aggie advocate volume 2, issue 1

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Volume 2, Issue 1

Aggie Spirit

The Online Magazine For Albertville High School

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Aggie Advocate

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AGGIE Band

Eating Disorders

Aggie Sports

Aggie Accomplishments Aggie Football

1photos by Ana Antonio, & Blake Smedley

Aggie Advocate Volume 2, Edition 1

Letter from the Editor

Dear Aggies,

I am so thrilled to have another year of the Aggie Advocate. We have put a lot of hard work and time into this issue in hopes you will all enjoy it.

With the beginning of the school year under our belt, many students have experienced countless first and some are experiencing their last. Entering high school is an exciting and scary thing. Just breathe. It is not as scary as you believe it to be. Leaving high school is an exciting and scary thing. Growing up is scary, but starting a new chapter in your life is exciting. The most important thing is to make the most of your time here. Enjoy every pep rally, football game, dress up day, homecoming, prom moment with your friends- enjoy everything. Make all the memories you can. One day you will not have all of this. You will blink and it will all be over.

I hope when reading this issue you remember to make the most out of everything you do in your life. It is all over before you know it.

~Molly-Katherine Millwood

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AggieVision [Web/AV]

Aggie Advocate [Print/Design]StaffTanner Carmichael Laura Garcia Lola Garcia Angel GodinezAriatna Hernandez Cody Hill Nancy Martinez Molly-Katherine MillwoodBriley O’Dell Blake Smedley

Nallely Aguilar Ana Antonio Gigi Delgado Christina Domingo Cindy Garcia Abigail HernandezNoah Kirkland Dylan Langley Heather Leeth Juana MendezLeo Mariano Karson Nesbit Angie Ochoa Bobbie-Anne Oliver Alejandra Ramirez Cassidy Roberson Allison Smith Esther Ulloa

Adviser: Wendy AycockTechnical Coordinator: Tyler MayProofreading: Annsonnetta Golden

Since2014

3 Aggie Advocate Volume 2, Edition 1

Aggie Spirit

4photos by Ana Antonio, Christina Domingo,

Noah Kirkland, & Juana Mendez

Dress

Up Day

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Congratulations to the Albertville HS FFA Veterinary Science Team and the FFA Quartet. Both placed first at the FFA State Convention this summer. FFA advisors Gary Aycock and Heath Golden worked with Mrs. Natasha Tidmore to prepare the FFA Quartet for the competition. FFA Quartet members are Trey Marr, Noah Goodwin, John-Eric Miller, and Parker Rains. The FFA Veterinary Science placed first at the first ever Veterinary Science Career Development Event held in Alabama. Team members, Abbey Horst, Erin Pankey, Makayla Allen, and Cade Garret, will participate at the National FFA Convention in October.

Aggie Accomplishments

Ryan Brown and Katie Allen participated in the AHSAA North-South Basketball Game in Montgomery in July. The all-star participants are selected by a committee of coaches from a list of nominated players in the state. All participants are juniors, twelve from the North and twelve from the South. Also, Katie has committed to play basketball at Samford University and will sign in November. She is the first in AHS history to play Division I basketball.

Laura Molnar and FBLA advisor Lori Starnes traveled to Chicago, Illinois, this summer to represent AHS at the FBLA Institute for Leaders. It was a high-energy, intensive, two-day seminar focused on leadership experience for state and local chapter officers as well as members and advisers. Laura also competed with a Business Financial Plan. This event is designed to recognize FBLA members who possess the knowledge and skills needed to establish and develop a complete financial plan for a business.

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English teacher, Mrs. Jessica Stewart, began the year with an interesting concept called the interactive door. According to Mrs. Stewart, “The door is covered with short affirmations on sticky notes and signs instructing those passing my door to “take what they need and give what they can”. Mrs. Stewart keeps markers and sticky notes nearby for those who have an affirmation to share. Mrs. Stewart notes, “I have students stop and grab one most every class period, and even other teachers have pulled an affirmation for the day when needed.” If you have a minute, please stop by Mrs. Stewart’s interactive door!

Every year the AHS JROTC has two groups of cadets who work the home football games. The “Friday Night Parking Detail” works quietly in the background to support the Aggie Athletic Boosters by managing the parking lots. The “Friday Night Color Guard” is the team of JROTC cadets who raise the special game flag at the stadium at the beginning of the game and lower it at the end of the 3rd quarter of play. Special thanks to Colonel Thomas and Sergeant Major Foshee for working with this great group of cadets.


Question: Did you imagine yourself ever being an officer in the SGA?President Tiger Do: No. Growing up, I was always the shy kid who never raised his hand. However, in the transition to my eighth grade, I felt I needed to be more outspoken; thus, I took the initiative to run for office starting the freshman year of high school.

Question; Do you think being in SGA has been beneficial to your high school career?Vice President Jilli Boyd: For sure! Being involved with SGA the last four years has allowed me to not only participate in activities on campus, but also to be selected to represent Albertville High School on different occasions at other schools where we spent days building our leadership skills. In college, I plan to use everything I’ve learned from Albertville Student Government and become part of my college’s student government also.

Question: Why did you run for the specific position you are in?Secretary Anna-Clay Adams: I ran for secretary because it is an appropriate position for my age. Letting people that are older than me reserve their spots of vice president and president is great because I can learn from them, and they have experience in leadership positions.

Question: Do you think being in SGA has helped you grow?Treasurer Andra Williams: Yes, because it will enhance my leadership skills, organization skills, and communication skills.

Student Government

Association

President- Tiger Do, Vice-President- Jilli Boyd, Secretary- Anna Clay Adams, Treasurer- Andra Williamsarticle by Nancy Martinez

photo by Ana Antonio

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AHS Leadership Training

On August 11, the AHS National Honor Society sponsored a leadership workshop for student leaders at Albertville High School. The workshop built leadership skills and worked to improve camaraderie and school spirit throughout the student body. All AHS club officers and student government representatives were invited to participate, as well as, leaders in the band, choral programs, multimedia team and representatives from athletic teams. Overall, 60 students participated in the event.

The AHS Leadership Day was led by JSU Student Government officers. We want to thank Debbie Taylor and Terry Casey from JSU for coordinating with AHS and bringing their students to lead the event. Jennifer Taunton and Mary Hambey, advisors of NHS at AHS, and Dr. Tidwell were instrumental in organizing and sponsoring the event.

“The AHS Leadership Training was a great experience. I will use the things that they taught me for the rest of my life.” Brady Millwood

“The Jacksonville State University SGA Officers were great to work with. They taught us so many valuable life lessons that I can use in my everyday life.” Blake Smedley

article and photos by Molly-Katherine Millwood


Main Street Music Festival

The Main Street Music Festival is a free two-day event held in Albertville, Alabama, each year. This year, there were an estimated 47,000 people who attended the event that included acts such as Tracy Lawrence and .38 Special. Several Albertville Show Choir students had the opportunity to perform on one of the stages during the day, while the AHS JROTC provided transportation and assisted with parking.

In addition to the free concerts, the Main Street Music Festival also works with local businesses and organizations to provide an inflatable children’s water park, chicken races that benefit local charities, a 5K, and, special for this year, a raffle to win an Alabama or Auburn fire hydrant in celebration of fire hydrant manufacturer Mueller’s 40th Anniversary. article by Cody Hill

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“The Albertville Show Choir students were surveyed for the opportunity to perform at the Main Street Music Festival. Nine students were able to participate. How exciting for these kids to be given the chance to perform for such a community oriented event! I am extremely proud of their independent work ethic. Certainly great growth will follow these outstanding students.” Natasha Tidmore


In April 2015, the participation of Albertville High School as an ALSDE/A+ College Ready Program was announced at a Legislative luncheon and at an Alabama State Board of Education meeting. According to AP Calculus teacher Mrs. Cheryl Roberson, this initiative is thanks to the actions of the “school administrators, counselors, and teachers who submitted a detailed application to the program”. Mrs. Paige Smith, AP English Literature teacher, adds that ALSDE/A+ College Ready Program is a non-profit organization and “a national initiative program designed to increase student achievement in science, math, English”.

Due to the great results of ALSDE/A+ College Ready, Alabama has ranked at the top among all 50 states in improving scores in Math, Science, and English AP exams from 2008- 2014. Governor Bentley was very impressed by these results, so he has set an additional $1 million for the program for 2015-2016 with a total fund of $5.27 million.

Albertville High School will receive a three-year grant as a new member of the ALSDE/A+ College Ready program. The money will be spent among classrooms as needed to help prepare students for college and to extend the teachers’ training programs. With the extra funds, students will also have the opportunity to receive study sessions on various Saturdays and experience taking a mock exam to be better prepared for the AP exam.

Those students who earn a qualifying score will not only gain college credit, but will also $100 dollar stipend.

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Q & A With Mrs. Cheryl Roberson: AP Calculus

Q: How did Albertville High School Become an A+ College Ready school?A: Our administrators, counselors, and teachers submitted a detailed application to the program. Q: What are the benefits of A+ College Ready?A: Students have study sessions on various Saturdays, are given mock exams, and earn a $100 stipend for each passing score.

Q: How will the school benefit?A: The school will receive extra funds to spend in the classroom as needed.

Q: What is the goal of A+ College Ready?A: A+ College Ready works to increase the number of students in Alabama taking Math, Science, and English AP Courses, earning qualifying scores on an AP Exam, and attending and succeeding in college.

Q & A With Mrs. Paige Smith: AP Literature

Q: What is A+ College Ready?A: A national initiative designed to increase student achievement in science, math, and english.

Q: What are the benefits of A+ College Ready?A: Student support/student sessions, teacher support, incentives and awards, program management, and more students prepare for the rigor of college.

Q: How will the school benefit?A: More students will be prepared for college, and extensive training for all AP teachers will be provided.

article & photos by Laura Garcia

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Health Science Internship

Question: Could you please describe the Health Science Internship? Mrs. Killion: Senior students take Internship and receive 2 credits if they are interested in a career in the medical field. They learn how to do patient care, make a hospital bed, and perform personal care on patients. They have the opportunity to test for CNA (Certified nursing assistant).

Question: What are the benefits of this class?Mrs. Killion: A student can decide what area of the medical field they like the best so they can make better decisions when going to college.

Question: Who can be part of this class?Mrs. Killion: Anyone who meets the criteria for Health Science Internship Class. Must have Foundation of Health Science, Human Body Structure and Functions before you can apply.

Question: What are the prerequisites?Mrs. Killion: Foundation of Health Science, Human Body Structures and Functions

Questions: What are the course goals:Mrs. Killion: Learn the skills necessary to become a CNA

article and photos by Laura GarciaAggie Advocate Volume 2, Edition 1

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“The best way to learn is to have fun while doing it. ” Ana Soriano

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Eating disorders such as anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating are serious emotional and physical problems that can have life threatening consequences for both females and males. These disorders include extreme

emotions, attitudes, and behaviors surrounding weight and food issues.


What is Anorexia Nervosa? A common eating disorder is anorexia nervosa. People with this disorder seem to see themselves as overweight and would do anything to prevent it, sometimes to the point of starvation.

Common Symptoms• Refusal to eat • Extremely underweight • Fear of gaining weight • Low self-esteem• Making excuses for not eating

Anorexia Statistics • People between the ages 12 and 26 make up 95 percent of those who have eating disorders. • If not treated properly, 20% of people with anorexia nervosa disorder will die. • 10% of the sufferers are males.

Consequences and Risks

This disorder affects females more than males and usually teenagers more than adults. Anorexia nervosa can cause damage to your health and even death if not treated properly. Children and teenagers have a risk of slowing their development and growth. Television or magazines can be a negative influence in which many teenagers reference everyday; there media usually show models, athletes, or actresses who are impossibly thin and have unrealistic physical features.

Anorexia Nervosa Treatment

Patients with anorexia nervosa may have to be treated with multiple types of treatment in order to recover from this disease. If someone’s life is in danger, he or she may have to be in an emergency hospital room. If this happens, doctors will search for health problems that could be treated right away- a heart rhythm disturbance, dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, or psychiatric problems. Specialized clinics that help people with eating disorders offer intensive care treatments for longer time periods.

Behind the Mask:Eating Disorders

16article by Ariatna Hernandezphotos and edits by Cody Hill

What is Bulimia Nervosa? Bulimia is an eating disorder characterized by frequent episodes of binge eating, followed by raging effort to avoid gaining weight. Bulimic patients can have an average weight or even be overweight. People suffering from bulimia tend to eat large portions of food in a short period of time.

Common Symptoms • Some behavioral symptoms can be binge eating, compulsive behaviors, self-harm, or lack restraint.• You can be dehydrated, have fatigue or also always be hungry.• Oral trauma is caused from repetitive vomiting

Bulimia Statistics • Statistics show that two percent of all adolescents and young females are bulimic.• People who change their diets are 18 times more likely to develop anorexia or bulimia • Bulimia’s mortality rate is 3.9%.

Consequences and Risks

Bulimia nervosa has almost the same consequences and risks as the risks for someone who has anorexia nervosa. This kind of disorder typically effects young women, but it can affect anyone, regardless of gender, age, or economic lifestyle. Many of the consequences of bulimia nervosa can be peptic ulcers, pancreatitis, tooth decay, and staining from stomach acids being released when vomiting.

Bulimia Nervosa Treatment

A person with bulimia will have to go through vigorous steps in order to recover and will even be on medications. Bulimia is usually treated the same way as an anorexia. A bulimic person is more likely to admit he/she has a problem. Nutritional counseling helps bulimia in order for someone to know how to maintain a healthy meal. It is unlikely for a person with bulimia to require hospitalization.

The Steps to Recover

• The main and first step is to accept that you have an eating disorder.• Be able to recognize for yourself that food and weight are not the real issues but the problems in our daily lives are the real issues that lead to the problems.• Be honest with yourself in order to identify the problems that are causing you to have an obsession with food, eating, and weight. • Recognize binge-purging or starvation are not healthy practices and are not a safe way to be slender • Be able to change your daily routine for a more safe and productive lifestyle, different than what you are used to.• Reach out to others who have the same problems you once had in order to reinforce and sustain your personal growth.

If you or a loved one needs helps or more information,

please visit:

• nationaleatingdisorders.org or call 212-333-3444• helpguide.org• anad.org or call 630-577-1330

Treatments for eating disorders include counseling, education, and medication. Find out what

works for you.

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Kassie MIllwood was previously employed at Big Spring Lake in the Albertville City School system as a librarian. This is Ms. Millwood’s eleventh year as a librarian and before that she taught kindergarten for eight years. Ms. Millwood wanted to become a librarian to share her love of reading. Ms. Millwood believes that books are a great escape from everyday life.

In her role as Big Spring Lake librarian, Ms. Millwood wanted to make learning to read fun and exciting. When asked how she liked being at the high school, Ms. Millwood said, “I love it. it is very different from kindergarten. I enjoy seeing all my past students.” One of Ms.

Millwood’s hopes for this school year is seeing more students visit the library. In addition to some great books in the library, Ms. Millwood points out the Macbooks that are available for students to use for research or class projects and there are areas for reading or studying. Ms. Millwood wants students of all ages to understand the importance of reading.

Ms. Millwood states, “If you can read, you can do ANYTHING!”

Blake Nelson is a first year teacher making Albertville High School his home this year. Mr. Nelson currently teaches ninth and tenth grade US History. Attending Jacksonville State University, Mr. Nelson stated, “History was always my favorite subject in school. When I made the decision to go to college to become a teacher, it was easy to pick history because I had

always liked it so much.” Mr. Nelson has specific goals for this school year, including making his class fun for students and knowing that students will learn a lot in his class. According to Mr. Nelson, “If I can make that happen, then I think it will have been a very successful year.”

Holleigh Rogers is the new AHS school secretary. Mrs. Rogers is often the first person to greet students and visitors at Albertville High School. Previously, Mrs. Rogers worked at Marshall County Department of Human Resources. Mrs. Rogers’ children played a large part in her deciding to work for the Albertville City School system. Mrs. Rogers states, “I wanted my children to go to school

in Albertville, and I wanted to be on their schedule.” When asked what is one thing you hope for the school year, Mrs. Rogers replied, “ For students to turn their excuses in on time! I also hope that they will make attendance a priority.”


Kassie Millwood

Blake Nelson

Holleigh Rogers

AHS New Faculty & Staff

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Matthew Whisenant spent the last ten years teaching at Hokes Bluff High School before joining the staff at AHS as an agriscience teacher. Mr. Whisenant received his undergraduate degree at Alabama A & M and his gradaute degree from Auburn. Mr. Whisenant spends part of his day at AHS and part at AMS. When asked what made him choose a career in education, Mr. Whisenant responded, “I enjoy working with students and seeing them be able to apply what

they have learned to real world applications.” Mr. Whisenant hopes that students will learn to have a positive impact on their community. Mr. Whisenant also states, “I want students to have personal growth and to gain leadership skills that will help them in a career one day. Agriscience allows students to see many different career options ,and I hope that they may find something that interests them and begin to pursue that career. “

AHS New Faculty & Staff

Wisdom to New Teachers: Laugh at your mistakes, keep a swear jar in your room (you'll have enough for a vacation by Christmas), stay calm - students can smell fear.

If you're not sure about an answer admit it ... don't lie...they can smell that too! And above all else NEVER EVER ASK Coach Mac a question before 9am!!

His mustache will consume you. ~Mrs. Cheryl Roberson

Matthew Whisenant

Cindy Yates is new to Albertville High School but not new to the Albertville City School system. Mrs. Yates is currently teaching EL Intervention in the morning at AHS and is at AMS in the afternoon. Mrs. Yates stated that some of the challenges she faces being at two schools have been “having what I need in both classrooms, setting up two classrooms, and just keeping up with meetings, etc. at the two schools.” Mrs. Yates goes on to say that she has always wanted to be a teacher; however, when

she graduated high school she ended up working in Physical Therapy for about 25 years. About 10 years ago her husband passed away, and she needed to be home with her boys more, so she started working in the school system. Mrs. Yates knew she still had the desire to teach so she went back to school and obtained her teaching degree. Mrs. Yates states, “ My desire is for my students to learn English but to also learn our culture. I love my job!”

Cindy Yates

by Molly Katherine Millwood

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AHS New Coaches


John ButtsCoach Butts is the new varsity girls basketball coach and health teacher. Coach Butts comes to us from Gadsden State Community College where he was the coach for the Lady Cardinals. Coach Butts began his coaching career at Etowah High School in 2003. Turning around a failing program, Coach Butts and his team won thirteen games in his first year and went on to qualify for the state playoffs during this third year as head coach.

Coach Butts then had four successful years as the women’s head basketball coach at Gadsden State before coming to Albertville High School. Coach Butts is a graduate of West End High School and also coached at Westbrook Christian and Ashville. While at Etowah, Coach Butts had the opportunity to coach junior varsity boy’s basketball. Coach Butts is currently exemplifying the take

charge attitude he has with his coaching; however, this time, he is taking charge of his health. Before Coach Butts had the opportunity to officially work with the AHS girls basketball team, he experienced a health issue that left him partially paralyzed. With the same determination he shows in everything, Coach Butts is amazing his doctors, friends, and family with the amount of progress he is making. The whole Albertville family wants to wish Coach Butts a speedy recovery, and we are looking forward to seeing him out on the court leading the Lady Aggies to a win!

Coach Lambert is our new softball coach and alternative school teacher. Coach Lambert graduated from Fyffe High School where he played football, basketball, and baseball . Coach Lambert looked up to the former MLB player, Nolan Ryan, for determination and motivation. After graduating from FHS, Lambert attended Birmingham Southern College and Jacksonville State University.

Coach Lambert has accomplished many things throughout his coaching career, such as 5A Baseball Finals at Briarwood; Dekalb County Coach of the Year in 2010; 2013 4A Football State Champions at Oneonta; and 4A Baseball Semi-Finals in 2015 at Oneonta. He said that he tries to motivate his players by example. “ I work very hard at what I do. If my players know that I am always giving my very best for them, then maybe they will give their best for me. I also want my players to know that I care about them. Players will run through a wall for you if they know without a doubt that you love them.”

When asked what his favorite thing about being a coach, Lambert stated, “Without a doubt, the best

thing about coaching is the kids. Being able to develop relationships with them is awesome. Having a positive influence on young adults while teaching them to be tough, competitive, and productive members of the community is my #1 blessing.”

Coach Lambert hopes to be remembered as a 3 dimensional coach; “I want to be good at whatever I ‘do’… whether it’s coaching or folding my clothes. I also want to be remembered because I ‘developed’ men and women of character. Hopefully my players will be better people because I had a significant impact on my players’ eternal ‘destiny’. My faith in Christ and my relationship with Him are what ultimately defines me. Hopefully my players will be able to say the same thing.”

Matt Lambert

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AHS New Coaches

Judson MeadowsJudson Meadows is the new US history teacher and eighth grade boys basketabll coach at AHS this year. Coach Meadows graduated from West Lime Stone High School. All throughout high school he played baseball, basketball, and football. For motivation, he looked up to Michael Jordan, the famous NBA

player. He was also in Beta Club.

Coach Meadows attended Athens State University and majored in Secondary Education. After college, he began his teaching career at Elkmont High School and his coaching career at West Limestone High School.

During his coaching career, Coach Meadows has coached jv boys basketball, varsity boys basketball, middle school baseball, and varsity girls basketball. Coach Meadows has won 4 JV County Championships in Limestone County. Coach Meadows’ favorite thing about being a teacher and coach is “impacting students’ lives in a positive way”. To motivate his players he uses music and preparation. “I want people to remember me as a positive impact on players’ lives.”

Coach Pruitt is a new football coach and history teacher at AHS this year. Coach Pruitt graduated from Plainview High School. During high school, he played baseball, football, and basketball. Coach Pruitt looked up to John Elway, a former American football player, for confidence and motivation. Pruitt was also involved in Beta

club, FCA, SADD, NHS, and Spanish club. After high school he attended Jacksonville State University where he played football and majored in Secondary Education.

After college, he returned to Plainview High School to begin his teaching career. He taught and coached football and basketball at Hoover High School, was a grad and student assistant at JSU, and Plainview.

In his coaching career, Coach Pruitt has coached varsity, b-team, and 7th and 8th grade basketball.Football-wise, he has coached varsity football and 10th grade football. Coach Pruitt has also coached varsity baseball. Coach Pruitt states, “The ability to impact teenagers in a positive way and hopefully help prepare them for their future” are reason why he coaches.

During his coaching career he has won three Region Championships at Plainview, 1 Region Championship at Hoover, and Teacher of the Year. Coach Pruitt has coached many students who have gone and played in college including Will Coney (University of Alabama), P.T. M. (WV), and many others. He said that he has to find different ways to motivate each of his players. “Each kid is different. I have to figure out the buttons to push because no kid is the same.”

For his legacy, Coach Pruitt said, “I want people to remember that I care about the kids. I want them to have fun in football, history, etc., but to know they were successful and somehow I helped that happen.”

Luke Pruitt

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Buck Watford is the new athletic trainer and sports medicine teacher at AHS. Coach Watford graduated from Okeechobee High School in Florida. During high school, Coach Watford competed in football, soccer, baseball, wrestling, and water skiing.

Coach Watford was involved in FCA, Beta Club, Key Club, and NHS. After high school Coach Watford attended Cumberland University in Lebanon, Tennessee. He then transferred to Barry University in Miami, Florida, where he majored in sports medicine/athletic training. Barry was the first accredited sports medicine program in the country. Coach Watford then attended graduate school at The University of West Alabama.

Coach Watford then began his career at Barbra Goleman High School in Miami, Florida, as an assistant certified athletic trainer (ATC). Coach Watford’s career also includes being an assistant

ATC at the University of West Alabama and Palm Beach Institute of Sports Medicine. Coach Watford also served as head ATC at several schools including the University of Arkansas, Benton High School in Arkansas, Boaz High School and now AHS.

Coach Watford states that he enjoys the “exceptional support from AHS staff, administration, and community.” “I want to be remembered as someone who cared about the student not just on the athletic field, but also in the classroom and in their lives after high school.”


AHS New Coaches

Coach Rutledge is the new football coach and career preparedness teacher at AHS. Coach Rutledge attended Boaz High School where he played basketball, football, and baseball. Coach Rutledge was also involved in FFA, FBLA, FCA, SADD, and Junior Civitans. For motivation and courage he looked up to former MLB player Mark McGwire.

After high school, Coach Rutledge attended Auburn University where he majored in Secondary Education. Coach Rutledge has taught and coached at J.B. Pennington, Douglas, Oneonta, Sardis, Etowah, and Arab. During his fourteen years teaching,

Coach Rutledge has taught science, world history, US History I and II, government, economics, civics, world geography, contemporary issues, BTE, career prep, psychology, sociology, access, p.e., weight training, and drivers ed.

Coach Rutledge has coached varsity football, football B team , varsity baseball, junior high baseball, varsity softball, varsity golf, and junior high basketball. Coach Rutledge has won a state championship and was state runner up in football as well as in baseball. To motivate his players to do their best, he tries to build a relationship of respect with them.

When asked what his favorite thing about being a teacher and coach, he replied by saying, “I like being able to see the needs of the community and having the chance to impact the lives of tomorrow’s leaders. He wants people to remember him “as a winner in life”.

Brock Rutledge

Buck Watford

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AHS New Coaches

Jose Zavala is new to AHS this year but worked at AMS last year. Coach Zavala is a graduate of AHS and played both football and soccer at AHS. Coach Zavala lists Troy Polamalu and Cristiano Ronaldo as players that he looked up to while in school. While in school, he was involved in FCA, French Club, Spanish Club, and National Honor Society.

Coach Zavala assists with a variety of courses including English, history, math, p.e., career preparedness, and JROTC. In addition to his

teaching duties, Coach Zavala is also the jv girls soccer coach and an assistant football coach.

When asked about his favorite thing about being a teacher and a coach, Coach Zavala replied that it is knowing that you are doing something good to help students better themselves. As for being a coach, he enjoys being able to be a part of something that he enjoys doing.

Coach Zavala said that to motivate his players he, “encourages them to do their best all of the time, not only in the sport, but also in and out of school.”

Coach Zavala stated, “I am thankful for everything that everyone did for me at this school, so what better way to show it than to come back and give what I received?” Coach Zavala also “hopes to be a good role model to the students and impact them in a positive way.”

Jose Zavala

by Briley O’Dell

I won’t accept anything less than the best a player’s capable of doing, and he has the right to expect the best that I can do

for him and the team!-Lou Holtz

It's not whether you get knocked down, it's whether you get up.-Vince Lombardi


Q & A with Colorguard Captain Samantha DanielQ. How long have you been Colorguard?A. I’ve been in Colorguard since my sophomore year.Q. What’s your favorite thing about being in Colorguard? A. My favorite thing about Colorguard is probably the performance. It’s my favorite because right before it, I’m nervous, but as soon as you take the field it becomes almost natural and it’s a lot of fun. Q. What’s a memory that you will always remember related to Colorguard?A. The Philadelphia parade because it was my second year on Colorguard, but my first time in a big parade like that.Q. What is the biggest challenge you’ve had to overcome in Colorguard?A. The biggest thing that I had to over come is being an absolute perfectionist. I had to understand that some people wouldn’t get it the first time and remember things as well as I did. Q. What extracurricular activities are you involved in? (Sports, clubs, etc.)A. Besides Colorguard, I’m in show choir and FFA.

Aggie Band

article by Briley O’Dell photos by Ana Antonio, Christina Domingo,

Noah Kirkland, & Blake Smedley

Q & A With Drum Major William ScottQ: What are your duties/jobs as Drum Major?A: Leading the band rehearsals and performances.Q: What is your favorite thing about being Drum Major?A: The honor it is to be picked by the band to lead them.Q: What qualities do you think are important for a Drum Major to have?A:• Responsibility/reliability• Dedication • Understanding the music• Exceptional marching technique• Loud/understandable commands• Work well with others• Teach and inspire the bandQ: Why did you want to become a Drum Major?A: To be the 4th member in my family to achieve this goal.Q: How long have you been in the band?A: Since 7th gradeQ: What is your favorite memory from band?A: The Chicago TripQ: What instrument do you play?A: TromboneQ: What is your favorite thing about the band?A: Making new friendsQ: Do you have any plans for college that involve the band?A: Jazz BandQ: What other extracurricular activities are you involved in (inside and outside of school)?A: CenterStage, VocalEase, FFA, Archery Team, FFA Quartet, Mechanic Team, and NHS.


Let’s Play Ball!

Colorg

uard

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dancel

ine

photos by Ana Antonio, Christina Domingo, Noah Kirkland, & Blake Smedley


Dale Pruitt is the new head football coach at Albertville High School this year. Coach Pruitt is married to Melissa Pruitt. They have three children; Jeremy, Leah, and Luke. They also have 6 grandchildren. Coach Pruitt graduated from Plainview High School where he played football and basketball throughout high school. After high school, he attended Jacksonville University where he majored in Physical Education.

Coach Pruitt then began his teaching and coaching career at Boaz in 1979. He coached jv football and girls jv basketball. Coach Pruitt then went on to teach and coach at Sylvania where he coached varsity and jv football, varsity baseball, and jv basketball. At Haleyville, he coached varsity football, basketball, and baseball. Coach Pruitt also coached varsity football and baseball at Pisgah. While at Plainview, he coached varsity baseball and football, and jv basketball. Coach Pruitt also coached football at Fort Payne and in Marion County, Tennessee. In addition to his coaching duties, Coach Pruitt has taught drivers education, health, physical education, and history during his thirty-eight years of teaching. Coach Pruitt says he enjoys having a positive effect on his players and students.

Coach Pruitt is looking forward to “new places, new players, new schedules, and a chance to make a positive effect on Albertville”. He believes that if we “keep working and stay hungry, we can have a positive season”. Coach Pruitt likes that the school is supporting and the players work their hardest. “I hope people notice that I care about the students just as much as I do my players.”

Before the beginning of the football season this year, Pruitt had an overall record of 250-111 in Alabama, and 264-118 in both Alabama and Tennessee. Coach Pruitt has coached teams that have made it to playoffs a total of 22 times and has won 13 region championships. Pruitt has coached four undefeated seasons during his career (1983, 1990, 1991, 1999.) Coach Pruitt has already done great things with the Albertville High School football team this year, and we can’t wait to see what the future holds. Welcome to AHS, Coach Pruitt!

Coach Dale Pruitt

THIS ISALBERTVILLE FOOTBALL

article by Briley O’Dell

28

photo courtesy of Spring & Mona


Click Here to View Highlights From the Albertville vs Scottsboro Game

video courtesy of Tyler May

INTERACTIVECONTENT

INTERACTIVECONTENT

Click Here to View Highlights From the Albertville vs Columbia Game

video by Dylan Langley

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YtbkJQS2jfU&feature=youtu.be

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RdTLmqrIV08

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RdTLmqrIV08

30photos by Ana Antonio, Gigi Delgado,

Christina Domingo, Lola Garcia, & Blake Smedley


Aggie Cheer

Q & A with cheer coach Mary Katherine Mulkey

Q: What made you want to get involved in cheer? A: I have a passion for cheer and I was a cheerleader in high school (at AHS) and I cheered in college (Gadsden State).

Q: Did you participate in cheer or a cheer-related activity in high school or college? A: Yes, I cheered all through middle and high school.

Q: What do you tell the girls before a big competition? A: To believe in yourself and have full confidence that you will leave everything on the mat

Q: What is the hardest part about being a cheer coach? A: Competition season is the most stressful. I feel if I do not give my girls the best routine possible, then I would let my girls down.

Q: What responsibilities do you, as a coach, feel are most important to the success of the team?A: Cheerleading is a team sport. I always tell my girls every day they have to be willing to work with one another and go out of their comfort zone to make our team a successful team.

Q: What would you tell someone(s) who are wanting to join cheer? A: They need to be willing to give it their all at all times and to just enjoy the sport and have fun.

Q: How often do you practice, per session, with the girls? A: We practice every Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday. We sometimes have Saturday practices close to our competitions. Q: Finally, do you have any final remarks for any or your girls? A: Always have fun and treat every game and/or competition as if it were your last! To my 9 seniors: Make this year your best year. I will truly miss each and every one of you!

article by Cody Hillphotos by Ana Antonio, Christina Domingo, & Blake Smedley

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Volleyball

Q & A With Allison Hansford Q: What do you wish to branch out to from playing volleyball? A: To keep with me the strength and knowledge I have learned from playingQ: What are you going to do differently this year, than your previous years?A: Go all out and make it countQ: What is your advice to younger ladies as they approach their senior years? A: Do your best because it will be over before you know it

Q & A With Mckinley WilliamsQ: What is one thing you have learned, with ethical value, from being on a team?A: Sometimes you have to sacrifice what you want personally, for the greater good of the team. Q: How have you improved from the beginning of your volleyball career? A: I’ve learned to communicate better, and work better with my teammates.Q: How do you push yourself, in your academics and athleticism, to be the best of their ability?A: I make sure I always prioritize. I set aside time for each thing to make sure everything I need to have done and need to practice gets done in time.

Q & A With Coach Cristy WestQ: What is your favorite thing about being a volleyball coach?A: Having an impact in young women’s livesQ: What inspiration do you use to continue to encourage your team to be the most successful possible?A: I just want the girls to realize that their high school years are short and precious, and they should make the most of every minute. Q: What techniques do you use to uplift the team?A: We try to stay focused on the goal. We cheer for each other on and off the court.Q: What do you wish to improve on for the team or your coaching for the future? Why do you wish to improve these certain aspects?A: We need to become the dominant team in our area, year in and year out. We also are encouraging our junior high players to develop and step into their league.

article by Nancy Martinezphotos by Ana Antonio, Christina Domingo, & Blake Smedley

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Cross Country

article by Nancy Martinezphotos by Ana Antonio,

Allison Pratt, Elaine Villalovos

36

Q & A With Mauricio MataQ: Do you have a specific type of diet?A: Uhhh, nope. I don’t think runners should diet. I think they should eat correctly. Instead of salads, eat pasta for the good carbs. Especially the day before a race. Pasta refills your energy since pasta is carbs. Q: How do the seasons affect your running?A: Well, the summer is the worst. The heat just hits you in the face. It slows me down so much. I prefer the winter. Your body heats up. I just love it.

Q & A With Yendi VasquezWhat would you tell someone who is interested in cross country?8. I would tell them that cross country is a very challenging sport. It's a different world than any other sport. Cross country is a race against time. You improve yourself every time you can. Setting your personal record challenges you to overpass your limits that you never thought could happen. It's very fun, too. You meet other people from far away places, and without a thought you have a new family who will support you, cheer you on, but most importantly will believe in you more than you do yourself. This is cross country. As for the pain, it will be worth it when you gain fame!

Q & A With Victor BravoQ: What does your training consist of?A: Functional multi-joint exercises, training for speed, long period of running, breathing control, improvements for stride rate, proper running technique, core workout, uphill workouts, and leg workouts.


photos by Ana Antonio, Lola Garcia, & Blake Smedley

edits by Angel Godinez, Cody Hill, & Blake Smedley

aggie advocate volume 2, issue 1

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