

2008 Florida Dairy Farmers Girls Basketball Players of the Year

2008 Florida Dairy Farmers Miss Basketball Tiffany Hayes, GuardWinter Haven High School, Class of 2008

2008 Season Stats19 pts/game8.6 rebs/game3.2 steals/game Class 5A state runner upMcDonald’s All-America team Parade All-American first teamUniversity of Connecticut

2008 Florida Dairy Farmers Boys’ Volleyball Player of the YearJonathan RoldanSouthwest Miami High School, Class of 2008

2008 Season459 kills157 digs107 aces63 blocks3 assists27-2 record 2008 State ChampionshipMiami Herald’s Boys’ Volleyball Player-of-the-YearMissouri Baptist University

2007 Florida Dairy Farmers Miss VolleyballKellie Catanach, setterTampa Plant High, Class of 2008

2007 season stats 678 assists 186 digs 118 kills 74 blocks 57 aces 498 hitting % 29-1 record Class 5A State Championship Florida Gatorade Player of the Year St. Petersburg Times 2007 Player of the Year Duke University

Div. Name School6A Kelsey Hodge Gainesville Buchholz5A Kellie Catanach Tampa Plant 4A Elena Sorich Orlando Bishop Moore 3A Megan Gaughn Orlando Lake Highland Prep2A Katie Robinson Gainesville Oak Hall1A Jannica Mollett Tampa Bayshore Christian

2007 Florida Dairy Farmers Girls Volleyball Players of the Year

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2008 Florida Dairy Farmers Boys’ Basketball Coach of the YearLawton WilliamsMiami Norland High School

In his 5th year of coaching, Williams led his team to the Class 6A state title with a record of 26-6. At Norland his teams have won two district titles, made two Final Four appearances, along with two state championships (2006, 2008).

Div. Name School6A Lawton Williams Miami Norland5A Darryl Burrows Ft. Lauderdale Dillard4A Drew Taylor Lakeland Kathleen 3A David Beckerman Ft. Lauderdale Pine Crest 2A Jimmy Martin Jacksonville Providence 1A Darrell Moody Orlando Christian Prep

2008 Florida Dairy Farmers Boys’ Basketball Coach of the Year

Div. Name School6A Sharlene Ferguson South Broward High5A Mike Hamburger Naples Barron Collier4A Shekinah Brazzle Orlando Bishop Moore3A Adam Hopkins Miramar Parkway2A Aaron Krause Tallahassee North Florida1A Fred Erdman Lake Worth Trinity Christian

2008 Florida Dairy Farmers Girls’ Basketball Coach of the Year

2008 Boys’ Volleyball Coach of the YearMauricio Diaz Southwest Miami High School

In his 9th year as head coach, Diaz led his team to a 26-2 overall record. His teams have made it to the state Final Four twice and have won two state titles (2003, 2008). Coach Diaz has a career record of 230-31

Div. Name School6A Jeff Reavis Gainesville Buchholz5A Leanna Taylor Tampa Plant4A Mike Sawtelle Jensen Beach3A Charmaine Cox Lake Highland Preparatory2A Tom Baxter Ft. Myers Evangelical Christian1A Melanie Humenansky Tampa Bayshore Christian

2007 Florida Dairy Farmers Girls’ Volleyball Coach of the Year

These annual awards are sponsored by Dairy Farmers, Inc. and the Florida Athletic Coaches Association to honor the top high school athletes and coaches for the 2007 & 2008 seasons. Award winners are determined in voting by a statewide panel of high school basketball coaches and prep media representatives.

The Florida Dairy Farmers Sports Awards program exemplifies Dairy Farmers Inc.’s commitment to the state’s youth. While honoring the state’s top athletes and coaches in all 24 FHSAA-

sanctioned sports, the program also emphasizes to young people the importance of keeping dairy products a primary part of their diet in their overall nutrition plan.

“We raise our milk for a job well done this season,” said Matt Lussier, a Gainesville area dairy farmer and president of Dairy Farmers, Inc. “They are great examples of what we’re looking for in a winner of this award. We’re confident that they will represent this honor and the Florida Dairy Farmers in a positive manner and we wish continued success in the future.”

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2007 Florida Dairy Farmers Girls’ Volleyball Coach of the YearCharmaine CoxLake Highland Preparatory

Cox’s team finished the regular season as district champ with a 27-3 record and repeated as state champion. In 17 years, her teams have won 11 district titles, had a state runner-up finish in 1998 and won four consecutive state titles in 2004, 2005, 2006 and 2007. Coach Cox has a career record of 336-103.

2008 Florida Dairy Farmers Girls Basketball Coach of the Year.Mike HamburgerNaples Barron Collier

In his eighth year as head coach, Hamburger led his team to the Class 5A state title with a record of 31-3. On the way to his team’s second state championship in three years, Hamburger has led his team to seven district titles and to the Final Four three times. In his eight years he has compiled a career record of 200-39.

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2008 6A State Champion

South BrowardPresenting the Champs

Use Both HandsVery few organizations have experienced championship success. Even fewer have accomplished multiple championships. Only a select few have five championships, or “One For The Thumb.” So consider the accomplishment when your program has won enough state championships, that in order to count them or wear all of the state championship rings, you need to Use Both Hands!

In the 2008 basketball season, the South Broward High Bulldogs girl’s basketball team accomplished something amazing. By winning the Class 6A State Championship, they now have to use two hands to show how many state championships they have won - six.

Head coach Sharlene Richardson, voted Florida Dairy Farmer’s 6A Coach of the Year, led the Bulldogs to the first state title in her five year tenure at South Broward. In doing so, the Lady Bulldogs have now won five state titles since 2000 and six in eleven years.

Their 2008 state championship team was loaded with talent featuring the trio of All State First Team members, senior guard Angie Smith and sophomore 6’4” Alicia DeVaughn, and Third Team member senior Chanelle Clayton. Seniors Theresa Alexander, Ruthie Martin, and Christal Washington were also recognized for their exceptional play in making Honorable Mention for the All Broward Team.

For the 2009 season, they will definitely miss the support of their graduated seniors. However, Coach Richardson is sure to have the Lady Bulldogs ready for the challenge to defend their title. With one of the best Florida high school centers in DeVaughn leading the way, one can be sure to see South Broward High make a run at a repeat championship.

If you get a chance to see them play, give them their props by displaying the number of state championships they have won. Just remember, you will need to Use Both Hands!

2008 State Champion Team Roster

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Name Position ClassTheresa Alexander Forward 2008Channelle Clayton Center 2008

Alicia DeVaughn Center 2010

Ruthie Martin Guard 2008

Elisha Neely Guard 2012

Kiara Sheets Guard 2012

Angela Smith Guard 2008

Jasmine Walker Forward 2012

Christal Washington Forward 2008

Christelle Willis Center 2012

2008 5A State Champion

Barron Collier Presenting the Champs

No. Name Class College3 Michaela Hawley 2008 Florida Southern College10 Brittany Reid 201011 Karrissa Naretta 200813 Carley Jacob 200914 Kaycee Johnson 200915 Saphira Philson 201121 Rachel Carroll 201022 Christine Mansour 201123 Jen Alexander 200925 Dani Johnson 2008 Fort Hays State30 Katie Arnold 201032 Erin Zampell 2008 Nova Southeastern Univ40 Kelsey Assarian 2008 Texas A & M41 Carleigh Watts 201142 Kristen Byers 2011

2008 State Champion Team Roster

Head Coach: Mike HamburgerAthletic Dir: Jason Mitterwager

Mission of DestinySometimes in sports, history is made by chance. Sometimes it is made without even knowing it. Other times, making history becomes a mission - Mission of Destiny.

As recently as four years ago, no boy’s or girl’s high school basketball team from Southwest Florida had ever won a state championship. Then a special group of girl’s just starting high school set out on a mission to win a state title. In 2006, they accomplished their goal and made history.

For most, making history as the first and only team in a region to win a state crown would be sufficient. That would not be the case for the Lady Cougars of Barron Collier High. They were on a mission to be the best they could be - the best ever in Southwest Florida.

In the last three seasons, eight year Head Coach Mike Hamburger, voted 2008 Florida Dairy Farmer’s Coach of the Year, and his team compiled two state championships and one runner up. In doing so, they have established themselves as one of the programs to gauge all others by.

The Lady Cougars will be hard pressed to replace the very talented group of graduated seniors from their 2008 State Championship Team. However, do not rule out the returning talented players that received some great mentoring by the outgoing seniors.

Based on their determination of making history, one can be pretty confident that the Barron Collier Lady Cougars will again be on a Mission of Destiny.

Photo by Robert Dietrich

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2008 4A State Champion

Bishop MoorePresenting the Champs

Third Time’s A CharmThree - it is the magic number that is synonymous with attempts to accomplish a goal or task. “Three strikes and you’re out.” “They come in three’s.” For the 2008 FHSAA Girl’s Basketball 4A State Champs, they prefer the “Third Time’s A Charm!”

The 2008 season, for the girl’s basketball team of Bishop Moore Catholic High School, marked the fourth consecutive year they made it to the Final Four and the fifth time in seven years. It also marked the third time the Lady Hornets would advance to the Championship Game, and they made sure a fourth opportunity would not be needed to be called Champions.

First year head coach Shekinah Brazzle, voted Florida Dairy Farmer’s 4A Coach of the Year, and her team convincingly dominated their opponents 55-39 to claim the crown. In doing so, they became the first basketball team to bring home the state title in the school’s history.

On court, the Lady Hornets were led by a pair of juniors in 6’2”, forward Jennifer George and 5’7”, guard Lindsey Watson. Both girls have tremendous talent and received notoriety as such in making the 2008 All State First Team.

Although they will have a new head coach, going into the 2009 season, there is considerable talk that the Bishop Moore Hornets will repeat as State Champions. There is little doubt they have the talent and the heart to do so.

On thing is for sure, for the Bishop Moore basketball program, the “Third Time’s A Charm!”

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2008 3A State Champion

Parkway Academy Presenting the Champs

Any Gym Is HomeWhen it comes to winning on the road, there is a motto or philosophy that virtually all coaches preach, yet few teams are able to realize. The 2008 FHSAA Girl’s Basketball 3A State Champions became one of those few, and as champions, Any Gym Is Home.

After falling short in the 2007 State Championship Game, The Parkway Academy Panthers girl’s basketball team regrouped and adopted this motto for their 2008 season. They were on a quest to prove they had what it took to win it all and to make every gym their home in the process.

Under the watchful eye of their head coach Adam Hopkins, voted Florida Dairy Farmer’s 3A Coach of the Year, the Lady Panthers bullied their way through each Florida opponent they faced and finished the season with their only loss to an out of state team. Coach Hopkins attributed their success to “having a multitude of talent and fundamentally sound young ladies.”

On the court, the Lady Panthers were led by their outgoing senior, 6’2” center, Chelsey Lee and Class of 2009, 5’7” guard, Erica Wheeler. Both players were rewarded for their tremendous play in making the All State Class 3A First Team. Lee’s exemplary play also gained the notice of many college programs of which she accepted a scholarship to continue her skills at Rutgers University.

Although it will be hard to replace the leadership of Lee, if Parkway Academy returns the remaining members of their 2008 championship team, they will be definitely be somewhere in the mix in Lakeland. Regardless, for the 2008 Lady Panthers of Parkway Academy - Any Gym Is Home.

No. Name Position Class College1 Mo’Nique Williams Guard 20103 Erica Wheeler Guard 200912 Tracey Williams Forward 200920 Dijanelle Fowler Guard 200921 Kayla Crawford Forward 2010

22 Mikesha Green Forward 200923 Bianca Thornton Guard 200932 Tyesha West Center 200933 Justine Johnson Forward 2008

34 Chelsey Lee Center 2008 Rutgers Univ44 Keshondra Davis 200855 Nairobi Brown Center/Fwd 2009

2008 State Champion Team Roster

Head Coach: Adam HopkinsAsst Coach: Ronnie SmithTeam Managers: Domanique Taylor & Kawana Hopkins

Athletic Dir: Charles Box

2008 2A State Champion

North Florida ChristianPresenting the Champs

2008 State Champion Team Roster

Photos Courtesy of North Florida Christian

Five At A Time

There is a school in Florida that has silently made their way up the high school girl’s basketball scene. They are not a big program, and they don’t have a big roster. But the last time we checked, you can only play “five at a time.”

For the 2008 season, they only had a roster of eight players of which only two had varsity experience and their starting point guard was still a year away from being a freshman. To further compound things, they lost center Philandria Gardner for the season due to an injury. Down to seven healthy players, of which no given five played together, getting back to Lakeland was considered out of reach for North Florida.

But things changed for North Florida during two tournaments in the winter break. They faced, at the time, the fourth and fifth overall ranked teams in the state, and both teams are big programs. Although, they lost in both contests, by five to the number four team and in OT to the number five team, it was at that point that they realized they were able to compete with anybody in the state, any five at a time.

The remainder of the season, North Florida focused on playing the five on the floor and stopped worrying about the size of the opponent’s roster. Their focus would pay off greatly. They would only lose one more contest in their conquest of the first State Championship in girl’s athletics for their school. Both seniors, Melanie Warner and Samantha Phillips, were selected to the All State Tournament team. The leadership and performance demonstrated by Melanie during this tournament earned her a well-deserved MVP award.

To further familiarize North Florida Christian to the basketball scene, under fifth year head coach Aaron Krause they are now five time District Champs, five time Regional Finalists, three time Final Four participants, a State Runner-up, and now State Champions. For great reasons, Coach Krause was voted the Florida Dairy Farmer’s Girls Basketball 2A Coach of the Year in 2006 and 2008.

If you get a chance to catch one of their games, don’t get caught up in comparing the size of the team rosters. Just focus on five at a time!

No. Name Position Class College4 Destiny Hartline Guard 2008

12 Philandria Gardner Center 2011

14 Melanie Warner Fwd/Center 2008 Hampton Univ

21 Nicole McLemore Guard 2012

23 Courtney Tadlock Guard 2009

24 Milan Clayton Point Guard 2012

25 Samantha Stephens Guard/Fwd 2009

32 Samantha Phillips Guard/Fwd 2008 Tallahassee CC

Head Coach: Aaron KrauseAsst Coach: Carla GreeneStatistician: Allison KrauseVideo: Mike WarnerTrainer: Nick PapagomisScorekeeper: Glenda Stephens Garry Austin

Athletic Dir: Mike Posey

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2008 1A State Champion

Trinity Christian Academy Presenting the Champs

One And Young

Some say with age comes experience, and with experience comes championships. So rarely, does a very youthful team succeed throughout an entire season and win a championship. But the 2008 FHSAA Girls Basketball State Champions have and are, One and Young.

The 2008 basketball season yielded Trinity Christian Academy their first girl’s basketball state championship. In doing so, they also became the first team in Palm Beach County to capture a Girl’s 1A State Championship.

Both of these accomplishments are impressive in their own right. But the most impressive aspect about Trinity Christian is the youth and talent of their roster. Their state championship team included only one graduating senior and no juniors. They were led by a tremendous trio in Crystal Connors, Jamierra Faulkner, and Danielle McCray, of which Faulkner was the eldest as just a sophomore. Both Faulkner and McCray made the All State Class 1A First Team, and Connors made Honorable Mention. Combined, they averaged over 38 points per game with McCray leading the way.

In Danielle McCray, they have arguably one of the best players in the Class of 2011. Standing at six feet, McCray is a potent post player at the Class 1A level. Although she has great footwork inside, don’t think that’s she’s just a “painter”. She has proven to many opposing teams and college coaches that she is more than capable of handling the ball outside and has great accuracy from the arc.

Head coach Fred Erdman, voted Florida Dairy Farmer’s Girl’s Basketball 1A Coach of the Year, has Trinity Christian’s team primed to stay at the top for at least two more seasons and he is building for beyond. The majority of his championship team will not start to graduate until 2011.

The future for Trinity Christian looks very promising. They have a very good coach, one of the best trios in Florida, and a wealth of youthful talent. If you’re Trinity Christian, it’s good to be One And Young!

No. Name Position Class1 Jamierra Faulkner Point Guard 20104 Keoasha Harvey Guard/Forward 20105 Jessica Wolfe Guard 201211 Alicia McCray Guard 201312 Marialuz Sanchez Guard 200814 Tykyera Dexter Guard/Forward 201215 Crystal Connors Center/Forward 201122 Danielle McCray Center/Forward 201123 Shateria Davis Guard/Forward 201024 Tacarra Morrison Guard 2011

2008 State Champion Team Roster

Head Coach & Athletic Dir: Fred Erdman

Photos Courtesy of Trinity Christian Academy

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Training FAAZ

Is there a difference between exercise and training?

I posed this question to a panel of individuals to see what different responses I would get. As we got deeper into the conversations, the definitions and differences between exercise and training created more defining circumstances.

Initially in most of the responses, the definitions distinguished exercise as being recreational in nature or purposeful without a specific goal relevant to sports, while training was considered more intense and purposeful toward a sports related goal.

However, if part of the definition of training requires it to be goal oriented to sports, then which of the two words describe a scenario where a person goes through speed and agility workouts, lifts weights, and runs 5 miles a day – but does not participate in sports? One can hardly call that just exercise, maybe extreme exercise.

In my definition, exercise is more recreational and has much less commitment involved. It is not necessarily that a training movement is more strenuous than an exercise; rather it requires far more commitment and dedication to be considered training.

For example, an “athlete” goes out and runs 5 miles tomorrow and does not do it again for a few months that would be defined as exercise because there is no continued commitment. Where as a 60 year old might run, only 2 miles a day, but is committed to doing these two miles daily for months or years. Although the 60 year old does not participate in sports, there is a significant level of commitment that deems the activity training.

There are plenty on kids and adults that participate in sports that only exercise. They may think they are training just because they run 5 miles once a month, take an extra 500 basketball shots in a year, play tackle football in their neighborhood Turkey Bowl each year, and or play in a sports league. But unless there is a committed effort to strive to improve their condition and skills, it should only be considered exercise.

For an individual to improve he or she must be committed to do so – they must train. They must be committed to their training and to themselves. One enhances the other and both help to assure the achievement of true potential.

Now, without question there are definitely different levels of training, which are defined by the level of commitment that is put forth. If an individual

Are you exercising or training? Your commitment is the answer!

wants to achieve their maximum potential, there is no “off season”. Instead, it should be referred to as “Off to Train” season.

When talent is evenly paired, the difference is determined by the commitment that an individual or team exudes. At the entry level in sports, talent is hard to overcome. Very few have considerable talent early on, so a kid with given physical ability can excel at their game faster. As that same kid gets older, the level of talent starts to become paralleled by others more. This is where training can overcome talent.

Bryan Myer, a professional trainer to numerous pro, college, and youth athletes, provides this analogy, “Say you have a sports car with standard brakes

…and take it to the track. How efficient is this sports car going to be when it has to brake and corner and then accelerate out of the turn to the finish, not very good right. You have to have the correct brakes. It doesn’t matter how fast the car is.” It is just like in training, talent is only part of the game, and it’s usually the beginning. Training goes the distance.

Training, because it requires commitment, helps to train not only the body, but the mind. Training gives reassurance to the mind that due to the commitment, the body will be ready to compete at a high sustained level. Training from commitment gives confidence, so when the talented only push for a little while, the trained can shove all game!

Florida is loaded with very talented professional trainers, training facilities, and professional coaches. A well researched, invested commitment to a professional coach/trainer will yield great rewards in the long run. It may be the difference in chasing a scholarship and being chased.

Wikepedia describes, “Training differs from exercise in that people may dabble in exercise as an occasional activity for fun. Training has specific goals of improving one’s capability, capacity, and performance.”

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Communicate as Eagles Do

The first FHSAA State Champion Boys Volleyball title was presented in 2003 to a united, undefeated Eagles team from Southwest Miami High. A team so united that each member shaved their heads during the season to signify their unity.

At the 2008 State Finals, it seemed like a replay of 2003. At center court was a united, Southwest Miami High Eagles team celebrating their State Championship; shaved heads and all. In the stands were members of the first Championship team, celebrating as they did six years prior.

Again under the leadership of head coach Mauricio Diaz, the Eagles soared to a 27-2 record and the state title. Diaz, who was awarded the 2008 Florida Dairy Farmers Boys Volleyball Coach of the Year, instills in his teams to “prioritize what is important in life,” and “execute to the best of your abilities, and be consistent on and off the court.” He continued, “When they leave, they can carry the program’s philosophy to the real world. In life you must prioritize what is of value to you and make time for it.”

In reviewing the team’s 2008 accomplishments, his mentoring was well received. Although they had individual talent, the mass of the players only played together for one season, so they had to come together fast, and they did just that. They turned the biggest question mark about their potential into the biggest statement of their success. Together they built a supreme belief in each other, to accompany a great program support system.

Senior Jonathan Roldan, who was voted the 2008 Florida Dairy Farmer’s Boys Volleyball Player of the Year, and his teammates worked to build tremendous camaraderie through communication. Not that they had to, but because they wanted to. They knew that to succeed as a team, communication was essential as one. Their teammate, talented senior newcomer Daniel Moreno, who will be playing with the USA deaf Olympic team next summer in Singapore, was born deaf. So in an act of fulfilling Coach Diaz’s teachings, “execute to the best of your abilities, and be consistent on and off the court,” they developed various ways of efficiently communicating as a cohesive team.

The end result of their team efforts may have rewarded them as State Champions, but more importantly they learned a tremendous life lesson of how effective communication can triumph - on and off the court!

2008 Boys Volleyball State Champion

Southwest MiamiPresenting the Champs

2008 State Champion Team RosterNo. Name Position Height Class College1 Carlos Lopez OH 5’9” 2008

2 Jonathan Roldan OH 6’3” 2008 Missouri Baptist Univ.

3 Carlos Mursuli RS 6’0” 2009

4 Joel Ortiz OH 5’8” 2008

5 Andre Abadin Setter 5’8” 2010

6 Daniel Moreno MH 6’2” 2008 Rochester Inst of Tech.

7 Alex Rivero RS 6’0” 2009

8 Ian Montane RS/Setter 5’7” 2008

9 Daniel Castellanos Def Spc 5’7” 2008

10 Ernesto Fernandez Libero 5’11” 2008

11 Giovanni Garzon Def Spc 5’8” 2009

12 Richard Tamayo MH 6’1” 2009

13 Jose Madrigal MH 6’2” 2010

14 Ranxe Cimadevila OH 6’1” 2009

15 Reniel De La Paz MH 6’0” 2010

Head Coach: Mauricio DiazAsst Coaches: Freideman Sifontes, Julio Arnaiz, Michael Martin

Athletic Dir.: Maria Siegfriedt

2007 6A State Champion

Buchholz High Presenting the Champs

No. Name Pos. Height Class College1 Shelbey Bleke MB 6’2” 2008 UNC-Chapel Hill

2 Nicki Meyer DS/L 5’8” 2009

4 Christine Pinder OH 5’9” 2010

6 Margaret Doyle S 5’9” 20087 Kelsey Hodge OH 5’9” 2008 Emory

8 Anna Bedford OH/RS 5’10” 2010

9 Gaby Jones RS 6’0” 2010

10 Hilary Mesa RS 5’10” 2008

11 Ashley Skidmore L/DS 5’9” 2008 Mercer

12 Jazz Morris S 5’4” 2010

15 Cassidy Herring MB 5’11” 200816 Haley Hart DS 5’7” 2010

2007 State Champion Team Roster

Head Varsity Coach: Jeff Reavis

Assistant Coach: Pam WackelMichelle StalbaumBetsy Markham

Athletic Director: Steve Ellard

The Black and Gold

When discussing sports programs, just mentioning color combinations, cities, mascots, and venue locations will get a response relating to a particular team. In most cases, the team is that of prominence, elite status, or a champion. So what team comes to mind if we mention The Black and Gold? Gainesville? The Bobcats? The Den?

The Black and Gold probably got a response of the Pittsburgh Steelers. Gainesville unanimously would have evoked a response of the University of Florida. But the mascot of Bobcats and venue location of the Den, more than likely prompted responses ranging all over the map.

The team, of which we are referring, rose to elite status and won the right to be called a champion while in the direct shadow of the University of Florida Gators. Although they have their own identity with different school colors, mascot, and venue name, they do share the same city and one other major tangible – a 2007 Championship!

Gainesville Buchholz Bobcats 2007 Girl’s Volleyball team became the first team to win a state championship for their school in that sport. Head Coach Jeff Reavis, the 2007 Florida Dairy Farmer’s 6A Coach of the Year, guided his team to the 6A State Title in his third year and first appearance in the State Finals.

The championship team was evenly balanced with tremendous talent, including Shelby Blake, Ashley Skidmore, and 2007 Florida Dairy Farmer’s 6A Player of the Year, Kelsey Hodge; all three of which have moved on to the collegiate level.

In a quest to repeat in the 2008 season, the Bobcats will look toward the senior leadership and execution of Nicki Meyer and the strong play of junior Christine Pinder. The team will no doubt miss the talent of the 2007 seniors, but there is little doubt that Coach Reavis will have them ready. Ready to represent the other two colors in Gainesville – The Black and Gold!

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Photos courtesy of Buchholz High

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Plant-ed When an athlete is lethargic and inactive during play, sometimes she may be referred as having feet planted to the ground. When a basketball coach is “conversing” with an official about a charging call, the coach may say the player was planted in position. And when discussing the success of the FHSAA Girl’s Volleyball 5A State Champions, we say they are solidly Plant-ed!

H.B. Plant High School in Tampa, commonly referred to as Tampa Plant, has built an incredibly successful girl’s volleyball program over the last seven years. In those seven years, they have won five state championships with two different coaches.

In 2007, fourth year head coach Leanna Taylor brought her team to their second state title while under her leadership, thus completing a back to back state title accomplishment. Their championship team was led by graduated senior Kellie Catanach, Florida Dairy Farmer’s 2007 Miss Volleyball. Now playing at Duke University, Kellie was extremely instrumental to the Panthers team through her play and in mentoring her younger teammates for the future.

Coach Taylor, voted Florida Dairy Farmer’s 5A Coach of the Year in 2006 and 2007, undoubtedly will miss Kellie’s presence for the 2008 season. However, Tampa Plant is in the best situation regarding returning starters, out of any of the 2007 state champions. They are still relatively young, but the Panther’s team is rich in talent and game time experience.

For the 2008 season, one can expect to see the hard hitting, H.B. Plant Panthers display what their intentions are; to win another state championship and accomplish a three peat. In doing so, they can be considered as one of, if not the, girl’s volleyball program of the decade and firmly Plant-ed!

2007 5A State Champion

H.B. Plant HighPresenting the Champs

2007 State Champion Team RosterNo. Name Position Height Class College1 Ali McCurdy Libero, Setter 5’6” 2010

2 Cameron Hill DS, Libero 5’6” 2009

3 Austin Linebaugh Setter, Libero 5’6” 2010

4 Katie Daorai DS, Libero 5’6” 2010

5 Danielle Erb OH 6’0” 2009

6 Hannah Tucker RS 5’8” 2011

7 Maddie Martin OH 6’1” 2010

8 Alexis Monteleone MH 5’9” 2009

9 Ariel Ley RS 5’11” 2009

10 Kellie Catanach Setter 6’2” 2008 Duke Univ

13 Jordan Dickie MH 5’11” 2009

14 Jessica Price OH 6’1” 2011

16 Leah Jordan MH 6’2” 2010

17 Tina Catanach OH 6’1” 2011

18 Alex Johnson OH 6’0” 2011

2007 4A State Champion

Jensen Beach

2007 State Champion Team RosterNo. Name Position Class College1 Molly Alexander MH 20102 Brittany Tiegs OH 2010

4 Megan Moffat 20095 Megan Jett 20086 Natalie Sabin 20097 Erika Wigley OH 20108 Leyna Lloyd OH 20089 Sarah Wickstrom S 201112 Rachel Montgomery OH 200813 Amanda Bowers 200922 Jenny Lewis Spec 200843 Jessie Kubiak Libero 2008 Palm Beach CC44 Brett Benzio MH 2008 Tulane Univ

Nicole Teplitz S 2009

Presenting the Champs

“Four” Sure

Some schools compete for years before winning a state championship, while others compete for years before winning a playoff game. Some compete without achieving either. In the case of Jensen Beach High, they have been graciously been bitten by the state championship bug early – “Four Sure.”

Regardless of how many years it may take, it is a huge accomplishment to win a state championship in the history of a school’s athletic program. Keeping that in mind, it seems unimaginable that a school in its fourth year of existence would be able to win a single state championship. Well Jensen Beach didn’t win just one state championship, they won two championships in two separate sports; and if we are counting All Academic State Championships, they won three.

In 2007, Jensen Beach won the 4A State Championship in girl’s basketball and girl’s volleyball. Additionally, the girl’s volleyball team won the All Academic Team State Championship with a team GPA of 3.717.

Under head coach Mike Sawtelle, voted 2007 Florida Dairy Farmer’s Girl’s Volleyball 4A Coach of the Year, the Volleyball program has flourished. Coach Sawtelle nurtured the team four years ago with a core group of freshmen players and added a few key players along the way to help bring the state championship to the Treasure Coast.

Don’t think that this team is done yet though. They are still very talented with experienced returning players. Last year as underclassmen, Nicole Teplitz and Sarah Wickstrom were both named to the All State Team.

Combined with their team experience, the guidance of Coach Sawtelle, and the early success they have enjoyed, it is safe to believe that they will be in great shape to make a run at another state championship this year – “Four Sure!”

Photos courtesy of Jensen Beach

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No. Player Position Height Year College1 Krissy Mussenden S 5’10” Jr Boston College2 Alexandra Franceschi OH/M 5’9” Soph3 Megan Gaughn OH 5’11” Jr College Prospect

4 Caitlin Healy OH 5’9” Jr5 Kendal Farwel Lib 5’4” Jr6 Amanda Saxton M 6’0” Jr7 Victoria Marks OH 5’7” Jr

8 Taylor Sherwin RS/S 5’10” Fr9 Molly Winger Lib 5’6” Fr10 Michaela Bowen M 5’10” Sr11 Katie Zelman M/RS 5’9” Jr15 Case Trimble M/RS 6’0” Fr College Prospect

Domination-dom·i·na·tion(dom-uh-ney-shuh n)

1. an act or instance of dominating.2. rule or sway; control, often arbitrary.

Dictionary.com Unabridged (v 1.1)Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2006

Domination lake highland prep (lāk hī’lənd prep)

1. 2004 FHSAA Girls Volleyball State Champion-3A2. 2005 FHSAA Girls Volleyball State Champion-3A3. 2006 FHSAA Girls Volleyball State Champion-3A4. 2007 FHSAA Girls Volleyball State Champion-3A

Florida Amateur Athletic Zone Magazine faazmagazine.com (v1.1) Based on the FHSAA Girls Volleyball 3A State Finals, 2004-2007

The Lake Highland Prep Girls Volleyball team became the fifth team in the history of FHSAA Girls Volleyball to win at least four consecutive State Championships. They finished with an impressive 25-7 record with a very competitive schedule that pitted them up against some of the best teams in the State. Even more impressive is that they achieved this accomplishment with only one senior and seven newcomers.

Lake Highland Volleyball Alumni:

Brittany Byrd – Florida StateErin Fleming – University of FloridaAmi Fox – Rollins CollegeMolly Gabri – Mercer UniversityKatie Gallagher – University of MiamiPaula Gentil – University of MinnesotaKamrin Purser – Rollins CollegeWhitney Purser – Furman UniversityBrittany Roderick – Georgia TechJennifer Smith – Mercer UniversityErica Snyder – Stetson UniversityKaley Viola – Winthrop University

Photos courtesy of Lake Highland Prep

Presenting the Champs

2007 3A State Champion

Lake Highland Prep

Led by a Boston College commitment, junior setter Krissy Mussenden, The Lake Highland Prep “Highlanders” run a 5-1 package. Energized by a very fast offense fueled by strong passing, the Highlanders were very successful at forcing teams out of their system.

Aside from their obvious physical athleticism, their on court chemistry cannot be denied as a source of success either. Derived from years of the majority of the team playing together in the Orlando Volleyball Academy programs, their on court chemistry at the high school level thrives in the coaching style and seventeen years of experience in their Head Coach, Charmaine Cox. Cox explains, “I have never stressed the importance of winning vs. losing. We strive to teach respect, caring for others, strong work ethic, conflict resolution, time management, etc. I have found once a foundation is set full of these characteristics, winning has been an outcome.” She continued,”…if bonds are formed between teammates, that determination and heart can triumph over talent.”

Lake Highland Prep has discovered they may have more than a great head coach in Charmaine Cox, they may also have a chef. She not only has a great recipe for success in girl’s high school volleyball, she can cook up a mean four course meal – Four Peat State Championship!

Head Coach: Charmaine CoxAsst. Coach: Ileana GallagherJV Head Coach: Wendy FlemingManager: Christian FranceschiAthletic Director: Frank Prender

2007 State Champion Team Roster

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A Love For Lakeland

From time to time, a team or program is able to experience success at a particular away location. When it does occur, there is a comfort level and love which develops to give the feeling of a home away from home.

The girl’s volleyball program at Evangelical Christian, first found that feeling at the FHSAA State Finals in Lakeland, in the mid 1990’s. They were a prominent fixture for three of the four years that the finals were hosted in Lakeland at George Jenkins High. Those three years yielded Evangelical Christian back to back state titles and a runner up. Then, just as the finals left Lakeland, so did Evangelical Christian’s presence in the playoffs, let alone the Final Four.

When the FHSAA brought the state championship event back to Lakeland in 2002, a funny thing occurred. Evangelical Christian, under head coach Tom Baxter, returned to the playoff scene. It almost seemed as if that they were just waiting for the event to return to their home away from home, before they would attempt to make a run at the state title.

They made the playoffs in the 2003 and 2004 seasons as well, but fell short of Lakeland each time. Their playoff experiences each year were well served though. In 2005, they made it made it back to Lakeland and earned their third title as State Champions.

In an attempt to repeat, Evangelical Christian made it to the Finals in 2006, but fell just short, losing 16-14 in a fifth tie breaker set. Although they came up short, they reasserted their presence in Lakeland. Last year, they captured their fourth state championship overall and second in the last three years.

Everything seems to be very well aligned for Evangelical to get back to Lakeland once again. Last year’s team graduated only three seniors and had a great pool of young talent. Coach Baxter is a very good coach and has been recognized as such in being name the Florida Dairy Farmers 2A Girl’s Volleyball Coach of the Year in 2005 and 2007.

His balanced utilization of his players last year provided great experience for the younger players. This should prove instrumental to the players in handling the pressures of attempting to repeat as state champions.

We feel that they will live up to the challenges and pressures ahead of them. because as we have seen, Evangelical Christian definitely has A Love For Lakeland!

2007 2A State Champion

Evangelical Christian Presenting the Champs

Head Coach: Tom Baxter

2007 State Champion Team RosterNo. Name Position Height Class1 Holly Youngquist OH 5’5” 20087 Sheryl Davis S 5’11” 2008

8 Kendra Altemeyer RS 5’10” 201010 Brittany Bunch OH 5’8” 200913 Dawn Shoemaker MB 5’11” 200915 Jennifer Evans RS, Libero 5’7” 200816 Candice Biltz Libero 5’4” 201021 Taylor Scully OH 5’9” 201022 Kaitlin Holm MB 6’2” 201024 Christa Berquist S 5’10” 2012

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2007 1A State Champion

Bayshore Christian

2007 State Champion Team RosterNo. Name Position Height Class College2 Amanda Mirabella Setter 5’6” 2011

3 Sam Johnson RS 5’6” 2009

4 Gabby Fernandez MH 5’10” 2011

5 Valencia King MH 5’10” 2010

6 Joyce Tomlin DS 5’3” 2009

8 Sara Lucia Libero, OH 5’7” 2009

10 Ashley Rios DS, OH 5’6” 2010

12 Mandy Burns OH, DS 5’7” 2008

13 Ashlea Ballengee S 5’9” 2008 Florida College

17 Jannica Mollett OH 5’9” 2008

24 Sami Stokes OH 5’10” 2009

Presenting the Champs

Respect is an extremely powerful word. It is discarded as much as it is demanded, which in both cases devalues its meaning. Effectively implemented, respect it is an incredible catalyst for, and a product of, positive development. For the girl’s volleyball program at Bayshore Christian School, respect is an integral part of their success.

Head coach Melanie Humenansky, 2007 Florida Dairy Farmer’s Girls 1A Volleyball Coach of the Year, has utilized “trust and respect” in her coaching principles for fourteen years at Bayshore Christian. She stated, “My coaching philosophy is built on relationships and the true meaning of team.” So it should come as no surprise that she listed her team strengths as “team unity, work ethic, shared responsibility, common goal, and respect.”

The results of her coaching philosophy have produced six State Tournament appearances, one runner up, and four State Championships. More important to Coach Humenansky are the long lasting

relationships built among her team, adding, “I encourage and develop a love for the sport of volleyball at Bayshore Christian School.”

All of the 2007 State Championship team members started their volleyball career at Bayshore and some started pre-school there. Building team unity and a love for the sport extends early into the elementary grades. Coach Humenansky conducts a mini-clinic for their elementary students and offers a summer camp for girls in fifth through eleventh grade. In conducting these events, Coach is very cautious to avoid the risk of burnout, confirming, “We work hard and have fun.”

We congratulate the Bayshore girls volleyball team on winning the school’s fourth State Championship. More over, we congratulate them on the manner in which the represent themselves, their families, and their school. To them, we give much respect!

Head Coach: Melanie Humenansky Photos courtesy of Bayshore Christian

Respect

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“POWERADE gives you the POWER you need to finish the game strong”35faazmagazine.com

The Nationals

Over the summer, the world of the elite in youth volleyball converged on Florida. Some of the best youth volleyball players from around the United States and Puerto Rico made their way to the Sunshine State to put it all on the line at the 35th AAU Girls Junior National Volleyball Championships.

As flight after flight arrived at the airports, other passengers and airport workers must have thought that school was in session in the terminals. School was about to be in sessions however, it would not be in the terminals. Instead, it would take place at Disney’s Wide World of Sports and the Orange County Convention Center.

For those not very familiar with the magnitude of a Nationals event, it is on an enormous scale. Over the course of seven days, more than 600 teams compete in hopes of earning the right to be called AAU National Champion. It is truly an amazing site to see, but what is even more impressive is the organization of it all. The logistics of coordinating hundreds of teams competing at two different, impressively large facilities is mind boggling. The staff at AAU, Disney Sports, Orange County Convention Center, and all of the volunteers is to be highly commended on their efforts.

The AAU Nationals Opening Ceremony kicked everything off and the appearance of Mickey Mouse himself set the tone of what everyone was in store for. More than 6,000 kids were about to have a great time and show off their skills.

Throughout the course the seven days, it was amazing to see so many young athletes competing at such a high level. Their athletic abilities and determination to fight for every point and advantage was inspiring. Their athleticism and determination could only be matched by their spirit. Between matches and even during them, it was not difficult to find a wealth of sportsmanship being displayed by every team.

The support level that was witnessed from family members and fans of the athletes was moving. From a parental standpoint, there are tremendous commitments and sacrifices that are required in order to get the athlete to such an event, not to mention attend it. All of their parents and coaches should be greatly commended on providing these athletes with the opportunity.

In an effort to extend additional opportunities for the young athletes to pursue sports in the future, AAU set up a two session, recruiting seminar. Coaches from NCAA Division I, Division II and NAIA were present to discuss recruiting and to fill any questions that parents and athletes had. With the number of highly talented athletes that were in town for the event, the college coaches definitely had a captive audience.

TEAM NAME REGION TITLEBorinquen Coqui Orange PR NATIONAL CHAMPIONS

Volleyumet PR CLASSIC DIVISION WINNER

1 Asics KIVA 14 White KY NATIONAL CHAMPIONS

15 Mizuno Northern Lights 14-2 MN CLASSIC DIVISION WINNER

22 Texas Tornados 14 Black TX CONSOLATION DIVISION WINNER

29 AVONO 14 PR RED DIVISION WINNER

43 Chaska 14-1 MN WHITE DIVISION WINNER

50 SC Plex Juniors 14 Blue SC BLUE DIVISION WINNER

5 Richmond Volleyball Club 14N VA YELLOW DIVISION WINNER

61 Peregrinas Hormigueros PR 14 PR GREEN DIVISION WINNER

65 Champions Volleyball Club 14U Reg. FL PURPLE DIVISION WINNER

69 We Can MI ORANGE DIVISION WINNER

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1 Queen Black’s 14 PR NATIONAL CHAMPIONS

9 Asics Munciana 141 Chipmunks IN CLASSIC DIVISION WINNER

13 Boomers 14 Elite FL CONSOLATION DIVISION WINNER

19 Mizuno Northern Lights 14-1 MN RED DIVISION WINNER

1 Asics KIVA 15 Red KY NATIONAL CHAMPIONS

9 Rockwood Thunder 15GM MO CLASSIC DIVISION WINNER

13 TAV 15 Asics TX CONSOLATION DIVISION WINNER

22 Skyline 15 RoShamBo TX RED DIVISION WINNER

25 Front Range VBC 15 White CO WHITE DIVISION WINNER15 &

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Asics KIVA 13 Red KY NATIONAL CHAMPIONS

Oahu 13s Blue HI CLASSIC DIVISION WINNER

A5 Mizuno 13 Bill GA CONSOLATION DIVISION WINNER

Union 13-1 IN RED DIVISION WINNER

A5 Mizuno 13 Kip GA WHITE DIVISION WINNER

IMPACT Hawaii HI BLUE DIVISION WINNER13

& U

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Titanas Morovis 12U PR NATIONAL CHAMPIONS

AVONO 12 PR CLASSIC DIVISION WINNER

Asics KIVA 12 Red KY CONSOLATION DIVISION WINNER

MayaVol PR RED DIVISION WINNER

Oahu 12s Mari HI WHITE DIVISION WINNER

Union 12-1 IN BLUE DIVISION WINNER

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1 Arsel Eagles PR NATIONAL CHAMPIONS

13 Club South 15 National Tara SC CLASSIC DIVISION WINNER

19 Pinkin 15 PR CONSOLATION DIVISION WINNER

23 Triangle 15 Blue NC RED DIVISION WINNER

35 COA 15 Red IN WHITE DIVISION WINNER41 Appalachian Avalanche 15u NC BLUE DIVISION WINNER46 GCVC 15-1 OH YELLOW DIVISION WINNER50 Montana Project Spikers MT GREEN DIVISION WINNER54 MAVA 15-Red KY PURPLE DIVISION WINNER

58 Club South 15 National L.J. SC ORANGE DIVISION WINNER

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As each of the different age brackets came to a close, there was a realization that although not all teams fully achieved their goal of becoming a 2008 AAU National Champion, each of them are definitely winners.

faazmagazine.com36

1 Asics KIVA 18 White KY NATIONAL CHAMPIONS

13 A5 Mizuno 18 Nicole GA CLASSIC DIVISION WINNER

19 MI Elite 18 Titanium MI CONSOLATION DIVISION WINNER

33 SMV 18-1 MN RED DIVISION WINNER

40 Oahu 18s Daryl HI WHITE DIVISION WINNER18 &

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TEAM NAME REGION TITLE1 Mizuno Northern Lights 16-1 MN NATIONAL CHAMPIONS

9 MAVA 16-Elite KY CLASSIC DIVISION WINNER

15 Capital 16 Elite WI CONSOLATION DIVISION WINNER

27 Metro American 16 Travel MD RED DIVISION WINNER

33 MVSA Blizzard MD WHITE DIVISION WINNER

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1 Mizuno Northern Lights 16-2 MN NATIONAL CHAMPIONS

19 Springfield Junior VB Club 16 Blue MO CLASSIC DIVISION WINNER

28 Dunes 16 Teal IN CONSOLATION DIVISION WINNER

37 Texas Tornados 16 James TX RED DIVISION WINNER

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1 Vaqueras 17 PR NATIONAL CHAMPIONS

15 Capital 17 Elite WI CLASSIC DIVISION WINNER

22 Colorado Performance 17PTH CO CONSOLATION DIVISION WINNER

29 Tiger Volleyball OH RED DIVISION WINNER

43 Pinkin17 PR WHITE DIVISION WINNER

50 Union 17-2 IN BLUE DIVISION WINNER

55 Elite Sports Ohio OH YELLOW DIVISION WINNER

65 Inland Volleyball 17-New Balance FL PURPLE DIVISION WINNER

1 Illini Elite 17 Cardinal IL NATIONAL CHAMPIONS

5 Mizuno Northern Lights 17-1 MN CLASSIC DIVISION WINNER

13 NFVA 17 Elite FL CONSOLATION DIVISION WINNER

17 Alamo 17 Kaepa TX RED DIVISION WINNER

27 A5 Mizuno 17 Duane GA WHITE DIVISION WINNER

32 TVA-WS 17 National FL BLUE DIVISION WINNER17 &

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1 Mizuno SPVB 18 Elite IL NATIONAL CHAMPIONS

9 PTVC Piedmont 18 NC CLASSIC DIVISION WINNER

13 Front Range VBC 18 Black CO CONSOLATION DIVISION WINNER

22 Gainesville Juniors 18 Black FL RED DIVISION WINNE

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The Inaugural FAAZ Magazine High School Slam Dunk Championship included two very talented basketball players, but even more impressive, Marcus Capers and Chris Watson are tremendous individuals!

Marcus who attended Montverde Academy in Montverde, FL, is now playing at Washington State on a basketball scholarship. Nicknamed Mr. Buckets, at 6’4”, 170 lbs, Marcus played guard at Montverde. He averaged 16.1 points, 5.0 rebounds, 3.3 assists, 3.4 steals per game, and shot 44% from the arc/game. He has great balance to his game and with a 37” vertical he is very creative in the air.

Chris attended Lyman High in Longwood, FL and is now at the Florida Atlantic University. Chris goes by the nickname, Skywalker, and anyone that had an opportunity to see him play can see why. At 6’8” and 215 lbs, Chris averaged 12.7 points, 8.0 rebounds per game, and an impressive 24 blocks for the season. Elevating with a 42” vertical, there is no question that Chris can flat get up!

The Championship event took place during halftime of the Orlando Magic/LA Clippers game. The last time there was a high school

slam dunk competition during halftime of a Magic game, Vince Carter took the honors! The stage was set for a great event. They each were to perform three dunks of which they received scores ranging from 7 -10 from each judge of the four judges and the lowest score would be dropped. The judges included former Orlando Magic coaches Richie Aduboto and Matt Goukas, former Magic player and Orlando Magic Community Ambassador Bo Outlaw, and Vince Carter Sr., Director of Midnight Basketball.

The hype was in the air. Chris and Marcus paced and shifted back and forth in anticipation to performing in front of an NBA crowd. As they waited in the tunnel until halftime, Magic staff gave them encouraging words and wished them both luck. Soon enough, the halftime horn sounded, the game officials passed, and then it was their time!

Each young athlete at some point in their lives visualizes themselves running through the stadium or arena tunnel, and all eyes will be on them-their time to showcase what they can do in front of 10,000 plus sports fans. For Chris and Marcus this was one of those opportunities, and not only did they embrace it – they owned it!

Photo Courtesy of Marquis Campbell

Photo Courtesy of Marquis Campbell

Photo Courtesy of Marquis Campbell Photo Courtesy of Marquis Campbell

2008 High School Slam Dunk Championship

39faazmagazine.com

Marcus was selected to perform first. As he prepared for his first of three dunks, the crowd seemed to be thinking, “These are just high school kids trying to put on a dunk contest in Dwight’s domain. There is no way that these kids…” Just before they could finish their thought, Marcus rocks the rim with a double clutch, backwards two handed jam.

The fans started putting down the nachos, turned around on the stairs and headed back to their seats, ended the cell phone conversation and switched to camera phone mode, and above all – they realized these two might be for real. And the scores, three 9’s and one 10.

At this point, this is where Chris said he started to feel nervous; right after Marcus buried that first dunk. That’s when he knew this was going to be a contest! Chris transformed his nervousness into energy, and attacked the rim with a thunderous, tomahawk jam that started by cocking the ball back to his right foot and ended with the crowd roaring and the judges in amazement. The score from the judges, one 9 and three 10’s.

Point made to the fans – it’s on!

Marcus was not able to finish off his second dunk, an acrobatic off the backboard windmill that would have easily drawn all 10’s. But remember the lowest score would be dropped, so Marcus was still in pretty good shape.

Chris attempts his second round dunk. His first attempt he missed a between the legs dunk. But with time left on the clock, he attempted another. He started on the right side of the floor and performed a reverse side dunk. But Chris was so far outside and above the rim, that it truly was a throw down style dunk; similar to how Dwight impressively threw down his Superman Dunk, rather than ripping the rim off the board. The judges were split, two 9’s and two 10’s.

Marcus knew he needed something special and he saved his toughest for last; a between the legs jam that left the crowd in amazement! He pulled it off so smoothly, that unsuspecting fans did not even realize what he did until they saw the replay on the Jumbotron. It was obvious because they were the ones that went, “OOOOOOOOOOOOOH!” Judges – all 10’s without hesitation!

2008 High School Slam Dunk Championship

Photo Courtesy of Marquis Campbell Photo Courtesy of Marquis Campbell Photo Courtesy of Marquis Campbell

Photo Courtesy of Orlando Magic/Fernando Medina

40

That gave Marcus a total of 77 after dropping the lowest score, the missed potential all 10’s off the backboard windmill. That meant Chris would need a performance that would score at least three 10’s and one 9 to win.

Now this is the moment when they owned the crowd. Chris puts the ball down and raises his hands up and down to entice the crowd to get louder. And when it wasn’t loud enough for him, he did it again. And then it happened! In basketball video games it’s called “Bonafide”, if you’re sending a text it’s described as OMG, and in a slam dunk contest the judges score it all 10’s. Words can not truly describe it, except maybe as a tremendous display of “Sky Walking.” At FAAZ Magazine, we describe it “a Cover Shot!”

Chris’ last dunk earned him all 10’s and narrowly edged out Marcus by only two points to capture the title as the 2008 FAAZ Magazine High School Slam Dunk Champion!

Congratulations to both Chris and Marcus! You represented yourselves, family, team, FAAZ Magazine, and the high school athletes in Florida incredibly well in front of over 10,000 NBA fans. Not just with your talents, but with the exemplary manner in which you carried yourself in this event.

“It wasn’t that hard, the kids were incredible. They made our job easy!” Richie Audubato -When thanked for judging the FAAZ Magazine Slam Dunk Championship

Photo Courtesy of Marquis Campbell

Photo Courtesy of Marquis Campbell Photo Courtesy of Marquis Campbell

Photo Courtesy of Marquis Campbell

2008 High School Slam Dunk Championship

“It wasn’t that hard, the kids were incredible. They made our job easy!” Richie Audubato -When thanked for judging the FAAZ Magazine Slam Dunk Championship

2008 High School Slam Dunk Championship

“They (Chris Watson & Marcus Capers) were very exciting, poised

and showed great showmanship!”

“First class event had the feeling of

an NBA event with the crowd involved,

player’s excited, great representation of

FAAZ!”

Vince Carter Sr.- Judge at event

Photo Courtesy of Orlando Magic/Fernando Medina

Photo Courtesy of Orlando Magic/Fernando Medina

Photo Courtesy of Marquis Campbell

• The Kreul Classic (Dec 19-23) www.kreul.com • 954-345-2200

• The Junior Orange Bowl Basketball Classic (Dec 27-30) • www.jrorangebowl.com • 786-546-3386

• Midnight Basketball Invitational (Dec-27-30)

• Montverde Academy Invitational Tournament (Jan 29-31) • 407-469-2561

Many Will Soar, But Only One Will Land As Champion

The Finals will be held March 11, 2009 during

Halftime of the Orlando Magic vs

Chicago Bulls Game

Qualifying will take place only at these select tournaments

Eight semi finalists will travel to Orlando to compete in the Throw Down in O-Town!*

Top two athletes will move on to compete in front of a

NBA crowd

For FAAZ Magazine High School Slam Dunk Championship information, visit faazmagazine.com or call 561.386.5148

For Finals ticket Informtion contact the Orlando Magic at

407.89.MAGIC or visit orlandomagic.com

Many Will Soar, But Only One Will Land As Champion

faazmagazine.com42

43faazmagazine.com

The Finals will be held March 11, 2009 during

Halftime of the Orlando Magic vs

Chicago Bulls Game

For Finals ticket Informtion contact the Orlando Magic at 407.89.MAGIC or visit orlandomagic.com

For FAAZ Magazine High School Slam Dunk Championship information, visit faazmagazine.com or call 561.386.5148

Training FAAZ

Coach Charles Richardson is nationally respected as a shooting coach and owns a full-time basketball business in Orlando, Florida. For 15 years, he has worked with individuals and teams at all levels including the NBA. He specializes in shooting, offensive moves and developing a scoring mentality. Charles has played a significant role in the offensive development of Dwight Howard working and traveling with him all last summer. Charles has been featured in Sports Illustrated, ESPN, USA Today, Orlando Sentinel, Washington Post, Sunshine Sports, Florida Today, FOX Morning Show, and more.

www.shootnet.comcoachcharles@cfl.rr.com

407-468-3557

You live in Florida, No ExcusesBy Coach Charles Richardson

Balance, bend your knees, follow through… and don’t slip on the ice. Growing up in the cold winters of Michigan, these were the shooting mechanics I would practice. Imagine shooting hoops wearing gloves, a heavy coat and trying not to slip and fall. I didn’t have the luxury of going out in shorts and a T-shirt like here in Florida. Instead, I shoveled snow off the court to play. I figured if I could make shots in these conditions, shooting in a game would come easy.

I grew up in the small town of Brooklyn, Michigan where we only had one stop light. I came from a rich tradition in basketball. My Father always instilled in me the importance of fundamentals. He taught me how essential it is to have that foundation at a young age. My Dad played for two state championship teams in nearby Detroit at River Rouge High School. He played for the legendary Lofton Greene, the all time winningest coach in Michigan High School history with 739 wins and 12 state championships. My Uncle Park was All American there and also played for two state championship teams. When I was young, my Dad would take me to the River Rouge games, so I could learn how basketball was suppose to be played.

Usually, I would practice on my own or find someone older than me to play against. I would mostly play against a

neighbor, Randy, who was a beast at 6’6” and 250 pounds. He was a great challenge for me because he could shoot from the perimeter and also power

me inside. He would come over daily to play one-on-one. I later found out that he was mostly coming over to see my sister who he later married.

I attended Brooklyn Columbia Central High School where I still hold the all-time scoring record. I played for hall-of-fame coach, Ben Sierra, who listed me as one of the top ten players that he ever coached. His list also included a guy named Tony Dungy who went on to coach and win the Super Bowl with the Indianapolis Colts. After high school, I had a good career at Liberty University where I broke the 3 point field goal record for most made in a season and still hold the 3 point field goal percentage record for the season. I currently own a full-time business as a shooting coach in Orlando, Florida, and I work with players of all ages including the NBA.

I believe my Dad’s focus on the fundamentals and my games with my brother-in-law were an important part of my success as a player and now as a coach. I encourage my players to play a lot of one-on-one because it helps in developing a scoring mentality. You have to score to win, and you don’t have the option of passing the ball. It also helps with reading the defender and playing off of their reactions.

Whether you are working out individually, playing one-on–one, or playing pick up games, there is a great advantage of growing up here in Florida. You have the luxury to practice year round on a court near you. Just don’t forget the sunscreen.

Charles Richardson is a professional shooting coach and has coached at all levels including work with Dwight Howard and the Orlando Magic. His articles will appear regularly in FAAZ Magazine. For more information, go to his web site, www.shootnet.com

“River Rouge High School 1954 State Championship Team”

faazmagazine.com44

CHARLES RICHARDSONPROFESSIONAL SHOOTING COACH

TRAINING AND RECRUITING

SHOOTNET.COM

CHARLES RICHARDSONPROFESSIONAL SHOOTING COACH

TRAINING AND RECRUITING

SHOOTNET.COM

Tim Jickell Jackson Trapp James Ferrell Taylor Akers Jeremy Tall

Bishop Moore High SchoolClass of 2009

Orlando, FloridaGPA: 3.95

Lake Highland PrepClass of 2011

Orlando, FloridaGPA: 3.8

Winter Park High School

Class of 2011Orlando, Florida

GPA: 4.0

Christ Presbyterian Academy

Class of 2012Nashville TN

GPA: 3.7

Lake Highland PrepClass of 2012

Orlando, FloridaGPA: 3.8

6’8” 235lbs10 pts/game11 reb/game

5 blocks/game

6’4” 175lbs12pts/game

4 assists/game4 reb/game

6’1” 160lbs11 pts/game

7 assists/game

5’10” 150lbs14 pts/game

5 assists/game2 steals/game

5’11” 155lbs8th grade team

17 pts/game12 reb/game4 steals/game

Jickell is a hard work-ing post presence who can hurt you with his back to the basket. He is a physical defender

who rebounds and blocks shots. Jickell

has tremendous upside and won the “Most Im-proved Player” award

in his junior year. He is an excellent prospect

for colleges looking for a big man.

Trapp is a big guard that is capable of play-

ing any of the perimeter positions. He can score from the lane and hit

the outside shot. Trapp started at the point guard position on varsity as a freshman. He can create

scoring opportunities for himself and

his teammates. He also uses his size to his advantage on the defensive end.

Ferrell can pick apart an opposing defense with his passing and consis-

tent outside shooting. He has the ability to set up his teammates both on the break and in a half court set. Ferrell is the ultimate floor general

with great court aware-ness. He can also defend

the quickest player on the floor.

Akers is a tremendous shooter who can play

both the point and wing position. As an 8th

grader at The First Acad-emy in Orlando, Akers

played both JV and Varsity. He was one of the top 3 pt shooters on

his nationally recognized travel team, the Orlando DT Blazers. Akers has a high basketball IQ and is

a solid defender.

Tall is a talented guard who is able to create his own shot against the best defenders. He has tremen-

dous athleticism and has the ability to take over games. He rebounds very well for a guard and can knock down the out-

side shot. Tall is explosive to the rim and is at his best when the ball is

in his hands.

Featured Prospects★ ★

For more information, contact coachcharles@cfl.rr.com

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Training FAAZ

OFF-SEASON Basketball & Volleyball TrainingBryan Meyer - CSCS, PES, HFI,

NSCAA National Diploma Coach

No matter your sport, the off-season is the most important time to improve your game. First, you must have a plan before you begin your off-season training. Talking to coaches and teammates about what you need to work on is the first place to turn. After you have your focus for the summer, or off-season, the real training begins. As your training gets more advanced, the movements for you sport become more specific. The general base or foundation for most sports is similar. Yes, it does become more specific, but the training pyramid or progress remains the same for most off-season programs. Here is an outline and focus for volleyball and basketball.

Phases:1. Corrective Adaptation Phase - flexibility, injury rehabilitation,

pre-habilitation (if any), stabilization, slow twitch muscle focus, elongating fibers and isometric training. 3-5 sets 15-25 reps

2. Strength and Power Base Phase - integrating your muscle into more movement, isometrics and eccentric training followed by stabilization exercises. 3-4 sets 5-10 reps with more holds and negative action training

3. Strength-Power Phase - more game related training, putting your new strength gains into power reactive movements. This is crucial to all sports. Teach your body to move quickly after your base and kinetic chain are ready. 3-4 X 5-8 for strength followed by 3-4 X 3-10 power followed by a core exercise.

As stated before, the base and foundation must be strong to prevent injury and allow you to maintain your new power and strength gains. Flexibility should focus on the ankles and hips along with shoulders. Static and then dynamic flexibility must become a fixture in your workouts during off-season. Your strength phase must consist of more holds such as lunges, squats, and athletic position holds (see videos for demos). If you aren’t able to control your own body weight in three planes, do not add weight. My favorite saying is “absorb force better to create force better.” If you can stop better than your opponents and absorb the force after a movement, you will be able to react better. Stay away from machine based workouts, not to say they are bad, but your body reacts off of ground contact. So in a program that is all machine based, you’re actually doing your body a disservice. I hope this has given you some guidance on how to progress your summer and off-season workouts. Below is a link to some videos to watch containing exercises to use in your volleyball and basketball training.

Bryan MeyerCSCS, HFI, PES, CES

NSCAA National Diploma Coach

Master Trainer RDV Sportsplex Orlando, Florida

Bryan Meyer, Former semi-professional and collegiate athlete attended University of Tampa and Flagler College in Florida where he studied Sports Management and Exercise Science. He began his training in Boca Raton and St. Augustine, Florida developing high school, college, and professional soccer athletes. Bryan prides himself on helping each athlete make it to the next level mentally and physically. Bryan has grown into a leadership role at RDV developing current sport specific trainers. Currently, he works with an array of athletes pertaining to strength, speed, agility, and power with the individual sport in mind. Bryan’s training is always focusing on taking the athletes to new heights.

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Sample Workout Order (after 3-4 weeks perform your power exercises

before your strength)

1. Core stabilization progressions- Dead Bug Levels

2. Dynamic Flexibility- video

3. Strength- Athletic holds - in outs 3-4 sets X 10 seconds with holds Lunge holds 3-4 sets X 10 reps add weight or medicine ball Medicine Ball Step-ups 3-4 sets X 10 reps Bench Single leg squats 3-4 sets X 8-10 reps

4. Power-Split squat jumps 3-4 sets X 10 reps with holds on bottomVertical jumps 3-4 sets X 8-10 reps with holds on bottom

What your sport needs:Strength- max force that a muscle or muscle group can generate, and ability to absorb forcePower- strength and speed “time rate of doing work”Reactive power and deceleration strength- ability to respond quickly and action of absorbing forcePower Endurance- ability to repeat high intensity intervals with “time rate of doing work” as the challenge.Agility- ability to respond to combination movements efficiently

List of Athletes: Dwight Howard - Orlando Magic, NBAKenard Lang - Denver Broncos, NFLTravis Henry - Denver Broncos, NFL Elton Patterson - Jacksonville Jaguars, NFL Brian Dawkins - Philadelphia Eagles, NFL Ricky Weeks - Milwaukee Brewers, MLBFelipe Lopez – Washington Nationals, MLBMax Sapp – New York Yankees, MLBTyson Aver - AA baseballMatt Allegra - Single A baseballJohn Michael Gamble - Single A baseballChaz Lytle - Single A baseballJon Alonso - Single A baseballTim Raines - baseballJahaziel Howard - College Basketball, UCFNick Choto – College Baseball, UCFRandal Neave - Elite BMX professional Canada, Domingos Lammoglia - Pro Veteran BMX Rachel Brown - Women’s League soccer Kim Newsome U-20 girls National Team member soccerJennie Taylor – Soccer, UFIUS/Rush Premier soccer club teamsKamara Smith – Varsity Basketball - Ocoee H.S., Girls Montverde Academy Varsity Basketball Team Lake Mary Prep Varsity Basketball Team 2007-2008.

Specialization: Footwork/Speed Training, Basketball, Baseball, Football, Soccer, Lacrosse

Bryan Meyer is a professional training coach and his articles will appear regularly in FAAZ Magazine.For more information, go to his web site, www.bmeyertraining.comEmail: bwill425@hotmail.comCell: 321.945.9443

faazmagazine.com 47

Training FAAZ A Perfect Fit

It happens each and every year between seasons, especially with talented programs. Everyone wants to know who went where and what teams have “reloaded” to replace graduated seniors or roster losses due to transfers. They want to know who are going to be the big dogs on the block and have a successful season.

True success, however, is not realized through quickly “reloading”, but rather through building and investing in the future of a program. Investments such as these usually do not occur overnight or over the summer. They take time to cultivate and develop. In order to make the investments yield its potential dividends, the program must be patient and make the proper decisions.

Montverde Academy, located just northwest of Orlando, started making these viable investments when they brought in head coach Kevin Sutton for the 2004 season. Since then, they have consistently looked to improve and build their program for the benefit of their athletes. Some things may seem minor and can be acted upon with relative quickness. Others take longer to research or scout, in order to make sure that the decision is the right fit. A right fit of such importance, that it has evaded Coach Sutton and his staff since his arrival to Montverde Academy.

Over the summer his patience paid off. Through a simple introduction from a mutual friend, Coach Sutton added another building block to their program. A building block that could very well be one of the highest yielding investments any program can provide to their athletes – a top level, strength and conditioning coach.A sports trainer, in general, can provide a tremendous impact to a program through various avenues. Aside from the obvious physical conditioning a trainer can provide, a trainer in the right fit can also help to improve team communication, morale, camaraderie, and injury reduction. Everyone knows that a healthy team that communicates well and has great morale is going to continue to be successful.

In looking for the right fit, Coach Sutton stated that “I have been looking for the right strength and conditioning coach for 5 years now.” He said that he felt it was imperative that the strength and conditioning coach that he selected would “become a member of our coaching staff” and “have a voice” as one. He continued’ “I am totally committed to making my program the best!”

His commitment to make his program the best and patience to find the right fit brought him to Bryan Meyer. Just gauging Coach Sutton’s passion for excellence within his program, one can guess that Bryan is no ordinary strength and conditioning coach – and he’s not. Bryan Meyer is a Master Trainer with more degrees and certifications than we can count on one hand. His training portfolio contains athletes ranging from top level professionals to beginning high school athletes.

He trains in personal and full team formats. Just in case you still need credibility reassurance, just look at the reigning NBA Slam Dunk Champion. He didn’t get that strong and explosive on Skittles and M&M’s alone.

When Coach Sutton was asked what made him feel Bryan was the right fit for Montverde Academy, he replied, “His professionalism. His ability to teach. His ability to motivate. His passion.” He continued, “There was not just one thing that stood out, there were several: his knowledge, his passion, his innovative exercises, and his personality.”

The addition of Bryan Meyer to the Montverde team should aid in their quest to provide their team with the best opportunities to reach their highest potential. The true impact will be in the teams’ agility, quickness, reactive ness, and depth. Many basketball fans know about the Montverde Academy basketball team, but very few know about Bryan Meyer. So in an effort to better familiarize everyone with the new man on campus, we are providing his interview with FAAZ Magazine:

FAAZ: What is your training background?Bryan: I went to school for exercise science and sports management, and graduated in 2000 from Flagler College. I also attended University of Tampa for additional classes. Currently, I have my NSCA-CSCS, NASM-PES and CES, ACSM-HFI. I’ve realized that certifications and education are great, but relaying the information to the clients and connecting with your clients is the key.

FAAZ: Do you work with individuals, teams, or both? Bryan: Both, it really depends on the time of year and what season it is. The summer consists more of groups and teams. I currently train some of the best premier youth soccer teams in the area along with Montverde Academy and Lake Mary Prep boy’s basketball programs. If the client needs to correct imbalances or needs certain attention, I prefer one on one until they are ready for groups. It really depends on the athletes needs. I always do what is best for the athlete. Groups are great, but sometimes one on one attention is needed first. The client comes first.

FAAZ: Do you work with different levels athletes? (Beginner, high school, college, pro) Bryan: I train an array of athletes, from the ones trying to make the team, to the ones excelling at the professional level. Most of my clients are high level, high school and college bound athletes. It doesn’t matter what level they are at, if the athlete works hard and wants to get better, it’s a perfect fit.

FAAZ: How does sport specific training differ from standard conditioning?Bryan: You have to remember, when training athletes they are movement based and you need to train movement, not individual muscles. To make it simple, isolate then integrate, and then make it movement specific. Machines have a place in

“I am always looking to improve my program. I pride myself on providing my team with the best instruction, exposure, and opportunity to reach their full potential. I know that with Coach B, we will be in great condition and even more athletic.”– Kevin Sutton, Head Coach, Montverde Academy

“Collectively they really like Coach B. The players loved his energy. They thought the workouts were incredible. They also realized that they can improve!” – Coach Sutton, in discussing some of the comments his players voiced about the new opportunity with Bryan

training athletes, but ground contact with the ability to absorb force and then create force as efficiently and quickly as possible is the key in sports.

FAAZ: When you develop a training regiment for an individual or team, are you looking for general advancements in their training or are part of your goals to get them to the next level?Bryan: The sports being trained and the goals of the athletes are looked at first. Not always, but I highly recommend going through a structural efficiency test along with physical tests prior to starting the program. The structural efficiency test looks at the athlete’s imbalances and entire kinetic chain. To put it simple, how the athlete moves and absorbs force. The better the athlete can decelerate his or her body weight, the better they can accelerate. First, the athlete must be stable in three planes of movement. Second, strength is built to absorb force in three planes of movements. Third, eccentric to concentric strength is focused on along with power and speed. Any imbalances and weaknesses are fixed prior to beginning the core of the program. It gets more complicated than that, but that is the base of most programs designs.

FAAZ: How do you see the relationship between Montverde and yourself benefiting the team?Bryan: The one thing that really was great was the Montverde coaching staff really wanted to step out of their normal comfort zone and get the boys and the program to the next level. Training is very specific based on your sport, and to have coaches that want what is best for their kids and program is where it all starts. Gaining the trust of the boys and the staff is crucial to a team and player relationship. I try to explain to the boys and coaches why they are doing certain movements and exercises, and what is coming next. The team will only benefit from their training. Hopefully the boys will take new training education away from school and continue to learn more about training for their sport. Educating the boys as we train is very important, and if the boys are not learning anything, then I’m just a good trainer and not a good coach. My goal is to try and help each player achieve and play at the highest level they are capable of and then some.

FAAZ: With talent level of their caliber, do you feel there will be a noticeable difference in their play with your addition to their program? Bryan: Injury prevention and good habits are what comes to mind first. I wish I could train them five days a week but that isn’t possible with their schedule or mine so putting in place good habits at a young age is key. Movement and change of direction are extremely important and this is a major focus in our program design. Overall, they will become better athletes and begin to understand how training needs to replicate their sport. The difference will be on the score board. They already have the staff, talent, and now the program design,

the rest is up to them. My values with no short cuts and hard work go beyond the court to help make these boys into better people on and off the court.FAAZ: Describe your feelings toward Montverde’s commitment to their players’ success, in that, Coach Sutton looked to further develop their overall skills by bringing in a professional trainer?Bryan: I was extremely excited to see how open minded the staff and players were to learn. I’m not here to tell Coach Sutton how to run his program and he has never told me what to do to make his players better. The relationship is a perfect fit and I’m always open to suggestions from any of the coaching staff or players so I encourage them to speak up. I also think it shows how driven Coach Sutton is to bring in someone to bring the team to the next level. So often coaches feel like a trainer is stepping on their toes and if the trainer and coach aren’t on the same page with values and morals then it won’t work. This isn’t the case here, and I feel at home with the staff and feel very privileged to work on such a great team..

9th AnnualARTHUR J ACKSON

Midnight Basketball Invitational

Sponsored By:

8th Annual MBI

GirlsDecember 18-20, 2008at Jones High School

Edgewater High SchoolThe First Academy

Pine Castle Christian AcademyJones High School

Osceola High SchoolPitt Meadows Secondary

...and more!

BoysDecember 27, 29 & 30, 2008

at Jones High School

Ocoee High SchoolAgape Christian

South Florida PreparatoryCypress Creek High SchoolSpring Valley High School

Brandon High SchoolColumbus High School

Miami Edison Senior High SchoolMontverde Academy

...and more!

2007 Girls’ Champions Edgewater High School

& Boys’ Champions Montverde Academy

For more information regarding the Arthur Jackson Midnight Basketball Invitational please contact 407.245.0014 x264.

2007 Girls’ Runners Up The First Academy &

Boys’ Runners Up Ocoee High School

2007 Girls’ MBI Host Jones High School

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TurnerBuilding the Future

9th AnnualARTHUR J ACKSON

Midnight Basketball Invitational

Sponsored By:

8th Annual MBI

GirlsDecember 18-20, 2008at Jones High School

Edgewater High SchoolThe First Academy

Pine Castle Christian AcademyJones High School

Osceola High SchoolPitt Meadows Secondary

...and more!

BoysDecember 27, 29 & 30, 2008

at Jones High School

Ocoee High SchoolAgape Christian

South Florida PreparatoryCypress Creek High SchoolSpring Valley High School

Brandon High SchoolColumbus High School

Miami Edison Senior High SchoolMontverde Academy

...and more!

2007 Girls’ Champions Edgewater High School

& Boys’ Champions Montverde Academy

For more information regarding the Arthur Jackson Midnight Basketball Invitational please contact 407.245.0014 x264.

2007 Girls’ Runners Up The First Academy &

Boys’ Runners Up Ocoee High School

2007 Girls’ MBI Host Jones High School

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TurnerBuilding the Future

The 2008 Senior Showcase Weekend provided a great opportunity for high school basketball players from around Florida and the Nation, to showcase their skills. It also provided a fantastic environment in which the athletes were able to remain “loose”, yet very competitive.

Three separate games gave the fans a look at some of the college stars of tomorrow. The Florida East/West Game and the Florida Blue/Red Game highlighted some of the best unsigned players in Florida that were still in the college recruiting picture. The featured game of Team Florida versus Team USA, matched up some of the best in Florida against some of the best in the Nation.

All three games gave the athletes tremendous exposure, but most of all, they had a great experience to remember their high school years by.

The event also marked the Inaugural Senior Showcase All-Star Weekend Hall of Fame Induction. Director Jack Love, presented former NBA player, Dee Brown, with an award to commemorate Dee’s accomplishment.

TEAM FLORIDA vs. TEAM USA ALL-STAR GAMESCORE

Team Florida – 115 Team USA - 120

MVP

Travon Woodall, University of Pittsburgh

CO-MVP

Jared Swopshire - University of Louisville

ALL-SHOWCASE TEAM

Storm Warren, LSU • Allan Chaney - University of Florida • Travis Leslie University of Georgia • Kevin Foster - George Mason University • Zach Bailey Tennessee Tech University

ORANGE BANK SLAM DUNK CHAMPION

Eddie Murray - Florida Gulf Coast University

THE EDGE 3-POINT SHOOTOUT CHAMPION

Matthew Humphrey, University of Oregon

No. Player Position Height High School College1 Kenny Kadji Power Forward 6’10” IMG Academy Univ of Florida

3 Kevin Foster Guard 6’7” Kathleen High George Mason Univ

5 Dashan Harris Point Guard 6’0” Montverde Academy Texas A&M

12 Dago Pena Guard 6’6” Port Charlotte High Florida Atlantic Univ

20 Kyle McClanahan Guard 6’0” Winter Park High Univ of Florida

21 Jared Swopshire Wing 6’8” IMG Academy Univ of Louisville

23 Miguel Paul Point Guard 6’2” Kathleen High Univ of Missouri

25 PJ Gaynor Small Forward 6’9” Mandarin High Univ of Central FL

32 Evan Ravenel Forward/Cente 6’9” Brandon High Boston College

34 Marcus Capers Guard 6’4” Montverde Academy Washington State Univ

35 Steve Tchiengang Forward 6’9” Montverde Academy Vanderbilt Univ

42 Zachary Bailey Guard 6’1” Chaminade Madonna High Tennessee Tech

55 Luke Loucks Forward 6’5” Clearwater High Florida State Univ

2008 Team Florida Roster

Coach: David Bailey, Winter Park High

From the desk of Jack Love, Director:

“The Senior Showcase All-Star Weekend was a phenomenal success. The event has grown tremendously over the years to not only become the most prestigious event in the state of Florida but now it is being recognized on the national level. The weekend event culminated this year with a Team Florida vs. Team USA All-Star Game and drew national exposure and accolades. Many of the top prep basketball players in the country were invited to compete against Florida’s best. The Florida East vs. West and Red & Blue unsigned All-Star Games, also gave those players a tremendous opportunity to showcase their talent, several of which have now signed basketball scholarships. I attribute much of the event’s continued growth and success to our volunteer staff, sponsors, and supporters who work tirelessly to ensure this event is first class. Work is well in progress for the 2009 event with new and exciting plans in the works.”

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No. Player Position Height High School College1 Wesley Witherspoon Wing 6’8” Beckmar High, GA Univ of Memphis

3 Andrew Steele Point Guard 6’3” John Carroll High, AL Univ of Alabama

5 Ryne Smith Guard 6’3” Whitmer High, OH Purdue

10 Travon Woodall Point Guard 6’0” St. Anthony’s High, NJ Univ of Pittsburgh

12 Quincy Roberts Guard 6’5” Harrisburgh High, PA St. John’s Univ

21 CJ Williams Strong Forward 6’5” Jack Britt High, NC North Carolina State

23 Allan Chaney Strong Forward 6’8” New London High, CT Univ of Florida

32 Travis Leslie Forward 6’5” Columbia High, GA Univ of Georgia

34 Matthew Humphrey Guard 6’5” Hales Franciscan Univ of Oregon

42 Storm Warren Forward 6’8” Richwood High, LA Louisiana State Univ

50 Miles Plumlee Forward 6’10” Christ School, IN Stanford Univ

55 LA Pomlee Forward/Center 6’7” Davenport Central, IA Iowa State Univ

Coach: Larry Brown, Osceola High

2008 Team USA Roster

FLORIDA EAST vs. WEST ALL-STAR GAMESCORE

Florida East All-Stars – 103 Florida West All-Stars - 105

MVP

Tracy Parks - University of South Alabama

CO-MVP

Brett Chance - Lake Howell High School

UNSIGNED BLUE ALL-STAR GAMESCORE

Turner Construction All-Stars - 102

Rosen Hotels All-Stars - 113

PLAYERS OF THE GAME

Bryan Smith - Palmetto High School

Demarcus Johnson - Escambia High School

UNSIGNED RED ALL-STAR GAMESCORE

Darden All-Stars - 85

Performance Plus All-Stars - 73

PLAYERS OF THE GAME

Morgan Sally - Apopka High School

Whitfield Bynoe - Colonial High School

Executive Board

A new era for basketball coaches, players, parents, and fans has begun. Until now, there hasn’t been a real voice for basketball coaches and enthusiasts in the state of Florida. That has all changed with the formation of the Florida Association of Basketball Coaches (FABC). The FABC was formed in the summer of 2008 to help inspire and promote ethics and sportsmanship while providing opportunities, and resources for coaches, parents, and players from the entire state of Florida. “I’m proud to say that Florida now has a voice addressing the needs and concerns of everyone in this sport we hold so dear”, says Jack P. Love, Executive Director of the FABC. “We will do everything in our power to ensure our organization is above reproach and proudly represents the full spectrum of our membership.

Membership in the FABC has been made extremely affordable and offers tremendous value to its members. Membership in the FABC begins at only $20.00 annually for active head coaches and $10.00 for assistant coaches. Membership benefits include the FABC newsletter, job placement services, unlimited access to FABC website, legal services, free entry to most high school and college basketball games, free entry to the official FABC statewide Senior Showcase All-Star Weekend, and much more. Coaches may choose to register individually or include their entire staff for only $30.00. The FABC also offers a variety of additional memberships for retired coaches, non-school coaches, parents, and students.

The FABC headquarters is located in Orlando, Florida which is central to most of the state of Florida. In addition, the 1st Annual FABC Conference will be held in Orlando on April 17-19, 2009. The conference will include a vendor exhibit, guest speakers, professional development lectures, socials, Court of Legends Ceremony, Top 100 Workout, Senior Showcase All-Star Weekend, and much more. In addition, the FABC will offer to its members the opportunity to attend a FABC Regional Clinic in October. These clinics will he held in association with several major universities around the state.

A Constitution has already been ratified and a Code of Ethics established for members. “We look forward to establishing an organization that Florida can be proud of”, says Larry Brown, President of the FABC. “Our full emphasis will be on issues concerning basketball 100% of the time and it’s affect on coaches, student-athletes, and parents. FABC will host events throughout the state, recognize academic and athletic achievement on and off the court, and honor those that helped pave the way for student-athletes and coaches with our annual Court of Legends ceremony.”

The FABC organizational structure consists of an Advisory Board and a Board of Directors that includes an Executive Board as well as four Regional Directors and four Assistant Regional Directors from each area of the state of Florida.

Levels of MembershipHead Coach $20.00/yearAssistant Coach $10.00/yearCoaching Staff (up to 4 coaches) $30.00/yearAllied (retired coaches) $15.00/yearAssociate $15.00/year (Non-school coachs, parents, etc) Student $10.00/year

CONTACT INFORMATIONOrganization: Florida Association of Basketball CoachesAddress: P.O. Box 593202, Orlando, FL 32859Phone: (321) 228-7820Fax: (407) 363-0599Email: jlove@fabchoops.comWebsite: www.fabchoops.com (Coming Soon!)

Name Title AffiliationJack P. Love Executive Director FABCLarry Brown President Osceola High SchoolEd Kershner 1st Vice-President Oviedo High SchoolMatt Herting 2nd Vice-President Bishop Verot High SchoolLadreda Akins 3rd Vice-President Haines City High School

Chuck Loewendick 4th Vice-President Vero Beach High SchoolLawton Williams 5th Vice-President Norland High SchoolLarry Shyatt Men’s College Director University of FloridaSue Semrau Women’s College Director Florida State UniversityRob Moramarco Chairman – Advisory Board FABC

❒ Head Coach ❒ Assistant Coach ❒ Coaching Staff ❒ Allied ❒ Associate ❒ Student

School: Classification: Region: District: School Address: School Fax: Name: Position: Phone: Email: Name: Position: Phone: Email: Name: Position: Phone: Email: Name: Position: Phone: Email:

PAYMENT TYPE ❒ Cash: ❒ Check/Money Order #: NOTE: All members will receive the FABC newsletter - Only active and Allied members will receive membership cards

YBOA offers quality products at low discount prices

We deal directly with manufacturers and pass the value on to our customers

Choose from a wide variety of styles to meet any budget

YBOA is dedicated to offering quality products and reliable customer service

One-stop shopping for all of your team’s needs

Visit www.yboa.org to view our products and get a quote on a uniform package

For Information contact:Jason SantiagoPhone: 407.363.9262 ext. 207Fax: 407.363.0599Email: jason@yboa.orgwww.yboa.org

YBOA Official Game BallOnly $32.99

FREE SHIPPINGSee website for details

www.yboa.org

YBOA NationalsOver the summer, Youth Basketball of America (YBOA) converged on Polk County to hold their 2008 YBOA Nationals. In all, the event utilized eighteen different facilities with Lake Region High School as the host site for the Championships.

The event provided 305 teams consisting of over 4,300 players and coaches, the opportunity to compete for the YBOA National Championship in each of their respected age groups. Each of the age groups were loaded with tremendous future talent and offered incredible competitive events to the 4,700 guests watching the festivities live. For those not able to make the trip, each of the championship games was streamed live on the internet.

YBOA is always looking for ways to improve their events each year and 2008 was no exception. In an effort to provide exceptional opportunities to the participants, YBOA teamed up with Velocity Sports Performance to create a performance combine. The combine included specific drills which provided performance feedback for agility, speed, and strength. The information was collected on each athlete through various performance stations which included a cone drill, medicine ball toss, vertical leap, three quarter court sprint, and lateral jump over. Each athlete was provided their results to use as a baseline for further development or for use in recruitment marketing.

Overall, the YBOA/Velocity Sports Performance Combine provided a great opportunity to athletes that may not otherwise had the resources to obtain such relevant information for marketing themselves to

colleges. It was just one additional way that YBOA works to make their events unique from others.

At the close of the YBOA Nationals, after all of the basketballs were finished bouncing and all of the awards were distributed, the most important thing is that the kids had FUN. And that is one of the primary objectives of Youth Basketball of America – FUN!

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Tim’s Timeout

Hi everyone! It’s been a great summer. I’ve played a couple of tournaments on my new SOYSA travel team, we placed in both tournaments and I got a trophy. We traveled to: Jacksonville, Tampa, and Fort Myers, Florida.

I worked at the National Tournaments in Polk County, Florida. It was fun because I got involved in lining up the teams for Opening Ceremonies and I sold a lot of tournament passes for the events.

I’ll be playing in the Nationals and I’ll let you know how we did next time. By the way, I turned 10! And I got to meet Shaq!!

P.S. If anyone wants to send me an email with any questions, go to: Timmy@YBOA.org

Your Friend,

Tim

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“We can’t thank Polk County Sports Marketing enough for the support they give to YBOA to make this event so successful and bring additional revenue into this county in the month of July. We will be in our 3rd year of our agreement in 2009 with Polk County for these events and we will continue to evaluate how we can make the YBOA National Basketball Championships a better event for players, coaches and parents. We had our first Scholarship Program and four (4) players were awarded $1,000.00 each to further their education as they go on to college. In between the 4 National Tournaments, we also hosted an International Basketball Camp with the following countries being represented: Canary Islands, Costa Rica, Colombia, Antigua, and Latvia. We had 90 participants in the International Camp and we look forward to expanding upon this next year into 2 weeks and bringing in more countries in from the European market.” - Don Ruedlinger, President

“The YBOA National Championship is not just a tournament…it is an event. No other national youth basketball organization offers such an array of international competition, awards, gifts, entertainment, and activities in one tournament. I have been proud to be part of this outstanding event for nearly 10 years. Whether it’s our Opening Ceremonies, Banner Contest, Skills Contest, Entertainment, Coaches Clinics, Academic & Achievement Awards, Theme Park Day, or the gifts that every player and coach receives each year, the YBOA National Championship Tournament has become an annual family destination.” - Jack Love, Director of Basketball Operations

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6th AnnualMontverde Academy Invitational

Januar y 11-13 • Mont verde, FL

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Tournament Field:

Montverde AcademyChoice Academy

Findley Prep, Las VegasMount Dora Bible

Oldsmar Christian SchoolSouth Lake High

Winter Springs High

Montverde Academy Invitational Tournament will be the Final Qualifying site for the

The NationalsTEAM NAME REGION TITLEWest Virginia Thunder WV President’s Cup Champions

8 & Under

North Carolina Flight NC ChampionsSophomore Showcase

Silver Bullets NY Elite Metropolitan National Champions

Lady Runnin’ Rebels Mid Atlantic Classic Champions

Junior Division

Fairfax Stars Potomac Valley National Champions

Tennessee Team Pride TN Classic Champions

10 & Under

The 2008 AAU Basketball National Championships took place over the summer in Cocoa Beach and Orlando, FL. Teams from all of the United States gave their best efforts and worked together to strive to bring home the hardware.

As always, from the very beginning with the Opening Ceremony, there was a great sense of anticipation to finally get to see which teams would rise to the occasion and win it all as predicted, or which ones would pull off the upset of the year. Predictions ran wild from proud parents and fans alike, and with good reason. The field was full of top talent of which a great portion will eventually see college playtime.

The younger divisions started things off with impressive displays of future talent. These young athletes gave a great representation of what the future of basketball will be. Based on the level of abilities they displayed, the future looks very bright. These kids are so talented at such an early age, that one finds themselves comparing the kids’ style of play to pros.

As each of the younger divisions completed and the older athletes arrived, there seemed to be an unspoken high level of respect between the two groups. It is like a passing of the baton, with younger letting the older know “we warmed the courts and fans up, now go put on the show.” They did just that, in more ways than one.

At the AAU Nationals, the athletes in the upper divisions are competing for more than a National Championship; they are also competing for a college scholarship offer. With the plethora of young basketball talent in the event, the AAU Nationals resemble a smorgasbord for college coaches. Virtually every college program in the nation had representatives in attendance scouting future prospects. From the major Division I to Junior College level, hundreds of coaches could be spotted intertwined among the fans making their way from court to court. During games, they were seated at the baselines taking notes on their favorite prospects.

One would think that the athletes would get a little nervous or starry eyed with so many college coaches in attendance watching their every move. The exact obvious could be witnessed; it made the athletes focus more and elevate their level of play. For the players, it was business as usual and they meant business.

Boo Williams Summer League ChampionTeam Breakdown Runner Up

Junior Showcase

Girls

Alabama Twisters Elite AL National ChampionsOpen Division

Lady Falcons FL National Champions15 & Under

Delaware Lady Sharks Mid Atlantic National Champions16 & Under

Freshman ShowcaseNike Legit Family ChampionFlorida Wildcats Runner Up

Team Breakdown FL National ChampionsSouth Texas S.A. Roadrunners TX Classic Champions

Junior Boys

The level of talent was so good for business, that ESPNU televised some match up games live. During those games, it seemed like a college coaching convention; each of them sporting team apparel with pride.

Gradually, the older divisions crowned their AAU National Champions and the dust slowly started to settle. As it did, it started to allow everyone to get a true perspective on some of the accomplishments of these teams. All of them were incredible, but one of the most impressive accomplishments was turned in by Team Breakdown of Florida. They not only won one AAU National Championship, but two in less than ten days. They first won the AAU West Coast Championship in Vegas, then flew to Orlando and immediately started their run for their second. A simply amazing accomplishment!

The success of all National events cannot immediately be measured. The rewards of the organizations’ efforts to put on such an event, to give kids the opportunity to showcase their skills for college programs, will continue to yield benefits for years to come.

Arkansas Mustangs AR National ChampionRay Allen Select WI Classic ChampionOrlando Raptors FL Classic Runner Up

11 & Under

OBC Showstoppers Lake Erie National Champions

Triple Threat Potomac Vallley Classic Champions

14 & Under

TEAM NAME REGION TITLE

DC Assault Potomac Valley

National Champion

Mid Atlantic Delaware Panthers MA Classic Champion

9 & Under

Athletes First OK Gold Division ChampionsBirmingham Ice AL Silver Division ChampionsBABC NE-MA Bronze Division ChampionsNike Team FL (15U) G FL Copper Division ChampionsTeam Florida FL Copper Division Runner Up

16 & Under Super Showcase

North Carolina Gaters Blue NC National ChampionsSenior Boys

Boys

Team Final Central Gold BracketYOMCA Tigers TN Silver BracketShining Stars-Callahan OH Bronze BracketNew York Gauchos NY Copper BracketConnecticut Basketball Club CT Iron Bracket

17 & Under Super Showcase

The Kreul tips-off with a top-25 match-up game between two of Florida’s national stand-outs: Boyd Anderson and Montverde Academy. Ranked as high as No. 4 last season (USA Today), the Orlando-area power Montverde features a formidable inside presence with twin towers Ugo Okam (7-feet) and Ruslan Pateev (6-11) flanked by a pair of ath-letic 6-8 forwards, Kadeem Green and Nick Diatta.

Boyd Anderson (30-2) spent much of last season as Flor-ida’s top-ranked team, knocking off all challengers until falling just short of a 6A state title against Miami Norland which beat the Cobras in the final, finished in the USA Today top 25 and will also compete in the Kreul this year. B.A.’s returning backcourt of lightning-quick point guard Tyrone Davis and sharpshooters Bryan Bynes and Martavious Irving make the program a national threat again.

“This game will help put the spotlight back on South Flor-ida’s high school basketball scene,” said Kreul President Jim Reilly. “High school football has claimed center stage in recent years, and I believe we need to remind people that South Florida is a hotbed for basketball too.”

Both Montverde and B.A are expected to launch their season with a national top-25 ranking and gain significant momentum by the time they meet at the Kreul.

TOURNAMENT TEAMSLeading the 16 teams competing for the tournament’s top boys’ title will be Coach Danny Hur-ley’s squad from St. Benedict’s (NJ), Maryland’s Georgetown Prep and South Florida favorites Dillard and Pine Crest. Giants in the world of high school hoops, St. Benedict’s (24-1) finished with a No. 2 ranking in USA Today’s final national poll. The Gray Bees are loaded again led by powerful 6-5 guard Lamar Patterson, a Pittsburg recruit, and University of Texas commitment Tristan Thompson. Scout.com ranks the 6-8 Thompson the No. 1 junior prospect in the country. Playing in their own backyard are Dillard and Pine Crest. Dillard had a banner season last year, culminating with its fifth state championship and a 29-2 record. Despite losing the state’s best frontcourt, the Panthers will reload with plenty of talent. Senior guard Robert Burger and 6-6 sophomore Fred Landers lead the way.

The Kreul Classic national high school basketball tournament for boys and girls has secured one of America’s most impres-sive fields for the 19th edition of

the tournament which will be played Decem-ber 18th through 23rd at Coral Springs City Gymnasium in Coral Springs.

High-profile teams including St. Benedict’s (NJ), Montverde Academy (FL) and Dillard (FL), and stand-out players like Brandon Knight (Pine Crest, FL) and Tristan Thompson (St. Bene-dict’s) help to make the Kreul the must-see prep tournament of the year.

LOADED WITH AMERICA’S PREMIER

PROGRAMS AND PLAYERS

2008KREUL CLASSIC

MUST-SEE PREP TOURNAMENT

2008 HIGHLIGHTS WHEN:December 19th through 23rd

MAIN VENUE:Coral Springs City Gymnasium, 2501 Coral Springs Dr., between Sample Rd. and Royal Palm Blvd.

FLORIDA CHALLENGE GAME:Dec. 19th - Boyd Anderson (Lauderdale Lakes, FL) vs. Montverde Academy (Montverde, FL)

KREULFEST 2008:December 21st with featured guests Mike Jarvis, Florida Atlantic University Men’s Coach and Jack McKinney, NBA Coach of the Year (Indiana Pacers, 1981); Rock Sharp Shooter Contest; Gatorade Slam Dunk Contest; FAAZ Magazine Slam Dunk Championship-Regional Qualifier

TEAM PROFILES:A complete list of teams is posted at www.kreul.com/2008_teams.html

PAIRINGS & SCHEDULE:To be released in the fall; Visit www.kreul.com or check local listings

MORE INFO:www.kreul.com or Coral Springs City Gymnasium, 954.345.2200

ISTHISYEAR’S

A creative dunk during the 2007 Gatorade Slam Dunk contest. This year, the top Florida contestant will qualify to compete in the 2008 FAAZ Slam Dunk Champion-ship in Orlando.

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Running Off At The Lens

It’s a Kicks

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Bringin’ The Noise!

Our Vision For the Future:

The Foundation raises funds to provide families with the opportunity to obtain services for child development, purchase specialized equipment and gain knowledge of neonatal care and allow children born under premature circumstances to grow up and reach their full potential.

Our Guiding Strategies: To meet the immediate and emerging needs of the communities we serve.Our team is dedicated to fight the effects of premature birth.

We Will:

• Develop a diverse, volunteer-led and motivated team working in harmony to achieve common goals

• Create and implement awareness strategies to strenghten the position of Darrell Armstrong’s Foundation For Premature Babies in our local commuity

• Identify and implement a broad range of opportunities to raise funds from individuals and organizations, to meet service delivery and growth needs.

We Appreciate Your Support!If you would like to make a contribution to the operations of the Darrell Armstrong Foundation For Premature Babies, you may send a check or money order made pay-able to Darrell Armstrong Foundation For Premature Babies. Checks and money orders should be mailed to:

Darrell Armstrong Foundation For Premature BabiesP.O. Box 608833Orlando, FL 32860

407-252-3333

DARRELL ARMSTRONG FOUNDATION FOR PREMATURE BABIES, INC.

www.darrellarmstrong10.comTax ID # 59-3620145

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