Check out the print edition of the Upson Beacon each week for the weekly Football Contest. Entries must be turned in by 5 p.m. every Friday to the Beacon's office, located at 108 East Gordon Street.
Weekly prizes are: 1st- $25 2nd- $15 3rd- $10 
Are We Gonna Pay Them?Published 10-10-2019
by Jim Fowler As most sports fans know, California passed the Fair Pay to Play Act recently that will give college athletes the right to profit from their names, images, and likenesses. The law doesn’t go into effect until 2023 but get ready because this is going to be a rocky and ever-changing road from here on.
This law does not permit student-athletes to be paid by their colleges. It does; however, allow them to make money from numerous avenues such as sponsoring summer camps, being featured in video games, charging for autograph signings, speaking at events, or signing endorsement contracts with clothing companies, equipment manufacturers, sports beverages, car dealerships, or numerous other businesses. They can even hire agents to represent them in negotiating and securing commercial opportunities. When agents become involved, we have a definite problem. The money would surely flow. There are other states preparing to follow California with laws of their own. Florida and Pennsylvania will be introducing bills while South Carolina and New York are presently considering legislation. This thing could get out of hand quickly. Naturally the NCAA is opposed to this law and any other similar to it. The NCAA statement says that the law “will make unattainable the goal of providing a fair and level playing field for 1,100 campuses and nearly half a million student-athletes nationwide.” They will fight it as hard as they can, thank goodness! There are many ideas as to how to manage these payments should they become the norm nationwide. One that makes sense to me is to hold all monies in a trust that the athlete could collect when their career is over. Makes too much sense to be considered, I guess. As the law sits now it creates inherent problems. With California athletes being able to profit from their identities their schools would have a significant recruiting edge. “Hey, come to our school. You can make money while playing for us.” Those could be the main statements made by California coaches. If the NCAA “kicks California out” would anyone outside of California schedule those teams? Would athletes at other schools use the transfer portal to transfer to California schools? Who knows? After all, if the California schools are not in the NCAA, they can’t participate in any NCAA national championship events or tournaments. Ouch, that hurts! There is so much to say about this new topic and I don’t have the space to expound any more. One thing we need to understand, however, is that before the law goes into effect in 2023, it could be obsolete. Who knows what states, the federal government, or even the NCAA will do before that time? Stay tuned. Things are definitely going to change. CLICK HERE OR
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Volleyball Set to Play Region Tournament Senior Joiee Stansell rises for a point in a recent match for the Lady Knights.
Published 10-10-2019
By Austin Franklin The Lady Knights volleyball team continues their fantastic season under first year head coach Christopher Owens, as they improved their record to 20-4 on the season with wins over Luella, Mary Persons, and FPDHS in their last week of the regular season, including a 2-1 win over Perry, the first seeded team in the region. With the wins last week, the Lady Knights secured the two seed in the region going into the region playoffs with a 10-1 region record, with their only loss coming against Perry earlier in the season. The region tournament will begin Saturday at Mary Persons High School to determine the final seedings for the region heading into the state playoffs that start next week. The Lady Knights will play their first match at 10 a.m. Saturday. Knights Fall in First Region Game of Season Sophomore receiver KJ Rockemore braces to hit the ground as he jumped up to make a reception for the Knights in
their homecoming game against Perry. Rockemore also had a receiving touchdown in the game.
Published 10-10-2019
By Austin Franklin The Knights hosted Perry in their first region game of the season, which was also homecoming for Upson Lee, and lost a close one by a score of 22-15 to the Panthers. Turnovers and failure to finish long drives haunted the Knights in the game, as they turned the ball over five times, twice on interceptions inside the 20-yard line in the game. The Knights’ defense played a great game, with only a few miscues that led to long plays and scores for Perry. The Knights’ only two scores came on a touchdown pass from Jake Davis to KJ Rockemore, and a Milique Smith touchdown run. The Knights converted a two-point attempt in the game on a Demeke Colbert run to get them to 15 points. Upson Lee will look to get their region record back to even on the season Friday night when they travel to Forsyth to take on the Mary Persons Bulldogs at 7:30 p.m. Knights to Begin Region Play
Published 10-3-2019
By Austin Franklin After a much needed bye week at the midway point of the season, the Knights will return to action tomorrow night at home as they host the Perry Panthers for homecoming, and for their first region game of the season. Perry has an identical record to that of Upson Lee’s at 2-3 on the season. Perry picked up wins over Northeast and Monroe, and fell to Houston County, Westside, and Veterans, all three quality teams. The Knights have dominated Perry in the past, beating them five straight games since the two teams were put in the same region together in 2014, including last year by a score of 48-31 in Perry. Perry returns their running back and quarterback from last season in Lane Rucker and Makeil Kendrick, who are the two that are the catalysts for the Panthers on the offensive side of the ball. Kendrick is averaging over 100 yards per game rushing this season and Rucker is averaging over 150 yards per game. Kickoff is set for 7:30 pm Friday night at Matthews Field. Lady Knights Win Three Games in Final Week of Regular Season, host senior night
Published 10-3-2019
By Austin Franklin The Lady Knights’ softball team had a full schedule in the last week of the season, playing four games in four days, and picking up three wins to close out the regular season with a record of 14-7. Wins over Kendrick, Howard, and Troup County will give the Lady Knights a little momentum going into region playoffs that began Monday with a best two out of three series with West Laurens. Results were not available at press time, but the winner of the series moved on to play the winner of the Perry vs. Spalding series in a two out of three series for the number one and two seeds in the state playoffs. The losers will match up to play for the three and four seeds of the state playoffs. State playoffs will begin next week. A Tale of Two Halves Milique Smith takes the handoff from Jake Davis and tries to find a lane to hit.
Published 9-26-2019
By Austin Franklin The Knights, looking to beat Griffin in consecutive seasons, played two completely different halves of football against the Bears Friday night at Matthews Field. The first half defense displayed by the Knights was very impressive, and the best defense they’ve played all season as they looked very fast, swarmed to the ball, and shut down running lanes for the first 24 minutes of the game. The Knights went into halftime trailing Griffin by a score of 6-0 in what was shaping up to be a very fun second half, but the tables turned in the second half. The Bears came out looking like a different team in the second half offensively as they would score a touchdown on all six possessions in the last 24 minutes, excluding their last possession in which they would kneel to run the game clock down to finish the game. The Knights had no answers defensively and continued to struggle offensively against a very big and talented Griffin defense. Upson Lee’s lone bright spot was a touchdown drive which featured Jake Davis throwing the ball up to Demeke Colbert on two different plays totaling about 50 yards, including an 11-yard touchdown completion. That would be the only time the Knights would be able to find the endzone in their 47-7 loss. Now it’s time for the Knights to go to work, as this week is a bye week for the team, and next week will begin region play, which is the only thing that matters when trying to reach the post season. The first five games of the season have zero effect on the last five games, or with the Knights’ chances of winning the region and going to the state playoffs. The Knights will have two weeks of practice to get ready for to host Perry next week for homecoming at 7:30 p.m. at Matthews Field. Lady Knights Clinch Playoff Berth Julia Walden makes a play at the hot corner for the Lady Knights in a recent win
Published 9-26-2019
By Austin Franklin The Upson Lee softball team had a big week last week as they got three wins, including two region wins, and clinched a state playoff berth for this season. The Lady Knights went on the road to defeat Kendrick last Monday by a score of 16-0. Both region wins were also on the road against Mary Persons and Spalding by scores of 8-6 and 6-4. This week the Lady Knights will play four games in their last week of the regular season. Monday the Knights hosted Kendrick, Tuesday they traveled to West Laurens in potentially their biggest game of the regular season, and Wednesday went on the road to face Troup County; results were not available at press time. With their two region wins last week Upson Lee clinched a top four seed in the region, which guarantees a state playoff spot, now the Lady Knights are just fighting for seeding for the region tournament. Upson Lee and West Laurens were separated by one game to begin the week for second place, and they played each other on Tuesday night. A Lady Knights’ win by four runs or more would get them the second seed in the region, and home field advantage in the first round of region playoffs starting next week. Lady Knights’ Volleyball Suffers First Region Loss Sage Rhodes throws up a serve in the Lady Knights’ recent win over Pike County.
Published 9-26-2019
By Austin Franklin It took Upson Lee seven region matches to finally suffer its first loss, which came against Perry last week by a score of 2-0. With the loss the Lady Knights fell to second place in the area with a 6-1 record, trailing only Perry who has a record of 3-0. However, the Lady Knights did pick up a big win 2-1 over Pike County at home on senior night and defeated West Laurens 2-0 for their sixth area win. Upson Lee was on the road Tuesday night to take on Kendrick in Columbus; results were not available at press time. The Lady Knights will again be on the road tonight to take on Spalding and Howard in two important region matches. The Lady Knights will wrap up their regular season next week with a double header against First Presbyterian Day Tuesday night on the road, and will make one last road trip Thursday to West Laurens to take on Mary Persons and Perry in their final two matches of the regular season before area tournament. Upson Lee Falls to Fitzgerald in Last Seconds Running back Milique Smith cuts back to hit the hole opened by the Knights’ offensive linemen in their loss to Fitzgerald.
Published 9-19-2019
By Austin Franklin The Knights, coming off a big 27-14 win over Harris County their last contest, went into Friday night looking to pick up their third win in a row and positioned themselves to do just that for the first 47 minutes of Friday night’s dog fight with Fitzgerald. The Knights defense played arguably their best game of the year as they pressured Fitzgerald all night long and got the scoring started on a Savion Giddens interception that he would return for a touchdown in the first quarter to give the Knights a 6-0 lead after a missed extra point. Fitzgerald, and former Upson Lee multi-sport athlete Chance Gamble, would respond when Gamble took an end around into the endzone to give the Purple Hurricanes a 7-6 lead going into halftime. Fitzgerald would also score in the third quarter to take a 14-6 lead into the fourth quarter, where things would get hectic for both teams. The first eight minutes of the fourth quarter saw a defensive battle as neither team was able to score, until the Knights and Milique Smith punched in a short yardage touchdown to cut the lead to 14-12 before Upson Lee would try for the two-point conversion. After a handoff to Thad Webb on the conversion and a completed pass to Davis in the endzone the Knights were called for an illegal man downfield and the two-point conversion was nullified, and they were backed up five yards for the re-attempt. A pass to Smith on the re-attempt from the seven-yard line was sniffed out by the Purple Hurricanes as they made a huge stop on the one-yard line to maintain their 14-12 lead with under four minutes left. The Knights defense would once again come up huge, forcing Fitzgerald to a three and out and getting the Knights’ offense back on the field with under three minutes left in the game. Once again, the Knights would mount a drive down the field, orchestrated by Davis and Webb, as the two would complete a 35-yard prayer pass to get the Knights into the red zone. Davis would eventually take the quarterback keeper into the endzone to give the Knights an 18-14 lead after the failed two-point conversion with under 50 seconds remaining in the game. Several plays into the Hurricane’s last effort drive and with under 15 seconds remaining in the game and no timeouts remaining, the Hurricanes would throw up a 50-plus yard pass to Gamble who had a step on the Knights’ defense and he would make an incredible catch to erase the Knights’ fourth quarter comeback and give the Purple Hurricanes a 21-18 win. The Knights will look to get back on the winning side of things as they host powerhouse rival Griffin, who is undefeated, tomorrow night at Matthews’ Field at 7:30 p.m. Lady Knights Earn Another Big Region Win
Published 9-19-2019
The Upson Lee softball team played two region games last week, winning one over Howard, and losing to Perry. With the win and the loss, the Lady Knights moved to 3-3 in the region, which keeps them steady in the third place slot in the region with four region games remaining. The Lady Knights defeated Howard 9-5 with Zaria Childs picking up the win on the mound. Upson Lee was led offensively by Skye Perdue, who was 2-3 at the plate with a walk and a run scored. Rebecca Graham, Gracie Shetler, Hannah VanHouten and Gracie Self each added a hit in the win. Upson Lee fell to Perry by a score of 9-1 later in the week. The offense never found a rhythm as Perry was clicking on all cylinders as a team. Graham led the team offensively with two hits and a stolen base. Self, Jess Fernandez, Julia Walden, Madison Murphy, and Sydney Knight all had a hit in the loss. The Lady Knights traveled to Columbus to face off with Kendrick Monday and traveled to Forsyth Tuesday to take on Mary Persons; results were not available at press time. They will travel to Griffin today to take on Spalding at 5:55 p.m. in a rematch of the Lady Knights’ 3-1 win earlier in the season. Flag Football Season Kicks Off
Published 9-19-2019
Youth Recreation League Flag Football season opened locally Saturday with action at the fields adjacent to the Upson Lee Pre-K school building. Ducks ball carrier Jay’Ceon Johnson gets a block from teammate Keyon Jones during a long run, pursued by Gators defenders Thomas Hobbs (background left) and Ny’Kalan Fuentes (far right). Johnson and Hobbs both scored touchdowns in the contest. Photo by Ian Shales. Knights Handle Tigers for Second Consecutive Win
Published 9-12-2019
By Austin Franklin Coming off their first win of the season over East Paulding, the Knights came out strong once again and took down their second Class AAAAA opponent in a row as they knocked off the 2-0 Harris County Tigers by a score of 27-14 on the road. The Knights, for the most part, shut down the highly touted Tigers offense which had scored 76 points combined in its two previous wins. The Tigers received the first half kickoff and drove down the field on the Knights, scoring on a fourth down pass in the back of the end zone to take the early 7-0 lead. After a few stale offensive possessions from both teams, the next few series the Knights would break through for a score on a touchdown run by Milique Smith to knot the game at 7-7 at the end of the first quarter. The Knights’ defense would ramp up their intensity and not allow Harris County to score again until midway through the fourth quarter, when the game was almost out of reach for the Tigers. Upson Lee took a 10-7 lead into halftime after a Brady Puckett field goal in the second quarter. The Knights’ best offensive possession of the game came on their first drive to start the second half when they would drive down the field and score on a Jake Davis quarterback keeper to take a 17-7 lead. The Knights defense remained strong through the third quarter to take the 17-7 lead into the fourth quarter. The Knights would score again on a Smith touchdown run, and another Puckett field goal. Harris County managed to score in the fourth, making the final score 27-14. Smith had his best game of the young season as he rushed 27 times for 157 yards and two touchdowns and added three receptions for 34 yards. Davis went 14 for 23 passing for 175 yards and a touchdown; he also rushed one in for a touchdown. The Knights defense had its best showing of the year, holding Harris County to only 14 points while forcing three turnovers in the game. Upson Lee will return home tomorrow night to host Fitzgerald at 7:30 p.m. Lady Knights Pick Up Second Region Win Second baseman Gracie Self makes a play and throws out a runner
at first in a recent win over Mary Persons.
Published 9-12-2019
By Austin Franklin The Upson Lee softball team played two region games last week, winning one over Spalding, and losing to West Laurens. With the win and the loss, the Lady Knights moved to 2-2 in the region, which puts them in third place almost halfway through region play for the season. The Lady Knights defeated Spalding 3-1 behind a phenomenal pitching performance by Zaria Childs. Upson Lee was led offensively by Rebecca Graham who was 3-3 at the plate with two stolen bases and an RBI. Madison Murphy and Hannah VanHouten each added a hit in the win. Julia Walden also had an RBI in the game. Upson Lee fell to West Laurens by a score of 5-2 later in the week, as they couldn’t get timely hits to score with runners in scoring position. Graham, VanHouten, Walden, Sydney Knight, and Sydney Perdue all had a hit in the loss. The Lady Knights traveled to Macon to face off with Howard Tuesday; results were not available at press time. They will host Perry today at 5:55 p.m. in a rematch of the extra-inning, heartbreaking loss the Lady Knights suffered earlier in the year. Knights Offense Leads to Win Over East Paulding Senior Demeke Colbert fields a punt for the Knights in a recent game.
Colbert scored three touchdowns in last week’s win over East Paulding.
Published 9-5-2019
By Austin Franklin The Knights returned home Friday night to host the AAAAA East Paulding Raiders after their opening season loss to Veterans and looked like a different football team. After not being able to get any offensive momentum in the game against Veterans, Demeke Colbert and company came out firing on all cylinders to get the Knights their first win of the season in a back and forth battle with the Raiders. Colbert got the scoring started for the Knights as he checked into the quarterback position on the one-yard line for starting quarterback Jake Davis and scored on a quarterback draw. After a stop by the Knights defense Colbert was at it again, as he would catch a 66-yard touchdown pass from Davis to put Upson Lee ahead by a score of 14-7. An East Paulding touchdown knotted the game at 14 all, but it wouldn’t take long for the Colbert-Davis duo to connect again in the back of the endzone to give the Knights a lead once again at 21-14. The Knights would stretch the game out a little after another touchdown pass by Davis, a 50 yarder to running back Malik Smith, to take a 28-14 lead in the game. East Paulding would go on to quickly score twice to get the game to 28-27 after a missed extra point, and had the ball again on the Knights’ one yard line late in the fourth quarter to win the game, but the Knights defense stood tall and forced a fumble to seal the victory for the second year in a row over East Paulding. The Knights will be on the road this Friday to take on Harris County at 7:30 p.m. in Hamilton. The Knights beat the Tigers 33-28 last season. Lady Knights Get First Region Win in a Big Way Sydney Knight takes a hack for the Lady Knights in their 12-4 win over Mary Persons. Knight recorded a hit in the win.
Published 9-4-2019
By Austin Franklin After losing their first region game to Perry by a score of 11-8 on a heartbreaking walk off grand slam in the bottom of the seventh inning earlier last week, the Lady Knights returned home to host region rival Mary Persons and would go on to win by a score of 12-4. Upson Lee had a big week offensively, scoring 20 runs combined in the first two region games of the season. Rebecca Graham led the way with six hits, including a double and a triple. Madison Murphy added three hits during the week, as Gracie Self, Gracie Shetler, and Sydney Knight all added a hit each in the games. Zaria Childs was on the mound both games for the Lady Knights. The Lady Knights hosted region opponent Spalding last night; results were not available at press time. Upson Lee will host West Laurens tomorrow at 5:30 p.m. in a region matchup. Knights Fall to Veterans Quarterback Jake Davis tries to escape pressure for Veterans and find an open receiver. Davis threw a touchdown in the Knights’ loss.
Published 8-28-2019
By Austin Franklin Upson Lee opened its football season Friday night on the road against a good AAAAA Veterans team from Warner Robins and lost 48-13 to the team they fell to last year by a score of 31-0. The Knights got off to a rough start as they trailed 22-0 at the end of the first quarter and struggled to move the ball or stop Veterans from moving the ball. The Knights kept fighting though, and gave Veterans a scare in the second quarter as they scored two touchdowns and had a chance to cut the Veterans lead to only two scores before a fumble inside their own 20 yard line that led to a Veterans score to make the game 38-13 going into halftime. “We got down early in the first quarter, made some mental mistakes, and didn’t execute like we have been in practice, but we never quit competing. The guys didn’t hang their heads after being down three scores in the first quarter, they continued to fight,” said Head Coach Justin Elder. The Knights would fail to score in the second half but would hold Veterans to only 10 points as the defense play improved and the mental mistakes were limited. “We made adjustments in the game and got better from the first half to the second half. The biggest jump in improvement will be from week one to week four, that’s really where ball teams improve. We want to improve mentally and get healthy before region,” said Elder. Upson Lee’s touchdowns came on a Thad Webb kickoff return and a short touchdown pass from Jake Davis to Demeke Colbert. The Knights will open their home schedule this Friday as they host East Paulding at 7:30 p.m. at Matthews Field. Lady Knights’ Offense Stays Hot Versus Hardaway Madison Murphy makes a throw across the diamond for an out in the Lady Knights recent win over Troup County.
Published 8-28-2019
By Austin Franklin Coming off a 15-1 victory and offensive explosion against Troup County the Lady Knights turned around to host Hardaway and kept the bats alive as they went on to win by a score of 16-1. The Knights were led offensively by Julia Walden, Rebecca Graham and Taylor Shetler who all recorded two hits each in the win. Hannah VanHouten, Logan Brannon, and Y’Twanese Underwood all added a hit for Upson Lee. Upson Lee began region play last night with a game on the road with Perry; results were not available at press time. The Lady Knights will play their first home region game when they host Mary Persons tomorrow at 5:55 p.m. Lady Knights Dominate in First Home Game Zaria Childs throws a pitch for the Lady Knights in their recent win over Troup County. Childs has been excellent on the mound this season for Upson Lee.
Published 8-21-2019
By Austin Franklin Upson Lee’s softball team hosted Troup County last week in its first home game of the season and did not disappoint. The Lady Knights walked away with a dominating 15-1 win over the Tigers. The Lady Knights were led on the mound by Zaria Childs, who held the Tigers to just one run over the span of the game. Offensively Upson Lee was led by Gracie Self, who went 3-3 in the game with three RBI. Rebecca Graham, Julia Walden, Madison Murphy, and Hannah VanHouten all collected two hits each in the game. Jessica Fernandez also recorded a pinch hit for the Lady Knights in the game. Upson Lee hosted Hardaway Monday; results were not available at press time. Spring Football Game Recap Milique Smith bounces to the outside in the Knights’ scrimmage game last Friday against Jones County. Smith will see the majority of the carries for Upson Lee this year with the departure of last season’s senior running back Daymon Thomas.
Published 8-14-2019
By Austin Franklin Last Friday the Knights hosted Jones County for their annual scrimmage game to get ready for the upcoming season. Score of the game was not kept as the game is meant for the teams to have a chance to work on things, and to get a lot of players playing time to measure where they are with their first game being two weeks away. The Knights didn’t play particularly well in the first half, as they were up against one of the top teams in the higher classification of AAAAA. Jones County is a very good team, and it showed in the first half. All wasn’t bad for the Knights though. Head Coach Justin Elder and the Knights got to start 14 new starters and got eight underclassmen more reps in the game than they had ever had. “We played seven sophomores and one freshman more than they had ever played. We got to see what we have going forward with some of the young guys that will need to step up during the season” said Elder. Upson Lee was missing a handful of starters in the game as they were being very cautious with injuries players were dealing with as this was only a scrimmage game. The majority of the players that missed are expected to return for week one against Veterans on Aug. 23 in Warner Robins. When asked about how the Knights have gotten better since the spring game and over the summer, Elder was very pleased with the “play recognition” gains his team has made since the spring game. This will continue to improve throughout the season as guys get more reps and play more real time snaps. Upson Lee will begin its season on the road at Veterans on Aug. 23 at 7:30 p.m. The Knights will return home on Aug. 30 to host East Paulding at 7:30 p.m. Lady Diamond Knights Destroy Stratford Academy
Published 8-14-2019
By Austin Franklin The Lady Knights participated in the Border Battle last weekend and opened the weekend with a game against Stratford Academy with a 15-0 run rule win. Zaria Childs was on the mound for the Knights in the game as she pitched three innings in the shortened game, allowing only three hits in the win for the Lady Knights. Upson Lee would also play Pike County and Lamar County last weekend, who are both very strong teams in their respective classifications. The Lady Knights fell to Pike County 9-2 and fell to Lamar County 5-4 in a hard-fought game. Rebecca Graham led the team on the weekend with six hits, as Madison Murphy added five hits for Upson Lee. Upson Lee will host Troup County tomorrow for its first home game of the season. The JV team will begin at 4:30 p.m., and varsity will follow at 5:55 p.m. The Lady Knights will also host Hardaway Monday with JV beginning at 5 p.m., and varsity following at 6 p.m. Lady Diamond Knights Begin Season Madison Murphy throws a runner out in a game last season. Murphy will look to take over at shortstop this season with the departure of last year’s senior Madison Wilder.
Published 8-7-2019
By Austin Franklin The Lady Knights began their 2019 season last weekend under new head coach Taylor English as they took on Taylor County, Strong Rock Christian, and Woodland, all at Woodland High School. The Lady Knights defeated Taylor County 11-2 and Woodland 7-0. The Lady Knights fell to Strong Rock by a score of 4-3 in a tough loss. Rebecca Graham led Upson Lee with seven hits; Sydney Knight added six hits, including a home run; as Hannah Van Houten chipped in five hits on the weekend. The Lady Knights will participate in the Border Battle this weekend as they take on Lamar County, Pike County and Stratford Academy. Upson Lee’s first home game will be Aug. 15 as they host Troup County. JV will begin at 4:30 pm and varsity will follow at 5:55 pm. Knights Kick Off Season Returning receiver Thad Webb will look to continue his success from last
season and be a big part of this year’s high-powered offense.
Published 8-7-2019
By Austin Franklin The Knights will kick off their 2019 season this Friday night at home as they host Jones County in their preseason scrimmage game at 7:30 p.m. at Matthews Field. Following the game, the Knights will have two weeks to prepare for their season opener when they travel to Veterans to take on the AAAAA school on August 23. Poteat Competes for Women’s National Futures Team Sara Poteat with her large fan crowd that followed to watch her play in the Border Battle with the USA Women’s National Futures team.
Published 7-31-2019 By Austin Franklin A few months ago, Thomaston native Sara Poteat was selected to the USA National Women’s Futures team, and this past weekend Poteat played with the team at Border Battle 11 in Midland, Mich. The team played four games, winning its first three before being edged by the Women’s National Team in the championship game by a score of 7-6. The Futures team won its first three games by scores of 11-6, 15-5, and 12-10. Poteat had a very good tournament, leading the team in at-bats with 15, singles with eight, and runs scored with 11. Poteat finished the tournament with a .600 batting average, going 9-15 in her four games played. Sprewell Bluff July 4th Contest Winners
Published 7-24-2019
Sprewell Bluff Park celebrated a fantastic 4th of July week. Campers were encouraged to decorate their cabin or RV site during their visit to the Bluff during the 4th of July week. Gary Archibald won the best decorated cabin, and Brandon Gut won the best decorated RV site. Each winner received a gift certificate to the Sprewell Bluff Trading Post. Local Teen Excels at Boys State
American Legion Post 75 of LaGrange sponsored Ian Shales to attend the 79th Session of Georgia Boys State held on the campus of Riverside Military Academy in Gainesville, May 27 – June 1. Ian, who is an upcoming senior at Overcomers’ Academy in Thomaston and a member of Thomaston Toastmasters, did so well that Dean Bob Beauchamp said, “I have invited him to return in 2020 to be a part of the staff. As a former Boys State participant and member of the Sons of the American Legion, he has much to offer and share with the young men who will attend.”
Boys State, founded in 1935 to counter the socialism-inspired Young Pioneer Camps, is among the most respected and selective educational programs of government instruction for U.S. high school students. When American Legion posts select high school juniors to attend Boys State, they consider only those who illustrate leadership, character, scholarship, loyalty, and service in their schools and communities. Boys State participants learn the rights, privileges, and responsibilities of franchised citizens. The training is objective and focuses on the structure of city, county and state governments. Activities include: Legislative sessions, court proceedings, law-enforcement presentations, assemblies, bands, choruses, and recreational programs—all conducted by students elected to various offices. Ian’s peers elected him as superior court judge. Ian also competed in the oratorical contest, speaking about the 27th Amendment. Bob Brown, national executive committeeman for the Detachment of Georgia and an inductee in the Sons of the American Legion Hall of Fame, said, “After winning the county level oratorical contest, Ian and the state level winner, were by far the best two in the contest and the only ones who did not use notes.” Participation in the oratorical contest was completely voluntary and was in addition to other assigned classes and activities. Ian also volunteered to lead devotions in front of the 400 young men attending Boys State. He challenged them to live extraordinary lives for God and reminded them that they are a chosen generation. Brown continued to praise 17-year-old Ian by saying, “When it was time to form up as a city to head to classes, flag raising or lowering, meals or general sessions, Ian was one of the leaders I could count on to get everybody there on time. Not just on time but always forming first and seeing that our city and county led the way by arriving first. Ian was always ready to volunteer in any way to help out whenever asked.” “Ian also helped our city excel in athletics and win 14 out of 16 games in various sports with the other cities. Not only was our city good at sports, but our rooms (scrub report) were also neat and clean at all times. The garbage was carried out, laundry dropped off and picked up, and in every manner the greatest city at Boys State. There were absolutely no problems at all and arguably the best city I have had over my years as a counselor.” Graduating with honors that week, Ian ranked in the top 10 percent of the entire program when he took the honors program test. The test assesses how well the student paid attention in classes and activities and remembered what was taught about citizenship, government, and the American Legion. “Ian was a joy to be around. His infectious smile was noticeable every time I saw him in the theater, dorm, or cafeteria. He has a pleasant personality that captures and holds your attention. With young men like Ian—the future of Georgia and the nation is in good hands,” reminisces Dean Beachamp. Ian commented that his time at Boys State was a week of a lifetime where he enjoyed working with such quality young leaders of Georgia and got incredible hands-on experience executing government. Any club, civic group, school, church, or youth group that would like to hear Ian speak passionately about various educational and Christian spiritual topics may invite him to do so by calling 706-741-0094. FRA Middle School Cheer Attend Camp
Published 6-26-2019
The Flint River Middle School Cheer team recently traveled to Griffin and spent two days at Legion of Allstars learning their new choreography and routines for their upcoming cheer season. They learned new sideline cheers, new dances and routines. The girls are now ready to show off their new moves this upcoming season. The Bluff Scoop: Busy Bee’s at the Bluff
Published 6-26-2019
By Laura Adams, Bluff Coordinator The Lamar County Sheriff’s Champs Program visits the Bluff for a second summer. The weather was perfect, with a nice breeze and plenty of sunshine, making for an all-around great day the park. Laura Adams, the park coordinator, the 26 champs and three of its counselors traveled the one-mile hike along the Natural Dam and Widow Maker Trail. While on this hike they learned of park wildlife, animal tracks, plant life and navigating trails with a map. They wrapped there visit up with some rock skipping, a picnic lunch and a visit to the Overlook and Trading Post. We love teaching the youth about how special the bluff is and what makes it unique. We always look forward to hosting the Lamar County Champs Program for their annual summer trips to the park. We are look forward to hosting another group of Lamar County Champs children again next month. The Bluff heads to “Georgia On My Mind Day” in Columbus. It is an Explore Georgia event at the Georgia Visitors Center. Kim Holmes, park clerk, made sure that Sprewell Bluff Park and Upson County had a presence and was well represented again this year. There were 30-40 of our tourism partners, from the Presidential Pathways with booths set up to promote businesses and hundreds of visitors that came through the Visitors Center they made their way from into Georgia. Kim raffled off promotional items, gave out park brochures, chatted it up with visitors and learned more about the Presidential Pathways and our tourism partners in surrounding counties. She said people seemed to be amazed by how Sprewell Bluff Park has transformed and the boost in tourism that we have seen at the park and throughout the community. We really look forward to attending again next year and hope to be working closer with Explore Georgia in the future. 7&8 Thomaston-Upson All Stars
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Published 10-17-2018
The Lady Knights volleyball team picked up a fourth place finish in this year's area tournament earning the team a spot on the state playoffs for the second consecutive seasons. Junior Joiee Stansell earned area Player of the Year this season and was named to the area all-tournament team. Upson Lee's season came to an end Saturday, Oct. 20 in the first round of the playoffs. |
Knights Remain Winless
Versus Mary Persons
Travon Walker makes a tackle for the Knights in their recent bout with Mary Persons.
Published 10-10-2018
By Austin Franklin
The Knights hosted Mary Persons Friday night at Matthews Field in their first home region game of the season against a team they had never beaten, and once again they were over matched.
Upson Lee made a strong defensive showing in the first quarter, holding Mary Persons scoreless for the first 10 minutes before the Bulldogs would finally score on a four yard run. Three minutes later the Bulldogs would once again score on a touchdown run from inside the five yard line. The Knights’ Daymon Thomas would finally get them on the scoreboard with a 12 yard touchdown run, but not after the Bulldogs would return a 74 yard interception for a touchdown to take a 21-0 lead. Mary Persons would connect on a 28 yard touchdown pass late in the second quarter to take a 28-7 lead to halftime.
The Bulldogs would come out relentless in the third quarter, scoring three more touchdowns to take a 49-7 lead before Thomas would return a kickoff 97 yards for a score to make the score 49-14 at the end of the third. Both teams would fail to score in the fourth, resulting in a 49-14 Mary Persons win moving them to 2-0 in the region, and Upson Lee 1-1.
The Knights will have a bye this week to nurse some injuries and prepare to get back on the winning track as they travel to Macon to face Howard next Friday.
By Austin Franklin
The Knights hosted Mary Persons Friday night at Matthews Field in their first home region game of the season against a team they had never beaten, and once again they were over matched.
Upson Lee made a strong defensive showing in the first quarter, holding Mary Persons scoreless for the first 10 minutes before the Bulldogs would finally score on a four yard run. Three minutes later the Bulldogs would once again score on a touchdown run from inside the five yard line. The Knights’ Daymon Thomas would finally get them on the scoreboard with a 12 yard touchdown run, but not after the Bulldogs would return a 74 yard interception for a touchdown to take a 21-0 lead. Mary Persons would connect on a 28 yard touchdown pass late in the second quarter to take a 28-7 lead to halftime.
The Bulldogs would come out relentless in the third quarter, scoring three more touchdowns to take a 49-7 lead before Thomas would return a kickoff 97 yards for a score to make the score 49-14 at the end of the third. Both teams would fail to score in the fourth, resulting in a 49-14 Mary Persons win moving them to 2-0 in the region, and Upson Lee 1-1.
The Knights will have a bye this week to nurse some injuries and prepare to get back on the winning track as they travel to Macon to face Howard next Friday.
Knights Dominate Perry
Sophomore quarterback Jake Davis rolls out of the pocket to find an open receiver for the Knights. Davis threw for four touchdowns and over 250 yards in the game.
Published 10-3-2018
By Austin Franklin
Upson Lee traveled to Perry Friday night to take on the 5-1 Panthers in the first region game of the season for both teams, and headed back to Thomaston with a 48-31 win behind Thad Webb’s three touchdown game.
The Knights won the momentum battle early by recovering a Perry fumble on the opening possession, and three plays later scoring on a 54-yard touchdown pass from Jake Davis to Thad Webb. Perry would answer with a passing touchdown of its own a few minutes later, before the Knights’ Davis to Webb connection would strike again for a 49-yard touchdown to end the first quarter with a 14-7 lead.
Perry would open the second quarter scoring on a blocked punt returned for a touchdown on one of the Knights special team’s miscues in the game.
“Perry scored 17 of their 31 points on miscues by our special teams in the game. We were lined up wrong a few times and it cost us. We have to clean those things up going forward to win ball games,” said Head Coach Justin Elder.
Daymon Thomas would get in on the action for the Knights and score on a six-yard run with a minute remaining in the first half to regain a lead of 21-14. With seconds remaining in the first half, Perry attempted a field goal which came up short and was returned from the Upson Lee one yard line by Thad Webb all the way inside the Perry 20 before running out of gas and tripping with nothing but green grass in front of him as time expired. Webb also had a 40-yard touchdown reception called back in the first half because of an illegal procedure penalty on the Knights.
It wouldn’t take long for Webb to once again spark the Knights as he would return the kickoff 90 yards for a touchdown to give the Knights a 28-14 lead to begin the third quarter. After a defensive stop by the Knights, Davis would find Demeke Colbert in the end zone for a 16-yard touchdown pass to give the Knights a 35-14 lead. A fumbled punt by the Knights on their own one yard line would lead to a Perry score on the next play to cut their lead to 35-21. On the ensuing kickoff the Knights would have another special teams blunder and fumble the ball on the kickoff return, which Perry would recover. The Knights defense would later come up with a big stop and hold Perry to a field goal to cut the lead to 35-24 with three minutes remaining in the third quarter. A few plays into the next drive for the Knights, sophomore quarterback Jake Davis would once again make a veteran throw and find Colbert for a 55-yard touchdown pass to give the Knights a 41-24 lead after a missed extra point to end the third quarter.
Perry would make a game of it again in the fourth quarter with quarterback Lane Rucker finding speedy receiver Davion Ross in the end zone for a five-yard touchdown pass to cut the Knights lead to 41-31 with eight minutes remaining. Sophomore cornerback Chance Gamble would seal the game for the Knights with a 40-yard interception return for a touchdown with three minutes remaining in the game to give the Knights a 48-31 victory in their first region game.
By Austin Franklin
Upson Lee traveled to Perry Friday night to take on the 5-1 Panthers in the first region game of the season for both teams, and headed back to Thomaston with a 48-31 win behind Thad Webb’s three touchdown game.
The Knights won the momentum battle early by recovering a Perry fumble on the opening possession, and three plays later scoring on a 54-yard touchdown pass from Jake Davis to Thad Webb. Perry would answer with a passing touchdown of its own a few minutes later, before the Knights’ Davis to Webb connection would strike again for a 49-yard touchdown to end the first quarter with a 14-7 lead.
Perry would open the second quarter scoring on a blocked punt returned for a touchdown on one of the Knights special team’s miscues in the game.
“Perry scored 17 of their 31 points on miscues by our special teams in the game. We were lined up wrong a few times and it cost us. We have to clean those things up going forward to win ball games,” said Head Coach Justin Elder.
Daymon Thomas would get in on the action for the Knights and score on a six-yard run with a minute remaining in the first half to regain a lead of 21-14. With seconds remaining in the first half, Perry attempted a field goal which came up short and was returned from the Upson Lee one yard line by Thad Webb all the way inside the Perry 20 before running out of gas and tripping with nothing but green grass in front of him as time expired. Webb also had a 40-yard touchdown reception called back in the first half because of an illegal procedure penalty on the Knights.
It wouldn’t take long for Webb to once again spark the Knights as he would return the kickoff 90 yards for a touchdown to give the Knights a 28-14 lead to begin the third quarter. After a defensive stop by the Knights, Davis would find Demeke Colbert in the end zone for a 16-yard touchdown pass to give the Knights a 35-14 lead. A fumbled punt by the Knights on their own one yard line would lead to a Perry score on the next play to cut their lead to 35-21. On the ensuing kickoff the Knights would have another special teams blunder and fumble the ball on the kickoff return, which Perry would recover. The Knights defense would later come up with a big stop and hold Perry to a field goal to cut the lead to 35-24 with three minutes remaining in the third quarter. A few plays into the next drive for the Knights, sophomore quarterback Jake Davis would once again make a veteran throw and find Colbert for a 55-yard touchdown pass to give the Knights a 41-24 lead after a missed extra point to end the third quarter.
Perry would make a game of it again in the fourth quarter with quarterback Lane Rucker finding speedy receiver Davion Ross in the end zone for a five-yard touchdown pass to cut the Knights lead to 41-31 with eight minutes remaining. Sophomore cornerback Chance Gamble would seal the game for the Knights with a 40-yard interception return for a touchdown with three minutes remaining in the game to give the Knights a 48-31 victory in their first region game.
Lady Knights’ Season Ends;
Bright Future Ahead
Sophomore second baseman Madison Murphy makes a throw to first in a recent game for the Lady Knights.
Published 10-3-2018
By Austin Franklin
In a winner take all game Thursday on the road against Howard with the winner earning a spot in the state playoffs, the young Lady Knights fell by a score of 11-3. The first two innings of the game were a defensive battle, with both teams failing to score. The Huskies would strike first in the third inning in a big way, plating five runs, a lead the Lady Knights would never overcome. Upson Lee would answer in the fourth with two runs of their own with Rebecca Graham and Julia Walden scoring on runs batted in by Graham and Hannah Van Houten. The Lady Knights would muster one more score in the sixth inning as Gracie Self would score on an RBI from Madison Murphy. The Huskies were relentless after the third inning, as they would add six runs in the fifth and sixth innings. Walden, Graham, VanHouten, and Self all recorded a base hit for Upson Lee.
The Lady Knights failed to reach the playoffs this season under first-year head coach Michael Kirby, but the future is very bright. The Lady Knights will lose only one player heading into next year. Nine players for Upson Lee saw an ample amount of playing time as either freshmen or sophomores this year. Rebecca Graham and Julia Walden will return next year as the senior leaders for the Lady Knights.
By Austin Franklin
In a winner take all game Thursday on the road against Howard with the winner earning a spot in the state playoffs, the young Lady Knights fell by a score of 11-3. The first two innings of the game were a defensive battle, with both teams failing to score. The Huskies would strike first in the third inning in a big way, plating five runs, a lead the Lady Knights would never overcome. Upson Lee would answer in the fourth with two runs of their own with Rebecca Graham and Julia Walden scoring on runs batted in by Graham and Hannah Van Houten. The Lady Knights would muster one more score in the sixth inning as Gracie Self would score on an RBI from Madison Murphy. The Huskies were relentless after the third inning, as they would add six runs in the fifth and sixth innings. Walden, Graham, VanHouten, and Self all recorded a base hit for Upson Lee.
The Lady Knights failed to reach the playoffs this season under first-year head coach Michael Kirby, but the future is very bright. The Lady Knights will lose only one player heading into next year. Nine players for Upson Lee saw an ample amount of playing time as either freshmen or sophomores this year. Rebecca Graham and Julia Walden will return next year as the senior leaders for the Lady Knights.
Lady Knights Secure
Huge Region Win
Sophomore Logan Brannon rips a hit into
centerfield in a recent game
Published 9-26-2018
By Austin Franklin
Upson Lee entered a three-way-tie Thursday evening for fourth place in the region with Spalding and Howard, which is also the last spot in the region that guarantees a playoff berth. With the Lady Knights’ 5-1 win over Spalding, and a Howard loss, Upson Lee moved into a soul fourth place standing with two region games remaining. The Lady Knights hosted West Laurens last night; results were not available at press time. Upson Lee will travel to Howard tomorrow night for its last region game, and a game with major playoff implications.
Freshman Hannah VanHouten led the Lady Knights in their win over Spalding with two hits and two RBI. Freshman Sydney Knight and Junior Julia Walden also added two hits each in the win. Sophomore pitcher Zaria Childs pitched a complete game for the Lady Knights, only allowing one unearned run.
By Austin Franklin
Upson Lee entered a three-way-tie Thursday evening for fourth place in the region with Spalding and Howard, which is also the last spot in the region that guarantees a playoff berth. With the Lady Knights’ 5-1 win over Spalding, and a Howard loss, Upson Lee moved into a soul fourth place standing with two region games remaining. The Lady Knights hosted West Laurens last night; results were not available at press time. Upson Lee will travel to Howard tomorrow night for its last region game, and a game with major playoff implications.
Freshman Hannah VanHouten led the Lady Knights in their win over Spalding with two hits and two RBI. Freshman Sydney Knight and Junior Julia Walden also added two hits each in the win. Sophomore pitcher Zaria Childs pitched a complete game for the Lady Knights, only allowing one unearned run.
Lady Knights Volleyball
Earn First Region Win
Joiee Stansell sets up a teammate while competing at The Castle
Published 9-26-2018
By Austin Franklin
Upson Lee competed in a region tri-match with Mary Persons and Perry last week, and recorded its first region win with a 2-0 victory over Mary Persons. The Lady Knights would also defeat Pike County 2-0, and fall to Perry 2-0. Upson Lee will travel this week to take on Jackson and Eagles Landing.
By Austin Franklin
Upson Lee competed in a region tri-match with Mary Persons and Perry last week, and recorded its first region win with a 2-0 victory over Mary Persons. The Lady Knights would also defeat Pike County 2-0, and fall to Perry 2-0. Upson Lee will travel this week to take on Jackson and Eagles Landing.
Knights Pull Off Upset for
First Win over Griffin Since 2007
Thad Webb looks for a hole to hit in the Knights 21-7 win over Griffin last week.
Webb recorded all three touchdowns for the Knights.
Published 9-19-2018
By Austin Franklin
Upson Lee traveled to Griffin last Friday night to face the Bears as major underdogs, having only beat Griffin twice in 18 tries, with their last win coming in 2007. The Knights were without playmakers Chance Gamble and Travon Walker, who are major parts of the team on both sides of the ball, and coming off of a sloppy loss to Fitzgerald in a game where the Knights were seemingly penalized every play. Despite the odds, despite the past record, despite last week, Upson Lee emerged victorious 21-7 against the Bears.
“This was one of the most fun games I have ever been a part of at Upson Lee. To see what can happen when our guys believe in themselves and execute a game plan, it’s just fun to watch. We were without Chance and Travon and kids had their numbers called Friday night to step up, and they did. It was fun to watch,” said Head Coach Justin Elder.
Griffin started the scoring early in the first quarter with a 25-yard touchdown pass to take a 7-0 lead. Griffin failed to score again in the game as Upson Lee stopped Griffin twice on fourth down, and held them to 3-15 in converting opportunities on third down in the game. “Defense played very well in the game, if I had a game ball it would go to those coaches and to those defensive players. They paid attention to detail in the game, executed the game plan, and played clean for four quarters,” said Elder.
Upson Lee got on the board in the second quarter as junior Thad Webb caught a 20-yard touchdown pass from sophomore quarterback Jake Davis to tie the game at 7-7. Two minutes later it was the Davis to Webb combo again for a 71-yard touchdown pass to take a 14-7 lead into halftime.
The Knights succeeded in adding another touchdown; once again Webb scored on a 42-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter to close the Bears out 21-7 on their home field.
Jake Davis attempted 33 passes in the game, which ties him for the most all time at Upson Lee, and his 223 yards passing ranks fourth all time in single game history. Demeke Colbert racked up 136 receiving yards in the game, which is also fourth all time in single game history for the Knights.
The Knights had their first bye week of the season this weekend and are gearing up for a showdown in region play Friday, Sept. 28 against Perry.
By Austin Franklin
Upson Lee traveled to Griffin last Friday night to face the Bears as major underdogs, having only beat Griffin twice in 18 tries, with their last win coming in 2007. The Knights were without playmakers Chance Gamble and Travon Walker, who are major parts of the team on both sides of the ball, and coming off of a sloppy loss to Fitzgerald in a game where the Knights were seemingly penalized every play. Despite the odds, despite the past record, despite last week, Upson Lee emerged victorious 21-7 against the Bears.
“This was one of the most fun games I have ever been a part of at Upson Lee. To see what can happen when our guys believe in themselves and execute a game plan, it’s just fun to watch. We were without Chance and Travon and kids had their numbers called Friday night to step up, and they did. It was fun to watch,” said Head Coach Justin Elder.
Griffin started the scoring early in the first quarter with a 25-yard touchdown pass to take a 7-0 lead. Griffin failed to score again in the game as Upson Lee stopped Griffin twice on fourth down, and held them to 3-15 in converting opportunities on third down in the game. “Defense played very well in the game, if I had a game ball it would go to those coaches and to those defensive players. They paid attention to detail in the game, executed the game plan, and played clean for four quarters,” said Elder.
Upson Lee got on the board in the second quarter as junior Thad Webb caught a 20-yard touchdown pass from sophomore quarterback Jake Davis to tie the game at 7-7. Two minutes later it was the Davis to Webb combo again for a 71-yard touchdown pass to take a 14-7 lead into halftime.
The Knights succeeded in adding another touchdown; once again Webb scored on a 42-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter to close the Bears out 21-7 on their home field.
Jake Davis attempted 33 passes in the game, which ties him for the most all time at Upson Lee, and his 223 yards passing ranks fourth all time in single game history. Demeke Colbert racked up 136 receiving yards in the game, which is also fourth all time in single game history for the Knights.
The Knights had their first bye week of the season this weekend and are gearing up for a showdown in region play Friday, Sept. 28 against Perry.
Dawgs take down raiders 49-7
The nation’s #2 ranked University of Georgia Bulldogs defeated Middle Tennessee State 49-7 Saturday, Sept. 15, 2018 at Sanford Stadium in Athens, Ga. The win moved the Bulldogs to 3-0 (1-0) on the season. Former UL standout David Marshall was in on a few tackles during the Dawgs defeat over the Raiders. UGA will head to the University of Missouri to take on the 3-0 Tigers. Kick-off is set for 12 p.m.
The 1968 UGA team was recognized during halftime. Thomaston natives Harold Tarrer (linebacker) and Mike Cavan (QB) were on the field for the recognition of the teams 50 year anniversary. The team finished 8-1-2 on the season. The Dawgs were defeated by Arkansas 16-2 in the Sugar Bowl to end the season and finished #8 in the nation.
Photos by Matt Sharpe-The Upson Beacon
The 1968 UGA team was recognized during halftime. Thomaston natives Harold Tarrer (linebacker) and Mike Cavan (QB) were on the field for the recognition of the teams 50 year anniversary. The team finished 8-1-2 on the season. The Dawgs were defeated by Arkansas 16-2 in the Sugar Bowl to end the season and finished #8 in the nation.
Photos by Matt Sharpe-The Upson Beacon
Penalties haunt Knights
in loss to Fitzgerald
Published 9-12-2018
By Austin Franklin
Last Friday Upson Lee traveled south to face off with AA powerhouse Fitzgerald, and fell short 28-24 in a penalty-filled game for the Knights. The Knights were called for 13 penalties where the Knights, otherwise, played very well.
Upson Lee began the scoring on a 29-yard field goal by Chase Winters to take a 3-0 lead midway through the first quarter. Fitzgerald countered a few minutes later on a 58-yard touchdown run to take a 7-3 lead. Upson Lee scored twice in the second quarter to take a 17-7 lead on a 43-yard touchdown reception by Milique Smith from Jake Davis, and a 25-yard fumble return touchdown by Thadd Webb. Late in the first half Fitzgerald cut the Knight lead to 17-14 on a 25-yard touchdown pass of their own right before halftime.
Fitzgerald once again scored on a 33-yard touchdown pass midway through the third quarter to regain the lead 21-17 before the Knights quickly answered with a 68-yard touchdown pass from Jake Davis to Demeke Colbert to take a 24-21 lead going into the fourth quarter.
Seconds into the fourth quarter Fitzgerald scored on a 13-yard run to take a lead they wouldn’t relinquish for a 28-24 win.
Upson Lee failed to stop Fitzgerald multiple times on third and long, and fourth down. Failed opportunities and penalties doomed the Knights in the game.
“We have to do a better job of getting the defense off of the field on third and fourth downs. Two-thirds of our starters are sophomores and juniors, and we are still learning and getting better every day. We have to do a better job of executing, but we work hard. We compete hard every day in practice and in every game,” said Head Coach Justin Elder.
Sophomore quarterback Jake Davis threw for 229 yards in the game, and became the first Upson Lee quarterback to throw for 200 yards or more in consecutive games.
By Austin Franklin
Last Friday Upson Lee traveled south to face off with AA powerhouse Fitzgerald, and fell short 28-24 in a penalty-filled game for the Knights. The Knights were called for 13 penalties where the Knights, otherwise, played very well.
Upson Lee began the scoring on a 29-yard field goal by Chase Winters to take a 3-0 lead midway through the first quarter. Fitzgerald countered a few minutes later on a 58-yard touchdown run to take a 7-3 lead. Upson Lee scored twice in the second quarter to take a 17-7 lead on a 43-yard touchdown reception by Milique Smith from Jake Davis, and a 25-yard fumble return touchdown by Thadd Webb. Late in the first half Fitzgerald cut the Knight lead to 17-14 on a 25-yard touchdown pass of their own right before halftime.
Fitzgerald once again scored on a 33-yard touchdown pass midway through the third quarter to regain the lead 21-17 before the Knights quickly answered with a 68-yard touchdown pass from Jake Davis to Demeke Colbert to take a 24-21 lead going into the fourth quarter.
Seconds into the fourth quarter Fitzgerald scored on a 13-yard run to take a lead they wouldn’t relinquish for a 28-24 win.
Upson Lee failed to stop Fitzgerald multiple times on third and long, and fourth down. Failed opportunities and penalties doomed the Knights in the game.
“We have to do a better job of getting the defense off of the field on third and fourth downs. Two-thirds of our starters are sophomores and juniors, and we are still learning and getting better every day. We have to do a better job of executing, but we work hard. We compete hard every day in practice and in every game,” said Head Coach Justin Elder.
Sophomore quarterback Jake Davis threw for 229 yards in the game, and became the first Upson Lee quarterback to throw for 200 yards or more in consecutive games.
Poteat Inducted into
WSL Softball Hall of Fame
Published 9-12-2018
By Austin Franklin
Last Thursday night, the World Sports League slow pitch softball organization began festivities for their World Series in Panama City Beach, Fla. To kick off the events for the weekend, WSL introduced the five members that were inducted into their hall of fame in 2018, one being Thomaston native and standout Upson Lee softball alumnus, Sara Poteat. Poteat was the lone female player inducted this year. Poteat’s team, the Bounty Hunters, would also go on to win the women’s upper division World Series for the fifth year in a row. Poteat was also named to the all-tournament team.
By Austin Franklin
Last Thursday night, the World Sports League slow pitch softball organization began festivities for their World Series in Panama City Beach, Fla. To kick off the events for the weekend, WSL introduced the five members that were inducted into their hall of fame in 2018, one being Thomaston native and standout Upson Lee softball alumnus, Sara Poteat. Poteat was the lone female player inducted this year. Poteat’s team, the Bounty Hunters, would also go on to win the women’s upper division World Series for the fifth year in a row. Poteat was also named to the all-tournament team.
Knights XC Places Second at Bulldog Distance Classic
Published 9-12-2018
The Knights cross country team recently competed in the Bulldog Distance Classic in Forsyth and placed 2nd out of 15 teams. Pictured above, freshman Jacob Stewart in a recent race, Stewart led the Knights in the Bulldog Distance Classic with a time of 19:05.
The Knights cross country team recently competed in the Bulldog Distance Classic in Forsyth and placed 2nd out of 15 teams. Pictured above, freshman Jacob Stewart in a recent race, Stewart led the Knights in the Bulldog Distance Classic with a time of 19:05.
Billy D’s Karate fares well
at 22nd annual
Olympic Karate Championship
Published 9-12-2018
By Austin Franklin
Billy D’s Karate of Thomaston recently competed in the 22nd Annual Olympic Karate Championship in Greenville, and placed first overall in the team form event. Individual members Lyndon Johnson, Styrlin Rowland, Zamaria White, Rose Kennedy, and Malachi Barror all individually placed first overall in regular form; Kennedy and Rowland also both placed first overall in the sparring event.
By Austin Franklin
Billy D’s Karate of Thomaston recently competed in the 22nd Annual Olympic Karate Championship in Greenville, and placed first overall in the team form event. Individual members Lyndon Johnson, Styrlin Rowland, Zamaria White, Rose Kennedy, and Malachi Barror all individually placed first overall in regular form; Kennedy and Rowland also both placed first overall in the sparring event.
Knights Hold on Late to Win
Second Game in a Row
Sophomore quarterback, Jake Davis attempts a pass in the 33-28 win over Harris County. Davis completed 15 passes in the game for 212 yards and a touchdown.
Published 9-5-2018
By Austin Franklin
After building a lead in the first half, the Knights came up with a big stop with less than a minute left in the game inside their 10-yard line to deny Harris County of their first win of the season. With the big defensive stop the Knights improved their record to 2-1 on the season, and gained some momentum with a tough seven games remaining on the schedule.
The Knights trailed in this ball game only once, for only about three minutes, when Harris County broke a 33-yard touchdown run on third down to take a 7-0 lead a minute into the first quarter, but the Knights would quickly respond. The Knights would march down the field themselves in a little over two minutes to tie the game 7-7 after a one-yard Travon Walker touchdown run. The defenses would stand tough for the rest of the first quarter, as neither team allowed another score.
With only a minute elapsed in the second quarter, Upson Lee running back Daymon Thomas would break loose for the Knights and score on a 56-yard touchdown run to take their first lead of the game, 14-7. After a defensive battle for the next nine minutes, Thomas would once again break loose for the Knights and give them a 21-7 lead on a 10-yard touchdown run with under two minutes left in the half. The Knights, hoping to take a two touchdown lead into halftime, would give up a long return on the ensuing kickoff which would set Harris County up to score on a one-yard run with 30 seconds remaining in the half to cut the Knight lead to 21-14 going into halftime.
Upson Lee would start the scoring in the second half as sophomore quarterback Jake Davis would find Demeke Colbert open in the middle of the field for a completion and long run of 41 yards for a Knights touchdown, and 27-14 lead. As they had done the first half, Harris County would quickly answer to keep it a one possession game. The Harris County score cut the Knights lead to 27-21 with five minutes remaining in the third quarter, but not for long. Only a few minutes later Thomas would score again for the Knights to close out the third quarter, giving the Knights a 33-21 lead going into the fourth quarter.
Upson Lee’s offense would fall stagnant in the fourth quarter, and give Harris County a chance to hang around. With a little more than four minutes remaining in the game, Harris County would connect on a 79-yard touchdown pass to once again keep it a one possession game, 33-28. After a Harris County defensive stop, the Knights defense would be relied on to get a stop and secure a win, and that, they did. After driving all the way down to the Knights six yard line with under a minute, the Knights would bear down and make a stop. On third down senior defensive lineman Keelin Woodard would make a huge sack, pushing the Harris County offense back 10 yards, allowing the Knights to get a fourth down stop, and their first home win.
By Austin Franklin
After building a lead in the first half, the Knights came up with a big stop with less than a minute left in the game inside their 10-yard line to deny Harris County of their first win of the season. With the big defensive stop the Knights improved their record to 2-1 on the season, and gained some momentum with a tough seven games remaining on the schedule.
The Knights trailed in this ball game only once, for only about three minutes, when Harris County broke a 33-yard touchdown run on third down to take a 7-0 lead a minute into the first quarter, but the Knights would quickly respond. The Knights would march down the field themselves in a little over two minutes to tie the game 7-7 after a one-yard Travon Walker touchdown run. The defenses would stand tough for the rest of the first quarter, as neither team allowed another score.
With only a minute elapsed in the second quarter, Upson Lee running back Daymon Thomas would break loose for the Knights and score on a 56-yard touchdown run to take their first lead of the game, 14-7. After a defensive battle for the next nine minutes, Thomas would once again break loose for the Knights and give them a 21-7 lead on a 10-yard touchdown run with under two minutes left in the half. The Knights, hoping to take a two touchdown lead into halftime, would give up a long return on the ensuing kickoff which would set Harris County up to score on a one-yard run with 30 seconds remaining in the half to cut the Knight lead to 21-14 going into halftime.
Upson Lee would start the scoring in the second half as sophomore quarterback Jake Davis would find Demeke Colbert open in the middle of the field for a completion and long run of 41 yards for a Knights touchdown, and 27-14 lead. As they had done the first half, Harris County would quickly answer to keep it a one possession game. The Harris County score cut the Knights lead to 27-21 with five minutes remaining in the third quarter, but not for long. Only a few minutes later Thomas would score again for the Knights to close out the third quarter, giving the Knights a 33-21 lead going into the fourth quarter.
Upson Lee’s offense would fall stagnant in the fourth quarter, and give Harris County a chance to hang around. With a little more than four minutes remaining in the game, Harris County would connect on a 79-yard touchdown pass to once again keep it a one possession game, 33-28. After a Harris County defensive stop, the Knights defense would be relied on to get a stop and secure a win, and that, they did. After driving all the way down to the Knights six yard line with under a minute, the Knights would bear down and make a stop. On third down senior defensive lineman Keelin Woodard would make a huge sack, pushing the Harris County offense back 10 yards, allowing the Knights to get a fourth down stop, and their first home win.
Lady Knights Begin
Region Play with a Win
Jessica Fernandez records a hit in a Lady Knights 6-1 win over Perry. Fernandez also had an RBI in the game.
Published 9-5-2018
By Austin Franklin
The Lady Knights hosted Perry last week in their first region action of the year and walked away with their first region win in 6-1 fashion. Zaria Childs pitched a complete game for Upson Lee in the win, allowing only one unearned run. The Lady Knights were led offensively by Julia Walden, Madison Murphy and Madison Wilder, who all tallied two base hits each. Rebecca Graham, Jessica Fernandez, Zaria Childs and Sydney Knight also recorded a hit each in the game.
Upson Lee would host region foe Mary Persons later in the week, and lose 8-6 after not being able to hold an early lead. The Lady Knights started hot, scoring four runs in the first three innings before giving up six in the bottom of the fourth to lose a lead that they could never recapture. Upson Lee and Mary Persons both went on to score a run in each of the last two innings of the game. Gracie Self and Rebecca Graham led the team with two hits, as Julia Walden, Madison Murphy, Hannah VanHouten, Jessica Fernandez, Sydney Knight and Carson Lindsey all picked up a hit.
The Lady Knights will go on the road this week to face Spalding and West Laurens, and will return home next Tuesday to host Howard.
By Austin Franklin
The Lady Knights hosted Perry last week in their first region action of the year and walked away with their first region win in 6-1 fashion. Zaria Childs pitched a complete game for Upson Lee in the win, allowing only one unearned run. The Lady Knights were led offensively by Julia Walden, Madison Murphy and Madison Wilder, who all tallied two base hits each. Rebecca Graham, Jessica Fernandez, Zaria Childs and Sydney Knight also recorded a hit each in the game.
Upson Lee would host region foe Mary Persons later in the week, and lose 8-6 after not being able to hold an early lead. The Lady Knights started hot, scoring four runs in the first three innings before giving up six in the bottom of the fourth to lose a lead that they could never recapture. Upson Lee and Mary Persons both went on to score a run in each of the last two innings of the game. Gracie Self and Rebecca Graham led the team with two hits, as Julia Walden, Madison Murphy, Hannah VanHouten, Jessica Fernandez, Sydney Knight and Carson Lindsey all picked up a hit.
The Lady Knights will go on the road this week to face Spalding and West Laurens, and will return home next Tuesday to host Howard.
Knights Get First Win of the
Season on Last Minute Play
Junior quarterback Demeke Colbert completes a pass for Knights.
Colbert was 4 for 4 passing on the Knights for possession which
resulted in a touchdown.
Published 8-29-2018
By Austin Franklin
After getting shut out offensively last week to Veterans, the Knights offense looked like a different team on the first drive of the game against East Paulding. The majority of the next three quarters were sloppily played by the Knights offense, until sophomore Jake Davis completed a huge pass to Travon Walker in the back of the end zone for a 20-yard touchdown with only 11 seconds remaining on the clock.
The Knights efficiently moved the ball down the field, gaining yards in a variety of ways. A five-minute opening drive was capped off by a Walker rushing touchdown from inside the five yard line to take the first lead of the season. The Knights defense would make a few stands before East Paulding would score on a third and long jump ball pass with three minutes remaining in the first quarter. The remainder of the first half for the Upson Lee offense was not good for the Knights, as it was littered with turnovers. The Upson Lee defense though, held its ground and kept the Knights in the ball game. East Paulding would kick a field goal with a little over two minutes remaining in the first half to take a 10-7 lead to half time.
The Knights failed to score in the third quarter, as East Paulding would eventually score after an Upson Lee turnover late in the third quarter, but they would miss the extra point to take a 16-7 lead into the fourth quarter. “We turned the ball over seven times in the game, five times offensively, but our defense did an extremely good job bowing their necks time after time to keep us in the game. All of East Paulding’s scores came off of turnovers; our defense did a heck of a job getting 11 hats to the ball and played fast all game to keep us in it,” said head coach Justin Elder.
The Upson Lee offense came to life in the fourth quarter as Daymon Thomas had a short touchdown run early in the fourth quarter to cut the deficit to 16-14 with 11 minutes left in the ball game. The Knights defense would continue to make stops and hold the East Paulding offense down in the fourth quarter, including a drive inside of two minutes left in the game when the defense forced a stop, which led to Upson Lee recovering a bad snap on the punt with under a minute left in the game on the East Paulding 40. After two East Paulding penalties the Knights would find themselves on the 20-yard line with 16 seconds left and sophomore Jake Davis in at quarterback. On the next play the sophomore would throw a beautiful pass to Walker in the back of the end zone for a touchdown and Knights win, 21-16.
“Our sophomore stepped up for us and made a big time throw to Travon, who also made a game changing play for us,” said Elder.
By Austin Franklin
After getting shut out offensively last week to Veterans, the Knights offense looked like a different team on the first drive of the game against East Paulding. The majority of the next three quarters were sloppily played by the Knights offense, until sophomore Jake Davis completed a huge pass to Travon Walker in the back of the end zone for a 20-yard touchdown with only 11 seconds remaining on the clock.
The Knights efficiently moved the ball down the field, gaining yards in a variety of ways. A five-minute opening drive was capped off by a Walker rushing touchdown from inside the five yard line to take the first lead of the season. The Knights defense would make a few stands before East Paulding would score on a third and long jump ball pass with three minutes remaining in the first quarter. The remainder of the first half for the Upson Lee offense was not good for the Knights, as it was littered with turnovers. The Upson Lee defense though, held its ground and kept the Knights in the ball game. East Paulding would kick a field goal with a little over two minutes remaining in the first half to take a 10-7 lead to half time.
The Knights failed to score in the third quarter, as East Paulding would eventually score after an Upson Lee turnover late in the third quarter, but they would miss the extra point to take a 16-7 lead into the fourth quarter. “We turned the ball over seven times in the game, five times offensively, but our defense did an extremely good job bowing their necks time after time to keep us in the game. All of East Paulding’s scores came off of turnovers; our defense did a heck of a job getting 11 hats to the ball and played fast all game to keep us in it,” said head coach Justin Elder.
The Upson Lee offense came to life in the fourth quarter as Daymon Thomas had a short touchdown run early in the fourth quarter to cut the deficit to 16-14 with 11 minutes left in the ball game. The Knights defense would continue to make stops and hold the East Paulding offense down in the fourth quarter, including a drive inside of two minutes left in the game when the defense forced a stop, which led to Upson Lee recovering a bad snap on the punt with under a minute left in the game on the East Paulding 40. After two East Paulding penalties the Knights would find themselves on the 20-yard line with 16 seconds left and sophomore Jake Davis in at quarterback. On the next play the sophomore would throw a beautiful pass to Walker in the back of the end zone for a touchdown and Knights win, 21-16.
“Our sophomore stepped up for us and made a big time throw to Travon, who also made a game changing play for us,” said Elder.
Lady Knights Secure Two
Shutout Victories
Zaria Childs delivers a pitch in the Knights
12-0 win over Peach County
Published 8-29-2018
By Austin Franklin
The Lady Knights softball team hosted Peach County and went on the road to face off with Callaway last week, and won both games in run rule fashion, allowing no runs in either contest.
Upson Lee defeated Peach County by a score of 12-0 behind pitcher Zaria Childs, who pitched the entire game for the Lady Knights, only allowing three hits and striking out five batters. Madison Murphy led the Knights offensively with two hits, as Julia Walden, Rebecca Graham, Anna Kelly, Hannah Van Houten, Madison Wilder, Jessica Fernandez, Logan Brannon, and Carson Lindsey would all add a base hit each in the game.
The Knights would also defeat Callaway 8-0 behind pitcher Gracie Self, who pitched the whole game, only allowing two hits and striking out four batters. Rebecca Graham led the Knights at the plate with a perfect 3-3 game offensively. Madison Murphy and Madison Wilder would also go a perfect 2-2 at the plate in the contest. Hannah Van Houten, Logan Brannon and Gracie Self all added a hit each in the game.
The Knights lost to Whitewater Monday and will host Perry earlier this week; result from the Perry game were not available at press time.
By Austin Franklin
The Lady Knights softball team hosted Peach County and went on the road to face off with Callaway last week, and won both games in run rule fashion, allowing no runs in either contest.
Upson Lee defeated Peach County by a score of 12-0 behind pitcher Zaria Childs, who pitched the entire game for the Lady Knights, only allowing three hits and striking out five batters. Madison Murphy led the Knights offensively with two hits, as Julia Walden, Rebecca Graham, Anna Kelly, Hannah Van Houten, Madison Wilder, Jessica Fernandez, Logan Brannon, and Carson Lindsey would all add a base hit each in the game.
The Knights would also defeat Callaway 8-0 behind pitcher Gracie Self, who pitched the whole game, only allowing two hits and striking out four batters. Rebecca Graham led the Knights at the plate with a perfect 3-3 game offensively. Madison Murphy and Madison Wilder would also go a perfect 2-2 at the plate in the contest. Hannah Van Houten, Logan Brannon and Gracie Self all added a hit each in the game.
The Knights lost to Whitewater Monday and will host Perry earlier this week; result from the Perry game were not available at press time.
Knights Cross Country wins Third
at Fast Feet Invitational
Published 8-29-2018
By Austin Franklin
The Upson Lee cross country team traveled to Americus this past weekend to participate in the third annual Furlow Fast Feet Invitational event. Out of 16 teams from all around the state, the Knights finished third with a team time of 1:37:49.17, only three minutes behind the event winners, Pike County High School. The Knights were led by freshman Jacob Stewart with a time of 19:01.25, who also finished 12th overall individually. Micah Smith, Noah Strom, Grady Smith, and Knox Miller also posted times under 20 minutes.
The Lady Knights also participated in the event, and were led by Ryleigh Cathcart with a time of 23:13.2, which was good enough for 10th overall individually. The Lady Knights, as a team, finished fifth overall out of 11 teams.
By Austin Franklin
The Upson Lee cross country team traveled to Americus this past weekend to participate in the third annual Furlow Fast Feet Invitational event. Out of 16 teams from all around the state, the Knights finished third with a team time of 1:37:49.17, only three minutes behind the event winners, Pike County High School. The Knights were led by freshman Jacob Stewart with a time of 19:01.25, who also finished 12th overall individually. Micah Smith, Noah Strom, Grady Smith, and Knox Miller also posted times under 20 minutes.
The Lady Knights also participated in the event, and were led by Ryleigh Cathcart with a time of 23:13.2, which was good enough for 10th overall individually. The Lady Knights, as a team, finished fifth overall out of 11 teams.
Knights Fail to Capitalize Early, Lose Season Opener
Senior running back Daymon Thomas gets around the outside for a first down last week versus Veterans
Published 8-22-2018
By Austin Franklin
Upson Lee hosted Veterans Friday night at Matthews Field in the season opener, and it did not start out the way Upson Lee envisioned. The game resulted in a 31-0 loss. The Knights came out and played well in the first quarter, getting some big stops on defense, and for the most part moving the ball down the field on offense. The Knights got in the red zone twice in the first quarter and failed to capitalize both times on drives ending in missed field goals. “We had several opportunities early in the game where we should have scored and didn’t, and it’s tough to overcome those” said Coach Justin Elder.
Veterans opened the scoring with three minutes remaining in the second quarter of a very sloppy, rainy game. Veterans took the lead and momentum into halftime, and did nothing but add to it throughout the remainder of the game. Upson Lee had trouble moving the ball in the second half, and fumbled the ball five times. “Veterans was a tough team, and their coaches did a good job the whole game. We never could gain any momentum in the game and they took advantage of it. We are a young team and we have to get better as a team and as coaches. We show up to work every day,” said Elder.
By Austin Franklin
Upson Lee hosted Veterans Friday night at Matthews Field in the season opener, and it did not start out the way Upson Lee envisioned. The game resulted in a 31-0 loss. The Knights came out and played well in the first quarter, getting some big stops on defense, and for the most part moving the ball down the field on offense. The Knights got in the red zone twice in the first quarter and failed to capitalize both times on drives ending in missed field goals. “We had several opportunities early in the game where we should have scored and didn’t, and it’s tough to overcome those” said Coach Justin Elder.
Veterans opened the scoring with three minutes remaining in the second quarter of a very sloppy, rainy game. Veterans took the lead and momentum into halftime, and did nothing but add to it throughout the remainder of the game. Upson Lee had trouble moving the ball in the second half, and fumbled the ball five times. “Veterans was a tough team, and their coaches did a good job the whole game. We never could gain any momentum in the game and they took advantage of it. We are a young team and we have to get better as a team and as coaches. We show up to work every day,” said Elder.
UL Softball wins first home
game in blowout fashion
Julia Walden throws out a runner in last week’s game.
Published 8-22-2018
By Austin Franklin
The Lady Knights opened their home schedule last week with games against Callaway and Pike County, winning against Callaway 8-0, and taking a tough 10-0 loss against Pike County.
The Lady Knights defeated Callaway behind a strong pitching performance from Zaria Childs, who pitched a complete game, only surrendering three hits, striking out three and walking no batters. The Lady Knights were led offensively by Rebecca Graham and Jessica Fernandez, who both recorded two hits in the game. Anna Kelly, Carson Lindsey, Hannah VanHouten, Madison Murphy and Julia Walden all added a hit each.
Upson Lee fell on the other side of a run rule Thursday when they hosted a very strong Pike County team in a 10-0 loss.
By Austin Franklin
The Lady Knights opened their home schedule last week with games against Callaway and Pike County, winning against Callaway 8-0, and taking a tough 10-0 loss against Pike County.
The Lady Knights defeated Callaway behind a strong pitching performance from Zaria Childs, who pitched a complete game, only surrendering three hits, striking out three and walking no batters. The Lady Knights were led offensively by Rebecca Graham and Jessica Fernandez, who both recorded two hits in the game. Anna Kelly, Carson Lindsey, Hannah VanHouten, Madison Murphy and Julia Walden all added a hit each.
Upson Lee fell on the other side of a run rule Thursday when they hosted a very strong Pike County team in a 10-0 loss.
Walker Named to USA TODay,
All-USA Preseason
All American Defensive Team
Last week Jim Halley of USA Today released his preseason All-USA All American Defensive Team, which is composed of 25 players around the country. On that list was five star University of Georgia commit, and Upson Lee Knight, Travon Walker. Shown above, Walker leaps over a lineman to block a field goal attempt in a game versus Columbus High School last season.
Walker Announces Commitment
to the University of Georgia
UL senior standout Travon Walker (center) announced his decision to further his
football career with the University of Georgia last week during a ceremony at the
UL Fine Arts Center. Walker’s decision was narrowed to UGA, Clemson, Auburn, South Carolina,
and Alabama. On stage with Walker were his parents Stead and
Sonya Walker, along with his siblings and other family members. Photo by Austin Franklin
Published 8-1-2018
By Austin Franklin
Upson Lee standout and five star defensive lineman Travon Walker announced his decision on where he would continue his football career Tuesday, July 24 during a reception at the Upson Lee Fine Arts Center.
Walker, while surrounded by family members on stage, announced he has verbally committed to the University of Georgia. Walker picked the Bulldogs over Alabama, Auburn, Clemson and South Carolina.
Walker has piled up Division 1 football offers from dozens of schools in the country for years. The 6-4, 272 pound defensive lineman is considered one of the top defensive line recruits in the country. He is the No. 1 ranked high school player in Georgia, and the No. 7 overall player in the county, according to 247 sports football recruiting service.
Last season, the UL junior recorded 37 solo tackles, three sacks and two forced fumbles for the Knights.
During his announcement, Walker thanked God for allowing him “to be able to go to the collegiate level and do what I love doing.”
Walker continued by thanking his parents. “Thanks for always being there for my sporting events and for the unconditional sacrifices that you all have made for me along this journey,” he said.
Walker then thanked former UL head coach Tommy Parks by saying, “thank you for preparing me for this day. You told me that it was coming, as did the majority of my coaches. To all of the coaches that have coached me during my career, thank you for the knowledge and preparation you have installed in me in order to strengthen my talents.”
Walker said he has been silently committed to Georgia for weeks, but wanted to wait to make his announcement when the time was right. With the commitment of Walker to the Bulldogs, their 2019 team recruiting ranking moved from ninth in the country to fourth.
The decision to commit to Georgia was made simply by the fact that he could stay close to home and feels comfortable in Athens.
“I wanted to go to a school where I felt at home, regardless of football, and for me that was the University of Georgia,” said Walker.
Walker said he has spoken with Georgia basketball head coach Tom Crean about potential playing two sports while in Athens. The option is on the table if Walker chooses to do so.
Perhaps the most exciting news for the people of Thomaston in attendance was the answer Walker gave when asked if he would early enroll at UGA in December or wait until he completed his senior year at UL.
The answer Walker gave made a lot of people happy.
“I will be signing with Georgia in December, but I will not early enroll, I will be staying at Upson Lee to play basketball my senior year”.
This was huge news for the fans as Walker is a huge part of the UL Runnin’ Knights basketball team. Walker averaged 13 points and 15 rebounds on UL’s state championship basketball team that that has won back to back state titles, and has a 63-0 winning streak.
By Austin Franklin
Upson Lee standout and five star defensive lineman Travon Walker announced his decision on where he would continue his football career Tuesday, July 24 during a reception at the Upson Lee Fine Arts Center.
Walker, while surrounded by family members on stage, announced he has verbally committed to the University of Georgia. Walker picked the Bulldogs over Alabama, Auburn, Clemson and South Carolina.
Walker has piled up Division 1 football offers from dozens of schools in the country for years. The 6-4, 272 pound defensive lineman is considered one of the top defensive line recruits in the country. He is the No. 1 ranked high school player in Georgia, and the No. 7 overall player in the county, according to 247 sports football recruiting service.
Last season, the UL junior recorded 37 solo tackles, three sacks and two forced fumbles for the Knights.
During his announcement, Walker thanked God for allowing him “to be able to go to the collegiate level and do what I love doing.”
Walker continued by thanking his parents. “Thanks for always being there for my sporting events and for the unconditional sacrifices that you all have made for me along this journey,” he said.
Walker then thanked former UL head coach Tommy Parks by saying, “thank you for preparing me for this day. You told me that it was coming, as did the majority of my coaches. To all of the coaches that have coached me during my career, thank you for the knowledge and preparation you have installed in me in order to strengthen my talents.”
Walker said he has been silently committed to Georgia for weeks, but wanted to wait to make his announcement when the time was right. With the commitment of Walker to the Bulldogs, their 2019 team recruiting ranking moved from ninth in the country to fourth.
The decision to commit to Georgia was made simply by the fact that he could stay close to home and feels comfortable in Athens.
“I wanted to go to a school where I felt at home, regardless of football, and for me that was the University of Georgia,” said Walker.
Walker said he has spoken with Georgia basketball head coach Tom Crean about potential playing two sports while in Athens. The option is on the table if Walker chooses to do so.
Perhaps the most exciting news for the people of Thomaston in attendance was the answer Walker gave when asked if he would early enroll at UGA in December or wait until he completed his senior year at UL.
The answer Walker gave made a lot of people happy.
“I will be signing with Georgia in December, but I will not early enroll, I will be staying at Upson Lee to play basketball my senior year”.
This was huge news for the fans as Walker is a huge part of the UL Runnin’ Knights basketball team. Walker averaged 13 points and 15 rebounds on UL’s state championship basketball team that that has won back to back state titles, and has a 63-0 winning streak.
TPD hosts fourth annual
Youth Awareness
Basketball Tournament
Participants of the tournament and members of the thomaston Police Department
gather for the annual group picture
Published 8-1-2018
By Austin Franklin
For the fourth year in a row, the Thomaston Police Department put on a youth awareness basketball tournament at the middle school for boys and girls ages 11-14. The tournament is free to kids that are age eligible, and with their participation, all kids are given a raffle ticket with a chance to win more than 20 prizes. The teams are picked and coached by current officers of the TPD, and they compete in a tournament that lasts all day. This year there were eight boys teams and three girls teams, all with six to eight players per team. There is also a three point contest for the boys and girls. This year Quienyetta Martin won for the girls, and Quintrez Daniel won the boys’ contest.
By Austin Franklin
For the fourth year in a row, the Thomaston Police Department put on a youth awareness basketball tournament at the middle school for boys and girls ages 11-14. The tournament is free to kids that are age eligible, and with their participation, all kids are given a raffle ticket with a chance to win more than 20 prizes. The teams are picked and coached by current officers of the TPD, and they compete in a tournament that lasts all day. This year there were eight boys teams and three girls teams, all with six to eight players per team. There is also a three point contest for the boys and girls. This year Quienyetta Martin won for the girls, and Quintrez Daniel won the boys’ contest.
Boys three point contest winner
Quintrez Daniel with Lt. Little.
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Girls three point contest winner Quienyetta
Martin with LT. Little.
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Thornton, Jernigan repeat
as UL Kickoff Classic
Golf Tournament Champions
Morgan, Upson win
Championship B flight
Championship A winners Taylor Jernigan and Brent Thornton
|
Championship B winners Brett Upson and Will Morgan
|
Published 7-25-2018
By Austin Franklin
The annual Upson Lee Kickoff Classic Golf Tournament was held at Raintree Golf Club on July 21 and 22. Teams played in pairs and were separated into flights 1-4 and championship A and B flights. The team of Tyler Helms and Devan Nicholson tied with the team of Robbie Blount and Heath Clay to claim the fourth flight. Chase Smith and Tony Smith won the third flight, with Levi Long and Ryan Shurley winning the second flight. Tony and Ricky Nicholson rounded out the four flights with their first flight win. Championship B was won by Will Morgan and Brett Upson. Championship A was won for a second consecutive year by Brent Thornton and Taylor Jernigan.
By Austin Franklin
The annual Upson Lee Kickoff Classic Golf Tournament was held at Raintree Golf Club on July 21 and 22. Teams played in pairs and were separated into flights 1-4 and championship A and B flights. The team of Tyler Helms and Devan Nicholson tied with the team of Robbie Blount and Heath Clay to claim the fourth flight. Chase Smith and Tony Smith won the third flight, with Levi Long and Ryan Shurley winning the second flight. Tony and Ricky Nicholson rounded out the four flights with their first flight win. Championship B was won by Will Morgan and Brett Upson. Championship A was won for a second consecutive year by Brent Thornton and Taylor Jernigan.
Seven Diamond Knights
Earn All-Region Awards
Seven Diamond Knights earn All-Region Awards: Pitcher
Alex Blount, outfielder Chance Gamble, and designated hitter
Brooks Gulley earn first team awards, pitcher Cotton Phillips and
catcher Josh Keeter earned second team awards, and outfielders
Trace Park and Gabe Pollard earned honorable mention awards.
Fagan commits to UGA,
High school jersey Retired
Published 5-16-2018
By Austin Franklin
Upson Lee senior Tye Fagan has inked his letter of intent to forward his basketball career with the University of Georgia Bulldogs. Fagan signed his letter of intent during a ceremony in the Upson Lee gymnasium Friday, May 11. He becomes the first commitment to UGA’s basketball program under new head coach Tom Crean. Fagan is UL’s all-time leader in points scored for the program. He holds the record with 2,038 points scored for UL. As part of the accomplishment, Fagan’s #24 jersey has officially been retired. Fagan was featured in the April 9, 2018 issue of Sports Illustrated as part of the Faces in the Crowd section. He was an instrumental part of the Runnin’ Knights winning back to back state titles in AAAA and the teams 63-0 winning streak. In addition, he was named Class AAAA player of the year during his junior and senior year at Upson Lee.
By Austin Franklin
Upson Lee senior Tye Fagan has inked his letter of intent to forward his basketball career with the University of Georgia Bulldogs. Fagan signed his letter of intent during a ceremony in the Upson Lee gymnasium Friday, May 11. He becomes the first commitment to UGA’s basketball program under new head coach Tom Crean. Fagan is UL’s all-time leader in points scored for the program. He holds the record with 2,038 points scored for UL. As part of the accomplishment, Fagan’s #24 jersey has officially been retired. Fagan was featured in the April 9, 2018 issue of Sports Illustrated as part of the Faces in the Crowd section. He was an instrumental part of the Runnin’ Knights winning back to back state titles in AAAA and the teams 63-0 winning streak. In addition, he was named Class AAAA player of the year during his junior and senior year at Upson Lee.
UL FOOTball Tackles
Spring Practice
Quarterback candidate Demeke Colbert completes a pass
during spring practice
Published 5-16-2018
By Austin Franklin
Coming off of a 4-6 season last year under first year head coach Justin Elder, Upson Lee begins this season looking to improve mentally and and improve on several young position groups, according to Elder.
“Our offensive line and secondary groups are very young this year. We lost a lot of guys from the offensive line last season, so some of these younger guys are going to have to step up and fill some shoes. The same secondary we had last year is back this year, and they are really going to have to grow up and improve from last season.”
The biggest loss the Knights suffered was the loss of starting quarterback Cameron Traylor. The Knights will have to fill his shoes to be successful this season, and Elder feels like the team has two good candidates for the job.
“Demeke Colbert and Jake Davis have both done good jobs this spring, they are both very athletic.”
The Knights have concluded their first full week of spring football practice, and are preparing for their spring scrimmage game this Friday. The Knights will be traveling to Atlanta to face off with 5A opponent Union Grove at Georgia State University. Union Grove is coming off of a season with a record of 3-7. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. at Georgia State Stadium (old Turner Field), tickets will be $5 to attend.
By Austin Franklin
Coming off of a 4-6 season last year under first year head coach Justin Elder, Upson Lee begins this season looking to improve mentally and and improve on several young position groups, according to Elder.
“Our offensive line and secondary groups are very young this year. We lost a lot of guys from the offensive line last season, so some of these younger guys are going to have to step up and fill some shoes. The same secondary we had last year is back this year, and they are really going to have to grow up and improve from last season.”
The biggest loss the Knights suffered was the loss of starting quarterback Cameron Traylor. The Knights will have to fill his shoes to be successful this season, and Elder feels like the team has two good candidates for the job.
“Demeke Colbert and Jake Davis have both done good jobs this spring, they are both very athletic.”
The Knights have concluded their first full week of spring football practice, and are preparing for their spring scrimmage game this Friday. The Knights will be traveling to Atlanta to face off with 5A opponent Union Grove at Georgia State University. Union Grove is coming off of a season with a record of 3-7. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. at Georgia State Stadium (old Turner Field), tickets will be $5 to attend.
Knights’ Historic Soccer
Season Comes to an End
Published 5-16-2018
By Austin Franklin
After securing the school’s first ever elite eight win by a score of 4-3 over Blessed Trinity, the Knights hosted Chestatee High School out of Gainesville, last week with the winner earning a trip to the state championship game. The Knights would fall by a score of 2-0 to end their season, but not before taking the program to new heights and creating optimism in the community about this Knight soccer team for years to come. Finishing with a record of 19-2, region champions, and a final four appearance, this is only the beginning of what this team will be looking to accomplish next season. The Knights and head coach Matt Bentley will return 10 of 11 starters to the field next year as they look to improve on the impressive season that they had this year. After Chestatee’s win over Upson Lee they would advance to the state championship game and get beat 3-2 in a nail biter by Northwest Whitfield.
By Austin Franklin
After securing the school’s first ever elite eight win by a score of 4-3 over Blessed Trinity, the Knights hosted Chestatee High School out of Gainesville, last week with the winner earning a trip to the state championship game. The Knights would fall by a score of 2-0 to end their season, but not before taking the program to new heights and creating optimism in the community about this Knight soccer team for years to come. Finishing with a record of 19-2, region champions, and a final four appearance, this is only the beginning of what this team will be looking to accomplish next season. The Knights and head coach Matt Bentley will return 10 of 11 starters to the field next year as they look to improve on the impressive season that they had this year. After Chestatee’s win over Upson Lee they would advance to the state championship game and get beat 3-2 in a nail biter by Northwest Whitfield.
Knights Streak into Final Four for
First Time in School History
After the Knights (19-1) handily defeated Cairo and Eastside in rounds one and two of the playoffs, the Knights won an Elite Eight battle against Blessed Trinity 4-3 in a physical, back and forth game. With this win, the Knights earned a home game against second-ranked Chestatee in the Final Four, the first appearance of such for the Knights in program history. Unfortunately UL fell to Chestatee in the Final Four ending the Knights remarkable run this season. Photo by Austin Franklin
Knights Win in Dramatic Fashion for First Elite Eight Victory
Junior captain Chase Winters celebrates with the student section after scoring the go ahead goal for the Knights in the second half of their 4-3 win over Blessed Trinity. Winters has scored seven goals in three postseason games for the Knights this season.
Published 5-9-2017
By Austin Franklin
The Knights went into Saturday night’s matchup with Blessed Trinity with a record of 18-1 in a season where the Knights controlled virtually every game from start to finish and were never down by more than one goal in any game. After their come-from-behind 4-3 victory Saturday night in front of an amazing home crowd, the Knights showed that they aren’t just frontrunners, but can also play from behind when their backs are to the wall.
The Knights fell behind early to a very good and physical Blessed Trinity team on an early goal. Berklei Rakestraw would answer quickly to tie the game at one. Blessed Trinity would muster two more goals in the first half to take a 3-1 lead, marking the first time all season that Upson Lee had trailed by more than one goal in a game. Tristen Coker’s header would find the back of the net late in the first half to cut the deficit to 3-2 going into halftime.
Coming out of halftime, the Knights looked like a different team and played with more energy and passion than I have seen all year, having multiple opportunities to score but failing to with Blessed Trinity defenders making multiple stops deep in the box. With 18 minutes left in the game and trailing 3-2 the Knights’ Brandon Martinez would score an incredible goal with a back post header to even the game at three and get the crowd noise to a level I have never heard at an Upson Lee soccer game, and that I thought I would never hear again. That was until 45 seconds later. Chase Winters would not be denied as he dribbled through several defenders on his own and scored to give the Knights the 4-3 lead that they would hold for their first Elite Eight win in school history.
The Knights beat Eastside High School last Tuesday night 6-1 to get to the Blessed Trinity game behind a Winters hat trick (three goals). Draw McDuffie, Rakestraw and Martinez also scored for the Knights. Winters now has seven goals through three postseason games for the Knights.
The Knights hosted second ranked Chestatee High School last night at Matthews Field in the Final Four. Unfortunately for UL, the teams remarkable run in the state playoffs came to an end with a loss against Chestatee.
By Austin Franklin
The Knights went into Saturday night’s matchup with Blessed Trinity with a record of 18-1 in a season where the Knights controlled virtually every game from start to finish and were never down by more than one goal in any game. After their come-from-behind 4-3 victory Saturday night in front of an amazing home crowd, the Knights showed that they aren’t just frontrunners, but can also play from behind when their backs are to the wall.
The Knights fell behind early to a very good and physical Blessed Trinity team on an early goal. Berklei Rakestraw would answer quickly to tie the game at one. Blessed Trinity would muster two more goals in the first half to take a 3-1 lead, marking the first time all season that Upson Lee had trailed by more than one goal in a game. Tristen Coker’s header would find the back of the net late in the first half to cut the deficit to 3-2 going into halftime.
Coming out of halftime, the Knights looked like a different team and played with more energy and passion than I have seen all year, having multiple opportunities to score but failing to with Blessed Trinity defenders making multiple stops deep in the box. With 18 minutes left in the game and trailing 3-2 the Knights’ Brandon Martinez would score an incredible goal with a back post header to even the game at three and get the crowd noise to a level I have never heard at an Upson Lee soccer game, and that I thought I would never hear again. That was until 45 seconds later. Chase Winters would not be denied as he dribbled through several defenders on his own and scored to give the Knights the 4-3 lead that they would hold for their first Elite Eight win in school history.
The Knights beat Eastside High School last Tuesday night 6-1 to get to the Blessed Trinity game behind a Winters hat trick (three goals). Draw McDuffie, Rakestraw and Martinez also scored for the Knights. Winters now has seven goals through three postseason games for the Knights.
The Knights hosted second ranked Chestatee High School last night at Matthews Field in the Final Four. Unfortunately for UL, the teams remarkable run in the state playoffs came to an end with a loss against Chestatee.
Lady Knights G Advance
to State Championship
Taylor King, Ally Phillips, Morgan Hardeman and Hailey O’Linger will be advancing to state competition in Helen on May 21 and 22 following their team score of 312 last week in sectional completion. They are pictured with UL coach Kim Phillips
Published 5-9-2018
By Austin Franklin
Last week the Upson Lee golf teams traveled to Columbus to participate in the sectionals tournament at Bull Creek Golf Course. The girls shot a score of 312, which was good enough to advance them to the state championship on May 21 and 22 in Helen at the Innsbruck Golf Club. They were led by senior Taylor King, who carded a low score of 89 on the day.
The Knights failed to advance to state competition with a score of 359. The Knights were led by Hayden Roberts, who carded a score of 82. Roberts has a chance at being invited to state competition as an individualist following his performance at Bull Creek.
By Austin Franklin
Last week the Upson Lee golf teams traveled to Columbus to participate in the sectionals tournament at Bull Creek Golf Course. The girls shot a score of 312, which was good enough to advance them to the state championship on May 21 and 22 in Helen at the Innsbruck Golf Club. They were led by senior Taylor King, who carded a low score of 89 on the day.
The Knights failed to advance to state competition with a score of 359. The Knights were led by Hayden Roberts, who carded a score of 82. Roberts has a chance at being invited to state competition as an individualist following his performance at Bull Creek.
Bryce Robinson named
Athletic Director of the Year
Published 4-18-2018
Upson Lee Athletic Director Bryce Robinson was honored at the Georgia Athletic Directors Association (GADA) Awards Banquet as the 2018 State Class AAAA Athletic Director of the Year and as the 2018 Region 2-AAAA Athletic Director of the Year. Robinson has been athletic director for ULHS since July of 2016. He is pictured with his wife Abbey and their son Parker during this year’s banquet, held in Savannah.
Upson Lee Athletic Director Bryce Robinson was honored at the Georgia Athletic Directors Association (GADA) Awards Banquet as the 2018 State Class AAAA Athletic Director of the Year and as the 2018 Region 2-AAAA Athletic Director of the Year. Robinson has been athletic director for ULHS since July of 2016. He is pictured with his wife Abbey and their son Parker during this year’s banquet, held in Savannah.
Tallini to be inducted into
Georgia Chapter of the National
Wrestling Hall of Fame
Denis Tallini
Published 4-11-2018
The National Wrestling Hall of Fame and Museum in Stillwater, Okla. will induct its Class of 2018 Saturday, May 6 during the "Honors Celebration Banquet” at the Sonesta Gwinnett Place Atlanta in Duluth.
The Class of 2018 includes seven individuals who will be inducted as "Lifetime Service to Wrestling" recipients in recognition of contributing at least 20 years to the sport of wrestling as a coach, referee or contributor. Of those being inducted is Denis Tallini of Thomaston.
Tallini has 43 years of service in the industry with his most recent experience as associate director with the Georgia High School Association. He is a former member of National Federation of High School Associations (NFHS) wrestling rules committee. He has 31 years of experience as a high school wrestling official in Louisiana with 11 more after his move to Georgia. Tallini is a mainstay on the mats for state-level tournaments and remains active as an official with the Metro Atlanta Wrestling Officials. He is a former collegiate star at Mohawk Valley CC (NY) and University of Southwestern Louisiana (now University of Louisiana – Lafayette).
While with the GHSA he oversaw GHSA wrestling, including weight management program, state qualifying tournaments, as well as 3-4 other GHSA programs and other initiatives.
Tallini has had an outstanding professional career with 23 years as a Certified Exercise Specialist in Cardiac Rehab (Our Lady of Lourdes, Lafayette, LA) and 14 years in the management of hospital health and fitness centers (Our Lady of Lourdes and Upson Regional Medical Center, Thomaston).
He and his wife Margie have two adult children, Camille and Carmen.
Other inductees with the Georgia Chapter include: Stacey L. Davis, Sr. (of Powder Springs), Jerry Goldstein (Atlanta), William Howington (Gainesville), Pat McCance (Loganville), Don St. James (Roswell), Bruce Towson (McDonough)
The National Wrestling Hall of Fame and Museum is located in Stillwater, Okla. Its goals are to preserve the sport of wrestling’s history, recognize extraordinary individual accomplishments, and inspire future generations to participate in the oldest sport known to man.
Event and ticket information is available by emailing wrestlinghofga@gmail.com.
The National Wrestling Hall of Fame and Museum in Stillwater, Okla. will induct its Class of 2018 Saturday, May 6 during the "Honors Celebration Banquet” at the Sonesta Gwinnett Place Atlanta in Duluth.
The Class of 2018 includes seven individuals who will be inducted as "Lifetime Service to Wrestling" recipients in recognition of contributing at least 20 years to the sport of wrestling as a coach, referee or contributor. Of those being inducted is Denis Tallini of Thomaston.
Tallini has 43 years of service in the industry with his most recent experience as associate director with the Georgia High School Association. He is a former member of National Federation of High School Associations (NFHS) wrestling rules committee. He has 31 years of experience as a high school wrestling official in Louisiana with 11 more after his move to Georgia. Tallini is a mainstay on the mats for state-level tournaments and remains active as an official with the Metro Atlanta Wrestling Officials. He is a former collegiate star at Mohawk Valley CC (NY) and University of Southwestern Louisiana (now University of Louisiana – Lafayette).
While with the GHSA he oversaw GHSA wrestling, including weight management program, state qualifying tournaments, as well as 3-4 other GHSA programs and other initiatives.
Tallini has had an outstanding professional career with 23 years as a Certified Exercise Specialist in Cardiac Rehab (Our Lady of Lourdes, Lafayette, LA) and 14 years in the management of hospital health and fitness centers (Our Lady of Lourdes and Upson Regional Medical Center, Thomaston).
He and his wife Margie have two adult children, Camille and Carmen.
Other inductees with the Georgia Chapter include: Stacey L. Davis, Sr. (of Powder Springs), Jerry Goldstein (Atlanta), William Howington (Gainesville), Pat McCance (Loganville), Don St. James (Roswell), Bruce Towson (McDonough)
The National Wrestling Hall of Fame and Museum is located in Stillwater, Okla. Its goals are to preserve the sport of wrestling’s history, recognize extraordinary individual accomplishments, and inspire future generations to participate in the oldest sport known to man.
Event and ticket information is available by emailing wrestlinghofga@gmail.com.
Diamond Knights Win Series with Howard Control Playoff Hopes
Freshman right fielder Chance Gamble lays down a bunt for the Knights in a recent game with Howard. Gamble leads the Knights with a .390 batting average and 23 hits on the season.
Published 4-8-2018
By Austin Franklin
Going into last week’s series with Howard, the Huskies were 0-9 in region play, but they would not be an easy task for the Knights to handle thought Upson Lee would win two out of three to increase their record to 12-12 and their region record to 7-5.
Howard would win the first game 8-2 after a six run sixth inning on multiple Knight errors and defensive misplays.
The Knights would get back on track in game two winning by a score of 4-0 powered by a Gabe Pollard home run, and a stellar complete game shutout performance on the mound by Alex Blount.
Game three would also be won by the Knights in an offensive display by a score of 9-2, and another great game pitched by Cotton Phillips.
Logan Spivey led the Knights offensively in the series with five hits, Brooks Gulley and Pollard added four, and Chance Gamble added three as well.
With three games remaining for all teams in region 2-4A this week, the Knights control their own playoff destiny. With a sweep of Mary Persons the Knights will finish second in the region, and will host the first round of the state playoffs. If the Knights win two games, they will secure at least a third seed and a berth to the state playoffs. If the Knights lose two or more games, well, things get tricky. Spalding, Perry, and Mary Persons are all tied or within one game of the Knights in the region standings, but Upson Lee holds the tiebreakers over Spalding and Perry, and with a series win over Mary Persons they would hold the tiebreaker over them as well. Upson Lee and Spalding both hold region records of 7-5, and Perry and Mary Persons have records of 6-6. Spalding and Perry also have a three game series with each other this week.
By Austin Franklin
Going into last week’s series with Howard, the Huskies were 0-9 in region play, but they would not be an easy task for the Knights to handle thought Upson Lee would win two out of three to increase their record to 12-12 and their region record to 7-5.
Howard would win the first game 8-2 after a six run sixth inning on multiple Knight errors and defensive misplays.
The Knights would get back on track in game two winning by a score of 4-0 powered by a Gabe Pollard home run, and a stellar complete game shutout performance on the mound by Alex Blount.
Game three would also be won by the Knights in an offensive display by a score of 9-2, and another great game pitched by Cotton Phillips.
Logan Spivey led the Knights offensively in the series with five hits, Brooks Gulley and Pollard added four, and Chance Gamble added three as well.
With three games remaining for all teams in region 2-4A this week, the Knights control their own playoff destiny. With a sweep of Mary Persons the Knights will finish second in the region, and will host the first round of the state playoffs. If the Knights win two games, they will secure at least a third seed and a berth to the state playoffs. If the Knights lose two or more games, well, things get tricky. Spalding, Perry, and Mary Persons are all tied or within one game of the Knights in the region standings, but Upson Lee holds the tiebreakers over Spalding and Perry, and with a series win over Mary Persons they would hold the tiebreaker over them as well. Upson Lee and Spalding both hold region records of 7-5, and Perry and Mary Persons have records of 6-6. Spalding and Perry also have a three game series with each other this week.
Diamond Knights Win
Another Region Series
Seek Home Playoff Positioning
Senior center fielder Trace Parks takes a pitch inside
for a ball in a recent game. Parks leads the team with
a .520 on-base percentage in region games.
Published 4-11-2018
By Austin Franklin
The young Upson Lee baseball Knights do it again, winning the series 2-1 over Perry last week, giving them a 5-4 region record with six games to play, and a tie for second place in the region.
If the Knights were able to secure second place they would host, at the very least, the first round of the state playoffs at Silvertown Ballpark.
The Knights have six region games remaining, three against Howard who has a record of 0-9 in region, and three against Mary Persons who has a record of 5-4. The Knights began their series with Howard Monday night at home; results were not available at press time. They will also play on the road tonight at Howard.
UL started its series against Perry last Monday night with a heartbreaking 6-4 loss in nine innings. The Knights fell behind early 2-0, and were unable to score until the fourth inning when Gabe Pollard hit a long solo home run to put the Knights on the board. Turner Maddox would tie the game for the Knights in the fifth on an error by Perry. After seven innings, the score was still knotted at 2-2 and would go into extra innings. Perry would put two runs on the board in the top of the eighth, but the fiery Knights would answer. The Knights would put a few runners on in the bottom of the eighth, and Chance Gamble would score on a two out ground ball by Brooks Gulley that Perry would make an error on. The next man to the plate was freshman Logan Spivey who would strike out, but reach first base on a dropped third strike which allowed Pollard to score and tie the game.Perry would once again score two runs in the top of the ninth, and this time the Knights wouldn’t be able to counter.
Game two of the series would be a different story, after an RBI double by Turner Maddox in the second inning Upson Lee would allow two runs in the bottom of the inning, but that would be the last lead of the game Perry would see. In the fourth Chance Gamble would pick up an RBI single, and Gabe Pollard would later get a two out two RBI single as well to give the Knights a 5-2 lead after Brooks Gulley reached on an error to score Gamble. The Knights would extend their lead in the sixth with an RBI single by Trace Park, and a run scored by Maddox by stealing home giving Upson Lee a 7-2 lead. Perry would score two in the seventh, but the Knights would get the win, 7-4.
Perry took an early three run lead in the third game of the series, but that wouldn’t last for long. Upson Lee would score five runs in the bottom of the second to give them a 5-3 lead, one they would add on to throughout the game for another victory, and series win, 8-3.
By Austin Franklin
The young Upson Lee baseball Knights do it again, winning the series 2-1 over Perry last week, giving them a 5-4 region record with six games to play, and a tie for second place in the region.
If the Knights were able to secure second place they would host, at the very least, the first round of the state playoffs at Silvertown Ballpark.
The Knights have six region games remaining, three against Howard who has a record of 0-9 in region, and three against Mary Persons who has a record of 5-4. The Knights began their series with Howard Monday night at home; results were not available at press time. They will also play on the road tonight at Howard.
UL started its series against Perry last Monday night with a heartbreaking 6-4 loss in nine innings. The Knights fell behind early 2-0, and were unable to score until the fourth inning when Gabe Pollard hit a long solo home run to put the Knights on the board. Turner Maddox would tie the game for the Knights in the fifth on an error by Perry. After seven innings, the score was still knotted at 2-2 and would go into extra innings. Perry would put two runs on the board in the top of the eighth, but the fiery Knights would answer. The Knights would put a few runners on in the bottom of the eighth, and Chance Gamble would score on a two out ground ball by Brooks Gulley that Perry would make an error on. The next man to the plate was freshman Logan Spivey who would strike out, but reach first base on a dropped third strike which allowed Pollard to score and tie the game.Perry would once again score two runs in the top of the ninth, and this time the Knights wouldn’t be able to counter.
Game two of the series would be a different story, after an RBI double by Turner Maddox in the second inning Upson Lee would allow two runs in the bottom of the inning, but that would be the last lead of the game Perry would see. In the fourth Chance Gamble would pick up an RBI single, and Gabe Pollard would later get a two out two RBI single as well to give the Knights a 5-2 lead after Brooks Gulley reached on an error to score Gamble. The Knights would extend their lead in the sixth with an RBI single by Trace Park, and a run scored by Maddox by stealing home giving Upson Lee a 7-2 lead. Perry would score two in the seventh, but the Knights would get the win, 7-4.
Perry took an early three run lead in the third game of the series, but that wouldn’t last for long. Upson Lee would score five runs in the bottom of the second to give them a 5-3 lead, one they would add on to throughout the game for another victory, and series win, 8-3.
Lady Knights’ pick up Region Win,
Remain in Playoff Hunt
Isabella Velasco fights off an opponent for ball
control in a recent game.
Published 4-11-2018
By Austin Franklin
With two region games remaining, Upson Lee needed two wins to have a chance of making the playoffs as a fourth seed coming out of region play. After a victory over Perry Friday night, the Lady Knights only need one more win to give themselves a good shot at getting into the playoffs.
Upson Lee’s victory came in dramatic fashion, as the game was sent to penalty kicks after regulation ended in a 2-2 tie. Upson Lee would win the shootout 4-3 to earn a 3-2 region victory and keep their playoff hopes alive. Goals were scored by Alyssa Holmes and Caroline Irvine.
Upson Lee will be back in action Tuesday, April 17 against Eagles Landing at 5:30 for senior night.
By Austin Franklin
With two region games remaining, Upson Lee needed two wins to have a chance of making the playoffs as a fourth seed coming out of region play. After a victory over Perry Friday night, the Lady Knights only need one more win to give themselves a good shot at getting into the playoffs.
Upson Lee’s victory came in dramatic fashion, as the game was sent to penalty kicks after regulation ended in a 2-2 tie. Upson Lee would win the shootout 4-3 to earn a 3-2 region victory and keep their playoff hopes alive. Goals were scored by Alyssa Holmes and Caroline Irvine.
Upson Lee will be back in action Tuesday, April 17 against Eagles Landing at 5:30 for senior night.
Knights, Lady Knights Tennis
Secure State Playoff Berth
Published 4-11-2018
By Austin Franklin
Holden Chapman returns a shot in a recent win over Perry. With both boys and girls tennis teams defeating Spalding and Perry last week, both teams earned a trip to the region tournament and the state tournament. The region tournament will be held Friday in Macon, where seeding for the state tournament will be decided.
By Austin Franklin
Holden Chapman returns a shot in a recent win over Perry. With both boys and girls tennis teams defeating Spalding and Perry last week, both teams earned a trip to the region tournament and the state tournament. The region tournament will be held Friday in Macon, where seeding for the state tournament will be decided.
Knights secure second
place in region
Knights’ Junior Drae McDuffie goes up high to win a ball over two Mary Persons players in a recent win.
Published 4-4-2018
By Austin Franklin
With wins over Spalding and Mary Persons last week, Upson Lee secured, at the very least, a second place finish in region 2-4A, a home state playoff game and a chance to win the region. All the team has to do is defeat Perry and West Laurens during the team’s final region stretch of the season for a chance to capture a region championship. UL will hit the road Friday, April 6 for a region matchup with Perry. UL fell to Perry in a heartbreaking 2-1 loss earlier this season. Perry (7-2-1 overall) is currently in first place in the region at 5-0 and is in on a five game winning streak.
Upson Lee defeated Mary Persons 2-1 and Spalding 4-1 last week behind goals from Chase Winters, Berklei Rakestraw, and John Armstrong. The wins moved the team to an overall record of 14-1 and 8-1 in region action.
By Austin Franklin
With wins over Spalding and Mary Persons last week, Upson Lee secured, at the very least, a second place finish in region 2-4A, a home state playoff game and a chance to win the region. All the team has to do is defeat Perry and West Laurens during the team’s final region stretch of the season for a chance to capture a region championship. UL will hit the road Friday, April 6 for a region matchup with Perry. UL fell to Perry in a heartbreaking 2-1 loss earlier this season. Perry (7-2-1 overall) is currently in first place in the region at 5-0 and is in on a five game winning streak.
Upson Lee defeated Mary Persons 2-1 and Spalding 4-1 last week behind goals from Chase Winters, Berklei Rakestraw, and John Armstrong. The wins moved the team to an overall record of 14-1 and 8-1 in region action.
Mary-Masdon McCrary
Signs with Gordon softball
Upson Lee senior Mary-Masdon McCrary has signed with Gordon State College in Barnesville, to continue her softball career at the collegiate level. Pictured with McCrary are her parents, Chance and Bonnie Baxley.
Diamond Knights drop series with
region leader West Laurens, 2-1
Upson Lee third baseman Alex Blount makes a throw across the diamond in a recent game
Published 4-4-2018
By Austin Franklin
Upson Lee competed in its second region series of the season last week against region leader West Laurens, but after a tough three game stretch the Knights came up one run short of knocking off the top dogs in the series. UL was shut out in game one of the series, 10-0. UL is now 8-10 overall and 3-3 in region competition.
UL only trailed 1-0 late in the fifth before against the Raiders exploded for nine runs to close out game one. Game two was a defensive battle in which Upson Lee would fall a run short, 2-1. UL’s bats exploded in game three for a 9-1 win to eliminate the Raiders’ chances of a three-game sweep.
The Knights took an early lead in game three after a Logan Spivey double and Cotton Phillips walk. Trace Park ripped a two run double to give the Knights an early 2-0 lead in the second inning.
UL extended their lead to four runs in the fourth inning on a two-run single by Turner Maddox. His single plated Phillips and Brooks Gulley. Both had reached base on walks.
Chance Gamble started an offensive charge for the Knights in the fifth inning with a single. Gabe Pollard followed with a double of his own. Gamble would score on a Josh Keeter RBI single, and Pollard would single on an RBI ground out by Gulley to give the Knights a 6-0 lead. Trent Walls scored on a wild pitch in the sixth inning and and Gulley would once again come through for the Knights with a two-run single to score Parks and Gamble. UL finished off the Raiders 9-1.
Phillips went the distance for the Knights on the mound, pitching seven innings. He allowed just one run, five hits and struck out three batters.
The Knights were led offensively in the series by Gabe Pollard and Josh Keeter, who both recorded three hits. Brooks Gulley and Chance Gamble each had two hits. Gulley led the Knights with three RBI in the series, followed by Trace Parks with two RBI’s.
Upson Lee’s pitchers were excellent in the series, only allowing four earned runs in 20 innings. Cotton Phillips started game one and three for the Diamond Knights. Phillips pitched 13 innings and only allowed two earned runs. He recorded eight strikeouts and a win. Game two starter, Alex Blount, pitched six innings, allowing only six hits and no earned runs.
By Austin Franklin
Upson Lee competed in its second region series of the season last week against region leader West Laurens, but after a tough three game stretch the Knights came up one run short of knocking off the top dogs in the series. UL was shut out in game one of the series, 10-0. UL is now 8-10 overall and 3-3 in region competition.
UL only trailed 1-0 late in the fifth before against the Raiders exploded for nine runs to close out game one. Game two was a defensive battle in which Upson Lee would fall a run short, 2-1. UL’s bats exploded in game three for a 9-1 win to eliminate the Raiders’ chances of a three-game sweep.
The Knights took an early lead in game three after a Logan Spivey double and Cotton Phillips walk. Trace Park ripped a two run double to give the Knights an early 2-0 lead in the second inning.
UL extended their lead to four runs in the fourth inning on a two-run single by Turner Maddox. His single plated Phillips and Brooks Gulley. Both had reached base on walks.
Chance Gamble started an offensive charge for the Knights in the fifth inning with a single. Gabe Pollard followed with a double of his own. Gamble would score on a Josh Keeter RBI single, and Pollard would single on an RBI ground out by Gulley to give the Knights a 6-0 lead. Trent Walls scored on a wild pitch in the sixth inning and and Gulley would once again come through for the Knights with a two-run single to score Parks and Gamble. UL finished off the Raiders 9-1.
Phillips went the distance for the Knights on the mound, pitching seven innings. He allowed just one run, five hits and struck out three batters.
The Knights were led offensively in the series by Gabe Pollard and Josh Keeter, who both recorded three hits. Brooks Gulley and Chance Gamble each had two hits. Gulley led the Knights with three RBI in the series, followed by Trace Parks with two RBI’s.
Upson Lee’s pitchers were excellent in the series, only allowing four earned runs in 20 innings. Cotton Phillips started game one and three for the Diamond Knights. Phillips pitched 13 innings and only allowed two earned runs. He recorded eight strikeouts and a win. Game two starter, Alex Blount, pitched six innings, allowing only six hits and no earned runs.
Roberts records Hole in One
During Knights win over Lamar
Published 4-4-2018
By Austin Franklin
The UL Knights and Lady Knights golf teams picked up wins over Lamar and Schley County last week. During the Knights win over Lamar, Hayden Roberts recorded his first career hole in one on No. 3 at Raintree Golf Club. Roberts struck a beautiful 6-iron on the 169 yard hole. The ball landed just behind the hole and spun back in the cup for the ace. This is also the first ever hole in one for an Upson Lee golfer in school history. Roberts finished the round with a score of 37, one shot over par. The Lady Knights remained undefeated with their victories over Lamar and Schley County, moving their record to a perfect 10-0. The Knights only loss of the season came by way of Shley County. During the rematch, UL defeated Schley County, moving the team’s record to 8-1-1 on the season.
By Austin Franklin
The UL Knights and Lady Knights golf teams picked up wins over Lamar and Schley County last week. During the Knights win over Lamar, Hayden Roberts recorded his first career hole in one on No. 3 at Raintree Golf Club. Roberts struck a beautiful 6-iron on the 169 yard hole. The ball landed just behind the hole and spun back in the cup for the ace. This is also the first ever hole in one for an Upson Lee golfer in school history. Roberts finished the round with a score of 37, one shot over par. The Lady Knights remained undefeated with their victories over Lamar and Schley County, moving their record to a perfect 10-0. The Knights only loss of the season came by way of Shley County. During the rematch, UL defeated Schley County, moving the team’s record to 8-1-1 on the season.
Knights’ winning Streak
Ends at 11 Games
Published 3-28-2018
By Austin Franklin
Upson Lee went into last Tuesday’s game against Perry with an 11 game winning streak, and a ranking of fourth in the state. The Knights started fast, getting off multiple close shots, which resulted in only one goal by Chase Winters in the first few minutes of the game. Perry would later score towards the end of the first half to send the game to halftime at a 1-1 tie. Neither team would be able to find the back of the net in the second half, sending the game to overtime. Neither team would score the go ahead goal in the first five minute period, but two minutes into the second period Perry would send in a long cross from the sideline that would find the back of the net off of a header to eventually win the game. Perry is now the only team left in Region 2-4A without a region loss.
Upson Lee would rebound in their next game, hosting West Laurens with a 2-0 win behind goals by Berklei Rakestraw and Cameron Teal (PK).
Upson Lee defeated Mary Persons 2-1 and Spalding 4-1 last week behind goals from Chase Winters, Berklei Rakestraw, and John Armstrong. The wins moved the team to an overall record of 14-1 and 8-1 in region action.
Cameron Teal flicks a header to a teammate. Teal scored on a PK in the Knights’ win over West Laurens.
By Austin Franklin
Upson Lee went into last Tuesday’s game against Perry with an 11 game winning streak, and a ranking of fourth in the state. The Knights started fast, getting off multiple close shots, which resulted in only one goal by Chase Winters in the first few minutes of the game. Perry would later score towards the end of the first half to send the game to halftime at a 1-1 tie. Neither team would be able to find the back of the net in the second half, sending the game to overtime. Neither team would score the go ahead goal in the first five minute period, but two minutes into the second period Perry would send in a long cross from the sideline that would find the back of the net off of a header to eventually win the game. Perry is now the only team left in Region 2-4A without a region loss.
Upson Lee would rebound in their next game, hosting West Laurens with a 2-0 win behind goals by Berklei Rakestraw and Cameron Teal (PK).
Upson Lee defeated Mary Persons 2-1 and Spalding 4-1 last week behind goals from Chase Winters, Berklei Rakestraw, and John Armstrong. The wins moved the team to an overall record of 14-1 and 8-1 in region action.
Cameron Teal flicks a header to a teammate. Teal scored on a PK in the Knights’ win over West Laurens.
Lady Knights’ pick up
First Region Victory
Alyssa Holmes outruns a defender for a shot on goal; Holmes scored both goals in the girls’ first region victory over West Laurens.
Published 3-28-2018
By Austin Franklin
The Lady Knights’ soccer team got off to a slow start in region, losing the first four games. Last week they hosted Perry and West Laurens and played both teams very competitively. The first game of the week was against Perry, in a heartbreaking loss. At the end of regulation the score was knotted at 0-0, and after two overtime periods both teams failed to score, sending the game to penalty kicks. Upson Lee would lose 4-3 in the PK shootout, but showed improvement in the game.
Coming off of their hard fought loss to Perry, the Lady Knights hosted West Laurens, and using the momentum and improvement showed earlier in the week, they were able to secure their first region win 2-0 behind two goals from Alyssa Holmes.
The Lady Knights are 2-11 on the season and 0-7 in region play.
By Austin Franklin
The Lady Knights’ soccer team got off to a slow start in region, losing the first four games. Last week they hosted Perry and West Laurens and played both teams very competitively. The first game of the week was against Perry, in a heartbreaking loss. At the end of regulation the score was knotted at 0-0, and after two overtime periods both teams failed to score, sending the game to penalty kicks. Upson Lee would lose 4-3 in the PK shootout, but showed improvement in the game.
Coming off of their hard fought loss to Perry, the Lady Knights hosted West Laurens, and using the momentum and improvement showed earlier in the week, they were able to secure their first region win 2-0 behind two goals from Alyssa Holmes.
The Lady Knights are 2-11 on the season and 0-7 in region play.
New Swim Team Comes to Thomaston
Published 3-28-2018
The SeaWolves are a brand new swim team servicing the Thomaston/Upson County area.
The team is lead by seven highly experienced and certified coaches. The team has more than 35 swimmers that train throughout the year, but also specialize in a summer swim program. The team includes swimmers as young as six years old through high school, like Alex White from Upson-Lee High School.
They boast some of the top swimmers in the state, with Asher Cooper recently placing second and third in the winter state meet and placing in the top 10 in five other events. Katie Ward also qualified for the winter state meet in most events and finished in the top 20 in almost all events she swam.
“Our team specializes in helping swimmers perfect their technique so they can be as competitive as their attendance allows. We have swimmers that only practice once or twice a week but we can also challenge swimmers that want to swim much more during the week,” says Head Coach Nathan Wilson. “Our summer program is a great time for swimmers to start learning the sport.” Many swimmers only swim during the summer months and still qualify for the summer state meet. “We aim to service the needs of any level swimmer and make sure it is challenging and rewarding for everyone,” says Coach Wilson. For more information, visit www.seawolvesswim.com.
Photographed is Alex White training for the upcoming season
The SeaWolves are a brand new swim team servicing the Thomaston/Upson County area.
The team is lead by seven highly experienced and certified coaches. The team has more than 35 swimmers that train throughout the year, but also specialize in a summer swim program. The team includes swimmers as young as six years old through high school, like Alex White from Upson-Lee High School.
They boast some of the top swimmers in the state, with Asher Cooper recently placing second and third in the winter state meet and placing in the top 10 in five other events. Katie Ward also qualified for the winter state meet in most events and finished in the top 20 in almost all events she swam.
“Our team specializes in helping swimmers perfect their technique so they can be as competitive as their attendance allows. We have swimmers that only practice once or twice a week but we can also challenge swimmers that want to swim much more during the week,” says Head Coach Nathan Wilson. “Our summer program is a great time for swimmers to start learning the sport.” Many swimmers only swim during the summer months and still qualify for the summer state meet. “We aim to service the needs of any level swimmer and make sure it is challenging and rewarding for everyone,” says Coach Wilson. For more information, visit www.seawolvesswim.com.
Photographed is Alex White training for the upcoming season
Diamond Knights Win First
Region Series of Season
Freshman second baseman Austin Hendricks makes a play for the Knights in a recent game
Published 3-28-2018
By Austin Franklin
Following their recent losing streak, the young Diamond Knights headed into region play with a three game series against Spalding looking to get back on track, and they did. The Knights secured game one of the series with a ground ball by Gabe Pollard in the fifth inning to score Trace Park for a 3-2 win. Alex Blount was on the mound for the Knights, pitching all seven innings and only allowing six hits, striking out eight Spalding batters.
The Knights would also win game two of the series 3-2 with a Josh Keeter ground ball in the bottom of the sixth to score freshman Brooks Gulley to put the Knights ahead. Cotton Phillips was on the mound for the Knights, pitching all seven innings, allowing no earned runs, four hits, and striking out seven batters.
Spalding would get its lone victory of the series in game three by a score of 4-2, jumping out to an early 2-0 lead in the bottom of the first inning. Lawson Rucker and Ty Rechtorovic combined for six innings on the mound, allowing three earned runs, and collecting four strikeouts.
Freshman Chance Gamble led the Knights in the series, collecting four hits. Keeter picked up three hits in the series, as Blount, Gulley, and Pollard all added two hits each.
UL enters the week at 8-10 overall and 3-3 in region competition.
By Austin Franklin
Following their recent losing streak, the young Diamond Knights headed into region play with a three game series against Spalding looking to get back on track, and they did. The Knights secured game one of the series with a ground ball by Gabe Pollard in the fifth inning to score Trace Park for a 3-2 win. Alex Blount was on the mound for the Knights, pitching all seven innings and only allowing six hits, striking out eight Spalding batters.
The Knights would also win game two of the series 3-2 with a Josh Keeter ground ball in the bottom of the sixth to score freshman Brooks Gulley to put the Knights ahead. Cotton Phillips was on the mound for the Knights, pitching all seven innings, allowing no earned runs, four hits, and striking out seven batters.
Spalding would get its lone victory of the series in game three by a score of 4-2, jumping out to an early 2-0 lead in the bottom of the first inning. Lawson Rucker and Ty Rechtorovic combined for six innings on the mound, allowing three earned runs, and collecting four strikeouts.
Freshman Chance Gamble led the Knights in the series, collecting four hits. Keeter picked up three hits in the series, as Blount, Gulley, and Pollard all added two hits each.
UL enters the week at 8-10 overall and 3-3 in region competition.
Diamond Knights Head into Region Play Looking to Regain Momentum
Freshman first baseman Logan Spivey hacks at a pitch in
a recent game. Spivey hit his first career home run for the Knights, which was a grand slam in their loss to Brookstone.
Published 3-21-2018
By Austin Franklin
After a hot 5-1 start for the Upson Lee baseball team, they have hit a six game skid, which is not uncommon for a team full of youth. The Knights’ six game skid included losses to Harris County (twice), Callaway, Andalusia (AL), Headland (AL), and Brookstone, which are all schools with very strong baseball programs. The most important stretch of games for the Knights began Monday night on the road against Spalding in their first region game of the year; results were not available at press time. The Knights will have a three game series with each of the other five teams in region 2-4A, as these are the games that matter and ultimately determine all playoff implications. The Knights will be back in action at home today in game two of the three game series with region opponent Spalding at 5:30 pm.
Through the Knights’ first 12 games it has been two freshmen leading the team in batting average. Chance Gamble leads the team with a .440 average, and Brooks Gulley has started the season with a .417 average. Junior Josh Keeter sports a .368 average thus far, and senior Trace Park rounds out the top four with a .359 average.
Senior Cotton Phillips has been the Diamond Knights’ most consistent pitcher to this point, pitching 20 innings and sporting a 2.45 earned run average. Juniors Lawson Rucker and Alex Blount have also been favorites on the mound for first year head coach JT Thompson. Rucker has pitched 15.1 innings with a 3.65 earned run average and Blount has seen 22.2 innings and has an earned run average of 5.25.
By Austin Franklin
After a hot 5-1 start for the Upson Lee baseball team, they have hit a six game skid, which is not uncommon for a team full of youth. The Knights’ six game skid included losses to Harris County (twice), Callaway, Andalusia (AL), Headland (AL), and Brookstone, which are all schools with very strong baseball programs. The most important stretch of games for the Knights began Monday night on the road against Spalding in their first region game of the year; results were not available at press time. The Knights will have a three game series with each of the other five teams in region 2-4A, as these are the games that matter and ultimately determine all playoff implications. The Knights will be back in action at home today in game two of the three game series with region opponent Spalding at 5:30 pm.
Through the Knights’ first 12 games it has been two freshmen leading the team in batting average. Chance Gamble leads the team with a .440 average, and Brooks Gulley has started the season with a .417 average. Junior Josh Keeter sports a .368 average thus far, and senior Trace Park rounds out the top four with a .359 average.
Senior Cotton Phillips has been the Diamond Knights’ most consistent pitcher to this point, pitching 20 innings and sporting a 2.45 earned run average. Juniors Lawson Rucker and Alex Blount have also been favorites on the mound for first year head coach JT Thompson. Rucker has pitched 15.1 innings with a 3.65 earned run average and Blount has seen 22.2 innings and has an earned run average of 5.25.
Holley Wins State Championship
in Power Lifting
Published 3-21-2018
Upson Lee student Jordan Holley competed in his first ever power lifting competition this past weekend, and won the state championship in the 242 pound weight class. During the competition, Holley broke the state record in the dead-lift event. The previous record was set at 485 pounds in 2013. Jordan’s first pull was 501 pounds. During his second attempt, he pulled 523.6 pounds setting a new state record. Holley’s total for the day was 1,201 pounds. Holley trained for eight months with Scott Ryals at Iron Works Gym for the competition.
Upson Lee student Jordan Holley competed in his first ever power lifting competition this past weekend, and won the state championship in the 242 pound weight class. During the competition, Holley broke the state record in the dead-lift event. The previous record was set at 485 pounds in 2013. Jordan’s first pull was 501 pounds. During his second attempt, he pulled 523.6 pounds setting a new state record. Holley’s total for the day was 1,201 pounds. Holley trained for eight months with Scott Ryals at Iron Works Gym for the competition.
Knights’ Soccer Remains Undefeated
Climbs to Fourth in State Rankings
Junior Chase Winters fends off an opponent to win the ball; Winters scored
twice in the Knights’ recent win over Howard.
Published 3-21-2018
By Austin Franklin
The Upson Lee boys’ soccer team defeated Houston County and Howard last week to improve their record on the year to 10-0, and jumped one spot in the Eurosport AAAA state rankings from fifth to fourth.
The Knights beat a good Houston County team 2-1 behind junior Berklei Rakestraw’s two goals, and also defeated region opponent Howard 3-0 with a goal scored by junior Brandon Martinez and two goals scored by junior Chase Winters. Upson Lee hosted Perry last night in a huge region game as both teams entered the game with a region record of 4-0; results were not available at press time.
By Austin Franklin
The Upson Lee boys’ soccer team defeated Houston County and Howard last week to improve their record on the year to 10-0, and jumped one spot in the Eurosport AAAA state rankings from fifth to fourth.
The Knights beat a good Houston County team 2-1 behind junior Berklei Rakestraw’s two goals, and also defeated region opponent Howard 3-0 with a goal scored by junior Brandon Martinez and two goals scored by junior Chase Winters. Upson Lee hosted Perry last night in a huge region game as both teams entered the game with a region record of 4-0; results were not available at press time.
Runnin’ Knights Win
Back-to-Back State Titles!
The UL Runnin’ Knights completed an incredible run Saturday, March 10 at Georgia Tech, winning the AAAA State Title for the second year in a row. The Knights have won 63 games in a row, the longest streak in the nation and the longest active winning streak in GHSA. Photo compliments of Thomaston Upson School System.
All-time Upson Lee scoring leader and senior Tye Fagan shoots a
contested jump shot during the Knights 70-54 win over St. Pius in
the AAAA State Championship game held at McCamish Pavilion at
Georgia Tech Saturday, March 10.
Published 3-14-2018
By Austin Franklin
Through all of the adversity of a long winning streak, and through all of the targets opposing teams put on them as being the team to beat, the Upson Lee Knights rose above it all and picked up one more win in Atlanta to put the cap on another championship run.
UL took down St. Pius 70-54 at McCamish Pavilion at Georgia Tech Friday, March 10 for the second straight season in the AAAA State Championship game. The win would become the team’s second straight GHSA State Title, extend the team’s winning streak to 63 games in a row, and move the squad even higher in national rankings.
“It’s was magical,” said head coach Darrell Lockhart to reporters following the Knights second straight state title. “We’ve had our ups and downs, but we were still able to win ball games. It’s been special. This group of kids is real special. I love them to death.”
UL started slowly, as they did regularly during the last month of the team’s long season, and trailed 33-32 at halftime. That slow pace wouldn’t last long, as the “Runnin’ Knights” quite simply earned their nickname in the second half, out running and outplaying St. Pius using multiple full-court presses and inbound plays similar to “go routes” in football to wear down the Golden Lions. UL gradually gained momentum throughout the third quarter to build a 48-41 lead heading into the team’s final quarter of the season.
The fourth quarter was the real turning point of the game for UL as the Knights physical abilities on defense were brought to life. Huge blocks by Travon Walker in the paint catapulted UL to a dominating 20 point lead during the quarter. Unlike last season’s final state championship quarter against St. Pius where UL squeaked out a five point win over the Golden Lions, 53-48, UL was able to coast to the final buzzer and soak up all a State Championship has to offer, especially for the team’s seniors who played their final game with their high school team.
UL’s win over St. Pius in front of a sold out crowd at McCamish Pavilion completed the team’s quest for back to back state championships and continued the GHSA’s longest active winning streak. The winning streak is also the longest current winning streak in the nation.
Upson Lee was led by Tye Fagan. The senior, who has committed to Middle Tennessee State, finished his last game of his high school career with 21 points, 10 rebounds, four assists and two blocks.
“It’s very special, especially since I was doing it with my guys that I came up with for a long time. That’s all that matters,” said Fagan to reporters following UL’s win. Fagan is the all-time leading scorer for Upson Lee basketball.
The big story of the game was junior Jarrett Adderton, who got his first start of the year in place of the absent JaCorey Smith. Adderton picked up right where Smith left off and filled a huge hole up front for UL, netting 16 points for the team, five rebounds, and five assists.
HoopSeen Georgia started this week handing out accolades from the season. Fagan was named to the 1st Team All-State and named Player of the Year. Walker was named to the 2nd Team All-State, and Scott was named to the 3rd Team All-State.
Zyrice Scott added 14 points and five assists for UL. Scott received his first college offer this week from the Columbus State Cougars to continue his basketball career. Travon Walker was big for the Knights in the paint, adding another double-double to his career stats with 11 points, 12 rebounds, and five blocks.
With the win UL climbed to No. 12 in MaxPreps rankings, and gives the team a realistic shot at getting an invitation to the Geico National Tournament at the end of the month in New York City. The tournament features the eight best teams in the country, all battling it out for a National Championship Title.
By Austin Franklin
Through all of the adversity of a long winning streak, and through all of the targets opposing teams put on them as being the team to beat, the Upson Lee Knights rose above it all and picked up one more win in Atlanta to put the cap on another championship run.
UL took down St. Pius 70-54 at McCamish Pavilion at Georgia Tech Friday, March 10 for the second straight season in the AAAA State Championship game. The win would become the team’s second straight GHSA State Title, extend the team’s winning streak to 63 games in a row, and move the squad even higher in national rankings.
“It’s was magical,” said head coach Darrell Lockhart to reporters following the Knights second straight state title. “We’ve had our ups and downs, but we were still able to win ball games. It’s been special. This group of kids is real special. I love them to death.”
UL started slowly, as they did regularly during the last month of the team’s long season, and trailed 33-32 at halftime. That slow pace wouldn’t last long, as the “Runnin’ Knights” quite simply earned their nickname in the second half, out running and outplaying St. Pius using multiple full-court presses and inbound plays similar to “go routes” in football to wear down the Golden Lions. UL gradually gained momentum throughout the third quarter to build a 48-41 lead heading into the team’s final quarter of the season.
The fourth quarter was the real turning point of the game for UL as the Knights physical abilities on defense were brought to life. Huge blocks by Travon Walker in the paint catapulted UL to a dominating 20 point lead during the quarter. Unlike last season’s final state championship quarter against St. Pius where UL squeaked out a five point win over the Golden Lions, 53-48, UL was able to coast to the final buzzer and soak up all a State Championship has to offer, especially for the team’s seniors who played their final game with their high school team.
UL’s win over St. Pius in front of a sold out crowd at McCamish Pavilion completed the team’s quest for back to back state championships and continued the GHSA’s longest active winning streak. The winning streak is also the longest current winning streak in the nation.
Upson Lee was led by Tye Fagan. The senior, who has committed to Middle Tennessee State, finished his last game of his high school career with 21 points, 10 rebounds, four assists and two blocks.
“It’s very special, especially since I was doing it with my guys that I came up with for a long time. That’s all that matters,” said Fagan to reporters following UL’s win. Fagan is the all-time leading scorer for Upson Lee basketball.
The big story of the game was junior Jarrett Adderton, who got his first start of the year in place of the absent JaCorey Smith. Adderton picked up right where Smith left off and filled a huge hole up front for UL, netting 16 points for the team, five rebounds, and five assists.
HoopSeen Georgia started this week handing out accolades from the season. Fagan was named to the 1st Team All-State and named Player of the Year. Walker was named to the 2nd Team All-State, and Scott was named to the 3rd Team All-State.
Zyrice Scott added 14 points and five assists for UL. Scott received his first college offer this week from the Columbus State Cougars to continue his basketball career. Travon Walker was big for the Knights in the paint, adding another double-double to his career stats with 11 points, 12 rebounds, and five blocks.
With the win UL climbed to No. 12 in MaxPreps rankings, and gives the team a realistic shot at getting an invitation to the Geico National Tournament at the end of the month in New York City. The tournament features the eight best teams in the country, all battling it out for a National Championship Title.
10U Boys All-Star Team
Wins State Championship
Published 3-14-2018
By Austin Franklin
The Upson Lee Running Knights weren’t the only basketball team from Upson County to secure a state championship this season, as the 10 and under boys team from the Thomaston-Upson County Recreation Department won the 2018 GRPA 4th District Class B State Championship last weekend. The journey for the team began last weekend with a win in Carrolton, Ga. at the District Tournament. The victory advanced the team to the state championship game, also held in Carrolton, where they defeated Sumter County, 54-42.
Emarion Harp led the team in the championship game with 21 points. Kerel Walker added 12 points, and Nicholas Wells added seven points for the team. Other members of the team included Akeondre Chaney, Mi’Quavius Smith, Roderick Thomas, Jy’Zavion Garmon, Akeleen Davis, Tomelaki Sparks, and Zykyhan Hillman. The team was led by coaches Michael Smith and Daphne Dumas.
By Austin Franklin
The Upson Lee Running Knights weren’t the only basketball team from Upson County to secure a state championship this season, as the 10 and under boys team from the Thomaston-Upson County Recreation Department won the 2018 GRPA 4th District Class B State Championship last weekend. The journey for the team began last weekend with a win in Carrolton, Ga. at the District Tournament. The victory advanced the team to the state championship game, also held in Carrolton, where they defeated Sumter County, 54-42.
Emarion Harp led the team in the championship game with 21 points. Kerel Walker added 12 points, and Nicholas Wells added seven points for the team. Other members of the team included Akeondre Chaney, Mi’Quavius Smith, Roderick Thomas, Jy’Zavion Garmon, Akeleen Davis, Tomelaki Sparks, and Zykyhan Hillman. The team was led by coaches Michael Smith and Daphne Dumas.
No. 4 state ranked Knights
continue winning streak
Junior defender Rhett Baucom controls the ball under pressure for the Knights in their recent win over Mary Persons
Photo by Will Davis, Publisher Monroe County Reporter
Published 3-14-2018
By Austin Franklin
The Upson Lee Knights boys’ soccer team continues to impress locally and across the state, moving to 9-0 after a win Monday, March 12 at Matthews Field. UL defeated a tough Houston County, 2-1 and has moved to No. 4 in the AAAA state rankings released by the AJC. Berklei Rakestraw scored both goals for the Knights.
Before taking down powerhouse Houston County, UL went into their region matchup with Spalding last week with a perfect 7-0 record, and after a complete team effort, the Knights took down the Jags in a PK shootout victory. Knights took an early 2-0 lead with goals by Chris Newman and Bryson Teal. UL took the two goal lead into the second half before Spalding put a goal into the back of the net to cut the lead to 2-1. Spalding would once again find the back of the net midway through the second half to even the score at 2-2. Neither team was able to net a goal through the final minutes of regulation or during two, five minute overtimes, sending the game to a winner take all penalty kick showdown.
UL would connect on all five of their attempts, while Spalding would connect on just four, giving the Knights a tough 3-2 win. UL moved to 8-0 on the season and 3-0 in the region following the win over Spalding.
UL’s next home game at Matthews Field is set for March 20 vs. Perry with a kickoff set for 7:30 p.m. the UL Lady Knight will begin at 5:30 p.m.
By Austin Franklin
The Upson Lee Knights boys’ soccer team continues to impress locally and across the state, moving to 9-0 after a win Monday, March 12 at Matthews Field. UL defeated a tough Houston County, 2-1 and has moved to No. 4 in the AAAA state rankings released by the AJC. Berklei Rakestraw scored both goals for the Knights.
Before taking down powerhouse Houston County, UL went into their region matchup with Spalding last week with a perfect 7-0 record, and after a complete team effort, the Knights took down the Jags in a PK shootout victory. Knights took an early 2-0 lead with goals by Chris Newman and Bryson Teal. UL took the two goal lead into the second half before Spalding put a goal into the back of the net to cut the lead to 2-1. Spalding would once again find the back of the net midway through the second half to even the score at 2-2. Neither team was able to net a goal through the final minutes of regulation or during two, five minute overtimes, sending the game to a winner take all penalty kick showdown.
UL would connect on all five of their attempts, while Spalding would connect on just four, giving the Knights a tough 3-2 win. UL moved to 8-0 on the season and 3-0 in the region following the win over Spalding.
UL’s next home game at Matthews Field is set for March 20 vs. Perry with a kickoff set for 7:30 p.m. the UL Lady Knight will begin at 5:30 p.m.
UL Stays remains undefeated
with win over mary persons
Junior Berklei Rakestraw breaks away from a defender in a recent 4-3 win over Mary Persons. Rakestraw scored two goals in the game, both on penalty kicks.
Photo by Will Davis- Monroe County Reporter
Published 3-7-2018
By Austin Franklin
The Upson Lee/Mary Persons soccer rivalry is one that goes back and forth every year, many times every game coming down to the final minutes, and most of the time has big implications on playoff seeding for the region. This year is no different, with Upson Lee winning 4-3, and Mary Persons attempting a free kick just outside the box and barely missing as time expired.
UL took an early 2-0 lead as Berklei Rakestraw scored on a penalty kick, and Brandon Martinez found the back of the net with a header off of a corner kick. The Knights’ Chase Winters would extend their lead to 3-0 before halftime with a breakaway goal.
Mary Persons wasn’t going to give up, and in the second half they put big time pressure on the undefeated Knights scoring two quick goals to cut the Knights’ lead to 3-2. Once again Berklei Rakestraw benefitted from a Mary Persons’ foul in the box and extended their lead to 4-2 from a penalty kick.
Mary Persons would once again counter quickly with a laser like long goal, making it a 4-3 game with around 10 minutes left. With only seconds remaining in the game MP was awarded a free kick outside of the box, which just missed high and to the right to increase the Knights’ record to 7-0, and 2-0 in the region.
The Knights are currently ranked fourth in the state in the AAAA classification behind Chestatee, Woodward Academy, and Blessed Trinity. Upson Lee defeated Spalding and Houston County to move their record to 9-0 on the season following the Knights win over Mary Persons.
By Austin Franklin
The Upson Lee/Mary Persons soccer rivalry is one that goes back and forth every year, many times every game coming down to the final minutes, and most of the time has big implications on playoff seeding for the region. This year is no different, with Upson Lee winning 4-3, and Mary Persons attempting a free kick just outside the box and barely missing as time expired.
UL took an early 2-0 lead as Berklei Rakestraw scored on a penalty kick, and Brandon Martinez found the back of the net with a header off of a corner kick. The Knights’ Chase Winters would extend their lead to 3-0 before halftime with a breakaway goal.
Mary Persons wasn’t going to give up, and in the second half they put big time pressure on the undefeated Knights scoring two quick goals to cut the Knights’ lead to 3-2. Once again Berklei Rakestraw benefitted from a Mary Persons’ foul in the box and extended their lead to 4-2 from a penalty kick.
Mary Persons would once again counter quickly with a laser like long goal, making it a 4-3 game with around 10 minutes left. With only seconds remaining in the game MP was awarded a free kick outside of the box, which just missed high and to the right to increase the Knights’ record to 7-0, and 2-0 in the region.
The Knights are currently ranked fourth in the state in the AAAA classification behind Chestatee, Woodward Academy, and Blessed Trinity. Upson Lee defeated Spalding and Houston County to move their record to 9-0 on the season following the Knights win over Mary Persons.
Diamond Knights’ Get Huge
Win Over Troup County Tigers
Senior Cotton Phillips swings at a pitch in a recent game. Phillips had two base hits and an RBI in a win over Jordan.
Published 3-7-2018
By Austin Franklin
The Upson Lee Diamond Knights picked up a 6-5 win over defending region 5-4A champions, Troup County last week at Silvertown Ballpark.
Troup rolled into town with a region championship in their bag, and a trip to the state playoffs last year, where the team advanced to the elite eight before falling in their “if” game to Hardaway. Unfortunately for the Tigers, they ran into a hot Knights team that was coming off a 4-1 start to the season.
Troup is comprised of multiple D1 commitments including Ryan Bliss, a middle infielder committed to Auburn, Colby Williams, who has committed to Kennesaw State, and Garrett Casey, who has committed to William and Mary. Troup is a top five ranked team in AAAA, and is a favorite of experts to win this year’s 4A state championship.
Colby Williams started on the mound for Troup, while junior Alex Blount started on the mound for the Knights. Both pitchers breezed through the first inning, with neither allowed a hit. The Tigers jumped on top of UL in the second, taking a 4-0 lead and added another run in the top of the third to build a 5-0 lead.
The Tigers took a 5-0 lead into the fourth inning, before UL took a stand. First year head coach JT Thompson elected to stay with Blount on the mound after allowing five runs in three innings, and it paid off. Blount got out of the fourth without giving up a run, and then the Diamond Knights finally got to Kennesaw State commit Williams in the bottom of the fourth with a Trace Park homerun. After a Gabe Pollard double, Josh Keeter advanced to third with a ground ball. Freshman Logan Spivey capitalized with a ground ball to score Pollard to pull the Knights within three runs heading into the fifth inning, 5-2.
With Blount still on the mound for UL, the team got out of the fifth without surrendering a run. To lead off the bottom of the inning, Blount belted a homerun to cut the Tigers lead to 5-3.
The teams traded outs before heading into the seventh inning where Thompson positioned Ty Rechtorovic on the mound.
Blount led off the bottom of the seventh with a single for UL. Freshman Austin Hendricks drew a walk, and freshman Chance Gambled laid down a sacrifice bunt to move the runners to second and third loading the bases. Sophomore Turner Maddox grounded out to score a run pulling UL to within one run, 5-4. After Gabe Pollard was intentionally walked, it brought yet another freshman, Brooks Gulley, to the plate. With two outs and needing a base hit to win the game, Gulley ripped a walk-off two run RBI single to lift the Knights to a huge 6-5 win over Troup.
The Knights picked up a 10-0 win over Jordan following its big win over Troup last week, but lost to a tough Harris County team 5-2. The Knights is now 5-2 on the season and will take on Harris County at Silvertown Ballpark March 15. First pitch set for 5:30 p.m.
By Austin Franklin
The Upson Lee Diamond Knights picked up a 6-5 win over defending region 5-4A champions, Troup County last week at Silvertown Ballpark.
Troup rolled into town with a region championship in their bag, and a trip to the state playoffs last year, where the team advanced to the elite eight before falling in their “if” game to Hardaway. Unfortunately for the Tigers, they ran into a hot Knights team that was coming off a 4-1 start to the season.
Troup is comprised of multiple D1 commitments including Ryan Bliss, a middle infielder committed to Auburn, Colby Williams, who has committed to Kennesaw State, and Garrett Casey, who has committed to William and Mary. Troup is a top five ranked team in AAAA, and is a favorite of experts to win this year’s 4A state championship.
Colby Williams started on the mound for Troup, while junior Alex Blount started on the mound for the Knights. Both pitchers breezed through the first inning, with neither allowed a hit. The Tigers jumped on top of UL in the second, taking a 4-0 lead and added another run in the top of the third to build a 5-0 lead.
The Tigers took a 5-0 lead into the fourth inning, before UL took a stand. First year head coach JT Thompson elected to stay with Blount on the mound after allowing five runs in three innings, and it paid off. Blount got out of the fourth without giving up a run, and then the Diamond Knights finally got to Kennesaw State commit Williams in the bottom of the fourth with a Trace Park homerun. After a Gabe Pollard double, Josh Keeter advanced to third with a ground ball. Freshman Logan Spivey capitalized with a ground ball to score Pollard to pull the Knights within three runs heading into the fifth inning, 5-2.
With Blount still on the mound for UL, the team got out of the fifth without surrendering a run. To lead off the bottom of the inning, Blount belted a homerun to cut the Tigers lead to 5-3.
The teams traded outs before heading into the seventh inning where Thompson positioned Ty Rechtorovic on the mound.
Blount led off the bottom of the seventh with a single for UL. Freshman Austin Hendricks drew a walk, and freshman Chance Gambled laid down a sacrifice bunt to move the runners to second and third loading the bases. Sophomore Turner Maddox grounded out to score a run pulling UL to within one run, 5-4. After Gabe Pollard was intentionally walked, it brought yet another freshman, Brooks Gulley, to the plate. With two outs and needing a base hit to win the game, Gulley ripped a walk-off two run RBI single to lift the Knights to a huge 6-5 win over Troup.
The Knights picked up a 10-0 win over Jordan following its big win over Troup last week, but lost to a tough Harris County team 5-2. The Knights is now 5-2 on the season and will take on Harris County at Silvertown Ballpark March 15. First pitch set for 5:30 p.m.
Knights Win Defensive Battles
Advance to championship game
Senior Ja’Corey Smith gets over a defender for a shot, Smith scored nine points in the Knights’ win over Salem
Published 2-28-2018
By Austin Franklin
It didn’t take long for the Knights and the Knights’ fans in the building to realize that Salem was no pushover, and that the Runnin’ Knights would be put to the test. Upson Lee would eventually win 53-44, but the Knights had to fight for every point they got in the game.
Salem gave Upson Lee the best defensive test the team has seen all year, all but shutting down leading scorer Tye Fagan in the first half. Fagan would end up leading the Knights with 17 points, five rebounds, four assists, and six steals, but nothing was easy for him. Big man Travon Walker controlled the boards for the Knights, which may have proven to be what won the game. Walker recorded 13 points, 20 rebounds and six blocks. Senior Ja’Corey Smith added nine points for the Knights.
It wasn’t pretty, and it wasn’t easy for the Knights, but it was nonetheless a win, advancing them to the Elite 8 of the state playoffs, increasing their record to 28-0, and their win streak to an astounding 60 games. The Knights will travel to the Georgia/Tennessee line tonight to face off with the region 6-AAAA number one seed Lafayette Ramblers. Upson Lee would pick up a win over Lafayette in the quarterfinals and squeaked out 52-51 win in the semifinals over a tough Sandy Creek team to advance to the AAAA Championship Game set for March 10 at Georgia Tech. The game will be a rematch of last year's championship game where UL won 53-48 and claimed the school's first ever state championship.
Tip-off is set for 4 p.m. at McCamish Pavilion at Georgia Tech.
By Austin Franklin
It didn’t take long for the Knights and the Knights’ fans in the building to realize that Salem was no pushover, and that the Runnin’ Knights would be put to the test. Upson Lee would eventually win 53-44, but the Knights had to fight for every point they got in the game.
Salem gave Upson Lee the best defensive test the team has seen all year, all but shutting down leading scorer Tye Fagan in the first half. Fagan would end up leading the Knights with 17 points, five rebounds, four assists, and six steals, but nothing was easy for him. Big man Travon Walker controlled the boards for the Knights, which may have proven to be what won the game. Walker recorded 13 points, 20 rebounds and six blocks. Senior Ja’Corey Smith added nine points for the Knights.
It wasn’t pretty, and it wasn’t easy for the Knights, but it was nonetheless a win, advancing them to the Elite 8 of the state playoffs, increasing their record to 28-0, and their win streak to an astounding 60 games. The Knights will travel to the Georgia/Tennessee line tonight to face off with the region 6-AAAA number one seed Lafayette Ramblers. Upson Lee would pick up a win over Lafayette in the quarterfinals and squeaked out 52-51 win in the semifinals over a tough Sandy Creek team to advance to the AAAA Championship Game set for March 10 at Georgia Tech. The game will be a rematch of last year's championship game where UL won 53-48 and claimed the school's first ever state championship.
Tip-off is set for 4 p.m. at McCamish Pavilion at Georgia Tech.
Diamond Knights Beat Callaway 8-3 Behind Five Run First Inning
Published 2-28-2018
By Austin Franklin
The Upson Lee Diamond Knights’ baseball team is off to a hot 4-1 start on the season with wins over Griffin, Jordan, Callaway and Northside. Upson Lee hosted a triple-header last Saturday at Silvertown Ballpark, with UL playing Shaw and Callaway.
Upson Lee got off to an early start in the bottom of the first scoring five runs on three hits. Turner Maddox, Brooks Gulley and Cotton Phillips all recorded hits in the inning as Trace Park and Josh Keeter drew walks. Gabe Pollard and Chance Gamble led the Knights with two hits each. Keeter, Gulley, Maddox and Park all added a hit each. Gulley led the Knights with two RBI.
Phillips got the start on the mound for the Knights, going six innings and only allowing two runs. Phillips has a 1.9 ERA through 11 innings on the mound this year for the Knights.
Upson Lee would lose their game against Shaw for their first loss of the year. The Diamond Knights were back in home action Monday and Tuesday night, results were not available at press time. Upson Lee’s next home game will be March 15 at 5:30 pm against Harris County.
By Austin Franklin
The Upson Lee Diamond Knights’ baseball team is off to a hot 4-1 start on the season with wins over Griffin, Jordan, Callaway and Northside. Upson Lee hosted a triple-header last Saturday at Silvertown Ballpark, with UL playing Shaw and Callaway.
Upson Lee got off to an early start in the bottom of the first scoring five runs on three hits. Turner Maddox, Brooks Gulley and Cotton Phillips all recorded hits in the inning as Trace Park and Josh Keeter drew walks. Gabe Pollard and Chance Gamble led the Knights with two hits each. Keeter, Gulley, Maddox and Park all added a hit each. Gulley led the Knights with two RBI.
Phillips got the start on the mound for the Knights, going six innings and only allowing two runs. Phillips has a 1.9 ERA through 11 innings on the mound this year for the Knights.
Upson Lee would lose their game against Shaw for their first loss of the year. The Diamond Knights were back in home action Monday and Tuesday night, results were not available at press time. Upson Lee’s next home game will be March 15 at 5:30 pm against Harris County.
region 2-AAAA All-Region Basketball Team Announced
Region 2-AAAA coach of the year, Darrell Lockhart
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Region 2-AAAA player of the year, Tye Fagan
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Published 2-28-2018
By Austin Franklin
The Upson Lee Running Knights took home six all-region first team mentions, including Coach Darrell Lockhart’s region coach of the year award, and Tye Fagan’s region player of the year award. Starters Zyrice Scott, Travon Walker, Cameron Traylor and Ja’Corey Smith were also named to the 2AAAA All-Region first team.
This is Coach Lockhart’s second consecutive region coach of the year award. Lockhart has been the head coach for the UL boys’ basketball team since 2005, accounting for over 200 career wins. Lockhart was also named the AAAA state coach of the year last year by the AJC and Macon Telegraph.
This was also Middle Tennessee State University signee Tye Fagan’s second consecutive region player of the year award. Fagan was also awarded the AAAA state player of the year last season.
Other players named to the All-Region team were, Cam Holden (Mary Persons), Keynota Tyler (West Laurens), Tre Edge (Mary Persons), Jake Smith (Perry) and Dee Morton (Mary Persons).
By Austin Franklin
The Upson Lee Running Knights took home six all-region first team mentions, including Coach Darrell Lockhart’s region coach of the year award, and Tye Fagan’s region player of the year award. Starters Zyrice Scott, Travon Walker, Cameron Traylor and Ja’Corey Smith were also named to the 2AAAA All-Region first team.
This is Coach Lockhart’s second consecutive region coach of the year award. Lockhart has been the head coach for the UL boys’ basketball team since 2005, accounting for over 200 career wins. Lockhart was also named the AAAA state coach of the year last year by the AJC and Macon Telegraph.
This was also Middle Tennessee State University signee Tye Fagan’s second consecutive region player of the year award. Fagan was also awarded the AAAA state player of the year last season.
Other players named to the All-Region team were, Cam Holden (Mary Persons), Keynota Tyler (West Laurens), Tre Edge (Mary Persons), Jake Smith (Perry) and Dee Morton (Mary Persons).
Lady Knights’ Historic basketball Season Comes to an End
Senior Zahkia King led Upson Lee with 21 points in her final game as a Lady Knight in their “Sweet 16” loss to Henry County
Published 2-28-2018
By Austin Franklin
The Lady Knights’ season came to an end last week as they fell 82-61 to a very good Henry County basketball team. Upson Lee was led by Zahkia King in her last game as a Knight with 21 points, freshman Jakera Ellerbee added 19 points and five rebounds, Cierra Williams fell just short of her third triple-double effort with eight points, 13 rebounds and 14 assists.
Even though the Lady Knights fell short in the “Sweet 16” round of the state tournament, it was a season full of a lot of firsts for Coach Brandon Ingram and the Lady Knights. The Lady Knights went 17-12, they beat Taylor County for the first time in school history, not only once, but twice, they played in their first region championship game, hosted their first home state playoff game, and won their first state playoff game in school history.
Seniors Zahkia King and Cierra Williams led the Lady Knights in scoring on the season both averaging 10.2 points per game, Williams also led the Knights in rebounds per game (6.9) and assists per game (4.1). The Lady Knights have a bright future ahead of them as they had four freshmen and two sophomores play in over 20 games each on the season. Freshman Jakera Ellerbee finished third in scoring this season with 9.0 points per game and second in rebounding with 6.8 rebounds per game. Freshman Alonzea Montgomery finished second in assists, averaging 4.0 assists per game.
By Austin Franklin
The Lady Knights’ season came to an end last week as they fell 82-61 to a very good Henry County basketball team. Upson Lee was led by Zahkia King in her last game as a Knight with 21 points, freshman Jakera Ellerbee added 19 points and five rebounds, Cierra Williams fell just short of her third triple-double effort with eight points, 13 rebounds and 14 assists.
Even though the Lady Knights fell short in the “Sweet 16” round of the state tournament, it was a season full of a lot of firsts for Coach Brandon Ingram and the Lady Knights. The Lady Knights went 17-12, they beat Taylor County for the first time in school history, not only once, but twice, they played in their first region championship game, hosted their first home state playoff game, and won their first state playoff game in school history.
Seniors Zahkia King and Cierra Williams led the Lady Knights in scoring on the season both averaging 10.2 points per game, Williams also led the Knights in rebounds per game (6.9) and assists per game (4.1). The Lady Knights have a bright future ahead of them as they had four freshmen and two sophomores play in over 20 games each on the season. Freshman Jakera Ellerbee finished third in scoring this season with 9.0 points per game and second in rebounding with 6.8 rebounds per game. Freshman Alonzea Montgomery finished second in assists, averaging 4.0 assists per game.
Knights Claim Trojan Cup
Published 2-21-2018
By Austin Franklin
The Upson Lee Knights soccer team is off to a 5-0 start this season and now sets its sights on revenge against Oconee High School. Oconee ended UL’s season last year with a 3-2 win in the Sweet 16 round of the state playoffs.
UL went 3-0 in the annual Trojan Cup in Lamar County beating Central High School 7-0, Lamar County 2-1, and Putnam County 2-0. The Knights also beat region opponent Howard 8-0, and Pike County 2-1 on a late Chase Winters goal. UL will host Mary Persons Tuesday, Feb. 27 at Matthews Field at 7:30 p.m.
By Austin Franklin
The Upson Lee Knights soccer team is off to a 5-0 start this season and now sets its sights on revenge against Oconee High School. Oconee ended UL’s season last year with a 3-2 win in the Sweet 16 round of the state playoffs.
UL went 3-0 in the annual Trojan Cup in Lamar County beating Central High School 7-0, Lamar County 2-1, and Putnam County 2-0. The Knights also beat region opponent Howard 8-0, and Pike County 2-1 on a late Chase Winters goal. UL will host Mary Persons Tuesday, Feb. 27 at Matthews Field at 7:30 p.m.
Lady Knights’ defeat Putnam,
Holmes nets two goals
Alyssa Holmes sends a corner kick into the box in a recent game. Holmes scored twice in the Lady Knights third place victory over Putnam County.
Published 2-21-2018
By Austin Franklin
The Lady Knights’ soccer team kicked off its season last week in the annual Trojan Cup held at Lamar County High School with a 1-0 win over Central High School. The win advanced the team to a matchup with East Laurens in the second round. UL fell in a tough 4-1 game.
On Feb. 18, the Lady Knights took on Putnam County in the third place game of the Trojan Cup. UL picked up a 4-0 win behind Alyssa Holmes’ two goals. Harlie Kate Hurst and Isabella Velasco would also find the back of the net for the Lady Knights.
By Austin Franklin
The Lady Knights’ soccer team kicked off its season last week in the annual Trojan Cup held at Lamar County High School with a 1-0 win over Central High School. The win advanced the team to a matchup with East Laurens in the second round. UL fell in a tough 4-1 game.
On Feb. 18, the Lady Knights took on Putnam County in the third place game of the Trojan Cup. UL picked up a 4-0 win behind Alyssa Holmes’ two goals. Harlie Kate Hurst and Isabella Velasco would also find the back of the net for the Lady Knights.
Lady Knights make School History, Knights win Third
Consecutive Region Title
The UL Runnin’ Knights with the Region Tournament Trophy
Freshman Jakera Ellerbee stopping on a dime getting her an open look at the basket. Ellerbee scored 10 points in a 65-61 win over West Laurens to send the Lady Knights to the region championship game against Spalding.
With UL’s 78-56 win over Mary Persons in the region championship game Friday night, the Knights secure their third consecutive region championship. No. 1 ranked UL (26-0) extended its winning streak to 58 games with the team’s two wins during the region playoffs. UL destroyed Northside, Columbus during the first round of the state playoffs and move on to the Sweet 16. UL will host Salem Thursday, Feb. 22 at ULHS.
The UL Lady Knights (16-11) made school history last week when the team finished runner-up to Spalding, 72-37 in the championship game of the 2-AAAA region tournament. The runner-up finish is the highest finish during a region tournament in school history. The win qualified the Lady Knights for the state playoffs with a first round home game. The home state playoff game is also a first in school history for the Lady Knights. The Lady Knights took care of Westover in round one of the state playoffs and earned a trip to the Sweet 16. The Lady Knights travel to Henry County Wednesday, Feb. 21 for the second round of the state playoffs. Tip-off is set for 6 p.m.
The UL Lady Knights (16-11) made school history last week when the team finished runner-up to Spalding, 72-37 in the championship game of the 2-AAAA region tournament. The runner-up finish is the highest finish during a region tournament in school history. The win qualified the Lady Knights for the state playoffs with a first round home game. The home state playoff game is also a first in school history for the Lady Knights. The Lady Knights took care of Westover in round one of the state playoffs and earned a trip to the Sweet 16. The Lady Knights travel to Henry County Wednesday, Feb. 21 for the second round of the state playoffs. Tip-off is set for 6 p.m.
Barron to continue football career with Kennesaw State
Jayden Barron inked his letter of intent to play for the Kennesaw State Owls during a reception held at the T-U Fine Arts Center
Published 2-14-2018
By Austin Franklin
Upson Lee football standout Jayden Barron inked his letter of intent last week on National Signing Day to continue his football career with Kennesaw State University.
Barron, a 6-2, 270 lb. strong-side defensive end, had multiple offers to play football including Kennesaw State, Jacksonville State, Tulane, Troy, Ball State, Georgia Southern, Mercer and Georgia State.
Barron will join an Owls team that finished last season with a 12-2 record and tied for the most wins in Big South history. He is one of 16 new recruits and two transfers to join the team for the 2018 season.
Barron, a defensive tackle, was a four-year starter for Head Coaches Tommy Parks and Justin Elder at UL. He served as team captain, won the team Iron Man Award as a senior, and earned a spot on the 2-AAAA All-Region Second Team. He was selected to play in the GACA North/South All Star Game and was a Wendy's High School Heisman School Level Winner as a senior.
Owls coaching staff said via Twitter, “Jayden Barron is an outstanding young man. We feel he's going to make an immediate impact for us. He’s definitely a special talent. He's an athletic, strong, big bodied player who will be a great fit.”
Jayden is the son of Kishaun Barron and Terrell Mackey and has one sibling, Jaydah. Barron intends to major in industrial engineering and minor in business at Kennesaw State.
The Owls’ first game of the 2018 season will be Aug. 28 at Georgia State.
By Austin Franklin
Upson Lee football standout Jayden Barron inked his letter of intent last week on National Signing Day to continue his football career with Kennesaw State University.
Barron, a 6-2, 270 lb. strong-side defensive end, had multiple offers to play football including Kennesaw State, Jacksonville State, Tulane, Troy, Ball State, Georgia Southern, Mercer and Georgia State.
Barron will join an Owls team that finished last season with a 12-2 record and tied for the most wins in Big South history. He is one of 16 new recruits and two transfers to join the team for the 2018 season.
Barron, a defensive tackle, was a four-year starter for Head Coaches Tommy Parks and Justin Elder at UL. He served as team captain, won the team Iron Man Award as a senior, and earned a spot on the 2-AAAA All-Region Second Team. He was selected to play in the GACA North/South All Star Game and was a Wendy's High School Heisman School Level Winner as a senior.
Owls coaching staff said via Twitter, “Jayden Barron is an outstanding young man. We feel he's going to make an immediate impact for us. He’s definitely a special talent. He's an athletic, strong, big bodied player who will be a great fit.”
Jayden is the son of Kishaun Barron and Terrell Mackey and has one sibling, Jaydah. Barron intends to major in industrial engineering and minor in business at Kennesaw State.
The Owls’ first game of the 2018 season will be Aug. 28 at Georgia State.
Runnin’ Knights Win Third Consecutive Region Title
Junior Travon Walker gets an easy bucket with no defenders
around in a region tournament game against Perry
Published 2-14-2018
By Austin Franklin
The last time Upson Lee did not win its region, Tye Fagan, Jacorey Smith and Cameron Traylor were all freshmen, and Zyrice Scott and Travon Walker were playing for the middle school basketball team. Fast forward three years and all of these young men are varsity starters for a Top 25 team in the country, have three region titles, a state championship ring, and an active 58-game winning streak under their belts. The winning streak is the GHSA’s longest active winning streak. The Knights are only five wins away from adding another state championship ring to their accolades, and extending their incredible winning streak to 63 games to end the season.
With Upson Lee (26-0) securing the No. 1 seed in the region tournament, after going undefeated in the regular season, they only needed two region tournament wins to secure their third region championship in a row. The team’s run for a championship began with a 74-56 win last Wednesday night against Perry. Tye Fagan led UL with 27 points, 11 rebounds, five assists and four steals. Junior Travon Walker dominated the game down low with 19 points, 17 rebounds and six blocks. Junior Zyrice Scott added 12 points and six assists.
The Knights traveled back to Forsyth Friday night to take on tournament host Mary Persons in the region championship game. Upson Lee would have little trouble in a 78-56 win, fueled by Zyrice Scott’s career high 31 points. Fagan added 21 points, seven rebounds and five assists. Travon Walker added another double-double with 10 points and 14 rebounds.
By Austin Franklin
The last time Upson Lee did not win its region, Tye Fagan, Jacorey Smith and Cameron Traylor were all freshmen, and Zyrice Scott and Travon Walker were playing for the middle school basketball team. Fast forward three years and all of these young men are varsity starters for a Top 25 team in the country, have three region titles, a state championship ring, and an active 58-game winning streak under their belts. The winning streak is the GHSA’s longest active winning streak. The Knights are only five wins away from adding another state championship ring to their accolades, and extending their incredible winning streak to 63 games to end the season.
With Upson Lee (26-0) securing the No. 1 seed in the region tournament, after going undefeated in the regular season, they only needed two region tournament wins to secure their third region championship in a row. The team’s run for a championship began with a 74-56 win last Wednesday night against Perry. Tye Fagan led UL with 27 points, 11 rebounds, five assists and four steals. Junior Travon Walker dominated the game down low with 19 points, 17 rebounds and six blocks. Junior Zyrice Scott added 12 points and six assists.
The Knights traveled back to Forsyth Friday night to take on tournament host Mary Persons in the region championship game. Upson Lee would have little trouble in a 78-56 win, fueled by Zyrice Scott’s career high 31 points. Fagan added 21 points, seven rebounds and five assists. Travon Walker added another double-double with 10 points and 14 rebounds.
State runner-up finish for Moore,
Carter places fifth at state
UL senior Demarquez Carter (right)
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Upson Lee senior Lazavier Moore
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Published 2-14-2018
By Austin Franklin
Upson Lee senior Lazavier Moore ended a great wrestling career for the Knights with a runner-up finish during this year’s state competition. Moore finished second in the 285 lbs. weight class at the state wrestling tournament, just one point shy of a state championship. His match went three overtimes before the match was decided. Moore is picture on the left side of the podium during the medal presentation ceremony. UL senior Demarquez Carter (right) finished fifth in his respective weight class this past weekend in the state tournament. UL ended the season with nine sectional qualifiers and six state qualifiers.
By Austin Franklin
Upson Lee senior Lazavier Moore ended a great wrestling career for the Knights with a runner-up finish during this year’s state competition. Moore finished second in the 285 lbs. weight class at the state wrestling tournament, just one point shy of a state championship. His match went three overtimes before the match was decided. Moore is picture on the left side of the podium during the medal presentation ceremony. UL senior Demarquez Carter (right) finished fifth in his respective weight class this past weekend in the state tournament. UL ended the season with nine sectional qualifiers and six state qualifiers.
Knights finish regular season undefeated
for second straight year
Junior point guard Zyrice Scott calls out a play for the Running Knights, Scott leads the team in assists averaging 5.6 per game.
Published 2-7-2018
By Austin Franklin
Upson Lee continued its historic run winning the last two regular season games to finish back to back regular seasons undefeated, and extend the winning streak to 56 games. The Knights had little trouble in either game defeating Howard and Perry by wide margins.
The Knights traveled to Howard High School last Tuesday and won 59-27. Tye Fagan led the Knights with 28 points, nine rebounds, six assists and six steals. Travon Walker added six points and 14 rebounds.
Friday night the Knights entered their last regular season game with a win streak of 55 games, only needing one more to complete the regular season undefeated, they did not disappoint. They won by a score of 92-52 behind another monster performance by Tye Fagan. Fagan registered 33 points, six rebounds, eight assists, three blocks, and five steals. Travon Walker added 11 points and 12 rebounds in a double-double effort. Senior Cameron Traylor also added 18 points to close out the regular season undefeated.
The Knights traveled to Mary Persons for the Region Tournament and extended their winning streak to 58 games and in the process picked up another region championship. The No. 1 Knights will host Northside Columbus Friday, Feb. 16 at The Castle in the first round of the state playoffs. Tip-off is set for 7:30 p.m.
By Austin Franklin
Upson Lee continued its historic run winning the last two regular season games to finish back to back regular seasons undefeated, and extend the winning streak to 56 games. The Knights had little trouble in either game defeating Howard and Perry by wide margins.
The Knights traveled to Howard High School last Tuesday and won 59-27. Tye Fagan led the Knights with 28 points, nine rebounds, six assists and six steals. Travon Walker added six points and 14 rebounds.
Friday night the Knights entered their last regular season game with a win streak of 55 games, only needing one more to complete the regular season undefeated, they did not disappoint. They won by a score of 92-52 behind another monster performance by Tye Fagan. Fagan registered 33 points, six rebounds, eight assists, three blocks, and five steals. Travon Walker added 11 points and 12 rebounds in a double-double effort. Senior Cameron Traylor also added 18 points to close out the regular season undefeated.
The Knights traveled to Mary Persons for the Region Tournament and extended their winning streak to 58 games and in the process picked up another region championship. The No. 1 Knights will host Northside Columbus Friday, Feb. 16 at The Castle in the first round of the state playoffs. Tip-off is set for 7:30 p.m.
Lady Knights Clinch State Playoff Berth
Junior Lashae Traylor attempts a three point shot in a recent win over Perry. The Lady Knights made 12 three pointers in the victory.
Published 2-7-2018
By Austin Franklin
The Lady Knights won back to back region games over Perry and Mary Persons last week to clinch a spot in the state playoffs, and only need one more win to secure a first round home game. Upson Lee defeated Perry in the last regular season game by a score of 68-43 in a game that saw the Lady Knights drill 12 three pointers. Seniors Zahkia King and Cierra Williams combined for 11 of the 12 on their senior night and each scored 23 points. Williams also had 14 rebounds and 10 assists for a monster triple-double stat line in the biggest game of her career in front of a packed “Castle” to clinch the third seed for the Lady Knights in the region tournament.
Upson Lee drew Mary Persons in the first round of the region tournament Monday night in a play-in game, with the winner going to the state playoffs, and the loser ending its season. The Lady Knights shined, and beat Mary Persons for the third time on the year and secured a playoff spot with a 57-37 win.
Upson Lee defeated West Laurens in the second round but fell to Spalding in the championship game to finish as runner-up in the region tournament. The Lady Knights secured the No. 2 seed in the region and earned a first round home game in the state playoffs. UL will play Friday, Feb. 16 at The Castle with tip-off set for 6 p.m.
By Austin Franklin
The Lady Knights won back to back region games over Perry and Mary Persons last week to clinch a spot in the state playoffs, and only need one more win to secure a first round home game. Upson Lee defeated Perry in the last regular season game by a score of 68-43 in a game that saw the Lady Knights drill 12 three pointers. Seniors Zahkia King and Cierra Williams combined for 11 of the 12 on their senior night and each scored 23 points. Williams also had 14 rebounds and 10 assists for a monster triple-double stat line in the biggest game of her career in front of a packed “Castle” to clinch the third seed for the Lady Knights in the region tournament.
Upson Lee drew Mary Persons in the first round of the region tournament Monday night in a play-in game, with the winner going to the state playoffs, and the loser ending its season. The Lady Knights shined, and beat Mary Persons for the third time on the year and secured a playoff spot with a 57-37 win.
Upson Lee defeated West Laurens in the second round but fell to Spalding in the championship game to finish as runner-up in the region tournament. The Lady Knights secured the No. 2 seed in the region and earned a first round home game in the state playoffs. UL will play Friday, Feb. 16 at The Castle with tip-off set for 6 p.m.
Knight Battalion Shooters win Area 12 Championship, Qualify for Nationals
(L-R) CDR Rustie Hibbard (Area 12 manager), Emily Jackson, Savannah Muse, Jonathan Nix, Grace Geldbach and Ana Maldonado
Published 1-31-2018
The Upson Lee High School NJROTC rifle team travelled to Anniston, Ala. to compete in the NJROTC Area 12 Championship Jan. 27. The precision team finished in 1st place, with a total team score of 2,271 out of 2,400. With this win, the precision team will now be able to travel to Phoenix, Ariz. on Feb. 7 and represent Area 12 for a chance to win the Navy National Championship.
The Navy National Championship is a three day tournament comprised of the top 16 Navy precision teams throughout the United States. If anyone would like to make a donation to help the team fund their cross-country trip, please contact the NJROTC at 706-647-6795.
Prior to the Area 12 Championship the Upson Lee rifle team captured a second place finish at Fort Benning Wednesday, Jan.24 after competing in back to back matches. Fifteen teams competed in the match. UL outscored Jordan High School to earn GHSA rankings with a score of 1,125 to 1,080.
UL competed against Northside High School (Columbus) during the team’s next match and scored their best total of the year beating the Patriots 1,144 to 1,122.
Along with the team victory, Rifle Team Captain Jonathan Nix fired an individual score of 296 out of 300, locking him into the State Championship as an individual shooter. The rifle team is now 4–0 for GHSA competition.
The Upson Lee High School NJROTC rifle team travelled to Anniston, Ala. to compete in the NJROTC Area 12 Championship Jan. 27. The precision team finished in 1st place, with a total team score of 2,271 out of 2,400. With this win, the precision team will now be able to travel to Phoenix, Ariz. on Feb. 7 and represent Area 12 for a chance to win the Navy National Championship.
The Navy National Championship is a three day tournament comprised of the top 16 Navy precision teams throughout the United States. If anyone would like to make a donation to help the team fund their cross-country trip, please contact the NJROTC at 706-647-6795.
Prior to the Area 12 Championship the Upson Lee rifle team captured a second place finish at Fort Benning Wednesday, Jan.24 after competing in back to back matches. Fifteen teams competed in the match. UL outscored Jordan High School to earn GHSA rankings with a score of 1,125 to 1,080.
UL competed against Northside High School (Columbus) during the team’s next match and scored their best total of the year beating the Patriots 1,144 to 1,122.
Along with the team victory, Rifle Team Captain Jonathan Nix fired an individual score of 296 out of 300, locking him into the State Championship as an individual shooter. The rifle team is now 4–0 for GHSA competition.
Runnin’ Knights Dominate with UGA, South Carolina Head Coaches in Attendance
Knights’ leading scorer and leader
Tye Fagan gets past a defender for
an easy layup in a recent game.
Published 1-31-2018
By Austin Franklin
Upson Lee took on West Laurens in “The Castle” last week with the eyes of the University of South Carolina football head coach Will Muschamp and University of Georgia head coach Kirby Smart looking on. Both were in attendance recruiting the talent of football superstar Travon Walker, who is also a star on the hardwood. With all eyes on Walker last Tuesday he shined in a 77-50 win over the Raiders. Walker turned in a huge line of 23 points, 13 rebounds and three blocks. Tye Fagan also scored 23 points, he also had five rebounds, four assists and four steals. Sharpshooter Cameron Traylor had 13 points, four assists and four steals. Zyrice Scott scored seven points, had seven assists and three steals.
The Knights traveled to Griffin Friday night to take on Spalding in a 75-39 rout. Once again Fagan had a monster stat line of 25 points, six rebounds, and five assists. Walker added 16 points, and Traylor added 13. Senior JaCorey Smith added eight points, seven rebounds and four assists.
These two region wins move Upson Lee to 22-0 on the season with a region record of 8-0. UL rounded out its season with victories over Howard and Perry to extend the winning streak to 56 games. UL will compete this week in the region playoffs being held at Mary Persons. UL earned a first round bye and will compete Wednesday, Feb. 7 in its first game of the playoffs.
By Austin Franklin
Upson Lee took on West Laurens in “The Castle” last week with the eyes of the University of South Carolina football head coach Will Muschamp and University of Georgia head coach Kirby Smart looking on. Both were in attendance recruiting the talent of football superstar Travon Walker, who is also a star on the hardwood. With all eyes on Walker last Tuesday he shined in a 77-50 win over the Raiders. Walker turned in a huge line of 23 points, 13 rebounds and three blocks. Tye Fagan also scored 23 points, he also had five rebounds, four assists and four steals. Sharpshooter Cameron Traylor had 13 points, four assists and four steals. Zyrice Scott scored seven points, had seven assists and three steals.
The Knights traveled to Griffin Friday night to take on Spalding in a 75-39 rout. Once again Fagan had a monster stat line of 25 points, six rebounds, and five assists. Walker added 16 points, and Traylor added 13. Senior JaCorey Smith added eight points, seven rebounds and four assists.
These two region wins move Upson Lee to 22-0 on the season with a region record of 8-0. UL rounded out its season with victories over Howard and Perry to extend the winning streak to 56 games. UL will compete this week in the region playoffs being held at Mary Persons. UL earned a first round bye and will compete Wednesday, Feb. 7 in its first game of the playoffs.
Nine Wrestling Knights
Qualify for Sectionals
Demarquez Carter, Rey Draime, Lazavier Moore, Scott Kirschmman, Chris Brown, Dillon Kirschmman, Kanon Hicks, Colby McRae, Jey Ellison, Jason Hardy, and James Muse. Also pictured are managers Landon Mangham and Nichole Cummings. Coaches are Wes Wingard and Jeff Wheeless.
Published 1-31-2018
By Austin Franklin
Last week Upson Lee won two dual matches against Newton and Mary Persons, and also had nine wrestlers finish in the top four of area competition to qualify for sectionals. Demarquez Carter finished first in the area, Ray Draime and Lazavier Moore finished in second, Scott Kirschmman and Chris Brown finished third, and Dillon Kirschmman, Kanon Hicks, and Jey Ellison finished fourth in their respective weight classes. Jason Hardy and James Muse will travel to sectionals as well as alternates. Sectionals will begin Friday in Jefferson.
By Austin Franklin
Last week Upson Lee won two dual matches against Newton and Mary Persons, and also had nine wrestlers finish in the top four of area competition to qualify for sectionals. Demarquez Carter finished first in the area, Ray Draime and Lazavier Moore finished in second, Scott Kirschmman and Chris Brown finished third, and Dillon Kirschmman, Kanon Hicks, and Jey Ellison finished fourth in their respective weight classes. Jason Hardy and James Muse will travel to sectionals as well as alternates. Sectionals will begin Friday in Jefferson.
Runnin' Knights Earn Recognition on the National Level
Seen in the photo is UL junior guard Zy’rice Scott throwing down a two handed jam to put an emphasis on UL’s win over region opponent Howard High School at The Castle. Photo by Austin Franklin
Published 1-10-2018
By Austin Franklin
Following the Knights’ domination at the Lake City Classic and wins over Huffman, Alabama and Warner Robins to extend their winning streak to 48 straight games, Upson Lee was finally given some credit from all of the doubters around the nation.
Upson Lee was first ranked number nine in The USA Today Southeastern Regional Rankings, only behind McEachern in the state of Georgia. Only five schools in the top 10 were public schools. Later the same day Upson Lee landed at number 27 overall in the country in the Ball is Life Fab 50 rankings.
But perhaps the most significant ranking to date was the Stateline Sports Network Public Schools Rankings which was released Sunday. Stateline Sports Rankings are only for public schools across the nation. Upson Lee landed at number nine in the nation in their poll. This is an incredible accomplishment for a school of Upson Lee’s size compared to the size of six and seven A schools.
Upson Lee continued its journey to defend the state championship and picked up two region wins last week to extend its winning streak to an amazing 50 wins in a row. UL defeated Spalding and Howard to get to the remarkable number.
By Austin Franklin
Following the Knights’ domination at the Lake City Classic and wins over Huffman, Alabama and Warner Robins to extend their winning streak to 48 straight games, Upson Lee was finally given some credit from all of the doubters around the nation.
Upson Lee was first ranked number nine in The USA Today Southeastern Regional Rankings, only behind McEachern in the state of Georgia. Only five schools in the top 10 were public schools. Later the same day Upson Lee landed at number 27 overall in the country in the Ball is Life Fab 50 rankings.
But perhaps the most significant ranking to date was the Stateline Sports Network Public Schools Rankings which was released Sunday. Stateline Sports Rankings are only for public schools across the nation. Upson Lee landed at number nine in the nation in their poll. This is an incredible accomplishment for a school of Upson Lee’s size compared to the size of six and seven A schools.
Upson Lee continued its journey to defend the state championship and picked up two region wins last week to extend its winning streak to an amazing 50 wins in a row. UL defeated Spalding and Howard to get to the remarkable number.
Running Knights Down
Three Top Ranked Opponents
to Win Championship
Travon Walker elevates for the jam in a recent game. Walker averaged 16 points and 13 rebounds per game at the Lake City Classic.
Published 1-3-2018
By Austin Franklin
Coming fresh off of a championship week in Fort Meyers, Fla. at the City of the Palms Tournament, Upson Lee had a slate of number one ranked opponents lined up for them at the Lake City Classic at Allatoona High School.
The Knights started their Lake City journey Wednesday evening with a matchup against 7A Millbrook High School out of North Carolina. Millbrook ended up being the only team the Knights would play in the tournament that was not ranked number one in their classification, but that didn’t stop Millbrook from pushing Upson Lee to the limit. Upson Lee gave up a big lead in the fourth quarter to make this a close game at the end after Upson Lee controlled the game for the first three quarters. The Knights hung on for a 66-62 win in the first round. Tye Fagan led the Knights with 19 points, five rebounds, and three assists. Travon Walker had yet another monster game with 17 points and 21 rebounds, and Cameron Traylor chipped in 10 points with four rebounds and four steals.
Next up for the Knights was St. Francis, who is the number one ranked team in single A-private. St. Francis was little trouble for the Running Knights as Upson Lee took a 40-25 lead into half and never looked back, winning 80-65 to advance to the semifinals the next night. Fagan once again led the Knights in scoring with 30 points, eight rebounds, and three assists. Walker scored 19, and added eight rebounds. Traylor added 11 points, and senior Jacorey Smith added 10 points and six rebounds.
The Knights then took on the 17th ranked team in the country, and number one team from Alabama, the Huffman Vikings in the semifinals. Upson Lee started the game slowly and Huffman built double digit lead early in the first half on the Knights. That didn’t last long, as Tye Fagan inserted himself into the hero role and fought this team all the way back to take a nine point lead into halftime. The Knights got into foul trouble in the second half as Zyrice Scott eventually fouled out, and Travon Walker sat the majority of the second half with three fouls. Still, Upson Lee overcame it all and never relinquished the lead they built and won 72-63. Fagan led the Knights with 24 points, eight rebounds and three assists. Jacorey Smith scored 15 points and had four rebounds. Cameron Traylor would add 12 points, three rebounds, and four assists. Travon Walker scored 10 points, seven rebounds, three assists, and three steals in limited action.
The Lake City Classic Championship game was a Middle Georgia, undefeated showdown between 4A #1 Upson Lee and 5A #1 Warner Robins. Warner Robins is led by a deadly duo of Nelson Phillips and Jacolbey Owens, who are two of the best scorers in the state. Phillips and Owens both scored 24 against the Knights, but it wasn’t enough as the Knights knocked off Warner Robins 84-73 to win the tournament, and solidify themselves as the best team in Middle Georgia, and a top three team in the state. Tye Fagan had a monster game, scoring 33 with four rebounds, three assists, two steals, and six blocks. Travon Walker wouldn’t be far behind scoring 18 points and 16 rebounds. JaCorey Smith added 16 points, six rebounds, and three assists. Zyrice Scott put together a nice game with 15 points and five assists.
These wins pushed the Knights wining streak to 48 games, and more importantly gave the Knights the competition that they desperately needed.
By Austin Franklin
Coming fresh off of a championship week in Fort Meyers, Fla. at the City of the Palms Tournament, Upson Lee had a slate of number one ranked opponents lined up for them at the Lake City Classic at Allatoona High School.
The Knights started their Lake City journey Wednesday evening with a matchup against 7A Millbrook High School out of North Carolina. Millbrook ended up being the only team the Knights would play in the tournament that was not ranked number one in their classification, but that didn’t stop Millbrook from pushing Upson Lee to the limit. Upson Lee gave up a big lead in the fourth quarter to make this a close game at the end after Upson Lee controlled the game for the first three quarters. The Knights hung on for a 66-62 win in the first round. Tye Fagan led the Knights with 19 points, five rebounds, and three assists. Travon Walker had yet another monster game with 17 points and 21 rebounds, and Cameron Traylor chipped in 10 points with four rebounds and four steals.
Next up for the Knights was St. Francis, who is the number one ranked team in single A-private. St. Francis was little trouble for the Running Knights as Upson Lee took a 40-25 lead into half and never looked back, winning 80-65 to advance to the semifinals the next night. Fagan once again led the Knights in scoring with 30 points, eight rebounds, and three assists. Walker scored 19, and added eight rebounds. Traylor added 11 points, and senior Jacorey Smith added 10 points and six rebounds.
The Knights then took on the 17th ranked team in the country, and number one team from Alabama, the Huffman Vikings in the semifinals. Upson Lee started the game slowly and Huffman built double digit lead early in the first half on the Knights. That didn’t last long, as Tye Fagan inserted himself into the hero role and fought this team all the way back to take a nine point lead into halftime. The Knights got into foul trouble in the second half as Zyrice Scott eventually fouled out, and Travon Walker sat the majority of the second half with three fouls. Still, Upson Lee overcame it all and never relinquished the lead they built and won 72-63. Fagan led the Knights with 24 points, eight rebounds and three assists. Jacorey Smith scored 15 points and had four rebounds. Cameron Traylor would add 12 points, three rebounds, and four assists. Travon Walker scored 10 points, seven rebounds, three assists, and three steals in limited action.
The Lake City Classic Championship game was a Middle Georgia, undefeated showdown between 4A #1 Upson Lee and 5A #1 Warner Robins. Warner Robins is led by a deadly duo of Nelson Phillips and Jacolbey Owens, who are two of the best scorers in the state. Phillips and Owens both scored 24 against the Knights, but it wasn’t enough as the Knights knocked off Warner Robins 84-73 to win the tournament, and solidify themselves as the best team in Middle Georgia, and a top three team in the state. Tye Fagan had a monster game, scoring 33 with four rebounds, three assists, two steals, and six blocks. Travon Walker wouldn’t be far behind scoring 18 points and 16 rebounds. JaCorey Smith added 16 points, six rebounds, and three assists. Zyrice Scott put together a nice game with 15 points and five assists.
These wins pushed the Knights wining streak to 48 games, and more importantly gave the Knights the competition that they desperately needed.
Lady Knights Finish Fourth in Mary Persons Holiday Tournament
Published 1-3-2018
By Austin Franklin
The Lady Knights started the Mary Persons Holiday tournament with a rematch against Westside Macon, who they defeated 56-45 last week. The result would be the same this time as the Lady Knights would pull out a 49-41 win over Westside. Zahkia King led the Lady Knights with 14 points, Cierra Williams and Alonzea Montgomery would both add 10 each.
The Lady Knights would perhaps face the best team they’ve played all year in Putnam County, who is ranked #2 in the state, with a perfect 10-0 record. Upson Lee was outmatched from the tipoff, and would eventually win the game 64-48. Cierra Williams led the Lady Knights with 15 points, and Alonzea Montgomery added 11.
On the Lady Knights’ third straight day of games they would face off with Monticello High School in the third-place game. Upson Lee would lose a close hard-fought game 71-67, which placed them fourth in the tournament. Stats were not available at press time.
By Austin Franklin
The Lady Knights started the Mary Persons Holiday tournament with a rematch against Westside Macon, who they defeated 56-45 last week. The result would be the same this time as the Lady Knights would pull out a 49-41 win over Westside. Zahkia King led the Lady Knights with 14 points, Cierra Williams and Alonzea Montgomery would both add 10 each.
The Lady Knights would perhaps face the best team they’ve played all year in Putnam County, who is ranked #2 in the state, with a perfect 10-0 record. Upson Lee was outmatched from the tipoff, and would eventually win the game 64-48. Cierra Williams led the Lady Knights with 15 points, and Alonzea Montgomery added 11.
On the Lady Knights’ third straight day of games they would face off with Monticello High School in the third-place game. Upson Lee would lose a close hard-fought game 71-67, which placed them fourth in the tournament. Stats were not available at press time.