prep illustrated, january 2009 issue

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Adventure Experiences .................21All Pro Software ................................10Alpine Services .................................10Aneta Technologies ........................13Antiwave .............................................11Aristo Imports ...................................11Athlonic ................................................. 5Brand New Industries .....................10Countdown To Kickoff ...................21Court Clean .......................................... 5Ebac, Inc. .............................................10First Choice Athlete .......................... 3Global Art ...........................................17HME ......................................................23Kay Park & Recreation ....................21Nikita’s Scents & More ....................17Old Hickory Bats ..............................10Prep Gear Headware ........................ 2Quality Rubber .................................11Rada Cutlery ........................................ 2RevFire ................................................... 5Rip Flag ................................................24Sean James Enterprises ................... 2Schedule Star ...................................... 1Sign Solutions ..................................... 7SPI Nets ...............................................11Sports4Kids .......................................... 5Strength Tracker ...............................17Tech-Mesh Apparel .........................13Tex-Net, Inc. ......................................... 7Trim-It Signs ......................................11Turf Savers / Grass Tex ....................21

Advertiser’s Index

PublisherAllen Printing, Inc.

ManagerKay [email protected]

Editor, Graphics DirectorLori B. [email protected]

Credit DepartmentMary Lou [email protected]

Marketing SpecialistsKay [email protected]

Michelle [email protected]

Amy [email protected]

Contributing WritersR.J. BalchNABCA

Mission StatementIt is Prep Illustrated’s goal to be the #1 source for sporting goods, supplies, and services to all schools in the nation....the most important people in the production of this publication are the many hundreds of athletes, fans, advertisers, administrators, and coaches who have made enormous contributions to its success...this is their magazine!

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PREPIllustratedGirls Basketball

Iowa - IKM-Manning H.S. ............6-7

WrestlingPrep Illustrated’s Top 25 .............8-9

Lines of ScrimmageAn Editorial Column .............. 12-13

Cutting EdgeAdvertiser’s Editorials .............. 14-20

Classifieds .................................... 17

Booster Club TipsShould Your Booster Club Be Incorporated .............................. 22-23

Table of Contents

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Feature Story

Small-Town Wolves Bite Iowa Elite IKM-Manning Girls’ BasketballR.J. Balch

IKM-Manning is one of those small schools featuring a talented girls’ basketball team capable of beating anyone in Iowa regardless of classification. A consolidated school that busses in students from three counties – Carroll, Crawford and Shelby – and four towns – Irwin, Kirkman, Manilla and Manning – the IKM-Manning Wolves have given one-stoplight towns another reason to be proud.

Despite moving up from Class 1A to 2A in 2008, the Wolves have continued to win against impressive competition. A month ago, the Wolves took on two of the best teams in the state at the Sioux City Heelan Tip-off Classic. In the opening round, the Wolves lost to 4A power Sioux City North, 57-42. North is ranked second in 4A and made the state quarterfinals last year

with a 20-5 record. The best game of the Classic turned out to be the final game that pitted third-ranked Sioux City Heelan of Class 3A versus seventh-ranked IKM of 2A. The Wolves had their work cut out for them just to leave town with a 1-1 split – the Crusaders are the defending 3A champs.

The Wolves found themselves down by ten at the start of the fourth quarter. At that point one might’ve expected the Wolves to look ahead to its upcoming conference schedule having played respectfully against the two Sioux City Goliaths, a Western Valley Conference tune-up for teams such as Woodbine (94-29) and Maple Valley (88-31). Instead, the Wolves focused on tenacious defense, and after Ashley Hagedorn’s three-pointer with 5:14 remaining in

regulation the Wolves had moved to within striking distance at 50-45. With one minute remaining, Heelan went into their stall game until Drake University recruit Katie Schechinger stole the ball; Hagedorn knocked down another shot for the Wolves and suddenly it was 54-54.

“When you have a big girl like Katie handling the ball,” IKM coach Gene Rasmussen said, “it really helps your team. Heelan’s pressure gave us fits.” Perhaps more like tantrums. All told, the Wolves committed 29 turnovers against Heelan’s man-to-man pressure, a number that usually leads to defeat. But after Heelan missed a shot as time expired, the Wolves had new life as the game went to overtime.

Such games are tailored to stars, and the 6’3” Schechinger didn’t disappoint. In overtime, Schechinger knocked down two consecutive shots to give the Wolves a 64-60 lead with a minute and a half to play. She would add two more points as the Wolves went on to win, 67-62.

“We had nothing to lose,” Shechinger said of the Heelan game. “We came out in overtime and knew all we had to do was play our game and not rush things. When we run our high-low game, we play much better.” Schechinger wound up with 32 points and 14 rebounds. Last season she averaged 22.9 points and 11.4 rebounds per game, and


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this season she’s on a similar pace with a 20.3 scoring average through eight games while averaging 8.5 rebounds, impressive numbers that will only rise when the Wolves get into Western Valley Conference play. Bailey Halbur is averaging 9.5 points a game thus far, Hagedorn 8.3, and McKaylie Croghan 7.9. Hagedorn leads the team in steals with an astounding 30 in eight games while Schechinger has 23.

Halbur leads the team in blocks with 14, and also in three-pointers by hitting 7-17 for a solid 41.2 percent. Halbur is also a volleyball standout, earning second team all-state honors in Class 2A with 286 kills. The 6’2” senior will play on scholarship at Nebraska-Kearney next season. Schechinger leads the team in free-throw percentage at 64.4 percent.

Returning lettermen for the Wolves include 6’3” senior Katie

IKM-MANNING (67) Ashley Hagedorn 5-9 2-3 14, Cait-lin Ashland 2-5 0-0 4, Katie Schech-inger 11-19 10-13 32, McKaylie Croghan 2-4 3-4 7, Bailey Halbur 3-9 1-2 7, Bailey Huls 0-3 0-0 0, Kara Stratlander 0-1 0-0 0, Tember Schechinger 1-2 1-6 3. Totals 24-52 17-28 67. IKM-Manning 16 14 10 14 13 – 67

BISHOP HEELAN (62) Olivia Horner 1-2 0-0 3, Carli Tritz 8-19 3-5 19, Maggie Vondrak 1-6 4-8 6, Tori Vondrak 2-3 1-2 5, Mil-lie Niggeling 8-17 2-2 20, Amanda Hoffman 0-5 0-0 0, Natalie Vondrak 0-1 0-4 0, Jenny Keane 3-5 0-0 6, Kelsey Van Patten 0-2 3-4 3. Totals 23-60 13-25 62. Bishop Heelan 19 12 18 5 8 -- 62

3-point shots – IKM-Manning 2-6 (Hagedorn 2-3, Huls 0-1, K. Schechinger 0-1, Stratlander 0-1), Bishop Heelan 3-12 (Niggeling 2-6, Horner 1-1, Tritz 0-2, Hoffman 0-3). Rebounds – IKM-Manning 38 (K. Schechinger 14), Bishop Heelan 25 (Niggeling 7). Total fouls – IKM-Manning 17, Bishop Heelan 24. Fouled out – M. Von-drak. Turnovers--IKM-Manning 29, Bishop Heelan 22. Officials – Von Bornholtz, Rich Larson, Jeff Wright.

Stats From The Final Game of the Sioux City Heelen Tip-Off Classic

Schechinger, 6’1” senior Bailey Halbur, 5’10” senior Caitlin Axland, 5’8” senior McKaylie Croghan, 5’7” senior Kara Stadtlander, 5’7” senior Bailey Huls, 5’9” junior Ashley Hagedorn, 5’7” junior Jackie Olson, and 5’8” junior Andie Reischl.

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Prep Illustrated’s Top 25Preseason Boys’ WrestlingR.J. Balch

Top 25

1. Blair Academy, NJSolid number one, the 2008 Walsh Jesuit Ironman Champ features two-time national prep champion Chris Villalonga with a 69-3 overall record, and national prep champ Sean Boyle who is 148-6 overall. 2. Apple Valley, MNThe best of Minnesota preps featur-ing four top-ranked wrestlers: Justin Lavalle (130), Destin McCauley (135), Tyler Lehmann (171), Craig Kelliher (189). 3. Huxley-Ballard, IAIowa powerhouse featuring the Brothers Weatherman, all highly ranked in their respective weight classes: Tanner (135), Trent (152), and Brock (170). Also top-ranked brothers in Tanner Hiatt (140), T.J. Hiatt (160).

4. St. Edward, OHWith twelve state titles in a row and eleven national championships, expect more of the same. 5. Northampton, PA Team returns ten solid starters who each scored over 20 wins last season. 6. Montini Catholic, Lombard, IL Since winning their first state title in 2000, the Broncos have posted at 182-9 Dual meet record. 7. Wyoming Seminary, PAEight starters return with over 40 wins each. The Blue Knights finished second nationally in 2007.

8. St. Paris, Graham, OHThe formerly number-one ranked Falcons will rely on David Taylor (112) and Zach Neibert (119) to see them through along with some great underclassmen.

9. Central Mountain, PAWildcats will rely on Dylan and Andrew Alton, Jordan Rich and Zach Corl. Wildcats lose just three starters. 10. Waverly-Shell Rock, IALast year the Go-Hawks cruised to an easy Iowa big-class title (3A). This year the team is led by top-ranked Eric Devos (112), and Cody Caldwell (125). 11. Central Dauphin, PAThe Rams were the 2007 and 2008 PIAA state champs. 12. High Point, NJLast year’s Group 3 champ returns nine starters from New Jersey’s best wrestling team outside of Blair. 13. Iowa City West, IAThe Trojans thrive in one of the greatest hotbeds for college wrestling. This year’s squad is led by top-ranked Dylan Carew (145), Nick Moore (152), and Derek St. John (160). 14. Providence, New Lenox, ILThe Celtics are led by Ed Cooper and return eight other starters on a team whose only loss last year was to Montini, 38-22. 15. Don Bosco, IAPerennial Iowa small-school power-house. The Dons feature top-ranked Bart Reiter (135), and Clay Welter (152).


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16. Bishop Lynch, TXState champs two years running, Friars have another power team with strong middle and upper weights. 17. Eastern, NJWith transfer Anthony Baldosaro (145), state runner-up Rob Deutsch (103) and Preston Keiffer (160), Eastern is tough top to bottom. 18. Cumberland Valley, PAState returnees in runner-up Bryce Busler (152), champion Joey Napoli (145) and third-placer Mike Evans (171). 19. Long Branch, NJThe Green Wave returns 11 start-ers from last year’s undefeated team.

Lineup features Scott Festejo (125), Andrew Cornell (130), Justin Clarke (130), and Jon Robertson (140).

20. St. Mark, DEPerennial Eastern powerhouse led by Sean Boylan (103) 45-1, and Sean Dolan (112) 33-5. 21. Park Hill, MOTrojans return four Wells Fargo All-Americans. 22. Brandon, FLEric Grajales (49-0) is back to lead a team of six state finalists. 23. Simley, MNA solid team featuring highly ranked wrestlers in all weights, including

Jake Short (103), Dan Dick, (125), Tommy Glen (130), Tommy Morgan (171), and Mic Berg (189). 24. Hastings, MNWill challenge Apple Valley in Minnesota’s big class. Two state number ones in Luke Vaith (140) and Brendan Eichmann (160). 25. Flathead, MTLast year’s state championship team considered the best wrestling team in Montana history. Flathead advanced 10 of 14 grapplers in last year’s state semifinal round.

Other notable teams: Buchanon, CA; Clovis, CA; Oak Park, MO; Havre, MT; Collins Hill, GA; Billings Skyview, MT; Sturgis, SD.

P r e p I l l u s t r a t e d ’s To p 2 5R . J . B a l c h

This year’s rankings feature powers from traditional wrestling states

such as Iowa, Minnesota, New Jersey, Ohio and Pennsylvania.



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12

James & The Giant Peach BasketAn Editorial ColumnR.J. Balch

In a futuristic Frederik Pohl novel, a sophisticated computer program exhibits the traits of the late Albert Einstein including a propensity for loquacious lectures. Halfway through the 2008-2009 basketball season, it might be fun to access a computer program featuring the personality of James Naismith. Naismith is credited with inventing basketball in December of 1891, but we now know the Olmecs played a game with a solid rubber ball and a stone hoop millennia ago; a game, some speculate, where shedding the opponent’s blood was a virtue. Some 700 ball courts have been found in Central America, as well as figurines representing the sport, perhaps the first player endorsements on record.

Whether Naismith knew of the ancient game is anybody’s guess. Truth: the more we learn of

ancient societies, the more we discover their singularities of genius. As it turns out, new research on the broken bones of Roman gladiators indicates bones were set with precision and great care. And physicians in ancient Egypt used obsidian scalpels on patients; today, modern surgeons are returning to obsidian-type scalpels since tests have shown their blades are sharper than surgical steel thus causing less damage to skin and tissue. Yet if Naismith had borrowed basketball from the ancients, he probably would have given them credit. Naismith was a Canadian-born instructor for the School of Christian Workers in Springfield, Massachusetts. When colleagues tried to name the game “Naismith ball” in his honor, Naismith instead deferred to “basketball.”

In 1891, Naismith didn’t envision his game as a tough competitive sport. Instead, he saw the game as moderate exercise to help combat the stupor caused by cold New England winters. More like taking a brisk walk after lunch instead of running full speed on a fast break. Even in Naismith’s day, the game would undergo several fundamental changes as it grew in popularity.

First, basic hardware had to be established. On day one, Naismith wanted square boxes as baskets. After all, many things came in boxes at the turn of the twentieth century including the ever-popular hat. Still, everyone knows it’s harder to push a square peg in a round hole, so why throw a round ball into a square box? As destiny would have it, school janitor Pop Stebbins informed Naismith that he didn’t have any boxes, but peach baskets, now those he had. Good enough for Naismith. Stebbins nailed a peach basket ten feet above the court (some say he began at six feet but that it was too easy to score) and history was made. At the time, there were eighteen players on the floor so the players divided into two nine-player teams. A ladder was used to retrieve the ball from the basket, but only once as the final score was 1-0.

Lines of Scrimmage

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For the next four years the rules would remain basically the same, but in 1896 two five-player teams took the court: Chicago University versus the Iowa City YMCA. And in 1897, Yale defeated Penn in the first intercollegiate game, 32-10. At first there were no backboards, allowing rowdy fans to get in the act. If the ball traveled past the basket, which it often did, fans would poke it with a cane or umbrella in the direction of the players they were cheering for to give their teams an advantage. Wire mesh was installed, but fans still poked the ball so wood was chosen as the

first true backboard. Yet with the growing popularity of the sport, fans complained they couldn’t see all the action from behind the backboard so glass was installed and the rest is, well, history.

But back to Naismith’s sophisticated computer program. If asked what had changed the most over the past century plus, I doubt if Naismith would spend much time on the fancy hardwood courts, Air Nikes or huge arenas, though he’d certainly marvel over them. Instead, he might utter the following:

“I am utterly shocked and dismayed at the speed and violence

of such a game,” he’d say. “The hard collisions on those so-called charging fouls are counterproductive to the healthful recreation for which I intended.” But that’s just my silicon Naismith. More than likely after a quarter or two of watching from courtside, after watching the behind-the-back passes and the grand slam dunks and the arcing three-pointers, I think his astonishment would turn into a paternal smile. He’d gently nudge the fan next to him in the ribs and say, “Yes, I invented this exciting game, this great circus act. Yes, yes I did.”

J a m e s & T h e G i a n t Pe a c h B a s k e tR . J . B a l c h

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The Cutting Edge


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Having an in-house net shop not only allows us the benefit of supply-ing you with superior quality nets at reduced prices but it also offers us the advantage of constructing your custom size nets to meet any size or specifications quickly and without long delays regardless of our quantities.

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The Cutting Edge


Clearing the Air About Staph. Infections in Athletic Facilities By: Bruce A. Sherman, Ph.D., President, GymValet/B & D Specialty Concepts, Inc.

It is well documented that contact sports athletes are at the highest risk for the transmission of Staph. infec-tions. The defense against Staph. infections is a multi-faceted program that promotes 1) Optimum personal hygiene, 2) Regular body-contact surface sanitizing, and 3) Ongoing education regarding the mechanisms of bacterial infection transmission.

In an at-risk environment Staph. can spread from a healthy person to a susceptible, otherwise healthy, person by contact with an affected surface. Therefore, athletes with open and uncovered abrasions should not be allowed to participate in your workout/training facility—until the abrasion is fully covered. Encourage athletes to “self-report” skin lesions to your coaching, training, and/or medi-cal staff so the appropriate protective measures can be taken.

Equally as important, you must be vigilant in sanitizing all at-risk sur-faces in your facility. Just follow two easy steps: 1) Implement a thorough daily, or several times daily (in very active facilities) sanitizing protocol. Use a broad-spectrum disinfectant solution on all body contact surfac-es—applied in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations for effective bacteria killing, and 2) Insti-tute a system for regular, user-to-user, sanitizing of equipment surfaces, i.e.,

sanitize all body contact surfaces after each use! Bacteria are easy to kill on hard surfaces. Germs are hard to kill once they invade the body. It’s as simple as: Prevention = Protection

In summary, follow these simple guidelines for having a safe facility and healthy athletes: 1) Treat and cover all athletes’ abrasions until fully healed, 2) Conduct regular and thor-ough cleaning of all training equip-ment and body contact surfaces, 3) Make it as easy and convenient as possible for each athlete and/or staff member to sanitize the body contact surface of each piece of equipment before and/or after each use. Provide easy access to disinfectant filled spray bottles and wiping towels—either cloth or paper; “within arm’s reach” accessibility is preferable, 5) Post signage reminding your athletes and staff of their cleaning and sanitizing responsibility.

A safe workout environment must be a combined effort between a facility’s staff and athletes. Make your athletes’ health and safety a team sport!

Gym Valet1-866-435-2009

www.GymValet.com

Tech-Mesh Apparel“Moisture Management that you can Afford”Tech-Mesh apparel is made from a special blend of 100% polyester fibers and 100% cotton fibers to create a unique fabric that dries 4

times faster than 100% cotton. By combining these two fibers in a unique “knitted mesh construction” you achieve a fabric that “breathes” keeping the body cooler and dryer. The 100% cotton in Tech Mesh absorbs moisture naturally and the special blend of 100% polyester will vent or dry this moistrue 4 times faster than fabric made from all cotton. Tech Mesh apparel is perfect for all your practice needed, wether in the gym or on the field. Tech Mesh apparel comes in both men’s and women’s styles and is durable and long wearing.Tech Mesh:• Lower cost than anything comparable.• Absorbs moisture naturally.• Dries 4 times faster than 100% cotton.• Knitted tough mesh construction.• Feels cooler than 100% cotton.• Prints as well or better than 100% cotton.

Tech Mesh Apparel, LLCwww.techmesh.com

P.O. Box 702357 • Tulsa, OK 74136866-681-6271 • 918-492-1193

[email protected]

courtclean®Gym Floor MaintenanceTHE PROBLEM – Gym floors are typically high use areas that are infrequently cleaned. The daily build up of soil can cause damage to the floor finish as well as creating a slippery surface for student athletes



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GOURMET CANDLE FUNDRAISINGMia Bella’s Gourmet Candles are triple scented and made using 100% palm wax. Palm wax is a natural renewable “green” product that allows our candles to burn clean and practically soot free!Over 90 scents to choose from. No Pre-selections. We allow you to choose up to 20 fragrances per campaign in addition to our specialty line of gourmet candles and accessories.Our independent programs offer competitive profits, NO start-up fees, NO minimum orders. Contact our representatives today for a free information kit with scent samples or to start your next fundraiser.www.LoveOurScents.com or call 1-888-836-9193

to play on. Dirt or dust acts like sandpaper on wood. As you walk, run, jump or slide on the floor, the shoes along with the dirt or dust are in effect “sanding” the finish from the surface. The best way to keep the gym floor in top-notch condition is through frequent daily cleanings. The most effective way to pick-up dirt or dust is through damp mopping with clean water and/or cleaning solution and a clean mop head.

WHAT YOU CAN DO! – To maintain the floor in the best condition, start a daily maintenance program, using clean water and a clean mop. Clean the floor first

thing in the morning and then just before practice or a game.

THE SOLUTION – With the courtclean eight foot DAMP MOP SYSTEM, a basketball court or any other large surface area can be cleaned in just five minutes. Simply take the mopping towel and dampen it to the desired wetness, then attach the towel to the courtclean and begin pulling. The towel can be used for several times during the day. At the end of the day, simply launder the towel like any ordinary towel.

“We have used our courtclean everyday for over 6 years. It has saved us time because we can clean two basketball courts in less than 10

minutes. It has saved us money, as we do not have to finish the floor as frequently. It provides us a good surface to play on.”Andy Weekes, Equipment Manager, Irvine Valley College, Irvine CA

Remember, maintaining your gym floor is a YEAR LONG responsibility that requires a DAILY commitment! Order the courtclean system now and start receiving the benefits of cleaner, safer floors and mats.

Call Bob at courtclean with any questions on gym floor maintenance. See our ad on page 5.

1-800-900-2481www.courtclean.com


The Cutting Edge


ATTENTION Track Coaches & Athletic DirectorsEagle Eye software takes Fully Au-tomatic Timing into the digital age. Combines with the Pyro Bright Flash timing device from Aneta Technolo-gies, F.A.T. timing is not only reliable but affordable for any school or program. Schools all over the nation are now enjoying the digital applica-tion of F.A.T. timing and with the added bonus of the Motion Analysis features, coaches are taking their athlete’s to new levels of performance. Features like slow motion frame-by-frame advancement at 60fps and drawing features all at the click of a mouse, give the user the tools neces-sary to determine accurate finishes. Eagle Eye is fully compatible with meet management programs such as Apple Raceberry Jam and Hy-Tek Meet Manager for easy recording of race results.

With Eagle Eye, coaches are able to teach parent volunteers or student athletes how to run an F.A.T. tim-ing system within minutes! Already have a Pyro Bright Flash timer and video camera, maybe your school has a computer for you to use - don’t worry, there are many packages that can be modified to fit your needs. Affordable and easy to use, Eagle Eye timing software has revolutionized the sport of track and field. Check our ad on page 13.

Aneta Technologies888-359-6091

www.aneta-tech.com

Sports Flooring, Inc.Sports Flooring Inc. is proud to be partnered with Ecore International, a factory direct distributor for Everlast Performance flooring products.

Ecore International is North Americas largest user of scrap rubber tires salvaging over 4 million tires annually from land fills. Everlast Per-formance Flooring offers 28 standard colors to choose from, along with the ability to create custom colors and logos we can easily satisfy a customers flooring needs.

Sports Flooing Inc. will work closely with our customers to help make the right decisions for their facilities. This includes design and layout options all the way through the installation process.

Sports Flooring Inc. offers flooring products for weight rooms - cardio-vascular - aerobics - gymnasiums - indoor & outdoor turf - batting cages - as well as multipurpose and locker room flooring.

Sports Flooring Inc. is The Right Source “FOR ALL YOUR FLOOR-ING NEEDS!

Sports Flooring Inc.www.sportsflooringinc.com

Jennie “Finch Windmill”The Ultimate Shoulder Exerciser!The Finch Windmill is a well-constructed, well-designed piece of equipment. I believe the finch Windmill to be the best of all the

devices available that are used to train the shoulder muscles used in the windmill pitching motion. While weighted balls may appear to offer similar benefits, they have the disad-vantage of adding centrifugal farces to the shoulder joint, which increases the risk of rotary cuff injury. The Finch Windmill applies forces, which only oppose the rotational pulling forces of the pitching motion, this minimizing the risk of training injury.

For the same reasons, the Wind-mill is also a very useful device for training muscles used in the “over the top” overhand throwing motion. The arm motion utilized in this throw-ing technique is closely mimicked by the Finch Windmill which, as in the pitching motion, allows the muscles to be trained with slightly increased resistance in the same coor-dinated movement.

Power, a function of speed and strength, is of prime importance in pitching and throwing. The Finch Windmill allows for high-speed train-ing with increased resistance and an ultimate increase in power, all under controlled conditions.

Bill Daub, Exercise PhysiologistEdmonton, Alberta, Canada

Jennie “Finch Windmill”JennieFinch27.com

FinchWindmill.com • 866-258-2727



“SPEEDY BLEACHERS”“Speedy Bleacher” - THE HIGH-WAY TOWABLE FOLDING BLEACHER that gives you virtually instant seating - where you need it - when you need it - FAST! One person set-up in ten minutes or less! Push-button hyrdraulic operation. All 4 heavy-duty stabilizing jacks are easily operated from a standing posi-tion at the back side of the bleacher.

Patented vertical bar guard rails thwart climbing and are a great safety feature! Full 24” row spacing gives spectators adequate knee room. Meets recent building codes. Built solid for many years of trouble-free service! “Speedy Bleacher” is the best choice for truly portable seating!

For catalog and video contact: Kay Park

1-800-553-2476www.kaypark.com.

Also see our ad on page 21.

HME Releases its New DX300 Wireless Headset System for High School Football Coaches Up to 20 Users Participate in Hands-Free, Two-Way Conversation

SAN DIEGO – SEPTEMBER 2008 – HME is pleased to announce the DX300, a wireless headset solution designed for high school football coaches and audio professionals re-quiring 2-channel operation. Featur-ing the smallest and most lightweight

beltpac, the DX300 allows hands-free, simultaneous communication for up to 20 users.

“We designed DX300 for sports (primarily high school football coaches) and professional audio intercom users who require a rugged and portable digital solution” said Rick Molina, product manager of HME’s Pro Audio Division. “This affordable, highly reliable system sets up in minutes and can be expanded from the basic five-user system to accommodate up to 20 users in clear, two-way, hands free conversation. A 4-Wire I/O Base Interface allows pro audio users to connect to external hardwired intercom systems.”

The DX300 wireless headset system is designed to travel easily from venue to venue without concern for outside interference. It can operate on either electrical AC power or batteries. Dual-slot diversity antennas detect the strongest signal for clear, uninter-rupted conversations.

Users can mix and match two types of COMMUNICATORS©– the ergonomic beltpac or the all-in-one wireless headset. The BP300 is the industry’s smallest, most comfortable and lightweight beltpac weighing only 7.4 oz with battery and pouch.

The DX300 comes with a four-port battery charger and rechargeable lithium-ion batteries that can be charged in less than three hours even while all COMMUNICATORS© are in use during an event.

Operating in the license-free, 2.4 GHz frequency band, DX300 ensures secure, encrypted communications without the need for frequency coordination.

About HMEFounded in 1971, HME is an

innovative technology company fo-cused on enhancing productivity and customer service for the pro audio and sports markets. HME has a 36-year reputation as a quality provider of innovative wireless intercom sys-tems used in a wide variety of sports and other entertainment venues. For information on other HME pro audio products:

HME(800) 848-4468(858) 535-6060 www.hme.com

See our ad on page 23.

Painted PortraitsHere’s a special offer to readers of Prep Illustrated.

Get a professional painted 12” x 16” portrait, oil on canvas, of your sports star from a photo you supply for only $250.00, framing included.

The portrait can be your choice of head and shoulders or full figure, painted by Michael W. Schoen, a professional artist for over 45 years.

A print of the painting in progress will be submitted to you for your ap-proval before the final completion.

www.portraits-oiloncanvas.com


The Cutting Edge


Techline Sports Lighting:Your One Stop Shop For Affordable Sports LightingTechline Sports Lighting, LP was founded in 1999 and has grown to be one of the premier Sports Lighting Suppliers in the country.Company Founder and President, Rodney Hawthorne, has been work-ing in the electrical industry for over 30 years. Upon working on his initial Sports Lighting projec, he discovered there was a huge void of any method to easily purchase a com-plete sports lighting system. “Most customers I spoke with had no idea who to call if they wanted to light an athletic field,” he said.

Within a year of making this discovery, he applied his engineer-ing, marketing and sales experience to create a company model based on providing “one stop shopping for the customer” and “premium cus-tomer service.”

Techline Sports Lighting has re-invented the sports lighting business by building on basic common sense. Give the customer what he wants, when he wants it, at a price he is willing to pay and follow it up with ‘Lexus’ type customer service.

Techline Sports Lighting maintains an inventory of 200-300 poles and over 2000 sports lighting fixtures to meet any type of application.

Mr. Hawthorne stated, “Purchas-ing material in truckload quantities provides the lowest initial cost and allows us to provide unmatched

service. We have actually delivered a football stadium lighting system the same day it was ordered. Most projects ship within 1-2 weeks. De-livering from inventory on our own trucks driven by Techline employees allows us total control of service to the customer and eliminates dam-aged or lost material.”

Techline Sports Lighting, LP1-800-500-3161

www.sportlighting.com

TEX-NET INC.ALL SPORTS NET DIVISIONOur products range from a wide variety of netting, shade cloths, wind screens, backstop covers, protective screens and fencing for baseball, foot-ball, lacrosse, soccer, golf, hockey and more, to our complete line of custom and specialty “Practice Cages.” Tex-Net All Sports Net Division can also provide netting, hardware, wood and steel poles as well as NATION-WIDE TURNKEY INSTALLA-TIONS for any of our systems.*QUALITY PRODUCTS – SUPE-RIOR SERVICE – COMPETITVE PRICING. Call or email us for a free no obligation quote, catalog and sample package. See our ad on page 7.

1-800-541-1123www.texnetusa.com

[email protected]

Diamond Yards Engraved BricksSince 2002 Diamond Yards Engraved Bricks have helped numerous civic

organizations, schools, churches and professional sports venues beautify their properties with our engraved bricks. Whether you are raising funds for capital improvements or school or church projects or dedicat-ing new facilities, Diamond Yards Engraved Bricks can get the job done for your group. We can save you money on the production, delivery, and engraving process while at the same time deliver you an unforget-table finished product. Diamond Yards can also help by creating a brick order form with your complete information at no additional cost. Give us a call today and get your project started tomorrow.DIAMOND YARDS ENGRAVED BRICKS

Www.diamondyardsbricks.com2609 Vista View Drive

Evansville, Indiana 47711812-430-2725



Kay Park Recreation Corp.“America’s Finest” PARK EQUIPMENT Since 1954

1301 Pine St.Janesville, IA 50647

1-800-553-2476Fax#319-987-2900

Website:www.kaypark.com

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Should Your Booster Club Be Incorporated?North American Booster Club Association

Booster Club Tips

Although there is no legal requirement that a booster club incorporate there are a number of advantages to doing so.

Advantages to Incorporating1. Decreases personal liability of officers/members of the group -If a booster club is not incorporated the individual officers of the group may be held liable for the activities of the organization. Therefore, if a legal claim is brought against an unincorporated booster club and there is a judgment against the group, the personal assets (houses, cars, etc.) of the officers may be used to pay the judgment. This liability may be reduced by purchasing insurance for the booster group. In addition, it is possible that the school’s insurance

policy may provide liability coverage. HOWEVER, you should never assume that the school has insurance covering the activities of the booster group. Always check what policies the school has, whether they cover the booster club and its officers, and whether any exceptions in the insurance policy exclude coverage for the activities that you believe are most vulnerable to legal claims. It’s always a good idea to review the actual policy. It is a common misunderstanding that the school’s insurance covers a booster club when it really doesn’t.

2. Increases the control of the booster club over its activities - As a separately incorporated, tax-exempt entity the booster club, its

officers and members will generally have greater control over the group’s activities and operations. As an unincorporated school entity, the booster club is more subject to the control of the school, the school principal, the superintendent and other school officials.

3. Credibility - Many groups find that their booster club and its activities are taken more seriously by all involved if the group is incorporated.

Disadvantages of incorporationThe primary disadvantage is the paperwork involved. To incorporate a booster club must file Articles of Incorporation in its state and pay a filing fee (generally $100 or less). Once incorporated the booster club must file a report each year with the state. Most state reports require that the organization’s address be updated, if changed, and that the names and address of the current directors be listed. The report is generally simple to complete. Most states require a small annual fee of $50 or less. Failure to file the annual report with the state can lead to losing corporate status.

How does a booster club incorporate?Most states have a form online that can be completed and filed to incorporate a booster club. Incorporation is fairly straightforward



A r t i c l e T i t l eA u t o r

– just fill in the blanks. However, if a group plans to apply to the IRS for federal tax-exempt status, certain special language must be included in the Articles of Incorporation. This special IRS language is frequently NOT included in the state fill-in forms.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of seeking federal tax-exempt status for our booster club?There is no legal requirement that a booster club incorporate and/or file for federal or state tax-exemption.

Booster clubs may operate as unin-corporated associations of parents/others who wish to support a school or program. However, there are some significant advantages to being recog-nized as tax-exempt.

1. Tax-exempt booster clubs are eligible for private foundation and corporate grants - It takes a lot of wrapping paper and BBQ sales to add up to one grant from a private foundation or corporation. Typically, however, private and corporate foun-dations only make grants to booster clubs recognized as tax-exempt by the IRS under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.

2. Credibility - Many booster clubs find that the group and its activities are taken more seriously by all in-volved if the booster club is incorpo-rated and recognized as tax-exempt.

How can a booster club obtain tax-exemption?To obtain recognition of tax-

exemption a booster club may use IRS Form 1023, complete and file it along with the filing fee, and wait for at least 4 months for the IRS to review the application. Even then there is no guarantee that the form will be completed correctly or lead to tax-exemption.

Are there any disadvantages to being tax-exempt?

The biggest disadvantage is the time and cost involved in filing IRS Form 1023 if you do it on your own. Otherwise, the advantages far outweigh any disadvantages.

About NABCA:The North American Booster Club Association (NABCA) (www.boosterclubs.org) is the governing body and first of its kind national booster club association dedicated to providing booster clubs and their extracurricular organizations throughout North America with the highest level of Guidance, Education, Training and Support.

MAKE THE RIGHT CALL

> The smallest, lightest beltpac in the industry

> Simultaneous communication for up to 20 coaches; access offense and defense

> Easy-to-use; sets up in minutes with no frequency coordination

> Triple protection to ensure secure communication

> Eliminate downtime - recharge batteries while system is still in use

In both All-in-One Headset and Beltpac models1-866-621-4712 | www.HME.com/DX300Call today or visit our website:


PRSRT STDU.S. POSTAGE PAID

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ZIP CODE 50525Prep IllustratedP.O. Box 191Eagle Grove, IA 50533


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