sports gwinnett may 2013

1

COACHING AND MOTIVATIONMIRACLE LEAGUETEAM MOM ADVICERACE CALENDAR

SPORTS MEDICINE GUIDE | GREATER GWINNETT CHAMPIONSHIP [PHOTOS]

FRONT COVER

“TOUGH GIRLS”Gwinnett Female athletes

SPORTS GWINNETT

LIFE IS ACTIVE | MAY 2013

GWINNETT PARk

EVENTS

LIkE US ON PRIZES GIVEN AWAY EVERY WEEk

2 SPORTS GWINNETT MAGAZINE www.sportsgwinnett.com May 2013

Some Tasty Feedback About Eating Healthy

Atlanta Bread Company at The Forum4880 Peachtree Corners Circle, Norcross, GA 30092 770-662-0900

Mon=Fri 7am-9pm Sat 8am-9pm Sun 8am-8pm

Atlanta Bread named one of Atlanta Bread named one of

Health Magazine’sTop Ten Healthiest

Fast Food Restaurants

Parents Magazine’sTen Best

Fast Casual Restaurants

FRONT INSIDE COVER

CampsSummer

Adventure Camps

Special Interest Camps

Preschool Camps

Full day recreation camps with a thematic twist!

Partial day camps led by specialized instructors.

Fun morning camps at select locations.

LilburnMountain Park Park Depot Building 678.277.0179NorcrossLucky Shoals Park Community Recreation Center 678.277.0860Pinckneyville Park Community Recreation Center 678.277.0920SnellvilleLenora Park Gymnasium 770.978.5271Stone MountainMountain Park Activity Building 678.277.0179SuwaneeGeorge Pierce Park Community Recreation Center 678.277.0910

Top Notch convenient locations

BufordBogan Park Community Recreation Center 678.277.0850DaculaDacula Park Activity Building 678.277.0850DuluthShorty Howell Park Activity Building 770.814.4914LawrencevilleRhodes Jordan Park Community Recreation Center 678.277.0890

Register today!www.gwinnettparks.com


SCAN THE QR CODE TO VISIT OUR WEBSITE AND ENTER OUR ONLINE CONTESTS!To get the app reader (i.e. ScanLife), visit your phone’s app store and search QR Code readers.

CONTENT

motivation positive= great play How some Gwinnett School coaches and athletic directors motivate their athletes.

“tough girls” We profiled some “Tough Girl” athletes from a weight lifter and a marathoner to a Junior Cyclist and couple of soccer players.

6 First up Happenings in the next 45 days

8 youth Youth Athletic Leagues, Clubs and Achievements

12 move 5K, 10K, marathons, cycling, walking

and moving

26 nourish Great places to eat and meet friends

and meet your teammates

27 griZZlies Georgia Gwinnett College Athletics

28 parKs Highlighted events and happenings at Gwinnett County Parks

30 best seat in the house Highlighting the past month in pictures.

32 team mom & DaDs Tips, recommendations and advice.

32 CoaCh’s Call Advice and insight from respected coaches

[8] [22]

[16]

[29]

facebook.com/sportsgwinnett

twitter.com/sportsgwinnett

youtube.com/sportsgwinnett

pinterest.com/sportsgwinnett

COVER CREDIT

Pictured on the cover is Zoe Frazier, two time road national champion cyclist and more. Photography by Kate Awtrey

Pictured on this page is Mimi Black, Race Director for iRun Against Diabetes. Photography by Kat Goduco

great meDiCine serving great athletes Gwinnett has some great sport medical facilities. We just mention a few in this issue.

biKe trails 3 Great Gwinnett Trails

1

COACHING AND MOTIVATIONMIRACLELEAGUETEAM MOMADVICERACECALENDAR

SPORTS MEDICINE GUIDE | GREATER GWINNETT CHAMPIONSHIP [PHOTOS]

FRONT COVER

“TOUGHGIRLS”GWINNETT FEMALE ATHLETES

SPORTS GWINNETT

LIFE IS ACTIVE | MAY 2013

GWINNETTPARK

EVENTS

1LIKE US ON PRIZES GIVEN AWAYEVERY WEEK

SportsGwinnett_ISSUE_2013-MAY-B.indd 1 4/30/2013 9:11:19 PM

5

Sports injuries can unexpectedly take you out of the game. That’s why the Sports Medicine program at Gwinnett Medical Center-Duluth is dedicated to helping all athletes prevent injury, heal and manage pain.

With Atlanta’s most experienced team of sports medicine specialists, we help thousands of professional and everyday athletes spend less time on the sidelines. Our convenient surgical, imaging and rehabilitation facilities ensure we get athletes back to full strength faster.

For a physician referral, call 678-430-3223 or visit us on the web at gwinnettsportsmed.com.

GET BACK IN THE ACTION.Choose Atlanta’s sports medicine specialists.

OFFICIAL HEALTHCARE PROVIDER OF THE GWINNETT BRAVES


FROM THEPUBLISHERS

stan awtrey has been a sports writer for 30 years and spent many of those covering Gwinnett County.

"Tough girls" come in all ages. The four we chose to cover in this issue are

here for various reasons. Each of them has a good story to tell and every time we tell a new one, there are twenty more waiting to be told.

With every issue we try to bring interesting stories, good photog-raphy, and information you need. Sports Gwinnett is also aiming to be a resource. That's why in every issue you'll find information on races, sports camps, advise, tips, a sports calendar and more.

We're also building a web presence, so feel free to follow us on Twitter and Pinterest and LIKE us on Facebook.

Within a few more months we'll have a tablet version you can down-load and a YouTube channel with interviews and how-to videos.

Shoot us an email with your news, ideas or comments to [email protected]. We'd love to hear from you.

CONTRIBUTORSKate awtrey Director of Photography Kate Awtrey is a professional photographer and owner of Gwinnett Event Photography. She was born and raised in Gwinnett County and enjoys

taking photographs of interesting people, places and things.

Joel hillsman Joel Hillsman a native of Athens, GA is a sports media freelancer covering high school and pro sports since 2009. He is play-by-play announcer for high school football and basketball for iBN Sports covering the southeast and

produces game highlights for NBATV and Turner Sports.

abby wilKerson Abby Wilkerson, born in Dalton, Georgia, lived Athens, and began her lifelong love of University of Georgia sports. Country girl at heart but now metro Atlanta girl by address,

Abby is a pop culture lover, breaks for yard sales, and an unashamed basher of all non-SEC conferences. She works in sports marketing and communications.

Rico Figliolini and Clint ConleyCo-Publishers

amanDa helmstetter Amanda Helmstetter is the mother of two youth athletes – a son who plays baseball and lacrosse for Duluth and a daughter who plays softball and basketball for Norcross. She and her

“Coach” husband have lived in Peachtree Corners for 14 years and is the Principal Engagement Manager for The SAS Institute.

matthew Quinn Matthew W. Quinn is a freelance writer from Marietta, Ga. He is also associate editor of The Roswell Current and has edited a weekly newspaper and re-ported for a daily. An aspiring novelist,

he has a book under consideration with two publishers.

tori vogt Tori Vogt MBA is a professional writer and marketing executive based in Peachtree Corners.

7

SUMM

ER CL

UB LA

X

www.thunderbirdlacrosse.com678-876-0042

¥ Dynamic practices & challenging tournaments¥ Learning and reÞning core fundamentals¥ Developing team concepts and game IQ¥ Building team chemistry¥ Elevating decision-making abilities

Learn lacrosse from coaches

who have been in your shoes

Storm the Field with Thunderbird this

summer and elevate your game to the next level!

BOYS AND GIRLS LACROSSEGwinnett · North Fulton · Sandy Springs · DeKalb

Ph: 770-513-8640 • Email: [email protected]

10 -18 years

Frazier Cycling Junior Race Team7 National Championships • 33 National Medals

• Year round training program• Summer and winter camps

Sponsored by Above Physical Therapy, Allgood Pest Solutions, and Suwanee Creek Bicycles

SPORTS GWINNETT

Clint Conley and Rico Figliolini C0-PUBLISHERS

Rico Figliolini EXECUTIVE EDITOR

kate Awtrey

PHOTOGRAPHY DIRECTOR

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Stan Awtrey Joel Hillsman

Abby Wilkerson Matthew Quinn

Amanda Helmstetter Tori Vogt

Reg L. Carver Sydney Sattler

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

kate Awtrey Photography kat Goduco

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Rico Figliolini

ADVERTISING EXECUTIVES

Tom Ball [email protected]

Patti Leach [email protected]

SPORTS360GROUP LLC

4305 River Stream Circle, Peachtree Corners, GA 30092

678.358.7858 www.sportsgwinnett.com

Sports Gwinnett Magazine is published once a month by

SPORTS360GROUP LLC. Opinions expressed by the contributing writers

and editors are not necessarily those of the publishers, editor or

Sports Gwinnett. The publisher will not accept responsibility for sub-

mitted materials that are lost or stolen. Every effort has been made

to ensure the accuracy of this publication. However, the publisher

cannot assume responsibility for errors or omissions. No part of this

book may be reproduced in any manner whatsoever without written

permission. ©2013 SPORTS360GROUP LLC.

The editors welcome submissions and photogrpahy. Please direct

them to [email protected].

We want to share the inspirational stories; to improve lives, and the world around us,

through the passion of sports.


Virtual Race iRUN AGAINST DIABETES iRun Against Diabetes Inaugural Virtual Challenge Weekend is a National Event with distances of 5K, 10K, and Half Marathon. This event was created to increase awareness of Diabetes through fitness. The cost is $10, plus a $3.25 active.com processing fee. All partici-pants will receive a finisher’s medal. Registra-tion is set at $10 to encourage registrants to donate to the American Diabetes Association. Donations can be made via donate link on www.irunagainstdiabetes.com. Any amount is welcomed. Type II Diabetes can be regulated, or prevented with clean eating and exercise. iRun Against Diabetes encourages everyone to join us for this important cause. Make an effort, register to run/walk/jog 3.1, 6.2 or 13.1 miles during iRun Against Diabetes Challenge Weekend. Still need convincing? Worried about the distance? No problem! You have the entire weekend from June 21st through June 24th to complete your distance run. There is a referral program to make things a little competitive and fun. We challenge you to refer 20 people to register. Your name will be entered in our drawing to win a road bike. Referrals must enter your name as the referral source to be eligible. Refer 30 people and your name will be entered in the drawing to win an Xbox Kinect. Each week during May we will be raffling off restaurant gift cards. Winners will be notified by email. Winner’s names will be listed on event website and Facebook fan page. Gift cards will be mailed to the winners at the end of each week. This is a Nationwide Virtual event! This means that you choose the location. If you’re in the local area, join us for group run on June 22nd at 7:00 AM at Lifetime Fitness, 11555 Johns Creek Parkway, Johns Creek GA. Join iRun for Weekly Social Run/Walk/Jog Club at same location.

iRun Against Diabetes increasing awareness through fitness http://www.irunagainstdiabetes.com

FIRST UPWhat's Happening 45 Days Out

Annual Gwinnett Senior Golden GamesMay 09 – 15, 2013Various Gwinnett County Parks 100 East Crogan St., Lawrenceville, GA 30043 Rhodes Jordan Park

Gwinnett Parks seniors 50 years of age and older with an opportunity to participate in a variety of sports. Event locations varies throughout all Gwinnett County Parks. Please see website for details: www.gwinnettsenior-goldengames.org

Drift AtlantaMay 10 – 11, 2013Road Atlanta 5300 Winder Highway, Braselton, GA 30517

Drifting is a high-skill, high powered motor sport that calls for drivers to control a car while it slides sideways at high speed through a marked course. An expanded Vendor Village area and car show will also be part of the event. More information can be found at www.roadatlanta.com

USSSA State ChampionshipMay 17 – 19, 2013Suwanee Sports Academy 3640 Burnette Rd., Suwanee, GA 30024 Venue: Suwanee Sports Academy

Boys 4th Grade/10U Boys 5th Grade/11U Boys 6th Grade/12U Boys 7th Grade/13U Boys 8th Grade/14U Boys 9th Grade/15U Boys 10th Grade/16U Boys 11th Grade/17U Grade/Age divi-sions determination will be made based on the grade of the player for the 2012-2013 school year. A player may qualify under the age excep-tion rule if they have been advanced in grade due to academic excellence or parental prefer-ence. Visit the website for more information www.suwaneesportsacademy.com

FIRS

T UP

2013 Warrior Spring Fever Lacrosse TournamentMay 18 – 19, 2013Rabbit Hill Park 400 Rabbit Hill Rd, Dacula, GA 30019

The Warrior Spring Fever Lacrosse Tournament is a competitive lacrosse tournament for BOYS Middle School and High School lacrosse teams. There are divisions for U11, U13 A & B, U15 A & B and High School A & B. More information can be found at www.tikitournaments.com/Spring-Fever-Main-Page.aspx

Beep kickball Play DayJune 8, 2013Shorty Howell Park 2750 Pleasant Hill Rd., Duluth, GA 30096

Gwinnett Parks is partnering with the Georgia Blind Sports Association for a fun, Beep Kick-ball Play Day! This is an adapted version of an old favorite game. All ages are welcome and blindfolds are optional for beginners.

Call 678.277.0900 for more information and to register or register here.

9

Gwinnett Braves vs. Louisville BatsMay 18 – 21, 2013 Gwinnett Braves vs. Toledo Mudhens May 23 – 26, 2013 Gwinnett Braves vs. Rochester Red Wings June 04 – 07, 2013 Gwinnett Braves vs. Columbus Clippers Coolray Field, One Braves Avenue, Law-renceville, GA 30043 The Atlanta Braves AAA affiliate, the Gwinnett Braves, plays baseball in their 10,000 seat state-of-the-art Coolray Field on Buford Drive in Lawrenceville, less than 5 minutes from I-85 and the Mall of Georgia.

ann Bishoff priceAgent

3150 Main Street, Suite 102Duluth, GA 30096Call 770.623.0817Fax 770.623.8258

[email protected]

www.annbishoff.com

providing insurance andFinancial services

all YOU can eatsatUrDaY & sUnDaY

Between 12-3:30pmDine in Only

2 large 2-topping pizzas $22.992 med. 2-topping pizzas $18.99Buy a large specialty pizza at

regular price, get a Free appetizer & 2 liter Drink

5005 Peachtree ParkwayNorcross GA 30092 | Peachtree Corners

678-966-0868

Valie for Dine-In, Take-Out or Delivery at Johnny’s Norcross. Not to be combined with any other offers

Valie for Dine-In, Take-Out or Delivery at Johnny’s Norcross. Not to be combined with any other offers

Valie for Dine-In, Take-Out or Delivery at Johnny’s Norcross.Not to be combined with any other offers

BUsh rDmeD

lOcK

Bri

DGe r

OaD

west JOnes BriDGe rD

peachtr

ee

parwaY

THE

FORUM

Gwinnett Football ReGistRationMany of Gwinnett Football League's associa-tions have implemented online registration systems and these systems will remain available until close of registration for all 19 member associations. The last mandatory walk-up registration period is: Saturday, June 8, 2013 10:00am until 2:00pm. Leagues play out of their respective Parks

Archer TigersHarbins Park, 2995 Luke Edwards Road, Dacula, GA 30019 ww.playaaasports.com

Brookwood BroncosBethesda Park, 225 Bethesda Church Road, Lawrenceville, GA 30044 www.bfabroncos.com

Buford WolvesBuford Sports Complex, 2750 Sawnee Avenue, Buford, GA 30518 www.byfa.net (for Football) www.byca.shutterfly.com (For Cheerleading)

Collins Hill EaglesRock Springs Park, 2950 Spriggs Road, Lawrenceville, GA 30043 www.chaasports.com

Dacula FalconsDacula Park, 205 Dacula Road, Dacula, GA 30019 www.dacula.com

Duluth WildcatsShorty Howell Park, 2750 Pleasant Hill Road, Duluth, GA 30096 www.duluthyouth.com/dyfca

Grayson RamsBay Creek Park, 175 Ozora Road, Loganville, GA 30052 www.gaasports.org

Lanier Longhorns Lanier High School, 918 Buford Highway, Sugar Hill, GA 30518 www.lanieraa.com

Larwrenceville knightsRhodes Jordan Park, 100 East Crogan Street, Lawrenceville, GA 30047 www.lyafc.com

TitansBryson Park, 5075 Lawrenceville Highway, Lilburn, GA 30047 www.brysonparktitans.com

Loganville Red DevilsLoganville Middle School, 152 Clark McCulers Drive, Loganville, GA 30052 www.loganvillegflfootball.com

Mill Creek HawksDuncan Creek Park, 3700 Braselton Highway, Dacula, GA 30019 www.millcreekaa.net

Mountain View BearsRabbit Hill Park, 400 Rabbit Hill Road, Dacula, GA 30017 www.mvaasports.org

Norcross Blue DevilsCemetery Field, 211 Cemetery Street, Norcross, GA www.norcrossathletics.com

North Gwinnett BulldogsGeorge Pierce Park, 55 Buford Highway, Suwanee, GA 30024 www.ngfa.com

Parkview Pathers Mountain Park Park, 5050 Five Forks Trickum Road, Lilburn, GA 30047 www.mpaa-dev.com

Peachtree Ridge LionsPeachtree Ridge Park, 3170 Suwanee Creek Road, Suwanee, GA 30024www.pryaa.com

Shiloh GeneralsLenora Park, 4515 Lenora Church Road, Snellville, GA 30039 www.saa-youth.org

South Gwinnett CometsSouth Gwinnett Park, 2115 McGee Road, Snellville, GA 30078 www.sgaasports.com


Gwinnett public and private school sports coaches agree that positive reinforce-

ment, not browbeating, is the best way to motivate student-athletes to perform.

Rutgers University basketball coach Mike Rice was fired April 3 after ESPN broadcast videos depicting Rice striking and be-rating his players using anti-gay language.

“I would say my two major motivational tools would be goal-setting and stressing the importance of the team aspect, a form of accountability,” said Duluth High School Head Swim and Dive Coach Jim Reason.

For goal-setting, Reason and the other coaches set both team and individual goals. These goals are attainable and allow participants to reach and even exceed them, but one goal is always stressed — remain as a top-level program. He and his coaches are big encouragers, always trying to find positives to stress and help participants believe in themselves. Reason has coached in Duluth for 13 years, both in high school and in the summer programs, so he has coached many swimmers before they arrive in high school.

“That long-term relationship helps me to find ways to moti-vate them as well,” he said.

As far as accountability is con-cerned, Reason stresses the roles

MOTIVATION POSITIVE=GREAT PLAYby MATTHEW W. QUINN

SPIR

IT

YOUTH SPORTS AND SCHOOLSSPIRIT

participants play as part of a team and emphasizes that team success comes before individual success.

In swimming and diving, it takes multiple athletes to win meets, especially at large, important ones like the county meets with 18 schools and the state meets where teams come from all over Georgia. All team members, not just the stars, must do well. If everyone does their part, success usually fol-lows. What his swimmers usu-ally discover is that if the team is successful, they have accom-plished their own goals as well.

“We use this motivation to stress the importance of practice and the effort in which they put forth into practice, as well as the importance of them taking care of their business in the class-room,” he said.

As far as Rice was concerned, Reason said he found his behav-ior disturbing.

Chat Pittman has served as the varsity girls’ basketball coach at Duluth High School for three years.

“My philosophy on that is that you’ve got to have goals and vision,” he said.

Each year, going into the season, participants set ex-pectations and goals and refer back to them as the year goes on. As they can see the goals they’ve

reached in the past, it helps them excel in the future.

Each season has its own theme. During Pittman’s first season, the theme was “Dream Big, Work Hard, Learn Each Day, And Have Fun.” During the second season, the theme was, “No Excuses, Just Find A Way.” During the third season, the theme was “Every Game, Every Practice, Every Day, Every…” Pittman said that theme’s pur-pose was to remind players of the importance of consistency.

These are the means of posi-tive reinforcement. Sometimes making students do runs or sit out games are necessary, although Pittman would rather not use these negative tactics. He said he hoped students on the team who are leaders would help deal with problematic players before it reached that level.

When asked about Rice, Pittman said his tactics amounted to coaching by fear and that’s not a good thing. He said Rice was just browbeating his players and success has to be a team effort, including the coaching staff.

“If they respect you, they’ll play harder for you anyway,” he said.

The Wesleyan School in Peachtree Cor-

ners has 450 stu-dents in its high school and in any given year, 90 percent of them participate in at least one sport.

“We’re a school that’s built around relationships and the primary way our coaches mo-tivate our students in through forging relationships,” said Wesleyan School Athletic Direc-tor Mark Khedouri. “Through strong and healthy relation-ships, coaches can expect the best.”

He said every program does things differently. The

MARK KHEDOURI

11

Come Taste the Difference!Organic · Natural Antibiotic · Free Selections

FREE SUBFree 8 inch sub

with purchase of 2 drinks and 2 chips.

With coupon only. Not valid with anyother offers. Expires June 15, 2013

The Partner of Norcross Teams!

VotedBest Sub

in Athens,Charleston &St. Simons

Island

5270 Peachtree ParkwaySuite 1188, Peachtree Corners

Across from the ForumLIKE US ON FACEBOOK

6 Foot & 3 Foot Subs770-300-0804

New

Shane’s Pork Butts are delicious, juicy, seasoned, and slow smoked. Each butt feeds 8-10 people. Great for school and sport fund raisers!

Banquets, Fund Raisersand more.

only $35.00

Schools and Sports Team

5770 Peachtree Industrial BlvdNorcross, GA 30071

CATERINGHOTLINE404-989-1313770-416-6022 Store

school wants its student-athletes coached hard, but doesn’t want lines crossed into abuse.

“We’re never going to belittle a child,” he said.

Like most people, he’s seen the videos of Rice and he said that’s something athletic coaches at Wesleyan never want

to do.

“When kids think that you care about them, you’re apt to see their very best.”

Khedouri does not want student-athletes to per-form out of fear.

“I think first and fore-most, we try to get some team goals and we try to have each player set some individual goals,” said Chad Longe, who coaches Lanier High School’s varsity baseball team.

As a coach, it’s impor-tant to find out what the play-ers are looking for and what their individual goals are. They write them down going into the season. As far as the team goals are concerned, each year the idea is to im-prove on the previous season and get where one has to go. When one is in the athletic arena, one shoots for the top.

Longe never wants the team to sell itself short or not reach for or attain a goal because of the school’s youth and small size compared to other Gwinnett high schools.

“You don’t want to make excuses for why you can or cannot attain your team goal or individual goal,” he said.

He doesn’t want to find rea-sons the team or players cannot do something, only reasons they can. If the players are told they can’t do something because their school is new or small and they want to prove the naysay-ers wrong, so be it.

“If you play with a little bit of a chip on your shoulder, some-times that’s a thing you need,” he said.

When asked about Rice and Rutgers, he said there are much better ways to motivate one’s players than degrading them. At times it’s up to the player and at times it’s up to the coach to see what drives them. If the player is self-motivated, they won’t need the coach to motivate them.

Matthew W. Quinn is a freelance writer living in Marietta, Ga. I’ve in-cluded that one with both stories.

CHAD PITTMAN


12U DUlUth wilDcat travel BaseBall team a Game can Be a miracle tOOThe 12U Duluth Wildcat Travel Base-

ball Team typically brings its “A Game”, coming to every game to win it and leaving it all on the field.

They play hard and get dirty. Sometimes they win and sometimes they lose – but on Saturday April 20th they got a different per-spective on the game.

On this day, the team participated in a North Metro Miracle League baseball game. This League is an amazing group of people who bring baseball (and other sports) to people who have disabilities. The disabili-ties range from Downs Syndrome to severe neurological or physical issues that prevent people from playing in mainstream athletics.

The members of the Duluth Wildcat Travel Baseball team got to “buddy up” with a Mira-cle League athlete and help them play a base-ball game. The Duluth athletes assisted their buddies in playing both offence and defense. They aided them in batting, held their hand, or pushed a wheelchair when running the bases. The Wildcats helped them field the ball and made sure they knew what to do when it was time to make a play.

In many instances, it was the first time that the athletes on the Wildcat Team had such an encounter with someone who had so many physical challenges. They take their own athletic abilities for granted at times, com-plaining when they get out while batting or being grumpy when they miss a play in the field. This was a special day that gave these 12 year olds a much different perspective. Because on this day, it wasn’t about winning or losing, it was about the love of the game. It was about the sheer joy of the bat coming in contact with the ball and the thrill of cross-ing home plate. The “high fives” and “good games” at the end were genuine for both the Wildcats and the Miracle League players. “At first I was a little nervous”, commented Mat-thew Helmstetter, catcher for the Wildcats “ but then I started talking to my buddy, ex-

plaining what she needed to do to play first base and I helped her make a play. After that, it was really cool.”

The North Metro Miracle League operates out of the Adapted Sports Complex in Al-pharetta’s North Park. It is totally handicap accessible and provides a safe environment for people with many different kinds of im-pairments. They work with volunteer “bud-dies” from all over the North Metro area. Visit their website at www.nmml.net for more information about the league or buddy opportunities.

The Duluth Wildcat Travel Team (currently 9-2-1) is made up of Davis Stewart, Matthew McCree, Logan Porche, Jack Grell, Will Garrison, Cameron Sansone, Ryan Donaldson, Matthew Helmstetter, James Sattler, Chris Pfeifer, Adam Litzenberger and Dohnte Meyers. They are coached by Paul Sansone, Glen Helmstetter, Jon Sattler and Tom Donaldson and play out of Shorty Howell Park in Duluth.

SPIR

IT SPIRIT

13

12U Duluth Wildcat Travel Baseball TeaM

Photographs by Amanda Helmstetter


MOVE5k, 10k, Marathons, Cycling, Walking and Moving

CALENDAR OF RACES

Saturday, May 11SJN Smile 5k Run One Mile Walk► Lilburn, GA St. John Neumann Catholic Church is supporting SMILE with its third annual 5K Run at a new location, Saturday, May 11th 2013.

Event: 5K race begins at 8:30 AM (begins and end at Lilburn City Park - Greenway Trail)

Event: 1 Mile begins at 8:00 AM (Lilburn City Park - Walking Path—Wheel chair friendly)

http://sjnlilburn.com/parish-life/14-community-news/1245-smile-third-annual-5k-run

Saturday, May 18Jones Creek 5k► Buford GA Little Mulberry Park (Fence Road Entrance) $20 pre-registration/$25 on-site registration

This is a 5K on paved trails at a Gwinnett County Park. There are slight hills. This 5K benefits students with special needs at both Jones Middle and Creekland Middle as well as the North Gwin-nett Co-Op.

Please bring one canned/pack-aged food item per participant as a donation to the North Gwinnett Co-Op. There will be prizes for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd male and female for each age category. There will also be awards for overall top male and overall top female.

http://www.active.com/running/au-burn-ga/the-jones-creek-5k-2013

Sunday, May 19

Athleta Iron Girl Atlanta Women’s Triathlon► Buford GA Location: Lake Lanier Islands Resort, outside Atlanta, GA Women’s Only Triathlon, 7:00 a.m. 1/4 mile swim/19 mile bike/3 mile run

The Iron Girl event experience provides women with the perfect platform for first timers and ex-perienced athletes to reach their personal bests.

http://www.irongirl.com/Events/Atlanta.htm?#ixzz2Qrnb51OP

Sunday, May 19Pre Memorial Day Half Marathon, 10k & 5k► Snellville, GA

13.1M run, 10K run, 5K run START: 6:30AM WHERE: Tribble Mill Park 2125 Tribble Mill Parkway Lawrenceville, GA 30045

Entire course will be run on a wide paved path around a lake through a very scenic park. Well stocked aid station at the start/finish area. Medal to all finishers and a generic tech shirt.

http://www.deborahmontgomeryrac-ing.com

Saturday, May 25Chick-fil-A Connect Race Series – 5k run

► Lawrenceville, GA

7:00AM - Day-of Registration and Runner Check-In Opens 7:50AM - Day-of Registration Closes 8:00AM - 5K/10K Run/Walk Start 9:30AM - 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk Start Pre-Race 5K/1M: $25 Individual Race-Day 5K/1M: $30 Individual

Join the herd and lace up your running shoes for the Chick-fil-A Connect Race Series of Gwin-nett on May 25, 2013 benefiting the Pregnancy Resource Center of Gwinnett! Runners will receive a Chick-fil-A Race Series dri-fit shirt!

http://www.connectrace.net/event/chick-fil-a-connect-race-series-gwin-nett-life-run

Saturday, May 25 Strawberry Stroll 5k ► Norcross, GAThrasher Park 10-3pm

Strawberry Stroll will include activities for the whole family. Come for lunch and try out some strawberry-inspired chef’s spe-cials in our local eateries. Enjoy live music, homemade goodies and special savings throughout down-town shops! Let the kids play on our nearby playground in Thrasher

Park, then stroll over to the nearby Lillian Webb Park where they can cool off in the new interactive fountains. For more information, visit www.aplacetoimagine.com.

Event Registration: http://www.active.com/running/norcross-ga/strawberry-stroll-5k-2013

Monday, May 27Dacula Memorial Day 5k Run & 1M Fun Run► Dacula, GA

1M - 8:00AM, 5K - 8:30AM Entry Fee: $20 - early registration (postmarked on or before 5/13/13) $25 - race day registration or late registration

For more information, visit the website at http://www.daculamemorialday.com/run2013.htm

Saturday, June 1 Historic Run the Rails in Buford7:30a.m.-5k 7:45a.m.-10k

► Amphitheatre in Downtown Buford, 395 East Main Street, Buford, GA

Entry Fee $25 before May 21st and $30 thereafter Pre-Race pick-up was such a HUGE success last year, we are offering it again on Friday, May 31, from Noon - 3:00 pm @ Big Peach Store in Suwanee Town Center, and from 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm at Amphitheater

http://bwolvesbabc.teamsitesnow.com/43417/buford-high-school/athletic-boosters/booster-club/news/2181

MOV

E

15

www.piedmontbankonline.com

NORCROSS BRANCH5100 Peachtree Parkway

Norcross, GA 30092

770-246-0011; Fax: 770-246-0055

LAWRENCEVILLE BRANCH185 Gwinnett Drive

Lawrenceville, GA 30046

678-736-6250; Fax: 678-736-6260

DUNWOODY- LOAN PRODUCTION OFFICE5496 Chamblee Dunwoody Road

Dunwoody, GA 30338

770-392-0900; Fax: 770-392-0912

OLD PEACHTREE BRANCH1035 Old Peachtree Road, NW

Lawrenceville, GA 30043

678-638-4000; Fax: 678-638-4020

Register Today!www.pcbchurch.org

Vacation Bible SchoolJune 10-14

Completed K – 5th grade

Summer Dazestarts June 20th2 ½ yrs. (born by 12/31/10) –

complete 2nd grade

Sports CampsBaseball, Basketball and Volleyball

Peachtree Corners Baptist Church4480 Peachtree Corners Circle, Norcross

AD_PCBC_SummerCamps_May2013_third.indd 1 4/25/2013 10:17:40 PM

Saturday June 1Shemoves Atlanta-Suwanee 5k► Suwanee, GA Registration Closing Date: Friday May 31st @5pm

This is the second annual running of the shemoves Atlanta 5K, Suwanee - the ONLY Women’s Specific 5K. Our race will start in scenic Suwanee Town Center, run along the Suwanee Greenway,. All pre-registered participants will receive female fit tech tops. Each finisher will be greeted with a Dark Pink Gerber Daisy as a representation of friendship and a symbol of gratitude. Top 3 Overall and 1st through 3rd within Age Groups (Under-14, 14-19 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65+, Stroller Division, Fast-est Mom & Pup, Fastest Mom & Daughter Team) will receive custom awards.

Saturday, June 1st, 2012 Atlanta Half Marathon Relay► Peachtree Corners, GA START TIME: 6:30 AM Run or Walk HALF Marathon - 13.1 MILES Relay - 3.27 MILES (4 legs) 5k (3.27 - 1 leg) http://www.spincyclesports.com/RunEvents/Atlan-taHalfMarathonRelay.html

Saturday June 8th 2013Lace Up in the Fight Against Breast Cancer► Suwanee, GA

5K begins at 8:00 a.m. Fun Run to immediately follow. 7:00 a.m. Registration Begins $25 if registered before 6/1/2013 (includes t-shirt) $28 after 6/2 and $30 day of race Cost is $13.00. Parents who wish to run BOTH races may do so at no additional cost. http://laceup5k.blogspot.com/

Saturday June 8th 2013 Peachtree Corners Festival 5k► Peachtree Corners, GA

Fun Run & Charity Challenge, 7:30AM Saturday, June 8, 2013 - 10am-6pm Sunday, June 9, 2013 - noon-5pm http://www.iwelife.com/index.php?id=117


by REG L. CARVER

photograph by kAT GODUCO

Michelle Black is a visionary. She might not realize it, and even if she does, her humility would prevent her from acknowledging this truth. But through her dedi-cation and tireless efforts, she has become a serious runner – in an incredibly short amount of time. Just as important, in a very unique way she is encouraging others to live healthy lifestyles.

A SIMPLE GOAL

It started with a simple enough goal. “I just wanted to get back to my high school weight.” Black (41), a New Jersey native, re-members realizing the root of her problem. “I moved to Georgia in 1999, and discovered that Southern social life revolves around eat-ing. I quickly gained ten pounds – and then it grew to 35.”

BECOMING A RUNNER

In November 2009, Black joined Life Time Fitness. She altered her eating habits, and tried various forms of exercise – running, one-on-one personal training, CrossFit, as well as boot camp training. Enjoying it all, she found running to be a passion.

Almost immediately after she starting run-

michelle BlacK mUch mOre than miles


ning, a girlfriend urged her to run the Atlan-ta Women’s Day 5K held in March 2010. Ac-cepting the challenge, she started slowly but steadily. “I ran around the track at the Shorty Howell Park football field, working up to run-ning a mile without stopping. I also trained on a treadmill, gradually increasing my dis-tance.” Just two months later, she doubled her distance running the Blimpie 10K at Su-wanee Town Center. In just six months, Black had gone from not being able to run one mile without stopping to posting a remarkable 1:06 time at her first 10K.

THE RUNNING GETS SERIOUS

Soon, Black found she needed to run. “If I don’t get to run, I feel empty.” Learning to train properly, she has been able to reach ever-increasing distances rapidly. “Running is a core exercise. The stronger your core, the better runner you’ll be. So I lift weights, swim, do Pilates, and stretch. But all this is a means to the end of running.”

Not surprisingly, Black immediately began setting her sites on the next challenge – the half marathon. She signed up for the San Francisco Half Marathon, which would be held in July 2010 (now just eight months into running.) And by this time, she was starting to see real changes in her body. “I had lost 25 pounds of body fat, and was also starting to see muscle.”

For the half marathon, Black trained on the Silver Comet Trail (it runs from Smyrna to the Georgia/Alabama border). After com-pleting the San Francisco Half Marathon (literally on the same night of the race!), she registered for her next one – the Rock & Roll Virginia Beach Half Marathon to be held over

the Labor Day weekend. “I set a goal of running a half marathon in each state. By the end of 2010, I had run seven.” (As of this publication, she has completed over 40 half marathons in 14 states plus Puerto Rico and Bermuda.)

The full marathon beckoned. In March 2011, she completed her first – the Snickers Marathon in Albany, Georgia. Setting another goal with the full marathon, she aims to run one on each of the world’s continents. (As of now, she has run seven full marathons – in Georgia, Tennessee, Washington, DC, Paris, France, and has another later this year in Ber-lin, Germany.)

As serious a runner as Black is (training four to five days per week, with the weekend bringing a long run), it’s not her own personal achievement that is most important to her. “I love the running community. Everyone is al-ways encouraging one another. I run into the same people at a lot of races – it’s like a family. We’re all supporting each other.”

Everyone Black encounters is affected by her enthusiasm. Says Angie Comer, her first personal trainer, “she is an inspiration and motivation to everyone she meets. Ev-erywhere she goes people from all walks of life know her and her connection to living a healthy way of life.” Adding to this sentiment is Delanie West, a friend and running buddy, “Michelle’s dedication to fitness and running has been an inspiration to me and many of the athletes in our network.”

RUNNING FOR A CAUSE

With a goal to raise awareness regarding diabetes, Black has started a race of her own – iRunAgainstDiabetes. The first annual race will take place the weekend of June 21, 2013

17

and will offer a 5K, 10K, and half marathon. This is a special accomplishment for Black. “I started iRunAgainstDiabetes because I come from a family with a history of Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, as well as hypertension. Most of my family members developed these health issues due to lack of exercise and an unhealthy diet. This led me to wanting to run for a cause that was close to home.”

Michelle Black has progressed very quick-ly to become the runner she is today. All the miles, all the friendships - running has brought many blessings. All of them have en-riched her life in ways she never imagined. She sums it up simply - “I am loving life and all that it has to offer.”

REG L. CARvER is a writer and designer from Johns Creek, Georgia. You may find him at www.reglcarver.com.

Formed by a small group of individuals who enjoy overall fitness and clean eating, the first annual iRunAgainstDiabetes is a virtual 5k/10k/Half Marathon with a goal of raising awareness and aiding in the prevention and treatment of Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes.

Race participants choose their distance, register on-line, receive a race bib, and then run, jog or walk their race anytime between 1:00 AM Friday June 21, 2013 and 11:00 PM Monday June 24, 2013. Participants may choose to race alone, or with a group of family and friends, and racers may choose any location whatsoever for their race. (There will be designated Challenge Weekend locations for those wishing to join a group.) After the race, participants may post their results and will receive a finisher’s medal. All results are on the “honor system.” Prizes will also be awarded. Proceeds of the race will benefit the American Diabetes Association. To register, donate, or sponsor, please visit www.iRunAgainstDiabetes.com.

MICHELLE BLACk



by ABBY WILkERSON

photograph by kATE AWTREY

You could say that Zoe Frazier was born into the sport of cy-cling.

Like most children, Frazier’s father taught her how to ride a bicycle. She may have had a leg up on the other kids in her neigh-borhood – her dad, Ralph, is the owner of Frazier Cycling, Inc. A cycling enthusiast for over 30 years, Ralph has outfitted and trained hundreds of cyclists at his Suwanee, Georgia organization, including his daughter. “It wasn’t really any different than train-ing the other highly motivated kids on the team,” said Ralph Frazier. “She was moti-vated because her older brother was riding. We saw her potential early on, when she was beating all the boys in her age group.

A senior at Collins Hill High School, 17 year-old Frazier has been racing road bikes competitively since she was 10 years old. She trains six days a week, including 50 mile rides each Saturday and Sunday year-round when she isn’t competing.

“Waking up early for school is already hard enough, but doing it over the weekends when most of my friends are sleeping in- it’s defi-nitely a challenge,” Frazier commented. “But I think that when you become accustomed to

ZOe FraZier the BalancinG act

a schedule, it becomes normal and it doesn’t seem so bad. I’ve missed out on staying out late with my friends, getting involved in other extracurricular activities, and just re-laxing when I want to, but there is no doubt that the rewards for hard work and commit-ment outweigh the sacrifices. I still have time to hang out with my friends and go to parties and stay out late, I just have to balance things and know what’s most important to me.”

When asked what do you makes Frazier de-termined, passionate, and strong in the face of competition and adversity, her father an-swered, “She likes to win and she doesn’t like losing. She likes racing better than training. Her consistency in training and racing makes her strong.”

“It is very hard to keep girls in the sport after they enter high school because being different is not something teenage girls want – they want to blend in and spending time being social is a huge part of their life. They don’t want to miss sleepovers, after school activities and hanging out – all which impact the amount of time to do practices, “said Zoe’s mother, Cathy Frazier.

A category 2 racer, Frazier often competes with professional women cyclists in road, track, and cyclo-cross – a road bike-mountain bike hybrid featuring pavement, trails, and obstacles requiring the rider to quickly dis-mount, carry the bike while navigating the obstruction, and remount. She is a two-time road national champion, has a silver medal in track, and dozens of state championships.

“Competitive cycling is very demanding. Girls just are not used to pushing themselves past the physical pain needed to win,” said Cathy. “Cycling is not a sport for girls who worry about looking good while competing.

And then there is always the possibility of crashing at top speeds. Few have the guts to overcome that aspect of the sport. As far as being a professional woman cyclist, the road is hard and the pay is meager.”

An honor roll student, Frazier will attend Marian University (Indiana) on a cycling and academic scholarship, competing in road, track, and cyclo-cross. She plans on major-ing in sports marketing and hopes to one day work at a company like Nike or Oakley. Frazier already has one foot in the world of sports marketing – in her extremely limited free time, she models cycling clothing for an international company owned by cycling great George Hincapie.

“I like being surrounded by athletes and enjoy the advertisement field. Together, it’s the perfect career,” said Frazier.

“We’re glad that Zoe has decided on Mar-ian,” Marian head coach Dean Peterson said. “Many collegiate programs would have been lucky to have her. She comes from a cycling family, has been in the sport a long time, and I am confident she will grow as a cyclist and person while a student-athlete here.”

ABBy WILKERSoN, born and raised in Dalton, Georgia, has worked in sports marketing, is a UGA grad and country girl living in Atlanta.

19

ZOE FRAZIER



emilY Gaines strenGth FrOm withinby REG L. CARVER

photograph by kAT GODUCO

Emily Gaines (23) makes a memorable first impres-sion. But it may not be the one you would expect from someone noted for raw phys-ical strength. She is striking with a sort of classic French beauty and style, and has an aura of genuine goodness. Upon meeting her, you ex-perience a lifting – the same feeling brought about by an unseasonably warm Georgia day. You never forget these days, and you wish they would come around more often. Indeed, just like the earliest days of spring, you are delighted Gaines has ar-rived, and you smile, hoping your time with her will last a bit, and that your first meet-ing with her will not be your last.

A GEORGIA POWERLIFTING RECORD HOLDER

iJust weeks ago, on March 23, the USA Powerlifting Battle on the Border VII (with

weightlifters from Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina) took place in Fort Mill, South Carolina. Snellville native and lifelong resident Emily Gaines participated as a “full lifter” (one lifting in all events – squat, bench press, and deadlift). At the meet’s close, she felt disappointed in her performance, feel-ing she had not had her best day. But on the bus ride back to Georgia, her trainer (Josh Rohr of Duluth’s Quest Gym) gave her some great news – Gaines had in fact performed very well, setting a new Georgia record for the bench press (121 pounds) for her age and weight class. Incredibly, she had been lifting weights for just ten months.

MODEST BEGINNINGS AND RAPID PROGRESS

Gaines began lifting weights in May 2012 at the urging of her boyfriend. At the time, she had been hoping to find a sport in which to get involved. on her first visit to the gym, she felt drawn to the free weights area and, as she puts it, “immediately fell in love.” After researching different types of weight-lifting, she started looking for a trainer. “I stumbled upon powerlifting and by the grace of God found [Josh Rohr and] Quest Gym. He has been the most wonderful coach and I wouldn’t be able to do this without his guid-ance.”

Gaines’ passion was ignited quickly. After battling bouts of anxiety and depression her whole life, she says, “that ended when I began lifting.” She started easy (literally benching only a broom stick at first), gradually adding weight. But in no time, she became a serious powerlifter. She entered her first competi-tion in August 2012, only three months after beginning the sport.

Gaines’ progress is most assuredly attrib-utable to her pure love for the sport. At a loss for the words to explain, she notes, “it’s something about digging down deep into yourself – to really power through. It’s seeing what you’re made of. There’s a love there - emotional in a sense.”

Josh Rohr, Gaines’ trainer/coach, sees spe-cial qualities in Gaines. “Usually, I have to convince my female clients to give it a try, but she came to me full speed with the desire to do it. She is always at least 30 minutes ear-ly to training and most times is the last one to leave when we’re done. Emily is a great role model and representative of the sport of powerlifting. She is soft spoken and very unassuming, and because of that, she is able to approach other women and invite them to try competing without [their] being intimi-dated. It has been a pleasure to watch Emily progress over the last year, and I am excited to see what is in store, not only for her, but for the other people whom she influences in this sport.”

FUTURE AS TRAINER

Gaines plans to lift as long as she’s able and sets no limits. “I want to lift as much as I possibly can.” (Her next competition is the 5th Annual USA National Powerlifting Championships on July 19 – 21 in Orlando.) She currently is a licensed massage therapist, specializing in sports massage. She also plans to study exercise science at Life University, and hopes to become a personal trainer. She aspires to work with teenagers noting, “they are the future of the sport of powerlifting.”

The future is bright for Gaines. Who knows where powerlifting will take her – or where

21

CARTER GOVERNALE

she will take it. With her passion, courage, and desire to show others the way, she is a natural ambassador for the sport. And Gaines knows her sport is about much more than physical strength, providing valuable life les-sons. “[Powerlifting] has taught me that you might not always reach your goals on your first attempt, but you make adjustments and try again.”

REG L. CARvER is a writer and designer from Johns Creek, Georgia. You may find him at www.reglcarver.com.



KinseY DZiwUra anD JOrDYn missel tOUGh tanDem by TONY RONCO

photograph by kATE AWTREY

Sophomore, Jordyn Missel, and freshman, Kinsey Dzi-wura, are leading their high school soccer team. The two have combined for eleven goals and three assists this season for the Peachtree Ridge Lions. They’ve done this before. This may be the first time the pair has sported the blue and white together, but Jordyn and Kinsey have been teammates for nearly half their lives. Together, they have experienced tri-umph and adversity, leaving them tough. Just two years ago, Jordyn and Kinsey were released from the club team they had been a part of for years prior. This was a shock for both girls. Emotions stirred. They were sad, let down, upset- crushed. For Kinsey, this was the only club team she had ever known. Where do I go from here? She thought. Jor-dyn felt like quitting. She felt like she was no longer good enough to keep playing.

THE STORY COULD END HERE.

Both girls could have given up soccer and spent more time going to the mall with

friends. But these girls were tough and they had each other. Said Jordyn, “What kept me going was knowing that I always had Kinsey and someone that was going through the same thing as me. We told each other that we were good enough and not to let one coach tell us differently.” Both girls responded proactively to the situation and immediately tried out for other club teams. Jordyn was so determined that she called one of her former coaches, Craig Peterson.

“Coach Craig,” she said, “I want you to help me get better because I’m going to be a start-ing forward for the Peachtree Ridge Varsity Team.” After a summer of workouts with her former coach, and a fall season on a new club team, Jordyn, now receiving serious attention from colleges such as Kennesaw State, ended up as starting forward for Peachtree Ridge in the spring, just as she had said. Her long time friend and teammate, Kinsey, would follow in her footsteps just a year later.

EARLIER THIS SEASON, Peachtree Ridge went on the road to play Brookwood High School. This was not a game the Lions were supposed to win as Brookwood was 7-1 entering the game. Once again, Jordyn was determined. She scored a goal early on in the game, her first of the season. She then went on to score another and then another and then another. The Lions eventually won the game 4-3. But Jordyn and Kinsey are good for more than just goals. During the Brookwood game, the Lions’ standout goalie, Cosette Morche, went down with an injury and would not be avail-able for the next game against Mill Creek. The timing was not perfect as the Lions would be up against senior forward, Lauren Tanner. Tanner was coming off of a season in which

she had scored 23 goals and was looking for-ward to her next season in which she will be playing for the University of Georgia. It was Jordyn and Kinsey’s job to stop her. Jordyn, a 5’2 forward, was assigned to fill in for the injured Morche at goalie and Kinsey was as-signed to Lauren Tanner.

Before the game, Peachtree Ridge Head Coach, Megan Hill, told Kinsey, “You have to mark Lauren Tanner and follow her wher-ever she goes. Don’t let her leave your side. If she comes off the field, you come off the field. If she goes to the bathroom, you go to the bathroom.”

“I was nervous before the game,” said Kin-sey. “Lauren Tanner is amazing. I was sur-prised how much trust my coach put in me as a freshman.” But Kinsey was determined. She took what her coach said to heart and shut down Tanner by not allowing her even one shot on goal. Jordyn had a great game too. Despite being out of her natural position, she only allowed one goal the entire game.

THE TWO GIRLS HAVE PROVED TO BE INVALUABLE. Coach Hill is very pleased with both of them. “You ask to give 110% when you’re out there on the field and they do it every time. They work very well together….they have a con-nection.” And their character has seemed to have spread to other girls on the team. “They are underclassman leaders,” said Hill. “They’ve got heart. If we’re losing they don’t give up. If we’re winning, they don’t let down. I think they keep the team going.”

Maybe they can thank adversity for all of this. Jordyn’s father, Kerry Missel, attributes divine sovereignty to his daughter’s soccer career and friendship with Kinsey. “They’ve

23

kINSEY DZIWURA AND JORDYN MISSEL

bonded over the years and have become real-ly close,” said Kerry. “I think it’s part of God’s plan that they’re on the same team.”

Without going through adversity with each other, they may not be who they are today. Kinsey said of her release from her former club team, “It taught me to never give up.” And Jordyn said of her teammate, Kinsey, “She has taught me to believe in myself.”

There’s no telling what the future will hold for Jordyn and Kinsey. One thing that can be certain is their response to the events to

come. They will most likely remain positive. They will stay confident. They will always be determined. And they will be tough.

TONY RONCO is a recently graduated college baseball player and Gwinnett native.


Rachel Havens, with more than a decade of team play under her cleats, doesn’t re-

member a time when she didn’t play soccer. On Nov. 6, 2011, as a freshman, Rachel was still playing on a club team, looking forward to trying out for the Peachtree Ridge high school team in the spring. To this day, Rachel has little memory of playing that game or of what followed.

“It was an ordinary game,” says Rachel’s mom, Paige Havens, “one like a thousand others. Rachel had a collision and both girls ended up on the ground. When Rachel got up, she was holding her side, but she gave me the wave that means, ‘I’m okay.’ This was only five minutes into the first half, and she played another 35 minutes. None of us sensed anything was wrong.”

“After halftime, when I walked over,” says

agreed to let her try out when she was ready.”

Even after the headache stopped and Ra-chel’s ImPACT scores hit a plateau, showing that her brain was likely back to normal, Ra-chel worked closely with GMC’s Crystal Fra-zier, head athletic trainer at Peachtree Ridge, to take baby steps back into physical activ-ity. For months, stressful situations could suddenly leave Rachel with other problems, which taken together are called conversion disorder, a condition in which psychological stress manifests in apparently neurological-ly-caused symptoms.

“When the first one happened,” says Paige, “Rachel went paralyzed for 14 hours. Again we rushed her to the emergency department, this time at GMC-Lawrenceville. With Dr. Pombo on the phone, the emergency doctors did a full workup and determined the pa-ralysis was conversion disorder. After a long sleep, Rachel’s legs were fine again.”

With the team of Dr. Pombo, Frazier, her soccer coach and family, Rachel slowly be-gan filling the role of team manager for the high school team. Finally, five months after her concussion, Rachel was given clearance and she played the last two games of the sea-son, as well as the junior varsity playoffs. At the annual banquet, Rachel won the Coaches’ Award for perseverance and dedication to the team.

“I’m the type that pushes myself physi-cally,” says Rachel. “I’d love to play soccer in college, and maybe even coach.”

ImPACTGWINNETT MEDICAL CENTER offers ImPACT (Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing) to team athletes in area high schools. But as a freshman, Rachel was not yet on the high school’s soccer team – her injury had occurred during a club team game – so she had not had the baseline test, and, in fact, did not know that this helpful testing was available. The athletic trainers that GMC provides to area high schools can offer ImPACT to students who are not, or not yet, on the high school teams, as long as they fall into the right age group. Contact your high school’s coach or athletic train-er to learn more. If your child is not part of an area high school that offers ImPACT, contact Tim Simmons at [email protected] to find out other avenues to utilize ImPACT.

Paige, “she did not know who I was.”

Rachel had a terrible headache, couldn’t see and was very lethargic. Paige rushed her to Gwinnett Medical Center-Duluth. Carlton Buchanan, M.D., was on duty, and a CAT scan confirmed that there was no internal bleed-ing. Like thousands of athletes, Rachel had suffered a concussion. Dr. Buchanan advised Rachel to take pain medication for the head-ache, and told her to see a specialist as soon as possible.

A few days later Rachel had her first visit with Mathew Pombo, M.D. In addition to be-ing a sports medicine and orthopedic special-ist who serves on the Gwinnett Medical Cen-ter Sports Medicine committee, Dr. Pombo is a former soccer player. “That gave me con-fidence that he really did understand Rachel and could guide us through this,” says Paige.

“People are surprised to learn that the girls’ soccer has a high rate of concussions, second only to boys’ football,” says Dr. Pom-bo. “The way to recover from a concussion is to have complete rest – physically and men-tally. It’s tough to do this when you’re com-petitive both in your athletics and in your academics. Half of athletes with concussions return to play too soon.”

“I asked them about Rachel’s recent games,” continues Dr. Pombo, “and we think she might have had a concussion a few months before, and that it had not healed sufficiently. That could be why the November collision, although it looked minor to start with, was so damaging.”

In Dr. Pombo’s office, Rachel partook in the computer-based ImPACT (Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing). When Rachel’s ImPACT results were in, Paige was horrified to learn that the con-cussion had drastically reduced her honor student daughter’s cognitive level, meaning Rachel’s brain was functioning well below normal. “But Dr. Pombo reassured us,” says Paige. “He said, ‘We’ll get her better.’”

“My greatest challenge over the next months,” says Paige, “was educating Rachel’s high school teachers.” Although Rachel looked normal, she had a constant headache for 130 days, was extremely sensitive to light, fatigued easily and could suddenly develop optical migraines, which would take away her ability to read. Utilizing Gwinnett Coun-ty Public Schools’ Form 504, which lays out academic provisions to help a child who has special needs, whether permanent or tempo-rary, Paige recorded everything Dr. Pombo ordered to help Rachel recover.

“Dr. Pombo realized playing soccer was part of what made Rachel, Rachel,” adds Paige. “He worked with us to ease her back into training, and the high school coach

rachel havens impactinGcOncUsiOnprOBlems

25

by MATTHEW W. QUINN

Gwinnett residents suffering from athletic injuries have many local treatment options, making driv-ing into the Atlanta area traffic un-

necessary for someone who is injured and in pain, requiring immediate specialized medi-cal attention.

“We’re predominately a certified athletic trainer outreach program,” said Tim Sim-mons, who manages the sports medicine program at Gwinnett Medical Center in Duluth.

GMC provides certified athletic train-ers in collaboration with sports medicine physicians in order to educate the com-munity and prevent injuries. Those GMC helps include Gwinnett and North Fulton high schools, the Gwinnett Gladiators, the Gwinnett Arena, and soccer and lacrosse leagues in Gwinnett. GMC provides its as-sociates at no cost to these organizations, as a community benefit and outreach.

These trainers manage all injuries or po-tential injuries. A variety of emergency action plans are in place so trainers can quickly step in and evaluate any situations they see, enabling treatment and rehabili-tation to start immediately.

In addition, GMC provides educational services such as four mandatory events all Gwinnett County coaches must attend. These sessions teach them about topics like concussion, nutrition, hydration, and how to recognize heat injuries.

Dr. Gary Levengood owns Lawrenceville’s Sports Medicine South. He specializes in ar-throscopic surgery on the shoulders and knees, although he also does total joint re-placement. He takes care of athletes from lo-cal public and private schools and serves as the doctor for the Atlanta Fire soccer team.

Levengood has seven athletic trainers in his office who work for him as well as GMC. These trainers allow him to assist schools and athletic events like triathlons.

one of Levengood’s common tasks is ACL re-construction, as well as rotator cuff repairs, Achilles tendon reconstruction, and other kinetic injuries. Through GMC, he has the IM-

spOrts meDicine GUiDe

Great Medicine Serving Great Athletes

PACT anti-concussion program that pre-tests athletes’ brain function to establish a base-line to compare their condition should they suffer head injuries.

Every athlete wants to return to their pre-injury level of performance and they want to accomplish this as soon as possible. Dr. Lev-

engood does this through physical therapy, athletic training, and surgery. Each athlete gets individualized attention, as no two ath-letes or injuries are alike.

Dr. Mathew Pombo’s Sports Medicine and Orthopaedic Institute of Gwinnett in Duluth provides sports medicine to Berkmar, Shiloh, and Meadow Creek High Schools. They have full-time athletic trainers who provide a con-cussion program and physicals for athletes. Pombo said being on-site and being there is an important part of what the institute does.

The practice has recently expanded its office,

adding more rooms to reduce patient waiting time and provide better service. Fully elec-tronic medical records and new X-rays have been added as well, as have amenities like In-ternet in the waiting room.

Since Pombo is the only fellowship-trained concussion physician in the state of Georgia,

he sees many patients with concussions.

“I treated 900 concussions last year,” he said.

Pombo said his practice has been patron-ized by professional athletes, but “week-end warriors” receive the same kind of care and attention that the pros do.

This sampling of sports medicine provid-ers is why Gwinnett athletes are among the best in the State of Georgia. Keeping our athletes functioning at their highest and optimum level is what sets Gwinnett sports apart from the rest, of course, these services are open and readily available to everyone suffering from any sports related injury, but it’s another jewel in the crown for Gwinnett County and its residents.

Tim Simmons and Malliciah Goodman training


spOrts meDicine GUiDeThis is an abbreviated guide of practices and organizations in Gwinnett. If you’ve find that we have omitted practices working with schools or other youth organizations please feel free to update us by emailing: [email protected], subject line “Sports Medicine Guide”

Practice Name tyPe of Practice address Website school affiliatioNAcademy Orthopedics Orthopedics/ Sports Medicine 3540 Duluth Park Ln. NW. Suite 220. Duluth, GA 30096 www.academyorthopedics.com

Academy Orthopedics Orthopedics/ Sports Medicine 3929 Carter Rd. Building C. Buford, GA 30518 www.academyorthopedics.com

Atlanta Center for Athletes Orthopedics/ Sports Medicine 5805 State Bridge Rd. Suite 377. Johns Creek, GA 30097 www.atlantacenterforathletes.com

Atlanta Orthopedics Orthopedics/ Sports Medicine 545 Old Norcross Rd. Suite 300. Lawrenceville, GA 30046 www.atlantaordopedics.com

Atlanta Rehabilitation & Performance Center Sports Medicine/ Physical Therapy 2108 Teron Trace. Suite 200. Dacula, GA 30019 atlantarehab.com

Breslow Chiropractic Clinic Sports Medicine/ Chiropractic 3500 Duluth Park Ln. NW. Suite 810. Duluth, GA 30096 drbreslow.com Chattahoochee Cougars, John’s Creek Gladiators, Berkmar Patriots, Northview High

Children’s Healthcare at Suwanee Orthopedics/ Sports Medicine 3640 Burnett Rd. Suwanee, GA 30024 www.choa.org/suwanee

Children’s healthcare at Duluth Orthopedics/ Sports Medicine 2270 Duluth Highway 120, Suite 200, Duluth, GA 30037 www.choa.org/duluth

Children’s Healthcare at Snellville Orthopedics/ Sports Medicine 2220 Wisteria Drive, Snellville, GA 30078 www.choa.org/snellville

Children’s Healthcare at Hamilton Mill Orthopedics/ Sports Medicine 2108 Eron Trace, Suite 200, Dacular, GA 30019

Dekalb Medical Sports Medicine 2801 N. Decatur Road Suite 200 Decatur, GA 30033 www.dekalbmedical.org Collins Hill High School, Grayson High School

Dr. David S. Ficco Sports Medicine/ Chiropractic 3550 Lawrenceville Suwanee Rd. Suite 112. Suwanee, GA 30024 www.drficco.com

Dr. JiMong’s Miracle Acupuncture Sports Medicine/ Acupuncture 2550 Pleasant Hill Rd. Suite 417. Duluth, GA 30096 www.drjimong.com

Dr. Robert J. Guerreso Sports Medicine 1730 Lawrenceville Suwanee Rd. Lawrenceville, GA 30043

Elite Sports Medicine Sports Medicine/ Physical Therapy 2914 Vinson Ct. Buford, GA 30518

Elite Sports Medicine Sports Medicine/ Physical Therapy 2085 Hamilton Mill Rd. Dacula, GA 30019 www.elitesportsmedicine.com

Georgia Knee and Sports Medicine General Orthopedics 2801 North Decatur Rd.Suite 200 Decatur, GA 30033 www.mjovemd.com Parkview High School, Archer High School

Georgia Spine and Sports Rehab Sports Medicine/ Chiropractic 4271 S. Lee St. Suite 201. Buford, GA 30518 www.georgiaspineandsportsrehab.com

Georgia Sports Medicine Orthopedics/ Sports Medicine/ Phy Ther 3625 Braselton Hwy. Suite 206. Dacula, GA 30019 www.longstreetclinic.com Dacula High, North Gwinnett High, Flowery Branch High, Lanier High

Georgia Sports Medicine at The Longstreet Clinic Orthopedics/Sports Medicine/Phy Ther 6340 Sugarloaf Pkwy #375 Duluth, GA www.longstreetclinic.com Dacula High, North Gwinnett High, Flowery Branch High, Lanier High

Gwinnett Medical Center Sports Medicine 1000 Medical Center Boulevard, Lawrenceville, GA 30046 www.gwinnettmedicalcenter.org

Gwinnett Medical Center Athletic Training 3620 Howell Ferry Road Duluth, GA 30096 www.gwinnettsportsmed.com Chattahoochee High, Duluth High,Peachtree Ridge High, Mountain View High,

Gwinnett Orthopedics and Sports Medicine of Georgia Orthopedics/ Sports Medicine 3855 Pleasant Hill Rd. Suite 470. Duluth, GA 30096 www.gwinnettsportsmedicine.com

NGPG Sports Medicine Buford (AKA Sports Medicine) Sports Medicine 4889 Golden Pkwy. Suite 100. Buford, GA 30518 www.ngpg.org/john-alsobrook-md

OrthoAtlanta Orthopedics/ Sports Medicine 5955 State Bridge Rd. Suite 200. Johns Creek, GA 30097 www.orthoatlanta.com Chattahoochee High

OrthoAtlanta Physical Therapy 771 Old Norcross Road, Suite 390 Lawrenceville, GA 30046 www.orthoatlanta.com Duluth High School

Peachtree Orthopedic Clinic Orthopedics/ Sports Medicine 3870 Pleasant Hill Rd #1, Duluth, GA 30096 www.pocatlanta.com

Pediatric Orthopedic Assoc. Orthopedics/ Sports Medicine 575 Professional Dr. Suite 550. Lawrenceville, GA 30045 mypedsordo.com

Performance Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Orthopedics/ Sports Medicine 771 Old Norcross Rd. Suite 155. Lawrenceville, GA 30046 www.performanceatl.com

Physicians Immedicate Medicine Sports Medicine 3720 Holcomb Bridge Rd. Norcross, GA 30092 www.physiciansimmediatemed.com

ProHealth Integrated Sports Medicine/ Chiropractic/ Phy Ther 1431 Riverside Pkwy. Lawrenceville, GA 30043 www.prohealthinfo.com

Resurgens Orthopedics Orthopedics/ Sports Medicine 758 Old Norcross Rd. Suite 100. Lawrenceville, GA 30046 www.resurgens.com

Salyers Chiropractic Sports Medicine/ Chiropractic/Phy Ther 4995 Lanier Islands Pkwy. Buford, GA 30518 www.coachsalyerschiropractic.com Flowery Branch High, Davis Middle

Sports Medicine South Orthopedics/ Sports Medicine/ Phy Ther 1900 Riverside Pkwy. Lawrenceville, GA 30043 www.sportsmedsouth.com Brookwood High, Mountain View High, Norcross High

Suwanee Family Physicians Sports Medicine 960 Peachtree Industrial Blvd. Suwanee, GA 30024 www.suwaneedoctor.com Chattahoochee High

27

Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Sports Medicine choa.org/sportsmed 404-785-6880

PROGRAMS AND SERVICES INCLUDE:

• ACLinjuryprevention• Concussion• Dancemedicine• Running• Motionanalysis• Sportsnutrition• Sportsphysicaltherapy• Swimming• Wrestlingweightmanagement Gwinnett locations include Duluth, Snellville and Suwanee. Opening in Dacula in June. (addresses below)

► CHILDREN’S AT DULUTH 2270 Duluth Highway 120, Suite 200 Duluth, GA 30097

► CHILDREN’S AT SNELLVILLE 2220 Wisteria Drive Snellville, GA 30078

► CHILDREN’S AT SUWANEE 3640 Burnette Rd Suwanee, GA 30024

► CHILDREN’S AT HAMILTON MILL OPENING JUNE 2013 2108 Teron Trace, Suite 200 Dacula, GA 30019

Children's Healthcare of Atlanta is affiliated with several organizations in Gwinnett:

► Suwanee Sports Academy ► Georgia Gymnastics Academy (Boys and girls basketball, volleyball) ► Swim Atlanta (Gwinnett)► Gwinnett Gymnastics ► Gymnastix► Ultimate Gymnastics ► Georgia Soccer► Norcross Soccer Academy ► Gwinnett Swim and Dive

Practice Name tyPe of Practice address Website school affiliatioNAcademy Orthopedics Orthopedics/ Sports Medicine 3540 Duluth Park Ln. NW. Suite 220. Duluth, GA 30096 www.academyorthopedics.com

Academy Orthopedics Orthopedics/ Sports Medicine 3929 Carter Rd. Building C. Buford, GA 30518 www.academyorthopedics.com

Atlanta Center for Athletes Orthopedics/ Sports Medicine 5805 State Bridge Rd. Suite 377. Johns Creek, GA 30097 www.atlantacenterforathletes.com

Atlanta Orthopedics Orthopedics/ Sports Medicine 545 Old Norcross Rd. Suite 300. Lawrenceville, GA 30046 www.atlantaordopedics.com

Atlanta Rehabilitation & Performance Center Sports Medicine/ Physical Therapy 2108 Teron Trace. Suite 200. Dacula, GA 30019 atlantarehab.com

Breslow Chiropractic Clinic Sports Medicine/ Chiropractic 3500 Duluth Park Ln. NW. Suite 810. Duluth, GA 30096 drbreslow.com Chattahoochee Cougars, John’s Creek Gladiators, Berkmar Patriots, Northview High

Children’s Healthcare at Suwanee Orthopedics/ Sports Medicine 3640 Burnett Rd. Suwanee, GA 30024 www.choa.org/suwanee

Children’s healthcare at Duluth Orthopedics/ Sports Medicine 2270 Duluth Highway 120, Suite 200, Duluth, GA 30037 www.choa.org/duluth

Children’s Healthcare at Snellville Orthopedics/ Sports Medicine 2220 Wisteria Drive, Snellville, GA 30078 www.choa.org/snellville

Children’s Healthcare at Hamilton Mill Orthopedics/ Sports Medicine 2108 Eron Trace, Suite 200, Dacular, GA 30019

Dekalb Medical Sports Medicine 2801 N. Decatur Road Suite 200 Decatur, GA 30033 www.dekalbmedical.org Collins Hill High School, Grayson High School

Dr. David S. Ficco Sports Medicine/ Chiropractic 3550 Lawrenceville Suwanee Rd. Suite 112. Suwanee, GA 30024 www.drficco.com

Dr. JiMong’s Miracle Acupuncture Sports Medicine/ Acupuncture 2550 Pleasant Hill Rd. Suite 417. Duluth, GA 30096 www.drjimong.com

Dr. Robert J. Guerreso Sports Medicine 1730 Lawrenceville Suwanee Rd. Lawrenceville, GA 30043

Elite Sports Medicine Sports Medicine/ Physical Therapy 2914 Vinson Ct. Buford, GA 30518

Elite Sports Medicine Sports Medicine/ Physical Therapy 2085 Hamilton Mill Rd. Dacula, GA 30019 www.elitesportsmedicine.com

Georgia Knee and Sports Medicine General Orthopedics 2801 North Decatur Rd.Suite 200 Decatur, GA 30033 www.mjovemd.com Parkview High School, Archer High School

Georgia Spine and Sports Rehab Sports Medicine/ Chiropractic 4271 S. Lee St. Suite 201. Buford, GA 30518 www.georgiaspineandsportsrehab.com

Georgia Sports Medicine Orthopedics/ Sports Medicine/ Phy Ther 3625 Braselton Hwy. Suite 206. Dacula, GA 30019 www.longstreetclinic.com Dacula High, North Gwinnett High, Flowery Branch High, Lanier High

Georgia Sports Medicine at The Longstreet Clinic Orthopedics/Sports Medicine/Phy Ther 6340 Sugarloaf Pkwy #375 Duluth, GA www.longstreetclinic.com Dacula High, North Gwinnett High, Flowery Branch High, Lanier High

Gwinnett Medical Center Sports Medicine 1000 Medical Center Boulevard, Lawrenceville, GA 30046 www.gwinnettmedicalcenter.org

Gwinnett Medical Center Athletic Training 3620 Howell Ferry Road Duluth, GA 30096 www.gwinnettsportsmed.com Chattahoochee High, Duluth High,Peachtree Ridge High, Mountain View High,

Gwinnett Orthopedics and Sports Medicine of Georgia Orthopedics/ Sports Medicine 3855 Pleasant Hill Rd. Suite 470. Duluth, GA 30096 www.gwinnettsportsmedicine.com

NGPG Sports Medicine Buford (AKA Sports Medicine) Sports Medicine 4889 Golden Pkwy. Suite 100. Buford, GA 30518 www.ngpg.org/john-alsobrook-md

OrthoAtlanta Orthopedics/ Sports Medicine 5955 State Bridge Rd. Suite 200. Johns Creek, GA 30097 www.orthoatlanta.com Chattahoochee High

OrthoAtlanta Physical Therapy 771 Old Norcross Road, Suite 390 Lawrenceville, GA 30046 www.orthoatlanta.com Duluth High School

Peachtree Orthopedic Clinic Orthopedics/ Sports Medicine 3870 Pleasant Hill Rd #1, Duluth, GA 30096 www.pocatlanta.com

Pediatric Orthopedic Assoc. Orthopedics/ Sports Medicine 575 Professional Dr. Suite 550. Lawrenceville, GA 30045 mypedsordo.com

Performance Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Orthopedics/ Sports Medicine 771 Old Norcross Rd. Suite 155. Lawrenceville, GA 30046 www.performanceatl.com

Physicians Immedicate Medicine Sports Medicine 3720 Holcomb Bridge Rd. Norcross, GA 30092 www.physiciansimmediatemed.com

ProHealth Integrated Sports Medicine/ Chiropractic/ Phy Ther 1431 Riverside Pkwy. Lawrenceville, GA 30043 www.prohealthinfo.com

Resurgens Orthopedics Orthopedics/ Sports Medicine 758 Old Norcross Rd. Suite 100. Lawrenceville, GA 30046 www.resurgens.com

Salyers Chiropractic Sports Medicine/ Chiropractic/Phy Ther 4995 Lanier Islands Pkwy. Buford, GA 30518 www.coachsalyerschiropractic.com Flowery Branch High, Davis Middle

Sports Medicine South Orthopedics/ Sports Medicine/ Phy Ther 1900 Riverside Pkwy. Lawrenceville, GA 30043 www.sportsmedsouth.com Brookwood High, Mountain View High, Norcross High

Suwanee Family Physicians Sports Medicine 960 Peachtree Industrial Blvd. Suwanee, GA 30024 www.suwaneedoctor.com Chattahoochee High


by TORI VOGT

Have you heard about the new guy in town? When it comes to restaurants in the Norcross High School

vicinity, Larry’s Giant Subs -- Home of the Big One -- is making a name for it-self with the locals. Co-owner Stephan Germain and his friendly staff build authentic fresh-to-order Philly Chees-esteaks, Italian subs, hot subs, NY deli sandwiches gourmet soups and salad platters and there’s even a kids menu. Larry’s prides itself in offering organic, natural and antibiotic-free selections as well as environ-mentally conscious packaging.

SportsGwinnett talked with Stephan Germain of Larry’s Gi-ant Subs and here’s an excerpt:

SG: Why Peachtree Corners as your newest restaurant location?

Stephan: For eight years, I’ve owned and operated a Larry’s Giant Subs in Athens, Ga., and with the success of being affiliated with Georgia Bulldogs fans, I wanted to use the same recipe. Researching prospec-tive locations, Peachtree Corners is a hotbed for nationally-recognized athletic programs, for one, and since opening our doors five months ago, it’s been great partnering with the community.

SG: What local causes do you support?

Stephan: Norcross High School’s base-ball, tennis, lacrosse, golf and football. In fact, the day before the 2012 Class AAAAAA Georgia football champi-

“He’s got a nutritionist and I’ve got

room service.”

- George Foreman, asked how he was training against his opponent

Evander Holyfield

RICO’S WORLD kITCHEN Buford, GA ricosworldkitchen.com

Want something different? When you’re in Buford, stop at Rico’s World kitchen and indulge in tasty and attractive hand-crafted regional and world comfort cuisine. Rico’s is proud sponsor of Buford High School sports teams.

FRONTERA MEx MEx GRILLE Suwanee, GA myfrontera.com

Located near Peachtree Ridge High School, Frontera’s Suwanee location is the perfect spot for lunch, dinner, coffee or drinks seven days of the week. Famous for its fajitas, Frontera boasts an extensive menu of the flavor of Mexico ranging from burritos and quesadillas to make-your-own combos and a south-of-the-border twist on burgers.

MCALISTER’S DELI Lawrenceville, GA mcalistersdeli.com

Want something different? When you’re in Buford, stop at Rico’s World kitchen and indulge in tasty and attractive hand-crafted regional and world comfort cuisine. Rico’s is proud sponsor of Buford High School sports teams.

THERE ARE GIANTS AMONG US LARRY’S GIANT SUBS

Question & Answer

NOW EATING AT

onship game, we treated every varsity Blue Devil football player to a sub! We’re also a proud supporter of Wesleyan High School spring sports -- baseball, golf and tennis.

In close proximity to Technology Park at the intersection of Peachtree Parkway and Peachtree Corners Circle, Larry’s offers a spacious yet cozy atmosphere with lots of seating for teams, families or solo diners. Cus-tomers will find ample parking merely footsteps from Larry’s Giant Subs in the newly renovated Interlochen Shopping Plaza that’s also home to

The Flying Biscuit and Dreamland BBQ.

What could be more fun than unveil-ing a line-up of six-foot submarine sandwiches at your next special event? For the kids or your inner child, Larry’s caters box lunches, party platters and its signature subs in a variety of sizes and ingredient combinations. What’s more, when we support our local businesses that sup-port our local sports teams.

5270 Peachtree Parkway, Suite 118B, Norcross, GA, 30092, 770-300-0804, larryssubs.com.

NOURISHGreat Places to Eat and Meet Friends and Teammates

NOUR

ISH

RICKY, Store Manager

29

GRIZZLIESGeorgia Gwinnett College Athletics

Junior Christian Van Camp drove in four runs as the Georgia Gwinnett baseball team ended its first-ever season on a high note by handling Loyola University New Orleans in doubleheader action Friday, April 26 in Law-renceville, reaching 30 wins on the year. The Grizzlies posted a 14-3 vic-tory in the opener before sailing to an 8-1 victory in game two to finish their inaugural year 30-25. Georgia Gwinnett belted 28 hits over the two games, finishing 17-9 in Lawrenceville. “Tonight was a great end to a great season,” Grizzlies head coach Brad Stromdahl said. “We really played well as a team in all phases. From pitching to getting hits to our defense, it was a total team effort.”

The Georgia Gwinnett softball team wrapped up its inaugural season in impressive fashion Sat-urday, rolling past Voorhees Col-lege with 16-0 and 14-0 victories in Denmark, S.C. “It’s not always easy to bounce back and this team did it all season long,” said Grizzlies head coach Kat Ihlenburg. “We just went out and played and had fun today. We played well defensively

GRIZZLY BASEBALL: GGC BLASTS LOYOLA TO CAP 30-WIN FIRST SEASON

GRIZZLY SOFTBALL: TEAM WRAPS INAUGURAL YEAR WITH BLOWOUT SWEEP AT VOORHEES COLLEGE

The Skinny

GRIZZLIES

Robbie Payne

and really ended the season on a high note.” Pitchers Ashley Beyke and Tif-fany Bailey combined for the win in game two as the Grizzlies finish their first-ever season at 18-26 Georgia Gwinnett won 15 of its final 25 games down the stretch. “Jordyn (Fones) had a great day for us, she saw the ball well,” said Ihlenburg. “She came through with

many RBIs and hit the ball hard. “Right now it’s the excitement of being the first and that owner-ship of beginning this program. We talked about it all season and what we wanted to accomplish.” The Grizzlies averaged over five runs per game on the year.

The Georgia Gwinnett tennis program hosted a day of fun in the sun in conjunction with Special Pops Tennis at the GGC Tennis Facility in Lawrenceville. Head coach Chase Hodges, Grizzly players and GGC staff taught lessons and held drills for high school-age players who were new to the game of tennis. Nearly 100 children attended the event, representing athletes with intellectual disabilities from around Gwinnett County. “The day was a tremendous event at the GGC Tennis Facility,” Hodges said. “The GGC teams enjoyed every minute of it and we feel fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with such a fantastic group of special kids. We plan on continuing this event on an annual basis.” Vicki Bennett, Special Pops Tennis program director and board member, says events like these are instrumental to the group’s cause. “We had a terrific time,” said Ben-nett. “These have always been sought-after field trips for the kids and we thank the volunteers and GGC staff for helping execute a great event.” Adaptive physical education teach-ers from around Gwinnett County helped staff the outing. Students from Central Gwinnett, Dacula, Duluth, Mill Creek and Nor-cross high schools, plus the Monarch School, all took part. Special Pops is an award-winning non-profit group that trains students and adults with intellectual dis-abilities. The organization has been honored by the USTA and prepares athletes for Special Olympics events The group also provides social development activities throughout the southeast. For more information on Special Pops Tennis, visit www.specialpopstennis.com.

The Grizzlies recently wrapped up their first season of competition on the courts, totaling a 16-4 record be-tween the men’s and women’s teams.

GRIZZLY TENNIS: GGC SERVES UP SMILES WITH YOUTH EVENT


Saturday May 18Bike Rodeo10:00 AM Bring your bikes out for a fun day in the park in conjunction with National Kids to Park Day! Challenge a friend to a bike relay race, decorate your bike, and get it checked for safety. All ages, $6/person. Must pre-register by 5/14. Bogan Park, 2723 North Bogan Rd, Buford. Register Here or call 678.277.0850.

National kids to Parks DayFamilies in cities and towns around the country will gather in parks for a nation-wide day of outdoor play, wildlife education, and kids’ crafts! Bring a picnic lunch and make it a day! Age 4-15, $2/child and free for adults. Shorty Howell Park, 2750 Pleasant Hill Rd., Duluth. Register here or call 678.277.0900.

Trivia Night6:00 PM Gather the gang and come test your knowledge of pop culture, history, science, sports, and more! We’ll provide drinks and popcorn and you can bring a snack to share with your team if you like. Age 18-up, $6/person. George Pierce Park Community Recre-ation Center, 55 Buford Hwy, Su-wanee must pre-register by 5/11. Register here or call 678.277.0910.

Monday, May 20Board Game Blastoff6:00 PM Launching a night of

Highlighted Parks and Recreation Events and Programs

PARKSfun and games! Enjoy a pizza din-ner and then challenge yourself to a game of scrabble, mahjong, chess and more! $10/person, must pre-register by 5/16. Bethesda Park Senior Center, 225 Bethesda Church Rd., Lawrenceville. Regis-ter here or call 678.277.0179.

Saturday June 1kids Fishing Day9:00 AM Free! Reel in some fun! Bring the kids for food, fun, priz-es and fishing for beginners to advanced. Rod and bait provided on a first come, first serve basis. No fishing license necessary. All ages. Jones Bridge Park, 4901 E. Jones Bridge Rd, Norcross. Call 678.277.0920 for more information.

Friday June 7, 2013Brown Bag Concert11:00 AM Free! Get transported to the islands with the cool sounds of Scott Douglas Steel Drums! Pack a lunch, bring a blanket, and enjoy the beautiful grounds on the square as we celebrate summer with music, crafts, face painting and more! Vendors can showcase their business, goods or sacks at this fun, family event, but must provide their own tent and proof of insurance. Items for sale must be approved. $86/ ven-dor for a 10 X 10 space, 1 table and 2 chairs. Gwinnett Historic Courthouse, 185 West Crogan St, Lawrenceville. Call 770.822.5450 to register.

Saturday June 8, 2013Beep kickball Play Day

9:00 AM Free Admission! New! We’re partnering with the Georgia Blind Sports Association for a fun, Beep Kickball Play Day! This is an adapted version of an old favorite game. All ages are welcome and blindfolds are optional for beginners. Shorty Howell Park Football Field, 2750 Pleasant Hill Rd, Duluth. Call 678.277.0900 for more information and to register or register here.

NEW-USTA 10 & Under TennisThe rules of tennis have changed. The court size has changed, the balls have changed and the racket size has changed. This class if for those juniors wishing to play ALTA and USTA in the Fall or Winter. This class will make sure your child is ready to play matches for the next season. Fee: Resident: $20.00 Non-resident: $24.00 For more information please call 770-497-5329

Shoot for the Stars - Michael DouglasShoot for the Stars Basketball Camps. Each camper will get to meet and spend one week of camp with special guests, profes-sional athletes, Harlem Legends Basketball members, and former NBA players. Boys and girls. Camper brings a lunch.

Fee: Resident: $135.00, Non-resident: $150.00 Ages: 7-14 Mon- Fri, 9am -3pm June 3 - 7 Bunten Raod Park Gym www.duluthga.net/recreation or call 770-814-6987

LITTLE MULBERRY PARk IMPROVEMENTS APPROVEDA NEW DISC GOLF COURSE IN THE WOODS, A PLAYGROUND COMPLEx, PICNIC PAVILION, OVERLOOk DECk, TRAIL ExPANSION, RESTROOMS AND PARkING ARE COMING SOON TO LITTLE MULBERRY PARk, FUNDED BY THE 2009 SPLOST PROGRAM.

Gwinnett commissioners on Tuesday approved a $1.9 million construction contract with the lowest of five bidders, the Astra Group Inc. Work is expected to take about a year.

A new entrance off Hog Moun-tain Road is also included in the phase-three plans for the popu-lar 890-acre passive park near Auburn. Existing facilities there include five miles of hiking and equestrian trails, a fishing lake, a scenic overlook at one of the highest points in the county, and the Karina Miller Preserve Loop Trail, which the U.S. Department of the Interior named a National Recreation Trail last year.

Current entrances to the park are at 3800 Hog Mountain Road, 3855 Fence Road, and the eques-trian trailhead at 1300 Mineral Springs Road. For more informa-tion, visit www.gwinnettparks.com.

PARK

S

31

WIN PRIZESEVERY WEEK!

Dinner, Show & Perks Packages

Give-A-Way Every Week

Drawn from Weekly Visitors!

For details visit

DULUTHNIGHTOUT.COM

Across from Eddie Owen Presents (EOP) in Downtown DuluthPizza | Appetizers | Calzones | Famous Subs | Burgers | Salads

Real Pizza!

3117 Main Street Duluth, GA770-622-2110steverinosduluth.com

20% OFF all DaYsUn, mOn & tUes expires JUne 15, 2013 - One coupon per visit

SCAN THE QR CODE TO LIKE OUR PAGE

Great FOr enD OF seasOn parties (private rOOm)

Harbins ParkHarbins Park is newest mountain biking trail system Gwinnett Area Trail Riders (GATR) takes care of. This a well signed stacked loop system of 6 trails com-monly referred to as MB1, MB2a, MB2b, MB3, MB4, and MB5. This is our most popular trail system because of its easy navigation for new riders to the park. All of the trails are begin-ner to intermediate totaling about 17 miles of linear mountain bike trail. http://www.sorbagatr.org/trails/trail-harbins/

Yellow River ParkYellow River Park (trail map pictured) is a great destination for residents of the south of Gwinnett County and the closest mountain bike trail system to many Atlanta area residents. This trail system is divided in two by Juhan Road that runs through the center of the park. The easier trails are on the river side and the more difficult ones on the creek side. The main trails are signed with many un-signed exploratory trails off of those. http://www.sorbagatr.org/trails/trail-yellow/

Tribble Mill ParkTribble Mill Park is the closest trail system we have to back country riding near the city. There are no signs on the network of trails and you have to use

landmarks and memory to navi-gate. This ride is great for those who like to explore. For those who don’t want to explore learn the trails from a GATR member by attending a GATR event at the park. http://www.sorbagatr.org/trails/trail-tribble/

► Trail Status Hotline: 770-978-5270

information courtesy of Clay Combs, President Gwinnett Area Trail Riders (GATR) http://www.sorbagatr.org

Gwinnett biKe tRails


BEST SEATIN THE HOUSEM

OMS

& DA

DS

The Passion of Sports and Recreation in Pictures

Greater Gwinnett Championship Presented by Mitsubishi Electric Cooling & Heating and held in April at TPC Sugarloaf

British Open champion Tom Lehman’s final putt on Sunday. Champions Tour professional Andy Bean with his Championship Pro-Am

Tour professional Jay Haas

33

Masters Champion Mark O’Meara warms up on the putting green.

kenny Perry on the first tee. Eight-time major champion Tom Watson

kenny Perry Tom Watson signing autographs on way to first tee.

Bernhard Langer on the first tee of the final round. Champions Tour professional Fred Funk.

World Golf Hall of Fame member and inaugural Greater Gwinnett Championship champion

Bernhard Langer.


As a private baseball instructor, there is nothing more exciting and gratify-ing than to hear students sharing how they received a game ball for their effort or made an outstanding play to help his or her team come away with a victory. But on the other hand, I also have the opportunity to help turn a frown into a smile for the young player whose team came up on the losing side. With an encouraging word, a smile, and a commitment to keep working harder at our next training session, I hope that helps with the sting of their loss. As a coach, some of my best coaching comes when my attitude can show joy to the victor and a heartfelt fist pump or hug to the loser. That moment normally gives me the chance to discuss a child’s play during the game and to prepare for future workouts. Then there are the other times when I’m not asked about technique, pitch-ing, or hitting but about proper equipment. Parents want to know how to pick out the right equipment for their player’s age group. There are plenty of excellent buying guides on the Internet with easy expla-nations about material, types, and sizes to help you make a good decision. Most major sports stores normally have visible charts or assistants to help with the sizing and type for your player’s age group. Here are some helpful guidelines to use when searching for the right bat or glove.BATS:

Always make sure you are aware the league’s regulations and specifica-•tions for the bat weight and length for your child’s age group or high level tournament teams before purchasing. Be mindful of not getting caught up in spending too much for the many •makes and models of bats that are available. Most composite bats last about two seasons or about 1,500 hits.•A lighter bat is better until your child is in high school or college. Use the •table below to help find just the right weight.

VOLUNTEERING In many parks, parents are ex-pected to participate in the run-ning of the concession stand or in other ways. Rally your parents to get involved! It truly takes everyone to run the park.

POSITIVE SUPPORTBe that positive force in the stands. Set the example for every parent and spectator to provide positive support for the players and coaches. Players will be at different levels of ability, and they all deserve to be cheered on at every game!

LET THE COACHES COACHEncourage your spectators to let the coaches coach. It can be confusing to the players to have multiple adults yelling for them to do certain things – and many times different things.

SPIRIT WEARIf your parents are interested in spirit wear for themselves, find out from the uniform coordina-tor where you can order it from. Always expect payment up-front. This is an extra for the parents and not something typically done by the organization.

REACH OUT TO OTHER PARENTS ON THE TEAMThere are a lot of bases to cover as team parent, and you cannot do it all yourself. Reach out to others to assist you in support-ing your team! Most of the time people are anxious to help but just need to be asked. The more the merrier!!!

Sydney Sattler is a mom of 2 boys that have grown up playing baseball in the Duluth Youth Baseball and Softball Association. She has been a Team Mom for both recreational teams and travel teams – from tee ball through majors. She also serves as uniform coordinator for the DYBSA.

TEAM MOMS & DADS

COACH’S CALL

Tips, Recommendations and Advise

Want to contribute here [email protected]

Coach Clint Conley, co-publisher of Sports Gwinnett Magazine and respected baseball coach talks about starting your baseball team on the right track.

COAC

H’S

CALL

Advice and Insight From Respected Coaches

Age Weight of Bat in Ounces 5 to 7 years old 14 – 15.5 ounces 8 to 10 years old Height in inches divided by 4; add 4 11 to 13 years old Child’s weight divided by 18; add 14 High school Height in inches divided by 3; add 6

GLOVES: Many different sizes, shapes, and materials; usually leather (full, premium, •and top grain) or vinyl and syntheticGloves by position •o Usually mitts (catcher & first base) are heavier, well padded, and multi-fingeredo Infield gloves are typically smaller and have shallower pockets for faster maneuverabilityo Outfield gloves are typically larger and have much deeper pockets for better reach

35

BACk INSIDE COVER

Get 5% back on all in-store merchandise when you earn 100 Points or more during a qualifying period. Sign up in-store or online at sportsauthority.com/theleague

*No cash value. No cash back. No rain checks. Coupon not valid on prior, online or S.A. Elite by Sports Authority purchases, gift cards, licenses, event tickets, store services or items intended for resale. Offer good on in-stock merchandise only. Must present coupon at time of purchase to redeem. Cannot be combined with any other offer, Cash Card, coupon or Employee or Friends & Family discount. Coupon may not be reproduced. One coupon per customer, per purchase. Exclusions include clearance items marked with $.97 price endings; Power Play Deals; UGG; Under Armour; The North Face; Brooks; Babolat; Titleist; Burton; Volkl; Penn Reels; firearms and ammunition.

MORE EXCLUSIONS MAY APPLY. VISIT SPORTSAUTHORITY.COM/EXCLUSIONS

OR SEE STORE FOR DETAILS.

1571 3253 1101 1206 3013 5

Name: CMR Generic 12-13 Prog Ad 11.1-6.30 $10 $50 CPNOffer: $10 OFF COUPON

Valid Dates: 11/01/2012 to 6/30/2013Requestor: Ashley Brawdy

Stores: ALL

Disclaimer: TBD by Copy

GSI Code:

valid 12/15/12–6/30/13

your PurchaSe of $50 or more*

off$10fIND EVERYTHING foR YoUR ACTIVE fAMILY PlUS, GET 5% BaCK ON all YOUR PURCHaSES WHEN YOU JOiN THE lEaGUE BY SPORTS aUTHORiTY

BACk COVER

sports gwinnett may 2013

Documents

great athletes gwinnett

gwinnett park eventslike

great gwinnett trails1coaching

gwinnett county parks

gwinnett school coaches

week2 sports gwinnett

great play

great places