georgia prepstars
DESCRIPTION
A lifestyle magazine for Georgia's student athletes.TRANSCRIPT
06 prepstars06 prepstars
Volume II Issue I
PUBLISHER12th Man Promotions
EditorDell Miller
Art DirectorJames Ledford
Graphic DesignOne Slate Media
Contributing WritersDell MillerShalunda HarrisDemarco WilliamsKeisha WillisStephen Miller
PrepstarsP.O. Box 870491Stone Mountain, GA 30087
678.805.2055www.gaprepstars.com
Hutson Masoncover photo courtesy of
bmwimages.com
Volume II Issue I
06 prepstars
Volume II Issue I
PUBLISHER12th Man Promotions
EditorDell Miller
Art DirectorJames Ledford
Graphic DesignOne Slate Media
Contributing WritersDell MillerShalunda HarrisDemarco WilliamsKeisha WillisStephen Miller
PrepstarsP.O. Box 870491Stone Mountain, GA 30087
678.805.2055www.gaprepstars.com
Hutson Masoncover photo courtesy of
bmwimages.com
08 prepstars
The human body needs water to maintain enough blood and other fluids to function properly.We lose fluids and electrolytes (mineral salts)
when we urinate, sweat, breathe, vomit,
and have diarrhea or fever. Dehydration is
caused by not eating or drinking enough
during strenuous exercise or illness, or, while
certain medications like antihistamines and
cold remedies. Under normal conditions
your body maintains fluid balance through
thirst mechanisms and the kidneys’ ability to
dilute or concentrate your urine. However,
during periods of exercise, especially if there
concomitant illness, the thirst mechanism
alone is often not adequate enough to
maintain good hydration. It is important to
remember that you can become dehydrated
without your even being aware.
Some common symptoms of dehydration
are thirst, dry warm skin, dark urine,
lightheadedness - especially when you stand
from a sitting position, headache, and muscle
cramping,. One must remember that some,
all, or none, of these symptoms may be
present when you are dehydrated.
Preventing dehydration is always better than
trying to cure it. The best preventive measure
is not waiting until you are thirsty to start
to replenish fluids especially when playing
sports or during periods of illness. Drink small
amounts of fluid frequently throughout and
after sporting/training events, and drink extra
fluids to keep up with any ongoing losses.
If you have diarrhea or are vomiting, force
yourself to drink more liquids than you may
crave to avoid becoming dehydrated. Chilling
your fluids may make it easier to drink and
thus stay hydrated.
If you are mildly dehydrated, you need to
take in additional fluids to replace the fluids
and electrolytes you have lost. You can do
this by drinking sips of water, along with
eating foods with salt. There are many over-
the-counter products that help replenish
fluids and electrolytes (e.g. sports drinks,
electrolyte packets). If you don’t have sports drinks or electrolyte packets you can make you own oral rehydration solution (ORS): • 2 tablespoons of sugar or honey
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 quart or liter of water
If you don’t have any baking soda, add
another 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
If possible, add 1–2 cup orange juice or some
mashed banana to improve the taste and
provide some potassium.
Take sips every 5 minutes until urination
becomes normal (normal is urinating four or
five times a day). If you are ill, you should
drink at least 3 quarts or liters of ORS a day
until you are well. Even if you are vomiting or
having diarrhea, try to keep to drinking the
ORS because your body will retain some of
the fluids and salts you need even though you
are vomiting and the fluids will not increase
the diarrhea.
When treating dehydration, it is important to
also treat any underlying illness that may be
compounding the issue. Failure to do this can
reduce the body’s ability to dissipate heat,
resulting in elevated core body temperatures,
heat illness, heat stroke, kidney failure coma
or even death. If you have symptoms of
severe dehydration (e.g. decreased urine
output, mental status changes), you need
to go to an emergency room or other health
care facility to be evaluated and possibly get
intravenous (IV) fluids.
Remember, if you wait until you are thirsty
during athletic activity, you may be already too
late to adequately replenish necessary fluids.
TRAINING TIPS DEHYDRATIONDr. R. Amadeus Mason
gaprepstars.com 09
Dr. R. Amadeus Mason
Dr. Mason is a staff member of
Emory Sports Medicine.
He can be reached for
appointments at 404.778.3350
08 prepstars
The human body needs water to maintain enough blood and other fluids to function properly.We lose fluids and electrolytes (mineral salts)
when we urinate, sweat, breathe, vomit,
and have diarrhea or fever. Dehydration is
caused by not eating or drinking enough
during strenuous exercise or illness, or, while
certain medications like antihistamines and
cold remedies. Under normal conditions
your body maintains fluid balance through
thirst mechanisms and the kidneys’ ability to
dilute or concentrate your urine. However,
during periods of exercise, especially if there
concomitant illness, the thirst mechanism
alone is often not adequate enough to
maintain good hydration. It is important to
remember that you can become dehydrated
without your even being aware.
Some common symptoms of dehydration
are thirst, dry warm skin, dark urine,
lightheadedness - especially when you stand
from a sitting position, headache, and muscle
cramping,. One must remember that some,
all, or none, of these symptoms may be
present when you are dehydrated.
Preventing dehydration is always better than
trying to cure it. The best preventive measure
is not waiting until you are thirsty to start
to replenish fluids especially when playing
sports or during periods of illness. Drink small
amounts of fluid frequently throughout and
after sporting/training events, and drink extra
fluids to keep up with any ongoing losses.
If you have diarrhea or are vomiting, force
yourself to drink more liquids than you may
crave to avoid becoming dehydrated. Chilling
your fluids may make it easier to drink and
thus stay hydrated.
If you are mildly dehydrated, you need to
take in additional fluids to replace the fluids
and electrolytes you have lost. You can do
this by drinking sips of water, along with
eating foods with salt. There are many over-
the-counter products that help replenish
fluids and electrolytes (e.g. sports drinks,
electrolyte packets). If you don’t have sports drinks or electrolyte packets you can make you own oral rehydration solution (ORS): • 2 tablespoons of sugar or honey
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 quart or liter of water
If you don’t have any baking soda, add
another 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
If possible, add 1–2 cup orange juice or some
mashed banana to improve the taste and
provide some potassium.
Take sips every 5 minutes until urination
becomes normal (normal is urinating four or
five times a day). If you are ill, you should
drink at least 3 quarts or liters of ORS a day
until you are well. Even if you are vomiting or
having diarrhea, try to keep to drinking the
ORS because your body will retain some of
the fluids and salts you need even though you
are vomiting and the fluids will not increase
the diarrhea.
When treating dehydration, it is important to
also treat any underlying illness that may be
compounding the issue. Failure to do this can
reduce the body’s ability to dissipate heat,
resulting in elevated core body temperatures,
heat illness, heat stroke, kidney failure coma
or even death. If you have symptoms of
severe dehydration (e.g. decreased urine
output, mental status changes), you need
to go to an emergency room or other health
care facility to be evaluated and possibly get
intravenous (IV) fluids.
Remember, if you wait until you are thirsty
during athletic activity, you may be already too
late to adequately replenish necessary fluids.
TRAINING TIPS DEHYDRATIONDr. R. Amadeus Mason
gaprepstars.com 09
Dr. R. Amadeus Mason
Dr. Mason is a staff member of
Emory Sports Medicine.
He can be reached for
appointments at 404.778.3350
10 prepstars
HUTSON MASON, a senior at
Lassiter High School is gaining vast attention
as one of the state’s most sought-after
quarterbacks. The 18 year-old has been
playing football since the age of seven and
hopes to continue through college, and
even further. It is his accuracy and precision
that distinguishes Mason from most other
quarterbacks and allows him to excel as a
football player and team leader.
“I think I have good leadership,” he says,
describing his on-field communication. “A
lot of guys can rely on me.” Along with
football, Mason was also influenced to play
basketball by his father, who played the sport
in college. But even after playing on his high
school basketball team, Mason later decided
he wanted to continue on the path of football
and play in college. Since then, he has been
dedicated to the game.
“When I’m on the field, I’m taking care of
business. I try to put up good numbers. But
when I’m off the field, I’m taking things as
they go.”
Mason’s hard work is praised and encouraged
by his family, who impacts his life and
helps him make good decisions. He is also
encouraged by his teammates and coaches.
“I was a Tennessee fan in elementary
school, when Tee Martin won the National
Championship,” he says, which aided his
decision to play football. Tamaurice Martin,
who is now Mason’s quarterback coach,
is very supportive of the young player
and has worked with him to develop his
weaknesses. “He is an easy-going guy and
we work well together.”
One of Mason’s main priorities on the football
field is winning.
“That’s the reason you play hard,” he says.
“You know that people are watching you.”
He deems building relationships that last for
a lifetime as the most important thing about
playing football. Mason is satisfied just with
the privilege to compete.
“It’s a competitive game and I like to compete.”
When he’s not playing football, Mason enjoys
fishing, hunting, and hanging out with his
friends, who describe him as goofy.
“I don’t take a lot of things seriously, but I have
my priorities straight,” he says. “I understand
that schoolwork comes first, then football. I
know that I have to do well in school to be on
the field and to play college ball.”
ACCESS: HUTSON MASONGEORGIA’S TOP GUN
IT’S A COMPETITIVE GAME AND I LIKE TO COMPETE.
- Hutson
gaprepstars.com 11
10 prepstars
HUTSON MASON, a senior at
Lassiter High School is gaining vast attention
as one of the state’s most sought-after
quarterbacks. The 18 year-old has been
playing football since the age of seven and
hopes to continue through college, and
even further. It is his accuracy and precision
that distinguishes Mason from most other
quarterbacks and allows him to excel as a
football player and team leader.
“I think I have good leadership,” he says,
describing his on-field communication. “A
lot of guys can rely on me.” Along with
football, Mason was also influenced to play
basketball by his father, who played the sport
in college. But even after playing on his high
school basketball team, Mason later decided
he wanted to continue on the path of football
and play in college. Since then, he has been
dedicated to the game.
“When I’m on the field, I’m taking care of
business. I try to put up good numbers. But
when I’m off the field, I’m taking things as
they go.”
Mason’s hard work is praised and encouraged
by his family, who impacts his life and
helps him make good decisions. He is also
encouraged by his teammates and coaches.
“I was a Tennessee fan in elementary
school, when Tee Martin won the National
Championship,” he says, which aided his
decision to play football. Tamaurice Martin,
who is now Mason’s quarterback coach,
is very supportive of the young player
and has worked with him to develop his
weaknesses. “He is an easy-going guy and
we work well together.”
One of Mason’s main priorities on the football
field is winning.
“That’s the reason you play hard,” he says.
“You know that people are watching you.”
He deems building relationships that last for
a lifetime as the most important thing about
playing football. Mason is satisfied just with
the privilege to compete.
“It’s a competitive game and I like to compete.”
When he’s not playing football, Mason enjoys
fishing, hunting, and hanging out with his
friends, who describe him as goofy.
“I don’t take a lot of things seriously, but I have
my priorities straight,” he says. “I understand
that schoolwork comes first, then football. I
know that I have to do well in school to be on
the field and to play college ball.”
ACCESS: HUTSON MASONGEORGIA’S TOP GUN
IT’S A COMPETITIVE GAME AND I LIKE TO COMPETE.
- Hutson
gaprepstars.com 11
12 prepstars
From left to Right:Kaycee Gallup, Kate Bell,
Kelsey Chadwick, Lori Spingola,Amalie Erwood, and Cameron Taylor
BACK TO BACKTHE LADY WAR EAGLESWIN ANOTHER STATE TITLE
gaprepstars.com 13
Mike Trapani, head coach of the Marist
School softball team, led his team to
victory as they were again named state
champions in 2009. In his 10 years of
coaching softball at Marist, Trapani and
his team won the state championship
twice and made it to the Final 9 nine of
ten years. He credits the team’s success
to its impressive pitching abilities and
the drive to work hard at winning.
“You have to have great pitching,” he says.
“ We’ve been fortunate for a number of
years to have that, and last year we were
also fortunate enough to have eight
talented young ladies on the team.”
As few goals change each year, the
team’s priority goals remain constant:
first, to win the region championship
and second, to win state.
“When you’ve got great pitching,
you’ve got to make routine plays. There
are a limited number of opportunities in
the field and you’ve got to try to make
them all,” he says. “The key to winning
is getting timely hits. You’ve got to be
able to move runners and get them in
when you have the chance.”
Although Trapani has spent 35 years
of coaching various sports, he names
softball as the most “nerve racking.”
Yet, he became intrigued when his
youngest daughter began to play. “I’ve
always equated softball to starting a
baseball game in extra innings,” he says.
In the end, Trapani hopes the seniors
and the other girls have enjoyed
playing softball.
“It was never meant to be the only and
most important thing we stress. School
work and spirituality are also important.
But we’ve been blessed with great
young ladies, and with their softball
talents aside, we hope they go on to do
great things.”
12 prepstars
From left to Right:Kaycee Gallup, Kate Bell,
Kelsey Chadwick, Lori Spingola,Amalie Erwood, and Cameron Taylor
BACK TO BACKTHE LADY WAR EAGLESWIN ANOTHER STATE TITLE
gaprepstars.com 13
Mike Trapani, head coach of the Marist
School softball team, led his team to
victory as they were again named state
champions in 2009. In his 10 years of
coaching softball at Marist, Trapani and
his team won the state championship
twice and made it to the Final 9 nine of
ten years. He credits the team’s success
to its impressive pitching abilities and
the drive to work hard at winning.
“You have to have great pitching,” he says.
“ We’ve been fortunate for a number of
years to have that, and last year we were
also fortunate enough to have eight
talented young ladies on the team.”
As few goals change each year, the
team’s priority goals remain constant:
first, to win the region championship
and second, to win state.
“When you’ve got great pitching,
you’ve got to make routine plays. There
are a limited number of opportunities in
the field and you’ve got to try to make
them all,” he says. “The key to winning
is getting timely hits. You’ve got to be
able to move runners and get them in
when you have the chance.”
Although Trapani has spent 35 years
of coaching various sports, he names
softball as the most “nerve racking.”
Yet, he became intrigued when his
youngest daughter began to play. “I’ve
always equated softball to starting a
baseball game in extra innings,” he says.
In the end, Trapani hopes the seniors
and the other girls have enjoyed
playing softball.
“It was never meant to be the only and
most important thing we stress. School
work and spirituality are also important.
But we’ve been blessed with great
young ladies, and with their softball
talents aside, we hope they go on to do
great things.”
14 prepstars
Some people may wonder why more and more young people are leaving the state in record
numbers. Why are young kids leaving, taking all their belongings with them, and moving to
nearby states- or better yet, across the nation? Well, the answer is quite simple really. After
graduating high school students are leaving for college. And the majority of them are leaving
the state. Why are they leaving? Students can’t think of any reason why they would like to go
to school in Georgia. However, students leaving the state have to ask themselves; have I really
investigated Georgia Schools? After all, there may be reason to change your mind. All schools
in Georgia have their points of pride which attract different students. And depending on your
personality type; you may find just the school you’re looking for.
DON’T LEAVE HOME, YET!
Georgia State University, for instance, has an amazing business program. As the ninth largest
business school in the United States with approximately 200 full-time faculty, state offers a
wide variety of course offerings in both the graduate and undergraduate programs. The school’s
EMBA is ranked among the best in the world according to Financial Times and our undergraduate
program is also ranked in the top 50 by U.S. News. If your strong suits are in math and you ever
wanted to be a high powered CEO or chief executive this school may be worth looking at.
The Clark Atlanta University is well-known for its band and auxiliary. It is a an huge and exciting
part of campus organization that includes the “Mighty Marching Panther” Band, the Pep Band,
the Symphonic Band, the Essence Dance Team, the CAU Drumline, and the Silver Breeze Dynasty
Flag Corp. The University’s Mighty Marching Panther Band’s many credits include having been
featured in the 20th Century Fox movie Drumline. The school also has many intercollegiate sports
including men’s baseball, basketball, football, tennis, and track and field; women’s basketball,
tennis, track and field, and volleyball in conjunction to their distinguished academic programs.
Georgia Southern is another great school for academics. The US News and World Report
consistently ranks the University’s Family Nurse Practitioner Program among the best in the
nation. And Southern’s College of Business Administration houses the only School of Economic
Development in the southeastern United States. It is also a great school for sports fans as the
Georgia Southern’s Eagles football team is one of the most successful in the NCAA Division I-AA.
It has won six national titles since 1985.
Georgia Tech is without a doubt the best
school for academic achievement in the
south. It has the number one graduate
program in the nation in engineering.
It is the ranks number seven in public
universities in the country, number
four in graduate engineering colleges,
number five in undergraduate engineering
college, number one in its industrial
engineering program, and number nine in
its undergraduate engineering programs.
Their NCAA Division I intercollegiate
athletics program is also one of the oldest
and most renowned in the country. Tech
students are passionate cheerleaders for
the Yellow Jackets. There are also plenty or frats and sororities that hold activities most week-
ends if sports aren’t of any interest at Tech. There is always something to do on the week-
ends at Georgia Tech; whether watching the game or simply hanging out with friends at nearby
bookstores and restaurants.
Valdosta State is large enough to offer more than 90 degree programs of study, yet small
enough to offer the individualized attention students deserve. The average undergraduate class
size is twenty-four. The student faculty ratio is twenty-one to one. This means, unlike many large
schools, students are capable to have meaningful interaction with professors so it will be easier
to learn.
Morehouse is one of the nation’s only male, historically and predominately higher education
institutions for African Americans. Morehouse gives special emphasis to the African American
experiences and the impact that people of the African diaspora have made in a global setting.
Black Enterprise has listed Morehouse College as No. 1 in the nation for educating African
Americans. This school has an enriched environment- where just as much attention is given to
creature comforts.
Lesser known schools like Fort Valley State also have something to offer students. With an
enrollment near 2,500, the school is the perfect size for building lifelong ties that go beyond
race and background-ties that are based on a shared love of learning and thirst for personal
growth. Fort Valley also has more than seventy student organizations and activities range
from a thriving sorority and fraternity system to
conference-leading athletic teams, from honor
societies to student government.
The University of West Georgia also has something
to offer students. It has over one hundred student
organizations and new facilities that provide a
balanced and exciting student life. It is also named by
The Princeton Review as one of the Best Southeastern
Colleges and one of America’s Best Value Colleges,
the University of West Georgia provides exceptional
academic quality. gaprepstars.com 15
14 prepstars
Some people may wonder why more and more young people are leaving the state in record
numbers. Why are young kids leaving, taking all their belongings with them, and moving to
nearby states- or better yet, across the nation? Well, the answer is quite simple really. After
graduating high school students are leaving for college. And the majority of them are leaving
the state. Why are they leaving? Students can’t think of any reason why they would like to go
to school in Georgia. However, students leaving the state have to ask themselves; have I really
investigated Georgia Schools? After all, there may be reason to change your mind. All schools
in Georgia have their points of pride which attract different students. And depending on your
personality type; you may find just the school you’re looking for.
DON’T LEAVE HOME, YET!
Georgia State University, for instance, has an amazing business program. As the ninth largest
business school in the United States with approximately 200 full-time faculty, state offers a
wide variety of course offerings in both the graduate and undergraduate programs. The school’s
EMBA is ranked among the best in the world according to Financial Times and our undergraduate
program is also ranked in the top 50 by U.S. News. If your strong suits are in math and you ever
wanted to be a high powered CEO or chief executive this school may be worth looking at.
The Clark Atlanta University is well-known for its band and auxiliary. It is a an huge and exciting
part of campus organization that includes the “Mighty Marching Panther” Band, the Pep Band,
the Symphonic Band, the Essence Dance Team, the CAU Drumline, and the Silver Breeze Dynasty
Flag Corp. The University’s Mighty Marching Panther Band’s many credits include having been
featured in the 20th Century Fox movie Drumline. The school also has many intercollegiate sports
including men’s baseball, basketball, football, tennis, and track and field; women’s basketball,
tennis, track and field, and volleyball in conjunction to their distinguished academic programs.
Georgia Southern is another great school for academics. The US News and World Report
consistently ranks the University’s Family Nurse Practitioner Program among the best in the
nation. And Southern’s College of Business Administration houses the only School of Economic
Development in the southeastern United States. It is also a great school for sports fans as the
Georgia Southern’s Eagles football team is one of the most successful in the NCAA Division I-AA.
It has won six national titles since 1985.
Georgia Tech is without a doubt the best
school for academic achievement in the
south. It has the number one graduate
program in the nation in engineering.
It is the ranks number seven in public
universities in the country, number
four in graduate engineering colleges,
number five in undergraduate engineering
college, number one in its industrial
engineering program, and number nine in
its undergraduate engineering programs.
Their NCAA Division I intercollegiate
athletics program is also one of the oldest
and most renowned in the country. Tech
students are passionate cheerleaders for
the Yellow Jackets. There are also plenty or frats and sororities that hold activities most week-
ends if sports aren’t of any interest at Tech. There is always something to do on the week-
ends at Georgia Tech; whether watching the game or simply hanging out with friends at nearby
bookstores and restaurants.
Valdosta State is large enough to offer more than 90 degree programs of study, yet small
enough to offer the individualized attention students deserve. The average undergraduate class
size is twenty-four. The student faculty ratio is twenty-one to one. This means, unlike many large
schools, students are capable to have meaningful interaction with professors so it will be easier
to learn.
Morehouse is one of the nation’s only male, historically and predominately higher education
institutions for African Americans. Morehouse gives special emphasis to the African American
experiences and the impact that people of the African diaspora have made in a global setting.
Black Enterprise has listed Morehouse College as No. 1 in the nation for educating African
Americans. This school has an enriched environment- where just as much attention is given to
creature comforts.
Lesser known schools like Fort Valley State also have something to offer students. With an
enrollment near 2,500, the school is the perfect size for building lifelong ties that go beyond
race and background-ties that are based on a shared love of learning and thirst for personal
growth. Fort Valley also has more than seventy student organizations and activities range
from a thriving sorority and fraternity system to
conference-leading athletic teams, from honor
societies to student government.
The University of West Georgia also has something
to offer students. It has over one hundred student
organizations and new facilities that provide a
balanced and exciting student life. It is also named by
The Princeton Review as one of the Best Southeastern
Colleges and one of America’s Best Value Colleges,
the University of West Georgia provides exceptional
academic quality. gaprepstars.com 15
16 prepstars
Albany State’s is known for its cultural, ethnic, racial, and gender diversity in the faculty, staff, and student body. They are supported by practices and programs that embody the ideals of an open, democratic, and global society. Albany State offers comprehensive programs in health care services, community development, human disabilities, cultural enhancement, business and economic development, international trade and even entrepreneurship. And this school’s commitment to a teaching and learning environment, both inside and outside the classroom, offers superior academic assistance to
its students.
And in regards to campus; Savannah state is by far the best. Savannah State’s 173-acre campus
is by far the most picturesque in the state of Georgia. Located near the city of Savannah; the
school offers art, culture, and recreation. There is a river front, fishing, parks, monuments,
cemeteries, and even swimming. There are plenty of things for you and your friends to do in
this small college town.
Shorter College is also well-known for its
programs in the arts. “The Shorter College School
of the Arts is well known for excellence in the
training of both vocal and keyboard musicians,”
said Dr. Alan Wingard of the Baptist university’s
music education faculty.
LaGrange College is also renowned for its programs in
drama, music and art. Affiliated with the United Methodist
Church, LaGrange is ranked by U.S. News & World Report
among the South’s top 10 comprehensive colleges and
among that category’s “best values.”
And Georgia Military’s two-year program is perfect for
commuting students who balance attending college while
maintaining employment and providing for their family.
The GMC Prep School offers small classes with an average
student/teacher ratio of eight-teen to one, providing a
superior academic environment for students to learn. gaprepstars.com 17
Finally, who doesn’t know how great Georgia’s football team is? Coach Bulldog’s coach Richt
was recently presented several pineapples by Athens-Clarke Mayor Heidi Davidson recently to
celebrate the Bulldogs’ victory over Hawaii in the Allstate Sugar Bowl. The University of Georgia
Athletic teams are amazing to say the least. UGA teams have won 27 national championships,
including 17 since 1999 in the sports of women’s gymnastics, men’s tennis, women’s equestrian,
and men’s golf. There is literally a sports team worth watching every week-end at Georgia. And
Georgia students and cheerleaders win for school pride hands down. You will never be bored at
UGA. Nearly thirty percent of UGA undergraduates are involved in some form of international
education each year. UGA ranks ninth among the top twenty research universities in the number
of students studying abroad. And for academic pride; the fall of 2007 entering freshman had
an SAT average of 1233 and a high school grade point average of 3.79. Regarding faulty; nine
active, retired or deceased University faculty members have been elected to the prestigious
National Academy of Sciences, one of the highest honors an American scientist can attain. And
your child’s education will never go unfunded as UGA has received over a total of $153.7 million
in research awards, grants and contracts in the fiscal year of 2007.
After researching schools such as Georgia Tech, Georgia, Georgia State, Albany, and
many more I could find no answer as to why high school students are leaving the state.
From business to art degrees, commuter schools to traditional four year institutions;
there is a wide array of schools to choose from for just about every personality type.
Contact numbers:
Georgia State · P.O. Box 3965 Atlanta, GA 30302-3965 · Contact: (404) 413-2000
University of West Georgia · 1601 Maple St, Carrollton, GA 30118 · Contact: (678)839-5000
Clark Atlanta University · 223 James P. Brawley Drive, SW · Atlanta, Georgia 30314 Contact: 404-880-6605
Georgia Southern University · 225 Forest Drive, Statesboro, GA · Contact: 912.681.5361
Georgia Institute of Technology · Atlanta, Georgia 30332 · Campus Operator 404.894.2000
Albany State University · 504 College Drive · Albany, Georgia 31705 · 229.430.4600
Valdosta State University · 1500 N Patterson St.Valdosta, GA 31698 · Contact: (800)618-1878
The University of West Georgia · 1601 Maple St, Carrollton, GA 30118 · (678)839-5000
Morehouse College · 830 Westview Drive, S.W. Atlanta, GA 30314 · (404) 681-2800
Fort Valley State · 1005 State University Drive · Fort Valley, GA 31030 · 478-825-6211
Savannah State University · 3219 College St. Savannah, GA 31404 · 1-912-356-2181
Shorter College · 315 Shorter Avenue · Rome, Georgia 30165 · Phone: 800-868-6980
LaGrange College · 601 Broad Street, LaGrange, GA 30240 · 706-880-8005
Georgia Military College · Map of 201 E Greene St, Milledgeville, GA 31061 · (478) 445-2700
The University of Georgia · Athens, GA 30602 · UGA Directory Assistance 706/542-3000
16 prepstars
Albany State’s is known for its cultural, ethnic, racial, and gender diversity in the faculty, staff, and student body. They are supported by practices and programs that embody the ideals of an open, democratic, and global society. Albany State offers comprehensive programs in health care services, community development, human disabilities, cultural enhancement, business and economic development, international trade and even entrepreneurship. And this school’s commitment to a teaching and learning environment, both inside and outside the classroom, offers superior academic assistance to
its students.
And in regards to campus; Savannah state is by far the best. Savannah State’s 173-acre campus
is by far the most picturesque in the state of Georgia. Located near the city of Savannah; the
school offers art, culture, and recreation. There is a river front, fishing, parks, monuments,
cemeteries, and even swimming. There are plenty of things for you and your friends to do in
this small college town.
Shorter College is also well-known for its
programs in the arts. “The Shorter College School
of the Arts is well known for excellence in the
training of both vocal and keyboard musicians,”
said Dr. Alan Wingard of the Baptist university’s
music education faculty.
LaGrange College is also renowned for its programs in
drama, music and art. Affiliated with the United Methodist
Church, LaGrange is ranked by U.S. News & World Report
among the South’s top 10 comprehensive colleges and
among that category’s “best values.”
And Georgia Military’s two-year program is perfect for
commuting students who balance attending college while
maintaining employment and providing for their family.
The GMC Prep School offers small classes with an average
student/teacher ratio of eight-teen to one, providing a
superior academic environment for students to learn. gaprepstars.com 17
Finally, who doesn’t know how great Georgia’s football team is? Coach Bulldog’s coach Richt
was recently presented several pineapples by Athens-Clarke Mayor Heidi Davidson recently to
celebrate the Bulldogs’ victory over Hawaii in the Allstate Sugar Bowl. The University of Georgia
Athletic teams are amazing to say the least. UGA teams have won 27 national championships,
including 17 since 1999 in the sports of women’s gymnastics, men’s tennis, women’s equestrian,
and men’s golf. There is literally a sports team worth watching every week-end at Georgia. And
Georgia students and cheerleaders win for school pride hands down. You will never be bored at
UGA. Nearly thirty percent of UGA undergraduates are involved in some form of international
education each year. UGA ranks ninth among the top twenty research universities in the number
of students studying abroad. And for academic pride; the fall of 2007 entering freshman had
an SAT average of 1233 and a high school grade point average of 3.79. Regarding faulty; nine
active, retired or deceased University faculty members have been elected to the prestigious
National Academy of Sciences, one of the highest honors an American scientist can attain. And
your child’s education will never go unfunded as UGA has received over a total of $153.7 million
in research awards, grants and contracts in the fiscal year of 2007.
After researching schools such as Georgia Tech, Georgia, Georgia State, Albany, and
many more I could find no answer as to why high school students are leaving the state.
From business to art degrees, commuter schools to traditional four year institutions;
there is a wide array of schools to choose from for just about every personality type.
Contact numbers:
Georgia State · P.O. Box 3965 Atlanta, GA 30302-3965 · Contact: (404) 413-2000
University of West Georgia · 1601 Maple St, Carrollton, GA 30118 · Contact: (678)839-5000
Clark Atlanta University · 223 James P. Brawley Drive, SW · Atlanta, Georgia 30314 Contact: 404-880-6605
Georgia Southern University · 225 Forest Drive, Statesboro, GA · Contact: 912.681.5361
Georgia Institute of Technology · Atlanta, Georgia 30332 · Campus Operator 404.894.2000
Albany State University · 504 College Drive · Albany, Georgia 31705 · 229.430.4600
Valdosta State University · 1500 N Patterson St.Valdosta, GA 31698 · Contact: (800)618-1878
The University of West Georgia · 1601 Maple St, Carrollton, GA 30118 · (678)839-5000
Morehouse College · 830 Westview Drive, S.W. Atlanta, GA 30314 · (404) 681-2800
Fort Valley State · 1005 State University Drive · Fort Valley, GA 31030 · 478-825-6211
Savannah State University · 3219 College St. Savannah, GA 31404 · 1-912-356-2181
Shorter College · 315 Shorter Avenue · Rome, Georgia 30165 · Phone: 800-868-6980
LaGrange College · 601 Broad Street, LaGrange, GA 30240 · 706-880-8005
Georgia Military College · Map of 201 E Greene St, Milledgeville, GA 31061 · (478) 445-2700
The University of Georgia · Athens, GA 30602 · UGA Directory Assistance 706/542-3000
18 prepstars
With so much to do in such a fast-paced
society, contributing to the education of our
youth is unnoticeably becoming overlooked.
However, there is no charitable donation too
big or too small for some organizations when
it comes to supporting educational causes.
Despite the struggle to stay afloat in today’s
overwhelming economy, some organizations
continue to show acts of kindness towards
our future leaders, while sometimes, unlike
most others, setting aside the command to
beat the current economic crisis.
According to Kroger Co. Mid-South Charitable
Fundraising, in 2007, “Kroger paid out over
$4.1 million in charitable contributions.
Out of this total, over $2.3 million was for
school organizations.” Kroger is just one of
the many local companies that gives back
to our schools through its Earning Plus
Learning program. Similar to the fundraising
efforts of this successful company, Publix
also contributes to local schools through
charitable contributions made by the Publix
Partners organization. Both grocery chains
use memberships and shopping cards that
donate a percentage of the money spent
by customers. The shopper chooses which
school they wish to support and the donation
goes to the selected institution each time the
customer shops. These companies benefit
local schools in a major way by providing
great donations and encouraging members
of our community to participate as well in an
easy and affordable manner.
In addition to the popular grocery chains,
some local restaurants are involved in giving
back to schools. Applebee’s Neighborhood
Grill is another company that supports local
schools. They provide organizations with two
fundraising options: Dining to Donate and the
Flapjack Fundraiser. The Dining to Donate
program allows members of a particular
organization to raise money through the sales
generated of their total bill. Applebee’s grants
the organization with a percentage of the bill
and sends out a check to support their cause.
The Flapjack Fundraiser works in a much
similar way. Through this pancake breakfast
hosted by Applebee’s, a portion of the sales
produced goes back to the organization, to
again, support a particular cause. Applebee’s
has over 40 locations in the greater Atlanta
area, which gives plenty of options to donate
for a special cause.
With a goal to raise $2 million over the next
two years, Georgia Natural Gas’s True Blue
Schools program works to raise money for
schools through the help of its customers.
Customers may sign up at the company’s
fundraiser website and select the school
of their choice to support. Once a school
has been selected, Georgia Natural Gas
will then “provide a one-time $25 donation
per customer to the school and donate $5
for each month the program participant is
an active Georgia Natural Gas customer in
good standing.” This program encourages
members to participate in supporting local
schools while providing extra benefits and
rewards when they sign up. Not only are the
customers interested in reaping the benefits
of the program, they also understand the
importance of educating our youth.
In order to supply the educational needs of
our youth, it is important that we recognize
and appreciate the organizations that work
hard to give back to our schools through
donations and charity events. With a
combined effort and participation in more
than one local educational program, each
school can properly function in educating our
students and bringing out their best.
GIVE ///Shalunda Harris
18 prepstars
With so much to do in such a fast-paced
society, contributing to the education of our
youth is unnoticeably becoming overlooked.
However, there is no charitable donation too
big or too small for some organizations when
it comes to supporting educational causes.
Despite the struggle to stay afloat in today’s
overwhelming economy, some organizations
continue to show acts of kindness towards
our future leaders, while sometimes, unlike
most others, setting aside the command to
beat the current economic crisis.
According to Kroger Co. Mid-South Charitable
Fundraising, in 2007, “Kroger paid out over
$4.1 million in charitable contributions.
Out of this total, over $2.3 million was for
school organizations.” Kroger is just one of
the many local companies that gives back
to our schools through its Earning Plus
Learning program. Similar to the fundraising
efforts of this successful company, Publix
also contributes to local schools through
charitable contributions made by the Publix
Partners organization. Both grocery chains
use memberships and shopping cards that
donate a percentage of the money spent
by customers. The shopper chooses which
school they wish to support and the donation
goes to the selected institution each time the
customer shops. These companies benefit
local schools in a major way by providing
great donations and encouraging members
of our community to participate as well in an
easy and affordable manner.
In addition to the popular grocery chains,
some local restaurants are involved in giving
back to schools. Applebee’s Neighborhood
Grill is another company that supports local
schools. They provide organizations with two
fundraising options: Dining to Donate and the
Flapjack Fundraiser. The Dining to Donate
program allows members of a particular
organization to raise money through the sales
generated of their total bill. Applebee’s grants
the organization with a percentage of the bill
and sends out a check to support their cause.
The Flapjack Fundraiser works in a much
similar way. Through this pancake breakfast
hosted by Applebee’s, a portion of the sales
produced goes back to the organization, to
again, support a particular cause. Applebee’s
has over 40 locations in the greater Atlanta
area, which gives plenty of options to donate
for a special cause.
With a goal to raise $2 million over the next
two years, Georgia Natural Gas’s True Blue
Schools program works to raise money for
schools through the help of its customers.
Customers may sign up at the company’s
fundraiser website and select the school
of their choice to support. Once a school
has been selected, Georgia Natural Gas
will then “provide a one-time $25 donation
per customer to the school and donate $5
for each month the program participant is
an active Georgia Natural Gas customer in
good standing.” This program encourages
members to participate in supporting local
schools while providing extra benefits and
rewards when they sign up. Not only are the
customers interested in reaping the benefits
of the program, they also understand the
importance of educating our youth.
In order to supply the educational needs of
our youth, it is important that we recognize
and appreciate the organizations that work
hard to give back to our schools through
donations and charity events. With a
combined effort and participation in more
than one local educational program, each
school can properly function in educating our
students and bringing out their best.
GIVE ///DeMarco Williams
gaprepstars.com 21
“We always talk about the same thing,” he
says. “We want to play hard and show good
sportsmanship. We want to win, but we also
want to win in the right way, and we want
to play good defense. It’s a formula that’s
worked pretty good for us.”
From his experience, Coach Herron has
gained many values, including joy and
satisfaction, to make him the coach that
he is. “I’ve gained enough as it is,” he says.
However, he hopes to gain and learn more as
his career continues.
“I’ve had the opportunity to be around a lot of
good coaches and good kids. I’ve enjoyed it.
I think the most important thing is enjoying
what you do. That’s in any profession.” To
Coach Herron, coaching high school football
is more than just a profession; it is a lifestyle.
“I enjoy going to work everyday. I don’t feel
that it’s a job. Our profession is a very noble
profession. We are helping mold young men
for the future.”
20 prepstars
With 26 years of coaching experience and
four state championship titles under his
belt, head coach Jeff Herron of the Camden
County Wildcats knows just what it takes to
win football games. “It certainly takes good
players and good community support,” he
says. “It’s not possible unless you have good
players, good coaches, good fan support, and
good administrative support.”
Coach Herron and the Wildcats took home
the most recent title of state champions in
2010, which marked his 10th season as head
coach of the Wildcats. According to Herron,
the key to becoming state champions is
repetition.
“We do the same things we’ve always done.
Expectations are high every year. We stress
to the team that we would like to repeat.”
Repetition, along with practice, is Herron’s
way of encouraging his team to prepare for
the title of the next state championship.
With state championships comes hard work
and encouragement, which are the qualities
he possesses in order to lead a winning
team. Coach Herron believes there is more
than one way to coach and be successful,
but you have to work hard no matter what
your style is.
COACHES CORNER
Head Coach JEFF HERRONCamden County WILDCATS
gaprepstars.com 21
“We always talk about the same thing,” he
says. “We want to play hard and show good
sportsmanship. We want to win, but we also
want to win in the right way, and we want
to play good defense. It’s a formula that’s
worked pretty good for us.”
From his experience, Coach Herron has
gained many values, including joy and
satisfaction, to make him the coach that
he is. “I’ve gained enough as it is,” he says.
However, he hopes to gain and learn more as
his career continues.
“I’ve had the opportunity to be around a lot of
good coaches and good kids. I’ve enjoyed it.
I think the most important thing is enjoying
what you do. That’s in any profession.” To
Coach Herron, coaching high school football
is more than just a profession; it is a lifestyle.
“I enjoy going to work everyday. I don’t feel
that it’s a job. Our profession is a very noble
profession. We are helping mold young men
for the future.”
20 prepstars
With 26 years of coaching experience and
four state championship titles under his
belt, head coach Jeff Herron of the Camden
County Wildcats knows just what it takes to
win football games. “It certainly takes good
players and good community support,” he
says. “It’s not possible unless you have good
players, good coaches, good fan support, and
good administrative support.”
Coach Herron and the Wildcats took home
the most recent title of state champions in
2010, which marked his 10th season as head
coach of the Wildcats. According to Herron,
the key to becoming state champions is
repetition.
“We do the same things we’ve always done.
Expectations are high every year. We stress
to the team that we would like to repeat.”
Repetition, along with practice, is Herron’s
way of encouraging his team to prepare for
the title of the next state championship.
With state championships comes hard work
and encouragement, which are the qualities
he possesses in order to lead a winning
team. Coach Herron believes there is more
than one way to coach and be successful,
but you have to work hard no matter what
your style is.
COACHES CORNER
Head Coach JEFF HERRONCamden County WILDCATS
22 prepstars
EXTRA! EXTRA!
Atlanta’s had good years in high school
hoops before. 2002-03 immediately comes
to mind because of Dwight Howard and Josh
Smith’s above-the-rim antics. And folks are
still picking up jaws from the ground after
watching Derrick Favors go nuts last year.
Still, the things area kids are doing this season,
boys and girls, is nothing short of amazing. At
nearly every corner of the city, prep phenoms
are generating national attention with their
play. Though we’d need another three pages
of editorial to spotlight all the players helping
to make the 2009-10 basketball season one
of the most memorable in recent history, we
have to give props to the city’s five special
headline makers…
Mighty, Mighty Milton- At Christmastime,
Milton High’s boys team was soaring with an
undefeated record, a No. 1 ranking in ESPN’s
South Region and a No. 8 spot on Scout.
com’s national ranking. From the looks of the
focused, David Boyd-coached team, those
won’t just be holiday accolades either. With
super junior Dai-Jon Parker and amazing
sophomore Evan Nolte leading the charge,
the Eagles could be unwrapping its biggest
gift, a state title, in a few more months.
Ryan’s Hope- We’ve had the luxury of
watching Ryan Harrow play a couple of times
over the past year and each time has been
eye-opening. For whatever the 160-pound
Walton High standout lacks in physicality, he
more than makes up for in desire and dazzle.
Harrow, ESPN’s No. 10 ranked point guard,
simply has a grasp for the game that few will
ever know. The North Carolina State signee
shows glimpses of Isiah Thomas when he’s
working the rock. If he bulks up a bit and
keeps his level head, there’s no reason he
can’t follow a similar path.
DeMarco Williams
Give Me Liberty County or Give Me Death-
It’s hard to talk about Georgia’s best players
without putting Liberty County teammates
Jordan McRae and Rion Brown in the
conversation. Brown, who’ll take his smooth
game down to Miami next year, is a certified
problem on the wing. The long and super-
quick McRae is a nightmare on the baseline, in
the lane and on a break. It’s no wonder ESPN
considers the future Tennessee Vol one of
the finest shooting guards in the land. “They
play my type of game,” McRae explained to
us about his college choice. “They run. They
push. I don’t like to walk the ball up the court.”
Norcross Is Not To Be Crossed- If there’s one
team you dread seeing on your basketball
schedule, it’s the Norcross Blue Devils. The
well-rounded school isn’t just a problem
for opposing boy teams either. Though
Connecticut commitment Jeremy Lamb
does lead a male squad that gets it done,
the Diamond DeShields- and Brianna Jordan-
sparked girls group might be even scarier?
Oh, and you know what’s the most frightening
thing of all about the country’s No. 12-ranked
school? Diamond, daughter of former Major
League Baseball player Delino DeShields, is
only a freshman.
Knock’em Down Nia- The Redan Lady Raiders
are special. It’s just that simple. At press time,
the team was an impressive 7-0 and held the
top spot in ESPN’s South Region. Of course,
that’s nothing new for a Redan crew that went
27-0 and won the state title a season ago.
The central reason for the dominance has
been Nia Evans, a relentless forward who’ll
grab boards and swipe at balls with the best
of’em. If she can keep the defensive intensity
burning at Virginia Tech, she’ll be very special
for a very long time.
gaprepstars.com 23
Here are the 2010 headlines from the Atlanta-Area Hardwood
22 prepstars
EXTRA! EXTRA!
Atlanta’s had good years in high school
hoops before. 2002-03 immediately comes
to mind because of Dwight Howard and Josh
Smith’s above-the-rim antics. And folks are
still picking up jaws from the ground after
watching Derrick Favors go nuts last year.
Still, the things area kids are doing this season,
boys and girls, is nothing short of amazing. At
nearly every corner of the city, prep phenoms
are generating national attention with their
play. Though we’d need another three pages
of editorial to spotlight all the players helping
to make the 2009-10 basketball season one
of the most memorable in recent history, we
have to give props to the city’s five special
headline makers…
Mighty, Mighty Milton- At Christmastime,
Milton High’s boys team was soaring with an
undefeated record, a No. 1 ranking in ESPN’s
South Region and a No. 8 spot on Scout.
com’s national ranking. From the looks of the
focused, David Boyd-coached team, those
won’t just be holiday accolades either. With
super junior Dai-Jon Parker and amazing
sophomore Evan Nolte leading the charge,
the Eagles could be unwrapping its biggest
gift, a state title, in a few more months.
Ryan’s Hope- We’ve had the luxury of
watching Ryan Harrow play a couple of times
over the past year and each time has been
eye-opening. For whatever the 160-pound
Walton High standout lacks in physicality, he
more than makes up for in desire and dazzle.
Harrow, ESPN’s No. 10 ranked point guard,
simply has a grasp for the game that few will
ever know. The North Carolina State signee
shows glimpses of Isiah Thomas when he’s
working the rock. If he bulks up a bit and
keeps his level head, there’s no reason he
can’t follow a similar path.
DeMarco Williams
Give Me Liberty County or Give Me Death-
It’s hard to talk about Georgia’s best players
without putting Liberty County teammates
Jordan McRae and Rion Brown in the
conversation. Brown, who’ll take his smooth
game down to Miami next year, is a certified
problem on the wing. The long and super-
quick McRae is a nightmare on the baseline, in
the lane and on a break. It’s no wonder ESPN
considers the future Tennessee Vol one of
the finest shooting guards in the land. “They
play my type of game,” McRae explained to
us about his college choice. “They run. They
push. I don’t like to walk the ball up the court.”
Norcross Is Not To Be Crossed- If there’s one
team you dread seeing on your basketball
schedule, it’s the Norcross Blue Devils. The
well-rounded school isn’t just a problem
for opposing boy teams either. Though
Connecticut commitment Jeremy Lamb
does lead a male squad that gets it done,
the Diamond DeShields- and Brianna Jordan-
sparked girls group might be even scarier?
Oh, and you know what’s the most frightening
thing of all about the country’s No. 12-ranked
school? Diamond, daughter of former Major
League Baseball player Delino DeShields, is
only a freshman.
Knock’em Down Nia- The Redan Lady Raiders
are special. It’s just that simple. At press time,
the team was an impressive 7-0 and held the
top spot in ESPN’s South Region. Of course,
that’s nothing new for a Redan crew that went
27-0 and won the state title a season ago.
The central reason for the dominance has
been Nia Evans, a relentless forward who’ll
grab boards and swipe at balls with the best
of’em. If she can keep the defensive intensity
burning at Virginia Tech, she’ll be very special
for a very long time.
gaprepstars.com 23
Here are the 2010 headlines from the Atlanta-Area Hardwood
24 prepstars
Johns Creek High School Varsity Competition Cheerleaders Win State Cheerleading Championship
The Gladiators Varsity Competition Cheerleaders make history and win the 2009 Georgia High
School AAA State Cheerleading Championship! The team competed against 15 other teams
who qualified for the finals on November 14. This is the first TEAM State Championship for
the school. The team has been working together daily in preparation for the State title -
practicing up to 12 hours a week to perfect their skills which include standing and running
tumbling, stunting, dancing and more. This win follows their Region 5AAA title they acheived
on November 7. “We are honored and thrilled to bring the State title home to Johns Creek”,
said head Varsity Coach, Caren Hudson. “The girls work extremely hard on their skills and have
worked very well together all season long - I am very proud of these girls and excited to make
a name for Johns Creek High School.”
SPIRIT ZONE
Members of the championship team include: Jada Thompkins, Alex Welton, Jenna Nelson, Mariel Moore, Camden Thomas, Lindsay Peterson, Chelsea Jones, Hannah Keeney,Cody Hudson, Sarah Kate Somers, Lindsey Hodges, Tatum Corley, Becca Cessna, Ginny Humphrey, Elle Wilton, Caroline Whorton and Jill Krieger.
Johns Creek High School Varsity Competition Cheerleaders
gaprepstars.com 25
24 prepstars
Johns Creek High School Varsity Competition Cheerleaders Win State Cheerleading Championship
The Gladiators Varsity Competition Cheerleaders make history and win the 2009 Georgia High
School AAA State Cheerleading Championship! The team competed against 15 other teams
who qualified for the finals on November 14. This is the first TEAM State Championship for
the school. The team has been working together daily in preparation for the State title -
practicing up to 12 hours a week to perfect their skills which include standing and running
tumbling, stunting, dancing and more. This win follows their Region 5AAA title they acheived
on November 7. “We are honored and thrilled to bring the State title home to Johns Creek”,
said head Varsity Coach, Caren Hudson. “The girls work extremely hard on their skills and have
worked very well together all season long - I am very proud of these girls and excited to make
a name for Johns Creek High School.”
SPIRIT ZONE
gaprepstars.com 25
photo courtesy of Photographic Arts
26 prepstars
When you have the level of talent walking
through your door like The Factory routinely
has, it’s kind of hard not to bring it up as a
selling point for future clients.
“We had Matthew Stafford in here today,”
says The Factory co-owner Erik Richards
matter-of-factly.
Ian Pemberton, the mighty mouse of a
running back for Grayson High, came by too.
On any given day, you’re liable to see Atlanta
Braves outfielder Jeff Francoeur, 2008
Canadian Football League rookie of the year
runner-up Prechae Rodriguez or half of the
Auburn defensive front line. No lie.
The facility proudly adorns one of its
walls with the jerseys and uniforms of the
aforementioned studs and many others. “If
you take all the athletes that we have under
this roof, it doesn’t even compare to anybody
else,” tells respected trainer and Georgia
Training Alliance co-owner Earl Williams.
“There’s no one else, as a collective group on
a prep level, that comes close. We’ve got 10
D-1 signee possibilities just this year, which
would be our biggest class. That’s certainly
a blessing.”
But more impressive than hosting future
NCAA stars or top picks in the NFL Draft might
DeMarco Williams
be the team’s humility about it all. “Basically,
the key to this business is for everybody to get
along,” explains Richards, who moonlights as an
executive with the esteemed Gwinnett Football
League. “When you have different trainers from
different entities –Some from speed and agility,
others from strength and others are a boxing
coach- it’s important for everybody to mesh
together. There can be a lot of egos. There can
be egos between trainers’ clientele [either]. All
of that has to be checked at the door. When
you come into The Factory, even though we’re
not asking you to put down your school colors
or anything like that, you have to understand
that this isn’t a turf war.”
Williams adds, “We live by the philosophy
of God first, self, family, helping others,
academics, your sport of choice and then
everything else. If [athletes] try to live outside
of that or portray themselves outside of that,
we don’t need their business that bad.”
This has essentially been The Factory’s game
plan since Richards and business partner
Gerald Mitchell opened their Lawrenceville
doors. Provide a structured, morally-
grounded arena for the high school athlete
to get bigger, stronger and faster. Still, Erik
is quick to point out that “We weren’t the
first. CES (Competitive Edge Sports) was
the godfather, doing it for combine athletes.
[They did it for] people that had finished their
college career and going on into the NFL.
Their basic concentration was the college
THE FACTORY Building Better Athletes
Parents out there wondering how their child
can join The Factory needn’t worry too much
either. The exclusive-sounding training center
is more than welcoming to new recruits.
“Just bring’em on out here,” maintains
Richards, who says that distance shouldn’t
be a deterrent, seeing as how UGA football
players regularly make the 45-minute trek to
Gwinnett County. “Garrison Smith, the All-
American defensive tackle at Douglass [High,
in Southwest Atlanta], drives up from time
to time to get in a workout with Ryan. We
got’em from all over.”
Boy, there they go with more name dropping.
But, in actuality, the guys behind this winning
establishment care as much about the
former high school player who’s working for
minimum wages at CVS as they do guys like
Darius Walker and Brandon Braxton who are
earning checks in the NFL. Sure, they want to
build better football players. They just want
to build better young men and women that
much more.
“If they’re doing what they need to do in high school,” Richards continues, “then they’re jammed in with coming here, then they’re jammed in with doing homework, there’s a very little window that they’re going to be out on the street, getting in trouble. Parents appreciate that. They know that if they’re here, they’re acting right. They’re not thugging. They’re not gang banging. We’re not allowing them to [loiter] around the parking lot or anything like that. They’re here to work. And when they leave here, they better be going to
their next stop.”
Thanks to sound principles, super trainers and striking facilities, it just so happens the next stop is often a Division-1 institution.
athlete prepping for the combine to go to the
pros. Ryan [Golden, another highly-regarded
Factory trainer] and Earl had been training
high school athletes for eight to 10 years. So,
the idea came about from bouncing around
different college facilities and bouncing
around to different high school weight
rooms.”
But even though the facility is equipped
with top-shelf trainers and 19,000 square
feet of equipment, a 40-yard football field,
basketball court and boxing ring, its founder
insists it’s nothing like Bally’s (“There isn’t
anybody selling memberships”) nor is it a
knock on high school facilities (“I feel that
varsity and JV teams need to see their leaders
in the weight room”). The Factory is merely
another quality option for athletes looking for
a little more.
“We hold [athletes] accountable for
everything,” explains Golden, himself a five-
time powerlifting champ. “We’ve got a food
plan. They’ve gotta follow the food plan. We
hold them accountable for time. We really
want them here early. While they’re here, we
gotta work in a timely manner. All of the focus
is working towards the activity they’re doing
now and the one that’s next. There won’t be
any fooling around here. That’s what they can
do on their own time. They’re not gonna do
it here.”
And the other fascinating thing about The
Factory is that those rules don’t merely apply
to the football players who frequent the
place, but they’re also meant to be upheld by
the wrestlers, basketball and soccer players
and female cheerleaders that make up the
clientele’s over 25%.
gaprepstars.com 27
26 prepstars
When you have the level of talent walking
through your door like The Factory routinely
has, it’s kind of hard not to bring it up as a
selling point for future clients.
“We had Matthew Stafford in here today,”
says The Factory co-owner Erik Richards
matter-of-factly.
Ian Pemberton, the mighty mouse of a
running back for Grayson High, came by too.
On any given day, you’re liable to see Atlanta
Braves outfielder Jeff Francoeur, 2008
Canadian Football League rookie of the year
runner-up Prechae Rodriguez or half of the
Auburn defensive front line. No lie.
The facility proudly adorns one of its
walls with the jerseys and uniforms of the
aforementioned studs and many others. “If
you take all the athletes that we have under
this roof, it doesn’t even compare to anybody
else,” tells respected trainer and Georgia
Training Alliance co-owner Earl Williams.
“There’s no one else, as a collective group on
a prep level, that comes close. We’ve got 10
D-1 signee possibilities just this year, which
would be our biggest class. That’s certainly
a blessing.”
But more impressive than hosting future
NCAA stars or top picks in the NFL Draft might
DeMarco Williams
be the team’s humility about it all. “Basically,
the key to this business is for everybody to get
along,” explains Richards, who moonlights as an
executive with the esteemed Gwinnett Football
League. “When you have different trainers from
different entities –Some from speed and agility,
others from strength and others are a boxing
coach- it’s important for everybody to mesh
together. There can be a lot of egos. There can
be egos between trainers’ clientele [either]. All
of that has to be checked at the door. When
you come into The Factory, even though we’re
not asking you to put down your school colors
or anything like that, you have to understand
that this isn’t a turf war.”
Williams adds, “We live by the philosophy
of God first, self, family, helping others,
academics, your sport of choice and then
everything else. If [athletes] try to live outside
of that or portray themselves outside of that,
we don’t need their business that bad.”
This has essentially been The Factory’s game
plan since Richards and business partner
Gerald Mitchell opened their Lawrenceville
doors. Provide a structured, morally-
grounded arena for the high school athlete
to get bigger, stronger and faster. Still, Erik
is quick to point out that “We weren’t the
first. CES (Competitive Edge Sports) was
the godfather, doing it for combine athletes.
[They did it for] people that had finished their
college career and going on into the NFL.
Their basic concentration was the college
THE FACTORY Building Better Athletes
Parents out there wondering how their child
can join The Factory needn’t worry too much
either. The exclusive-sounding training center
is more than welcoming to new recruits.
“Just bring’em on out here,” maintains
Richards, who says that distance shouldn’t
be a deterrent, seeing as how UGA football
players regularly make the 45-minute trek to
Gwinnett County. “Garrison Smith, the All-
American defensive tackle at Douglass [High,
in Southwest Atlanta], drives up from time
to time to get in a workout with Ryan. We
got’em from all over.”
Boy, there they go with more name dropping.
But, in actuality, the guys behind this winning
establishment care as much about the
former high school player who’s working for
minimum wages at CVS as they do guys like
Darius Walker and Brandon Braxton who are
earning checks in the NFL. Sure, they want to
build better football players. They just want
to build better young men and women that
much more.
“If they’re doing what they need to do in high school,” Richards continues, “then they’re jammed in with coming here, then they’re jammed in with doing homework, there’s a very little window that they’re going to be out on the street, getting in trouble. Parents appreciate that. They know that if they’re here, they’re acting right. They’re not thugging. They’re not gang banging. We’re not allowing them to [loiter] around the parking lot or anything like that. They’re here to work. And when they leave here, they better be going to
their next stop.”
Thanks to sound principles, super trainers and striking facilities, it just so happens the next stop is often a Division-1 institution.
athlete prepping for the combine to go to the
pros. Ryan [Golden, another highly-regarded
Factory trainer] and Earl had been training
high school athletes for eight to 10 years. So,
the idea came about from bouncing around
different college facilities and bouncing
around to different high school weight
rooms.”
But even though the facility is equipped
with top-shelf trainers and 19,000 square
feet of equipment, a 40-yard football field,
basketball court and boxing ring, its founder
insists it’s nothing like Bally’s (“There isn’t
anybody selling memberships”) nor is it a
knock on high school facilities (“I feel that
varsity and JV teams need to see their leaders
in the weight room”). The Factory is merely
another quality option for athletes looking for
a little more.
“We hold [athletes] accountable for
everything,” explains Golden, himself a five-
time powerlifting champ. “We’ve got a food
plan. They’ve gotta follow the food plan. We
hold them accountable for time. We really
want them here early. While they’re here, we
gotta work in a timely manner. All of the focus
is working towards the activity they’re doing
now and the one that’s next. There won’t be
any fooling around here. That’s what they can
do on their own time. They’re not gonna do
it here.”
And the other fascinating thing about The
Factory is that those rules don’t merely apply
to the football players who frequent the
place, but they’re also meant to be upheld by
the wrestlers, basketball and soccer players
and female cheerleaders that make up the
clientele’s over 25%.
gaprepstars.com 27
28 prepstars
Stephenson High School opened in 1996
and has grown to a current enrollment of
over 1900 students. The school is located
in Dekalb County, in Stone Mountain, GA.
The Stephenson High School mission is to
“Educate and Prepare students to become
productive members of their ever-changing
world”. It is the mission of the Stephenson
High School band program to foster an
appreciation of good music, to create a
positive camaraderie for the students and
community, and to build model citizens
through participation in Art of Music, which is
the greatest of the Arts. Students are offered
musical training via Concert Band, Symphonic
Band, Wind Ensemble, Jazz Band, Marching
Band, Instrumental Chamber Ensembles and
Advanced Placement Music Theory. Band at
Stephenson is a year-round curriculum, and
after football season ends the band is kicking
into third gear for the year. Our students
perform as well on the concert stage as they
entertain at Half-time.
Over the past several years, the entire
Stephenson band Program has garnered local,
state and national awards including: Superior
rating and GMEA district events, being invited
to perform at the 2055 GMEA In-service,
Southeastern Honor Band Clinic, and HBCU-
National band Directors Consortium. The
SOUNDS STEPHENSON HIGH SCHOOL
Stephenson High School Band Wind Ensemble
has also performed at the Dixie Classic Grand
National Adjudicators Invitational in Atlanta in
2009 and received superior ratings and many
accolades from the clinicians. The Stephenson
High School “Sonic Sound: Marching Band has
been seen in 2001 Atlanta Festival of Trees
Parade, in 2002 the nationally televised 113th
Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena,
California, the 2007 national Memorial Day
Parade in Washington DC and the 81st Macy’s
Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City, NY.
The “Sonic Sound” has also participated in
exhibition at the Bands of America Atlanta
Super-Regional and National Championships
in Indianapolis, Indiana.
The accomplishments of the Stephenson High
School music program is a testament to our
students’ resilience and thirst for programs
that continue to challenge their personal
limits. Currently, graduating students from the
Stephenson Band Program have been offered
over 15 million dollars in scholarship offers to
attend various colleges and universities for
post secondary study in music and many
other disciplines. It is our motto within the
Stephenson Band Program to “Strive to make
the Best Students MASTER MUSICIANS”.
Music-Power-Respect
Quentin R. GoinsDirector of Bands
gaprepstars.com 29
28 prepstars
Stephenson High School opened in 1996
and has grown to a current enrollment of
over 1900 students. The school is located
in Dekalb County, in Stone Mountain, GA.
The Stephenson High School mission is to
“Educate and Prepare students to become
productive members of their ever-changing
world”. It is the mission of the Stephenson
High School band program to foster an
appreciation of good music, to create a
positive camaraderie for the students and
community, and to build model citizens
through participation in Art of Music, which is
the greatest of the Arts. Students are offered
musical training via Concert Band, Symphonic
Band, Wind Ensemble, Jazz Band, Marching
Band, Instrumental Chamber Ensembles and
Advanced Placement Music Theory. Band at
Stephenson is a year-round curriculum, and
after football season ends the band is kicking
into third gear for the year. Our students
perform as well on the concert stage as they
entertain at Half-time.
Over the past several years, the entire
Stephenson band Program has garnered local,
state and national awards including: Superior
rating and GMEA district events, being invited
to perform at the 2055 GMEA In-service,
Southeastern Honor Band Clinic, and HBCU-
National band Directors Consortium. The
SOUNDS STEPHENSON HIGH SCHOOL
Stephenson High School Band Wind Ensemble
has also performed at the Dixie Classic Grand
National Adjudicators Invitational in Atlanta in
2009 and received superior ratings and many
accolades from the clinicians. The Stephenson
High School “Sonic Sound: Marching Band has
been seen in 2001 Atlanta Festival of Trees
Parade, in 2002 the nationally televised 113th
Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena,
California, the 2007 national Memorial Day
Parade in Washington DC and the 81st Macy’s
Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City, NY.
The “Sonic Sound” has also participated in
exhibition at the Bands of America Atlanta
Super-Regional and National Championships
in Indianapolis, Indiana.
The accomplishments of the Stephenson High
School music program is a testament to our
students’ resilience and thirst for programs
that continue to challenge their personal
limits. Currently, graduating students from the
Stephenson Band Program have been offered
over 15 million dollars in scholarship offers to
attend various colleges and universities for
post secondary study in music and many
other disciplines. It is our motto within the
Stephenson Band Program to “Strive to make
the Best Students MASTER MUSICIANS”.
Music-Power-Respect
Quentin R. GoinsDirector of Bands
gaprepstars.com 29
30 prepstars
The beauty of high school athletics lies within competition and fan appreciation.
The Gwinnett Heat Adapted Sports Program provides an interesting mix of both. I
was invited to take part in a practice with the team quickly learned that this program
was very important for both athletes and parents. I was invited to a team basketball
practice and learned very quickly that these kids were awesome. Some of the kids
competing in the program are actually working to earn scholarships to college via
athletics. I also learned that the practice sessions and games gave parents a chance
to see their kids in a different light. They get a chance to see them as athletes.
Teamwork, discipline, hard work and overcoming adversity are all lessons that help
us become better people. These student-athletes are working hard not to let their
physical disability be an excuse for them not learning to play a sport
“This program is important because it gives an opportunity to be on a team where
they can learn valuable lessons they can apply in life” says Mike Phillips, Gwinnett
County Coordinator of Adapted Sports.
photo courtesy of Magic Moments Photography
A TEAM OF HEROESGWINNETT HEAT HANDBALL TEAM
SP
OT
LIG
HT
30 prepstars
The beauty of high school athletics lies within competition and fan appreciation.
The Gwinnett Heat Adapted Sports Program provides an interesting mix of both. I
was invited to take part in a practice with the team quickly learned that this program
was very important for both athletes and parents. I was invited to a team basketball
practice and learned very quickly that these kids were awesome. Some of the kids
competing in the program are actually working to earn scholarships to college via
athletics. I also learned that the practice sessions and games gave parents a chance
to see their kids in a different light. They get a chance to see them as athletes.
Teamwork, discipline, hard work and overcoming adversity are all lessons that help
us become better people. These student-athletes are working hard not to let their
physical disability be an excuse for them not learning to play a sport
“This program is important because it gives an opportunity to be on a team where
they can learn valuable lessons they can apply in life” says Mike Phillips, Gwinnett
County Coordinator of Adapted Sports.
photo courtesy of Magic Moments Photography
A TEAM OF HEROESGWINNETT HEAT HANDBALL TEAM
SP
OT
LIG
HT
GE
OR
GIA
GR
IDIR
ON
GU
IDE
2
00
9 E
DIT
ION
EAA_8.375x10.1876 GA_Gridiron.indd 1 8/20/08 4:03:48 PM