Sports
Sports in the FamilyPublished 2-18-2021
by Jim Fowler There are some things going on in sports that I thought I’d never see. Most of them are not major things and a few are not really that new, but every time I see them or hear someone mention them I just have to think, “I never thought that would happen.” Let’s look at a few.
Seeing a NASCAR race on a road course at the Daytona International Speedway is odd. Watching races on the big 2.5-mile banked raceway is normal, but the addition of the road course seems strange. Sticking with NASCAR, I can’t believe that a 2021 race at the iconic one-half-mile Bristol Motor Speedway will be run on dirt. Yep, no pavement. All dirt. Should be very entertaining but it will a new one for me. I’ve loved baseball all of my life and I’ve seen baseball bats change quite a bit. They have gone from wood to aluminum to some alloy or component. Well, once a year I tune in to a major league game and see the players using pink bats. Yep, pink bats. I know that its in recognition of breast cancer awareness, but pink bats still look strange. And the Washington Redskins are now the Washington Football Team. They have abandoned the Redskins mascot logo, and name. And to make things even worse, the Cleveland Indians plan to do the same next season. Oh, I’ve heard all of the reasons, but I don’t buy a single one. I have always thought that these names brought honor to Native Americans and I don’t see how they can be offensive. Just my opinion. Hang in there, Braves! Professional athletes kneeling for the National Anthem? Surely this can’t be happening. These guys have a real high estimation of their importance. They say that it’s not disrespectful to the flag, but we are not ignorant enough to believe this, are we? One NBA owner even decided not to play the anthem at games. Public pressure changed his mind. Don’t support these unappreciative, egotistical clowns. Golfers driving the ball over 300 yards. I was amazed when I watched Palmer, Nicklaus, Player and golfers of their era hit 225-250-yard drives and be proud of it. Every golfer these days drives the ball well beyond 300 yards and some even approach 400. Golfers working with weights and better equipment, I guess. Cardboard fans in the stands! You’ve seen them and some teams have been quite innovative with the faces on the attendees. I don’t know that I ever thought that we would have games without fans. I hope it is not the new normal. Professional athletes signing contracts for $300-$400 million. This is one of the reasons for the ridiculous ticket prices at games. This kind of money is absurd when one considers the plight of some Americans who struggle to get by from day to day. We all want our stars, but at these prices? No one is worth this much money unless they have a cure for cancer! And an old one. I never thought that I would see Texas A&M in the SEC. Yeah, I know they’re there, but they just seem to fit in the old Southwest Conference. They are a bit too far to the west to be in the Southeastern Conference. Is Arizona State next? OK, those are just a few of my “can’t believes.” There are more but I’ll mention them in a future column. I know that you have a few. Think about it! CLICK HERE OR
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Diamond Knights Split Opening Week![]() Published 2-25-2021
By Jacob Stewart, Sports Editor The Upson Lee Diamond Knights split their opening week matchups with Spalding and Callaway. Their 11-1 victory over Spalding set the season off to a great start, but they stumbled on the road on Friday night. Non-Region play is built for working out the kinks, and the Knights will do just that the next few weeks. On opening night, Jake Willis took the mound and looked fantastic. The senior surrendered just two hits and walked one while striking out 10 in four innings. With the help of big offensive evenings from Logan Spivey, Beau Ellington, and Austin Hendricks, the Knights led early and often. Spivey notched two doubles with three runs batted in, Hendricks was a perfect three-for-three with an RBI, and Ellington had two RBI on one hit. Hendricks relieved Willis after 67 pitches and gave up the only run of the night to the Jaguars. Hendricks looked strong and only allowed one hit through two innings. On Friday night against Callaway, Spivey took the mound and struggled with command. Struggle with command was a common theme among Knights pitchers and it ultimately gave Callaway all the chances they needed to knock off Upson Lee. Spivey exited after just 1.2 innings with two earned runs, three hits, four strikeouts, and three walks. Three errors in the game allowed Callaway to add on and edge the Knights. The bats fought hard in the middle innings. Jordan Wainwright had a big night going three-for-four. Jackson Blakely tallied two RBI on a double and Miller Patterson was two-for-four with one RBI. However, errors and walks cost Upson Lee the game. The Knights’ pitchers combined for five walks and four hit batsmen as Callway took the victory 6-4. Upson Lee showed it is capable of putting up runs to support the pitching staff. When the rust is off and all the arms are clicking, this team will have the potential to impress on many levels. The Knights will face Shaw High School this week, traveling once again on Friday night. Tennis Opens Season vs Harris County![]() Published 2-25-2021
By Jacob Stewart, Sports Editor The tennis season is officially under way at Upson Lee. The Knights hosted Harris County for the first time since Coach Bosworth has been the head coach. The boys came out with a 3-2 victory to start the year. Silas Laughman won his match 8-0, John Hernandez handled business with an 8-3 win, and Jed Weatherford and Grayson Sheppard took home the deciding victory on the doubles court with an 8-1 win. The young girls’ team struggled in its first match, but made strides toward improvement. They fell to Harris County 0-5. Athlete of the Week: Silas Laughman![]() Published 2-25-2021
By Jacob Stewart, Sports Editor Silas Laughman took a demanding singles victory in the Knights’ first match of the year against Harris County. Laughman was very active in his ability to keep his opponent off balance during exchanges. A couple of well-played points turned heads at the tennis courts on Wednesday. Laughman is a key component of the boys' squad that has a shot at a region title this season. Even though the tennis team only played one match last season, he did not look rusty at all. “I feel like my consistency on the court has improved greatly since freshman year,” Laughman told The Upson Beacon. After having his junior season stripped away, he said, “I think the anticipation has really amped us up, but we certainly have a lot of practicing to do.” The boys’ tennis team barely has enough players to compete, so they will need all hands on deck at all times. Laughman, among other seniors, provides a great core of experience to help the Knights get the job done. Highlanders’ Softball Ready
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Published 6-11-2020
By Jacob Stewart The GHSA recently released a statement that wrote, “The Georgia High School Association will open up conditioning for its member schools on June 8, 2020.” The GHSA made it each individual school’s responsibility to formulate an “Infectious Disease Plan.” Certain guidelines have been put into place for schools. These guidelines include a maximum of 20 people per group, no use of a common water source, and no access to the locker room facilities. At Upson-Lee High School, football, cross country, and softball will begin conditioning on June 8. |
Youth Football Registration now Slated July 8-10
Published 6-11-2020
Registration for tackle and flag football, originally planned June 24-26, has been rescheduled for July 8-10 from 5-7 p.m. each day at the Thomaston-Upson Civic Center, according to recreation department officials.
Staff asks that anyone interested in participating print registration forms from the website, complete the forms, and take them to the civic center at time of registration. Forms can be found at www.upsoncountyga.org/187/recreation.
Registration for tackle and flag football, originally planned June 24-26, has been rescheduled for July 8-10 from 5-7 p.m. each day at the Thomaston-Upson Civic Center, according to recreation department officials.
Staff asks that anyone interested in participating print registration forms from the website, complete the forms, and take them to the civic center at time of registration. Forms can be found at www.upsoncountyga.org/187/recreation.
A Coach Without a Season
Published 6-4-2020
By Jacob Stewart
Civic Center Drive has been unusually quiet this Spring. For many years prior, the fields have been filled with children and their families. Countless homeruns, soccer goals, memories, and lifelong friends have been made on those precious fields of green. However, this unfortunate year forced this Spring’s chapter to be left unwritten.
Buck Fulghum has been a staple of Thomaston-Upson Civic Center sports. Over the past 30 years, Fulghum has coached soccer, baseball, football, and basketball. Fulghum has enjoyed sports and it has always been a passion for him. Sports is a family ordeal for Fulghum, as his children played growing up. Fulghum spoke about the inability to have sports this Spring: “For me, Spring means sports and excitement for the kids and their families. Although I have a deep passion for sports, it is the mentoring and teaching the kids that I miss the most. It is their disappointment that has made times like these so difficult.”
Fulghum had to deliver the sad news to his baseball team when he was informed about the season’s cancellation. He said, “They were very disappointed that the season had ended after just four practices.” Fulghum hopes for positive benefits from the current global situation, “I hope there are lessons learned to always do your best and seize every moment while the opportunity is there.” There are ball players that had their final season taken away from them. Those athletes would attest to Fulghum’s words to never take the game for granted.
Fulghum spoke about how the situation has affected him, “I have learned over the years not to struggle over things I cannot control. However, when it involves something I am very passionate about, it is hard to live by those words.” The same can be said for everyone during these confusing times. For now, all anyone can do is dream of those beautiful days where memories were made between the white lines. The days are coming back, and their return will be so sweet.
By Jacob Stewart
Civic Center Drive has been unusually quiet this Spring. For many years prior, the fields have been filled with children and their families. Countless homeruns, soccer goals, memories, and lifelong friends have been made on those precious fields of green. However, this unfortunate year forced this Spring’s chapter to be left unwritten.
Buck Fulghum has been a staple of Thomaston-Upson Civic Center sports. Over the past 30 years, Fulghum has coached soccer, baseball, football, and basketball. Fulghum has enjoyed sports and it has always been a passion for him. Sports is a family ordeal for Fulghum, as his children played growing up. Fulghum spoke about the inability to have sports this Spring: “For me, Spring means sports and excitement for the kids and their families. Although I have a deep passion for sports, it is the mentoring and teaching the kids that I miss the most. It is their disappointment that has made times like these so difficult.”
Fulghum had to deliver the sad news to his baseball team when he was informed about the season’s cancellation. He said, “They were very disappointed that the season had ended after just four practices.” Fulghum hopes for positive benefits from the current global situation, “I hope there are lessons learned to always do your best and seize every moment while the opportunity is there.” There are ball players that had their final season taken away from them. Those athletes would attest to Fulghum’s words to never take the game for granted.
Fulghum spoke about how the situation has affected him, “I have learned over the years not to struggle over things I cannot control. However, when it involves something I am very passionate about, it is hard to live by those words.” The same can be said for everyone during these confusing times. For now, all anyone can do is dream of those beautiful days where memories were made between the white lines. The days are coming back, and their return will be so sweet.
Turner Maddox Commits to Play Baseball at Thomas University

Published 5-14-2020
By Jacob Stewart
Although Spring sports were cancelled, Upson-Lee’s senior shortstop Turner Maddox is not done playing baseball. Maddox was a heart of the order bat on varsity for four years. He blossomed from a talented underclassmen into an experienced leader as he grew into the ball player he is today. Maddox is not done growing as an athlete or young man. He is heading to Thomas University to play baseball for the Nighthawks. Maddox has not decided on a major yet but will continue to find his way. Maddox accomplished many things on the field including being named as the first team all-region shortstop, but he did many things in school participating in BETA club, National Honors Society, and Student Council. The outcome of Maddox’s senior season is unfortunate; however, it is sure to allow him to grow more at the next level. Congratulations to Maddox on his commitment and graduation.
By Jacob Stewart
Although Spring sports were cancelled, Upson-Lee’s senior shortstop Turner Maddox is not done playing baseball. Maddox was a heart of the order bat on varsity for four years. He blossomed from a talented underclassmen into an experienced leader as he grew into the ball player he is today. Maddox is not done growing as an athlete or young man. He is heading to Thomas University to play baseball for the Nighthawks. Maddox has not decided on a major yet but will continue to find his way. Maddox accomplished many things on the field including being named as the first team all-region shortstop, but he did many things in school participating in BETA club, National Honors Society, and Student Council. The outcome of Maddox’s senior season is unfortunate; however, it is sure to allow him to grow more at the next level. Congratulations to Maddox on his commitment and graduation.
Flint River Academy Holds Online Basketball Awards
Published 5-14-2020
In an unusual school year for firsts, Flint River Academy Athletic Director and Head Basketball Coach Eugene Fries and his assistant coach Matt Hinesly held an online basketball awards ceremony May 5 to conclude the season.
Acknowledgements were made to the middle school girls’ team, a young team of four sixth graders and only two experienced eighth graders who nevertheless worked hard through the season, learned to love the game, and grew in confidence.
Eighth Graders: Chloe Thompson and Jaycee Matheny; Seventh Graders: Abigail Carroll and Jewel Waldrep; Sixth Graders Addison Garrett Kennedy Goldston, Simms Goodwin, and Brooklyn Waldrep competed well for the Wildcats.
The FRA middle school boys’ team was loaded with experienced talent and enjoyed a great competitive season.
Eighth Graders: Brody Howard, Cale Cartwright, Ben Taylor, Mason Reeves, Walker Jones, Hayden Hinesly, Dayton Stephens, and Lucas Martin led the athletic group. While no 7th graders were on the team, a talented set of Sixth Graders added to the athletic base: Rocco Barbee, Carter Crew, Cole Riner, Jordan Phillips, and Noah Hizel. These athletes play multiple sports at FRA and give it their all in practice and games.
Coach Fries complimented the varsity girls for being picked sixth in region at the beginning of the season to finishing region runner up. Their hard work and commitment earned over twenty wins this season. Senior leadership from Stella Johnson, Caroline Cartwright, and Jada Gresham led to the team’s success. The Most Improved Award went to Madelyn Chapman, Defensive Award to Emily Rogers, Offensive MVP to Jada Gresham, Coach’s Award to Caroline Cartwright, and Most Valuable Player to Stella Johnson. Johnson went on to play in the All Star game and All State game along with being named to the All Region Team with Emily Rogers and Caroline Cartwright.
The varsity boys’ team, the defending state champions, had an exciting season and narrowly missed a chance at another title. Seniors leading the team were Efe Faydaci, Luka Marinic, Marko Matijevic, and Garrett Martin. Underclassmen showing terrific potential for next year are Branson Stephens, Seab Massey, Colton Rush, Hugh Barbee, Bowen Wasden, and Zach Neal. Earning the Most Improved Award was Zach Neal, the Coach’s Award went to Colton Rush, the Defensive Award to Branson Stephens, Offensive Award to Luka Marinic, and the Most Valuable Player to Hugh Barbee. Luka Marinic and Marco Matijevic were named to All Region Team and Luka was named to the All Star Team.
Congratulations to all the athletes on a fine season. Coach Fries finished the program by encouraging the athletes to work through the summer and be ready for the new association FRA has joined. FRA’s athletic schedule with GAPS will see the teams play many schools they knew in GISA as they crossed to the new association too. Easier travel distances should improve the season as well.
In an unusual school year for firsts, Flint River Academy Athletic Director and Head Basketball Coach Eugene Fries and his assistant coach Matt Hinesly held an online basketball awards ceremony May 5 to conclude the season.
Acknowledgements were made to the middle school girls’ team, a young team of four sixth graders and only two experienced eighth graders who nevertheless worked hard through the season, learned to love the game, and grew in confidence.
Eighth Graders: Chloe Thompson and Jaycee Matheny; Seventh Graders: Abigail Carroll and Jewel Waldrep; Sixth Graders Addison Garrett Kennedy Goldston, Simms Goodwin, and Brooklyn Waldrep competed well for the Wildcats.
The FRA middle school boys’ team was loaded with experienced talent and enjoyed a great competitive season.
Eighth Graders: Brody Howard, Cale Cartwright, Ben Taylor, Mason Reeves, Walker Jones, Hayden Hinesly, Dayton Stephens, and Lucas Martin led the athletic group. While no 7th graders were on the team, a talented set of Sixth Graders added to the athletic base: Rocco Barbee, Carter Crew, Cole Riner, Jordan Phillips, and Noah Hizel. These athletes play multiple sports at FRA and give it their all in practice and games.
Coach Fries complimented the varsity girls for being picked sixth in region at the beginning of the season to finishing region runner up. Their hard work and commitment earned over twenty wins this season. Senior leadership from Stella Johnson, Caroline Cartwright, and Jada Gresham led to the team’s success. The Most Improved Award went to Madelyn Chapman, Defensive Award to Emily Rogers, Offensive MVP to Jada Gresham, Coach’s Award to Caroline Cartwright, and Most Valuable Player to Stella Johnson. Johnson went on to play in the All Star game and All State game along with being named to the All Region Team with Emily Rogers and Caroline Cartwright.
The varsity boys’ team, the defending state champions, had an exciting season and narrowly missed a chance at another title. Seniors leading the team were Efe Faydaci, Luka Marinic, Marko Matijevic, and Garrett Martin. Underclassmen showing terrific potential for next year are Branson Stephens, Seab Massey, Colton Rush, Hugh Barbee, Bowen Wasden, and Zach Neal. Earning the Most Improved Award was Zach Neal, the Coach’s Award went to Colton Rush, the Defensive Award to Branson Stephens, Offensive Award to Luka Marinic, and the Most Valuable Player to Hugh Barbee. Luka Marinic and Marco Matijevic were named to All Region Team and Luka was named to the All Star Team.
Congratulations to all the athletes on a fine season. Coach Fries finished the program by encouraging the athletes to work through the summer and be ready for the new association FRA has joined. FRA’s athletic schedule with GAPS will see the teams play many schools they knew in GISA as they crossed to the new association too. Easier travel distances should improve the season as well.