KT’s top area performances that were dazzling
By Kevin Travis, Sports Editor
While many are enjoying their summer, several athletes are gearing up for the start of the fall sports season.
It’s especially important for the rising seniors, who want to end their high school careers with a bang. Before delving into another year of football, volleyball, tennis and more, here are the top 11 performances that dazzled me as sports editor of the WDN.
11) Williamston is traditionally known for being a baseball powerhouse. In the spring of 2003, coach Herbie Rogers had a loaded team. The team could hit. The team could play defense. The team could pitch. Boy, could that team pitch. Mike Sheperd, Dee Eubanks and Brad Roach were sensational on the mound. Eubanks, who went on to become the WDN Pitcher of the Year that season, fired a no-hitter. In the next game, Roach duplicated the feat with a no-no of his own. The Tiger pitching staff went on to throw a combined four no-hitters during the season.
10) Charity Watson, the strong-armed pitcher for the Washington Pam Pack softball team, is used to long innings. She pitched a pair of gems in two of the longest games in state history. She picked up the win in a 2-1 victory in 15 innings over D.H. Conley when she struck out 33 batters. Watson also got the win when Washington beat Havelock 1-0 in 19 innings, where she fanned 37 batters. As a junior, Watson -- a three-time WDN Pitcher of the Year -- went the distance in another marathon game. This time, the stakes were a little higher. Watson was brilliant, striking out 24 batters in helping to lead the Pam Pack to a 3-0 road win in 14 innings over the Charles B. Aycock Falcons in the second round of the N.C. High School Athletic Association 3A state playoffs. Usually calm and collected on the mound, Watson used that to her advantage as she stymied a handful of Aycock threats in the latter innings.
9) In a game against the Northside Panthers, a team loaded with the likes of Derrick Leathers, Greg Satchel, Cleveton “Pappy” Arthur, Bryce Stephenson, Maurice Collins and Warren Bonner, it was a one-man show that made this game memorable. Joe Barber, who went on to play at Asheville University and then professionally overseas, was absolutely on fire in the game. Barber buried long-range jumpers, leaners, a couple jams and some scoop shots for good measure.
8) Travis Daniels has speed to burn. He demonstrated that last season with the Pam Pack football team. The future UNC-Pembroke running back had a career-game, and one I won’t soon forget, in a season-opening 35-13 win against North Pitt. Daniels, who would eventually become the WDN Male Athlete of the Year, ran past, over and through North Pitt defenders at will. Daniels, an East-West All-Star selection, finished his amazing performance with 330 yards rushing and four touchdowns.
7) It was a battle between two of the best female basketball players in the state -- one the queen of the court, and the other looking to take her throne. Plymouth senior Whitney Stokes, a three-time WDN Basketball Player of the Year, went toe-to-toe with freshman phenom Katie Paschal of the Williamston Tigers. Stokes, who was the state’s leading scorer at 29 points a game, was nothing short of spectacular. She came out on fire, hitting 3-pointers, layups and runners off beautiful spin moves to give the Vikings an early lead. Paschal, the state’s second leading scorer at 27 points a game, did all she could to bring her Tigers back. She hit from anywhere and everywhere on the court, whether wide open or covered like a blanket. In the end, Stokes and her 30 points were more than enough to offset Paschal’s 24 points as Plymouth cruised to a 69-50 win. The victory gave the Vikings first place in the conference.
6) Kristen Slade, a star pitcher with the Northside Panthers, had one of the most spectacular pitching performances I’ve ever seen. Slade, who went on to play at Greensboro College and is now a coach at P.S. Jones Middle School, took to the hill in a softball game against the Manteo Redskins. The two teams battled back and forth, each team threatening a couple times, but never able to break through. Slade kept Manteo off balance and off the bases for most of the game. The Panthers finally pulled out a 1-0 thriller in 18 innings, and Slade threw every pitch for the Panthers.
5) Damien Linson was a star football player at Plymouth High School and Central Michigan University. But he also left his mark in basketball with the Vikings. In one of the better performances on a big stage that I’ve seen was a remarkable effort by Linson, comding in the NCHSAA 1A Eastern Regional semifinals. It came in a 85-79 loss to Wallace-Rose Hill at East Carolina’s Minges Coliseum. Despite his team trailing by 20 points in the fourth quarter, Linson nearly led his Vikings to one of the greatest comebacks in tournament history. Thanks to 11 straight points by Linson, Plymouth used a 15-0 run to pull within a single point, 72-71. But the Bulldogs hit key free throws down the stretch to advance to the Eastern Regional championship game. Linson scored 14 of his 25 points in the final eight minutes to key the comeback.
4) Though Williamston was in second place and Plymouth third in the conference standings, the players hustled as if a state championship were on the line. That’s what rivalries will bring out in players.
Angelo Sharpless, a high-flying junior for the Vikings, was so revved up, he played to exhaustion. And that was in the first 16 minutes.
With his team trailing, Sharpless plucked a loose ball off the ground and took a giant step before soaring toward, and above, the rim. He threw down a vicious two-handed dunk that not only shook the backboard, but shook the Plymouth fans into a frenzy. Down seven points, Sharpless broke free and rammed home another two-handed slam. He stole the ball moments later and came up with a dizzying reverse flush, pulling the Vikings within three to end the third quarter. Sharpless continued his assault on the Tigers, and on the rims, in the fourth. His breakaway slam, where he seemed to be frozen in mid-air before unleashing a wicked tomahawk jam, made it a one-point game.
The teams went back and forth the rest of the way. When the Vikings scored, oftentimes coming off turnovers thanks to relentless pressure, the Plymouth fans would bounce up and down and point at the scoreboard.
When the Tigers scored, usually by the never-show-fear long range shooting of Jamel Moore, the Williamston fans would wave their arms and point at the scoreboard.
It was a game within the game.
Plymouth was finally able to gain the late momentum, thanks in large part to Sharpless and his mind-numbing display of slams, to take a 68-63 victory.
3) Sweat poured off Gerald Lawrence’s face in an Aug. 26, 2005 game against Tarboro. He bent down, dug his cleat into the turf and prepared for the play of his young life.
On the other side of him was Tarboro’s Shaun Draughn, who had run silly over the Pam Pack defense all night. In fact, Draughn, who had committed to the University of North Carolina, had collected 258 yards and five touchdowns.
All Draughn needed was another two yards to give Tarboro the win at J.G. “Choppy” Wagner Stadium. But Lawrence, now a linebacker with the East Carolina Pirates, and the defense had other thoughts. As Draughn tried to make his way to the right pylon on a two-point conversion attempt, Lawrence met him with a thunderous blow, standing up the senior running back. Lawrence’s teammates helped pile on top of Draughn, stopping him short of the goal line and giving Washington a wild 34-33 overtime victory.
The play helped Washington win the fifth annual Victory Bell Bowl, after Tarboro had won it the previous four years.
2) Calvin Daniels brought the Washington Pam Pack basketball fans to their feet numerous times throughout his career thanks to a dizzying array of high-flying dunks. But on Feb. 6, 2006, in New Bern, it was a 3-pointer that prompted Washington’s faithful to arise and give a loud, standing ovation.
And what a special 3-pointer it was.
With seven seconds remaining in the third quarter, Daniels took an inbound pass and lobbed the ball to teammate Derrick Roundtree near the scorer’s table. Roundtree fired the ball back to Daniels, who calmly eyed the clock and dribbled up the floor.
With one last look at the clock, and from some 40 feet out, Daniels rose high in the air and lofted a shot over two leaping New Bern defenders. The ball tickled nothing but nylon as the buzzer sounded, giving Washington a 50-43 lead heading into the fourth quarter.
More importantly, it gave Daniels 1,806 points in his career, making him the greatest scorer in the history of Washington Pam Pack basketball.
Daniels eclipsed the previous mark of 1,805 points, held by NBA Hall of Famer, Dominique Wilkins.
The Pam Pack senior, now a member of the Elizabeth City State University basketball team, finished the game, a 64-61 Washington victory, with 24 points, giving him 1,809 for his career.
He finished his prep career with 1,940 points.
1) Trimane Goddard, now a standout safety with the North Carolina Tar Heels and a likely NFL draft pick, was spectacular in baseball and basketball. His claim-to-fame came in football. Blessed with God-given talent -- he can easily soar for a slam dunk -- he would make defenders look silly each and every Friday night during high school season while playing for the Roanoke Redskins. I remember one play in particular, where he took a snap and ranged to his left. He saw a handful of defenders waiting for him, so he changed course. Goddard went to change course a handful of times on this run, turning, twisting, zigging, zagging and leaving his defenders grasping at air while he galloped for a long touchdown run.
Goddard made my mouth drop so many times, he became my favorite high school player to ever cover.
Kevin Travis is the Sports Editor of the Washington Daily News. You may reach him at 940-4217, or by e-mail at Kevin@wdnweb.com.
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Friday, July 25, 2008
The best of the best in volleyball
The best of the best in volleyball
Commentary by KEVIN TRAVIS, Sports Editor
Since I’ve been covering sports for the Washington Daily News, several student-athletes have definitely left their mark.
Several of those athletes went on to play in college, while a couple are now playing professionally. I could easily make a “Dream Team” of the “best of the best.”
I know there were plenty of greats before my time as sports editor, and plenty of outstanding athletes who could make the team now. But this list is about those athletes I’ve covered who have already graduated.
Here is my “Dream Team” for volleyball.
The team starts with the unbelievably talented Joanna Rogerson. “Super Jo” overcame serious knee injuries to have an outstanding career with the Williamston Tigers. Rogerson can leap with the best of them, and she had one of the fiercest and most powerful kill-shots I’ve seen.
Rogerson still plays the game today as she’s one of the better sand and grass volleyball players around.
Suzanne Lee is just a natural all-around athlete. She used that athleticism to earn WDN Volleyball Player of the Year (along with Female Athlete of the Year) honors during her senior season with the Northside Panthers. Her long, powerful legs helped her at the net, while also helping Lee earn a chance to participate on the East Carolina University track team.
Summer Rahn could give Gabrielle Reece, a beach volleyball star and model, a run for her money. Rahn, who has been successfully dabbling in some modeling, was a sensational talent at Bear Grass High School. Her height, jumping ability and volleyball instinct made her a force to be reckoned with during her prep playing days. Rahn could unleash a wicked kill, come up with a sensational block or serve ace after ace.
Shannon Hubers was a terrific player for Terra Ceia. She always seemed to play with a smile on her face, probably because she was dominating play most of the time. An all-around talent on the court, Hubers went on to play college volleyball at Dordt College.
Another powerful hitter on the “Dream Team” squad is Williamston’s Nancy Bradford. She was relentless at the net for the Tigers, helping to carry them far into the playoffs during her senior season.
With so many powerful hitters on the team, somebody needs to get them the ball. The perfect person to do that is Susan Griffin, a former great with the Williamston Tigers. Griffin had a knack for putting the ball in the perfect spot for her smashers at the net.
Coming off the bench for the “Dream Team” is another super six, including Washington’s Lauren Williams and Kayla Grimm, Southside standouts Augusta Johnson and Terri Hines, Michelle Bracey of Williamston and Lindsay Shaw of Bear Grass.
Johnson, a long-legged and powerful hitter, and Bracey, a superb leaper, are now teammates at Pitt Community College.
Dream Team starters
Joanna Rogerson, Williamston
Suzanne Lee, Northside
Summer Rahn, Bear Grass
Shannon Hubers, Terra Ceia
Nancy Bradford, Williamston
Susan Griffin, Williamston
Dream Team bench
Lauren Williams, Washington
Kayla Grimm, Washington
Augusta Johnson, Southside
Terri Hines, Southside
Michelle Bracey, Williamston
Lindsay Shaw, Bear Grass
Kevin Travis is the sports editor of the Washington Daily News. You may reach him at 940-4217, or by e-mail at Kevin@wdnweb.com.
Commentary by KEVIN TRAVIS, Sports Editor
Since I’ve been covering sports for the Washington Daily News, several student-athletes have definitely left their mark.
Several of those athletes went on to play in college, while a couple are now playing professionally. I could easily make a “Dream Team” of the “best of the best.”
I know there were plenty of greats before my time as sports editor, and plenty of outstanding athletes who could make the team now. But this list is about those athletes I’ve covered who have already graduated.
Here is my “Dream Team” for volleyball.
The team starts with the unbelievably talented Joanna Rogerson. “Super Jo” overcame serious knee injuries to have an outstanding career with the Williamston Tigers. Rogerson can leap with the best of them, and she had one of the fiercest and most powerful kill-shots I’ve seen.
Rogerson still plays the game today as she’s one of the better sand and grass volleyball players around.
Suzanne Lee is just a natural all-around athlete. She used that athleticism to earn WDN Volleyball Player of the Year (along with Female Athlete of the Year) honors during her senior season with the Northside Panthers. Her long, powerful legs helped her at the net, while also helping Lee earn a chance to participate on the East Carolina University track team.
Summer Rahn could give Gabrielle Reece, a beach volleyball star and model, a run for her money. Rahn, who has been successfully dabbling in some modeling, was a sensational talent at Bear Grass High School. Her height, jumping ability and volleyball instinct made her a force to be reckoned with during her prep playing days. Rahn could unleash a wicked kill, come up with a sensational block or serve ace after ace.
Shannon Hubers was a terrific player for Terra Ceia. She always seemed to play with a smile on her face, probably because she was dominating play most of the time. An all-around talent on the court, Hubers went on to play college volleyball at Dordt College.
Another powerful hitter on the “Dream Team” squad is Williamston’s Nancy Bradford. She was relentless at the net for the Tigers, helping to carry them far into the playoffs during her senior season.
With so many powerful hitters on the team, somebody needs to get them the ball. The perfect person to do that is Susan Griffin, a former great with the Williamston Tigers. Griffin had a knack for putting the ball in the perfect spot for her smashers at the net.
Coming off the bench for the “Dream Team” is another super six, including Washington’s Lauren Williams and Kayla Grimm, Southside standouts Augusta Johnson and Terri Hines, Michelle Bracey of Williamston and Lindsay Shaw of Bear Grass.
Johnson, a long-legged and powerful hitter, and Bracey, a superb leaper, are now teammates at Pitt Community College.
Dream Team starters
Joanna Rogerson, Williamston
Suzanne Lee, Northside
Summer Rahn, Bear Grass
Shannon Hubers, Terra Ceia
Nancy Bradford, Williamston
Susan Griffin, Williamston
Dream Team bench
Lauren Williams, Washington
Kayla Grimm, Washington
Augusta Johnson, Southside
Terri Hines, Southside
Michelle Bracey, Williamston
Lindsay Shaw, Bear Grass
Kevin Travis is the sports editor of the Washington Daily News. You may reach him at 940-4217, or by e-mail at Kevin@wdnweb.com.
KT’s look at the best of the best in high school football
KT’s look at the best of the best in high school football
Commentary by KEVIN TRAVIS, Sports Editor
Since I’ve been covering sports for the Washington Daily News, several student-athletes have definitely left their mark.
Several of those athletes went on to play in college, while a couple are now playing professionally. I could easily make a “Dream Team” of the “best of the best.”
I know there were plenty of greats before my time as sports editor, and plenty of outstanding athletes who could make the team now. But this list is about those athletes I’ve covered who have already graduated.
Here is my “Dream Team” for football.
Trimane Goddard would be a busy guy on this “Dream Team.” Getting the ball in his hands and letting him work his magic would be at the top of the playbook. The former Roanoke Redskins quarterback/running back/defensive back/all-everything-player was a mouth-dropping, eye-popping wonder during his prep playing days. I would line him up on offense, defense and special teams and just watch him bop around like a ball on a pinball machine. Goddard, a likely NFL draft pick, is now playing college ball for the North Carolina Tar Heels.
The starting quarterback on the “Dream Team” would be former Williamston High School star Brad Roach, who is currently with the Baltimore Ravens. The strong-armed, smart, affable Roach, who was an All-America quarterback at Catawba, threw for a ton of yards in high school and college.
Roach could hand the ball off to Washington Pam Pack great Travis Daniels, Goddard, or speedster Bryan Haywood, a former star at Southside High School. All three running backs were named WDN Male Athletes of the Year during their senior years. Daniels will be churning out yards at UNC-Pembroke in the fall, while Haywood has been putting up big numbers at North Carolina Wesleyan.
Roach has plenty of targets to throw the ball to, including his brother Kevin Roach. Kevin Roach had some outstanding seasons in football for the Tigers, before becoming a solid receiver with the ECU Pirates.
Also catching Roach’s rockets will be Damien Linson, a record-setting receiver for the Plymouth Vikings and Central Michigan Chippewas, and former Williamston star Elton Coffield.
Anthony Williams, a sure-handed and big target for the Williamston Tigers, is the team’s tight end.
Protecting Roach in the pocket and helping to open holes for the running backs are the beef up front. The “Dream Team” offensive linemen are Washington’s Jock Moore, Plymouth’s William Hunt, Northside’s Ben Hopkins, Plymouth’s Blake Bryant and Williamston’s Will Paschal.
Nailing the extra points will be kicker Dee Eubanks, a former standout at Williamston High School.
Goddard will be captain on the defensive side of the ball as he lines up as a defensive back. He’s joined in the secondary by Linson, who joins Goddard as a two-way threat, Southside’s Zack Squires and Washington’s Jamont Jones. The former Pam Pack great will be playing at Lenoir-Rhyne this fall.
The “G-men” make up the linebacking corps. Roaming the middle of the field are “Dream Team” linebackers Gerald Lawrence, Garret Baker and Greg Palmer.
Lawrence, a former star at Washington High School, is currently with the ECU Pirates. Palmer, a former great at Northside High School, is playing college ball at Chowan. Both were named WDN Defensive Players of the Year in their senior seasons. Baker, who played at Western Carolina before an injury sidelined him, was an offensive and defensive dynamo for the Roanoke Redskins.
A pair of Wilson boys provide some of the bulk up front. C.J. Wilson, a former standout at Northside and now a Conference USA Preseason First-Team selection at defensive end for the East Carolina Pirates, is joined by his brother, Jacob Wilson, on the front line. Jacob Wilson, also a standout with the Northside Panthers, played at Western Carolina.
Joining the two are former Williamston standout Jamaine Clemmons, who is now playing at N.C. State, and former Southside standout Neil Whitney.
Handling the punting chores is Angelo Sharpless. The Offensive MVP of this years 1A state championship game, this former Plymouth Vikings star has to play somewhere. Get the ball in his hands and something good is going to happen.
Other former greats on the team who can come off the bench include Washington running back Carlos “Roc” Guilford, Williamston tailback Antonio Tillman, Plymouth quarterback Donald Norman, Plymouth receiver Marvin Jackson, Southside defensive back Jeremiah Marable, Southside running back Raphael Marable and Washington linebacker Lee Watkins.
More players are on the list below.
Dream Team offense
QB - Brad Roach, Williamston
RB - Trimane Goddard, Roanoke
RB - Travis Daniels, Washington
RB - Bryan Haywood, Southside
WR - Kevin Roach, Williamston
WR - Damien Linson, Plymouth
WR - Elton Coffield, Williamston
TE - Anthony Williams, Williamston
OL - Jock Moore, Washington
OL - William Hunt, Plymouth
OL - Ben Hopkins, Northside
OL - Blake Bryant, Plymouth
OL - Will Paschal, Williamston
K - Dee Eubanks, Williamston
Dream Team defense
DE - C.J. Wilson, Northside
DE - Jamaine Clemmons, Williamston
DL - Jacob Wilson, Northside
DL - Neil Whitney, Southside
LB - Gerald Lawrence, Washington
LB - Garret Baker, Roanoke
LB - Greg Palmer, Northside
DB - Trimane Goddard, Roanoke
DB - Zack Squires, Southside
DB - Damien Linson, Plymouth
DB - Jamont Jones, Washington
P - Angelo Sharpless, Plymouth
Others: Antonio Tillman, Williamston, RB
Carlos “Roc” Guildford, Washington, RB
Donald Norman, Plymouth, QB
Marvin Jackson, Plymouth, WR
Jeremiah Marable, Southside, DB
Raphael Marable, Southside, RB
Lee Watkins, Washington, LB
J.J. House, Williamston, WR
Bennie Fordham, Southside, LB
Treymayne Farmer, Williamston, DL
Derrell Wiggins, Williamston, LB
Davelle Whitney, Southside, LB
Kevin Travis is the sports editor of the Washington Daily News. You may reach him at 940-4217, or by e-mail at Kevin@wdnweb.com.
Commentary by KEVIN TRAVIS, Sports Editor
Since I’ve been covering sports for the Washington Daily News, several student-athletes have definitely left their mark.
Several of those athletes went on to play in college, while a couple are now playing professionally. I could easily make a “Dream Team” of the “best of the best.”
I know there were plenty of greats before my time as sports editor, and plenty of outstanding athletes who could make the team now. But this list is about those athletes I’ve covered who have already graduated.
Here is my “Dream Team” for football.
Trimane Goddard would be a busy guy on this “Dream Team.” Getting the ball in his hands and letting him work his magic would be at the top of the playbook. The former Roanoke Redskins quarterback/running back/defensive back/all-everything-player was a mouth-dropping, eye-popping wonder during his prep playing days. I would line him up on offense, defense and special teams and just watch him bop around like a ball on a pinball machine. Goddard, a likely NFL draft pick, is now playing college ball for the North Carolina Tar Heels.
The starting quarterback on the “Dream Team” would be former Williamston High School star Brad Roach, who is currently with the Baltimore Ravens. The strong-armed, smart, affable Roach, who was an All-America quarterback at Catawba, threw for a ton of yards in high school and college.
Roach could hand the ball off to Washington Pam Pack great Travis Daniels, Goddard, or speedster Bryan Haywood, a former star at Southside High School. All three running backs were named WDN Male Athletes of the Year during their senior years. Daniels will be churning out yards at UNC-Pembroke in the fall, while Haywood has been putting up big numbers at North Carolina Wesleyan.
Roach has plenty of targets to throw the ball to, including his brother Kevin Roach. Kevin Roach had some outstanding seasons in football for the Tigers, before becoming a solid receiver with the ECU Pirates.
Also catching Roach’s rockets will be Damien Linson, a record-setting receiver for the Plymouth Vikings and Central Michigan Chippewas, and former Williamston star Elton Coffield.
Anthony Williams, a sure-handed and big target for the Williamston Tigers, is the team’s tight end.
Protecting Roach in the pocket and helping to open holes for the running backs are the beef up front. The “Dream Team” offensive linemen are Washington’s Jock Moore, Plymouth’s William Hunt, Northside’s Ben Hopkins, Plymouth’s Blake Bryant and Williamston’s Will Paschal.
Nailing the extra points will be kicker Dee Eubanks, a former standout at Williamston High School.
Goddard will be captain on the defensive side of the ball as he lines up as a defensive back. He’s joined in the secondary by Linson, who joins Goddard as a two-way threat, Southside’s Zack Squires and Washington’s Jamont Jones. The former Pam Pack great will be playing at Lenoir-Rhyne this fall.
The “G-men” make up the linebacking corps. Roaming the middle of the field are “Dream Team” linebackers Gerald Lawrence, Garret Baker and Greg Palmer.
Lawrence, a former star at Washington High School, is currently with the ECU Pirates. Palmer, a former great at Northside High School, is playing college ball at Chowan. Both were named WDN Defensive Players of the Year in their senior seasons. Baker, who played at Western Carolina before an injury sidelined him, was an offensive and defensive dynamo for the Roanoke Redskins.
A pair of Wilson boys provide some of the bulk up front. C.J. Wilson, a former standout at Northside and now a Conference USA Preseason First-Team selection at defensive end for the East Carolina Pirates, is joined by his brother, Jacob Wilson, on the front line. Jacob Wilson, also a standout with the Northside Panthers, played at Western Carolina.
Joining the two are former Williamston standout Jamaine Clemmons, who is now playing at N.C. State, and former Southside standout Neil Whitney.
Handling the punting chores is Angelo Sharpless. The Offensive MVP of this years 1A state championship game, this former Plymouth Vikings star has to play somewhere. Get the ball in his hands and something good is going to happen.
Other former greats on the team who can come off the bench include Washington running back Carlos “Roc” Guilford, Williamston tailback Antonio Tillman, Plymouth quarterback Donald Norman, Plymouth receiver Marvin Jackson, Southside defensive back Jeremiah Marable, Southside running back Raphael Marable and Washington linebacker Lee Watkins.
More players are on the list below.
Dream Team offense
QB - Brad Roach, Williamston
RB - Trimane Goddard, Roanoke
RB - Travis Daniels, Washington
RB - Bryan Haywood, Southside
WR - Kevin Roach, Williamston
WR - Damien Linson, Plymouth
WR - Elton Coffield, Williamston
TE - Anthony Williams, Williamston
OL - Jock Moore, Washington
OL - William Hunt, Plymouth
OL - Ben Hopkins, Northside
OL - Blake Bryant, Plymouth
OL - Will Paschal, Williamston
K - Dee Eubanks, Williamston
Dream Team defense
DE - C.J. Wilson, Northside
DE - Jamaine Clemmons, Williamston
DL - Jacob Wilson, Northside
DL - Neil Whitney, Southside
LB - Gerald Lawrence, Washington
LB - Garret Baker, Roanoke
LB - Greg Palmer, Northside
DB - Trimane Goddard, Roanoke
DB - Zack Squires, Southside
DB - Damien Linson, Plymouth
DB - Jamont Jones, Washington
P - Angelo Sharpless, Plymouth
Others: Antonio Tillman, Williamston, RB
Carlos “Roc” Guildford, Washington, RB
Donald Norman, Plymouth, QB
Marvin Jackson, Plymouth, WR
Jeremiah Marable, Southside, DB
Raphael Marable, Southside, RB
Lee Watkins, Washington, LB
J.J. House, Williamston, WR
Bennie Fordham, Southside, LB
Treymayne Farmer, Williamston, DL
Derrell Wiggins, Williamston, LB
Davelle Whitney, Southside, LB
Kevin Travis is the sports editor of the Washington Daily News. You may reach him at 940-4217, or by e-mail at Kevin@wdnweb.com.
KT’s look at the best of the best in high school baseball
KT’s look at the best of the best in high school baseball
Commentary by KEVIN TRAVIS, Sports Editor
Since I’ve been covering sports for the Washington Daily News, several student-athletes have definitely left their mark.
Several of those athletes went on to play in college, while a couple are now playing professionally. I could easily make a “Dream Team” of the “best of the best.”
I know there were plenty of greats before my time as sports editor, and plenty of outstanding athletes who could make the team now. But this list is about those athletes I’ve covered who have already graduated.
Here is my “Dream Team” for baseball.
Starting off with one of the best and classiest players I’ve ever covered is Patrick Swift, a former great at Williamston High School. Swift is the captain of this team, and is the “Dream Team” starting catcher. Swift could do it all for the Tigers. He could hit for power, move runners across and hit to any field at his choosing. Swift spent more time in the batting cages than anybody I’ve known, except maybe for Trent Whitehead (who also makes this team). Swift was unbelievable behind the plate and was a true team leader. He is now coaching at Millersville University in Pennsylvania.
The powerful-hitting Seth Barnes is the first baseman. Barnes, a former great at Williamston High School, could smash the cover off the baseball.
Another pair of Williamston players can team up for double plays. Former Tiger standouts Trey Warren and Anthony Williams fill the second baseman and shortstop positions on the squad. Warren was just plain scary as a hitter and was solid with the glove, while Williams was simply reliable. Williams went on to have an outstanding career at Mount Olive College, where he helped the Trojans win a national championship.
Rufus Wilson, who deserves to be in Washington’s Walk of Fame, is the third baseman. A class-act, Wilson was a superb hitter and fielder. The former Pam Pack standout went on to have success playing at Barton College.
Trent Whitehead, another former great at Washington High School, leads the outfielders. An all-state player, Whitehead enjoyed a solid freshman campaign with the East Carolina Pirates. A solid hitter, Whitehead is also outstanding on defense thanks to his speed and strong arm.
Joining Whitehead in the outfield are Kamal Pearsall, a former star at Bear Grass, and Williamston’s J.J. House. Both possessed incredible speed in the outfield and made the hard plays look routine.
House, who had success at Elizabeth City State University, is currently playing baseball in Canada.
Trent Watkins, a former great with the Washington Pam Pack who tragically died too young in a motorcycle accident, is the “Dream Team” designated hitter. I liked everything about this kid, whether it was how he hit, how he played defense or how he carried himself off the field. Watkins always had a smile on his face and he absolutely loved playing the game of baseball.
The starting pitchers are Washington’s Aaron Mobley and Dee Eubanks of Williamston. Mobley had nasty stuff as a southpaw. Eubanks relied on a wicked fastball for his bread-and-butter pitch.
The “Dream Team” back-ups are Plymouth catcher Dustin Edwards, Washington first baseman Jock Moore, Jamesville second baseman Steven Roberson, Williamston shortstop Matt Howell, Plymouth third baseman Ronald Phelps, Plymouth outfielder Roderick James, Northside outfielder M.J. Mackey, Southside outfielder Billy Carter, Southside designated hitter Kevin Boyd, Bear Grass pitcher Brookes Walker, Plymouth pitcher Brant West and Roanoke pitcher Trimane Goddard.
Dream Team starters
C - Patrick Swift, Williamston
1B - Seth Barnes, Williamston
2B - Trey Warren, Williamston
SS - Anthony Williams, Williamston
3B - Rufus Wilson, Washington
OF - Trent Whitehead, Washington
OF - Kamal Pearsall, Bear Grass
OF - J.J. House, Williamston
DH - Trent Watkins, Washington
P - Aaron Modley, Washington
P - Dee Eubanks, Williamston
Dream Team bench
C - Dustin Edwards, Plymouth
1B - Jock Moore, Washington
2B - Steven Roberson, Jamesville
SS - Matt Howell, Williamston
3B - Ronald Phelps, Plymouth
OF - Roderick James, Plymouth
OF - M.J. Mackey, Northside
OF - Billy Carter, Southside
DH - Kevin Boyd, Southside
P - Brookes Walker, Bear Grass
P - Brant West, Plymouth
P - Trimane Goddard, Roanoke
Kevin Travis is the sports editor of the Washington Daily News. You may reach him at 940-4217, or by e-mail at Kevin@wdnweb.com.
Commentary by KEVIN TRAVIS, Sports Editor
Since I’ve been covering sports for the Washington Daily News, several student-athletes have definitely left their mark.
Several of those athletes went on to play in college, while a couple are now playing professionally. I could easily make a “Dream Team” of the “best of the best.”
I know there were plenty of greats before my time as sports editor, and plenty of outstanding athletes who could make the team now. But this list is about those athletes I’ve covered who have already graduated.
Here is my “Dream Team” for baseball.
Starting off with one of the best and classiest players I’ve ever covered is Patrick Swift, a former great at Williamston High School. Swift is the captain of this team, and is the “Dream Team” starting catcher. Swift could do it all for the Tigers. He could hit for power, move runners across and hit to any field at his choosing. Swift spent more time in the batting cages than anybody I’ve known, except maybe for Trent Whitehead (who also makes this team). Swift was unbelievable behind the plate and was a true team leader. He is now coaching at Millersville University in Pennsylvania.
The powerful-hitting Seth Barnes is the first baseman. Barnes, a former great at Williamston High School, could smash the cover off the baseball.
Another pair of Williamston players can team up for double plays. Former Tiger standouts Trey Warren and Anthony Williams fill the second baseman and shortstop positions on the squad. Warren was just plain scary as a hitter and was solid with the glove, while Williams was simply reliable. Williams went on to have an outstanding career at Mount Olive College, where he helped the Trojans win a national championship.
Rufus Wilson, who deserves to be in Washington’s Walk of Fame, is the third baseman. A class-act, Wilson was a superb hitter and fielder. The former Pam Pack standout went on to have success playing at Barton College.
Trent Whitehead, another former great at Washington High School, leads the outfielders. An all-state player, Whitehead enjoyed a solid freshman campaign with the East Carolina Pirates. A solid hitter, Whitehead is also outstanding on defense thanks to his speed and strong arm.
Joining Whitehead in the outfield are Kamal Pearsall, a former star at Bear Grass, and Williamston’s J.J. House. Both possessed incredible speed in the outfield and made the hard plays look routine.
House, who had success at Elizabeth City State University, is currently playing baseball in Canada.
Trent Watkins, a former great with the Washington Pam Pack who tragically died too young in a motorcycle accident, is the “Dream Team” designated hitter. I liked everything about this kid, whether it was how he hit, how he played defense or how he carried himself off the field. Watkins always had a smile on his face and he absolutely loved playing the game of baseball.
The starting pitchers are Washington’s Aaron Mobley and Dee Eubanks of Williamston. Mobley had nasty stuff as a southpaw. Eubanks relied on a wicked fastball for his bread-and-butter pitch.
The “Dream Team” back-ups are Plymouth catcher Dustin Edwards, Washington first baseman Jock Moore, Jamesville second baseman Steven Roberson, Williamston shortstop Matt Howell, Plymouth third baseman Ronald Phelps, Plymouth outfielder Roderick James, Northside outfielder M.J. Mackey, Southside outfielder Billy Carter, Southside designated hitter Kevin Boyd, Bear Grass pitcher Brookes Walker, Plymouth pitcher Brant West and Roanoke pitcher Trimane Goddard.
Dream Team starters
C - Patrick Swift, Williamston
1B - Seth Barnes, Williamston
2B - Trey Warren, Williamston
SS - Anthony Williams, Williamston
3B - Rufus Wilson, Washington
OF - Trent Whitehead, Washington
OF - Kamal Pearsall, Bear Grass
OF - J.J. House, Williamston
DH - Trent Watkins, Washington
P - Aaron Modley, Washington
P - Dee Eubanks, Williamston
Dream Team bench
C - Dustin Edwards, Plymouth
1B - Jock Moore, Washington
2B - Steven Roberson, Jamesville
SS - Matt Howell, Williamston
3B - Ronald Phelps, Plymouth
OF - Roderick James, Plymouth
OF - M.J. Mackey, Northside
OF - Billy Carter, Southside
DH - Kevin Boyd, Southside
P - Brookes Walker, Bear Grass
P - Brant West, Plymouth
P - Trimane Goddard, Roanoke
Kevin Travis is the sports editor of the Washington Daily News. You may reach him at 940-4217, or by e-mail at Kevin@wdnweb.com.
KT’s look at the best of the best in high school softball
KT’s look at the best of the best in high school softball
Commentary by KEVIN TRAVIS, Sports Editor
Since I’ve been covering sports for the Washington Daily News, several student-athletes have definitely left their marks.
Several of those athletes went on to play in college, while a couple are now playing professionally. I could easily make a “Dream Team” of the “best of the best.”
I know there were plenty of greats before my time as sports editor, and plenty of outstanding athletes who could make the team now. But this list is about those athletes I’ve covered who have already graduated.
Here is my “Dream Team” for softball.
The easy pick at catcher is Taylor Rogers. This beauty-pageant talent looked good off the field, and sensational in her catcher’s gear while covered in dirt on the field. Rogers was solid with the bat, but what made this former Washington Pam Pack star so great was her defense. She didn’t let anything get past her, while her cannon of an arm was outstanding. Rogers was voted to the all-state team on multiple occasions.
M.J. Williams handles the first base duties on the “Dream Team.” Williams, who was named the WDN Female Athlete of the Year her senior season at Mattamuskeet High School, put up impressive offensive numbers during her days with the Lakers. Williams played at Louisburg College and then moved on to Lees-McRae.
Jamesville’s Nicole Jordan is the second baseman. It’s difficult to assess whether Jordan was a better hitter or a better defensive player. She was equally great at both. Jordan went on to post incredible hitting numbers with Pitt Community College. She’ll compete with the East Carolina Pirates next year.
Candice Sasnett is the shortstop. Sasnett was like a human vacuum on defense playing for the Northside Panthers. She played as a freshman and was an immediate impact-player. Sasnett became one of the most feared hitters by her senior season. She recently wrapped up her playing career with an MVP-performance with Florence-Darlington.
Meredith Knox mans the hot corner. The former Washington Pam Pack star, a two-time WDN Female Athlete of the Year, gobbled up every grounder hit her way. Knox also provided a huge stick for the Pam Pack. She is now earning accolades playing at Anderson University.
The outfield consists of three Ashleys, and all have wheels to cover plenty of ground. The outfielders on the “Dream Team” are Northside’s Ashley Leary and Ashley Rose, along with Southside’s Ashley Nanney. Rose and Leary played on the same powerful Northside squad that made a deep run in the playoffs. Rose was a reliable player with impressive speed, while Leary was an all-around athlete. Nanney was a solid leadoff hitter for the Seahawks. She went on to cheer at N.C. State University.
Kendall Sadler, who was a rock-solid catcher for the Southside Seahawks, is the designated hitter. She was one of the toughest catchers I’ve ever seen, and was a solid contact hitter. Sadler went on to earn All-America honors at Louisburg College, and is hoping to play at ECU next year.
The two starting pitchers are Northside’s Kristen Slade and Plymouth’s Ashley Saunders. Slade was simply fantastic with the Panthers. Her wide variety of pitches made her one of the best, if not the best, pitchers I’ve ever covered.
Saunders was a blazing talent with the Vikings. Her fastball made hitters simply look silly.
The “Dream Team” back-ups are Plymouth catcher Frannie Pittman, Northside first baseman Kim Woolard, Washington second baseman Samantha Elks, Williamston shortstop Mika Gurganus, Washington third baseman Jessica Furlough, Washington outfielder Jamie Lilli, Northside outfielder Tricia Mercer, Williamston outfielder Heather Wynne, Bear Grass designated hitter Lauren Harrison, Williamston pitcher Emily Best, Bear Grass pitcher Lindsay Shaw and Washington hurler Jeri Bell.
Dream Team starters
C - Taylor Rogers, Washington
1B - M.J. Williams, Mattamuskeet
2B - Nicole Jordan, Jamesville
SS - Candice Sasnett, Northside
3B - Meredith Knox, Washington
OF - Ashley Leary, Northside
OF - Ashley Rose, Northside
OF - Ashley Nanney, Southside
DH - Kendall Sadler, Southside
P - Kristen Slade, Northside
P - Ashley Saunders, Plymouth
Dream Team bench
C - Frannie Pittman, Plymouth
1B - Kim Woolard, Northside
2B - Samantha Elks, Washington
SS - Mika Gurganus, Williamston
3B - Jessica Furlough, Washington
OF - Jamie Lilli, Washington
OF - Tricia Mercer, Northside
OF - Heather Wynne, Williamston
DH - Lauren Harrison, Bear Grass
P - Emily Best, Williamston
P - Lindsay Shaw, Bear Grass
P - Jeri Bell, Washington
Kevin Travis is the sports editor of the Washington Daily News. You may reach him at 940-4217, or by e-mail at Kevin@wdnweb.com.
Commentary by KEVIN TRAVIS, Sports Editor
Since I’ve been covering sports for the Washington Daily News, several student-athletes have definitely left their marks.
Several of those athletes went on to play in college, while a couple are now playing professionally. I could easily make a “Dream Team” of the “best of the best.”
I know there were plenty of greats before my time as sports editor, and plenty of outstanding athletes who could make the team now. But this list is about those athletes I’ve covered who have already graduated.
Here is my “Dream Team” for softball.
The easy pick at catcher is Taylor Rogers. This beauty-pageant talent looked good off the field, and sensational in her catcher’s gear while covered in dirt on the field. Rogers was solid with the bat, but what made this former Washington Pam Pack star so great was her defense. She didn’t let anything get past her, while her cannon of an arm was outstanding. Rogers was voted to the all-state team on multiple occasions.
M.J. Williams handles the first base duties on the “Dream Team.” Williams, who was named the WDN Female Athlete of the Year her senior season at Mattamuskeet High School, put up impressive offensive numbers during her days with the Lakers. Williams played at Louisburg College and then moved on to Lees-McRae.
Jamesville’s Nicole Jordan is the second baseman. It’s difficult to assess whether Jordan was a better hitter or a better defensive player. She was equally great at both. Jordan went on to post incredible hitting numbers with Pitt Community College. She’ll compete with the East Carolina Pirates next year.
Candice Sasnett is the shortstop. Sasnett was like a human vacuum on defense playing for the Northside Panthers. She played as a freshman and was an immediate impact-player. Sasnett became one of the most feared hitters by her senior season. She recently wrapped up her playing career with an MVP-performance with Florence-Darlington.
Meredith Knox mans the hot corner. The former Washington Pam Pack star, a two-time WDN Female Athlete of the Year, gobbled up every grounder hit her way. Knox also provided a huge stick for the Pam Pack. She is now earning accolades playing at Anderson University.
The outfield consists of three Ashleys, and all have wheels to cover plenty of ground. The outfielders on the “Dream Team” are Northside’s Ashley Leary and Ashley Rose, along with Southside’s Ashley Nanney. Rose and Leary played on the same powerful Northside squad that made a deep run in the playoffs. Rose was a reliable player with impressive speed, while Leary was an all-around athlete. Nanney was a solid leadoff hitter for the Seahawks. She went on to cheer at N.C. State University.
Kendall Sadler, who was a rock-solid catcher for the Southside Seahawks, is the designated hitter. She was one of the toughest catchers I’ve ever seen, and was a solid contact hitter. Sadler went on to earn All-America honors at Louisburg College, and is hoping to play at ECU next year.
The two starting pitchers are Northside’s Kristen Slade and Plymouth’s Ashley Saunders. Slade was simply fantastic with the Panthers. Her wide variety of pitches made her one of the best, if not the best, pitchers I’ve ever covered.
Saunders was a blazing talent with the Vikings. Her fastball made hitters simply look silly.
The “Dream Team” back-ups are Plymouth catcher Frannie Pittman, Northside first baseman Kim Woolard, Washington second baseman Samantha Elks, Williamston shortstop Mika Gurganus, Washington third baseman Jessica Furlough, Washington outfielder Jamie Lilli, Northside outfielder Tricia Mercer, Williamston outfielder Heather Wynne, Bear Grass designated hitter Lauren Harrison, Williamston pitcher Emily Best, Bear Grass pitcher Lindsay Shaw and Washington hurler Jeri Bell.
Dream Team starters
C - Taylor Rogers, Washington
1B - M.J. Williams, Mattamuskeet
2B - Nicole Jordan, Jamesville
SS - Candice Sasnett, Northside
3B - Meredith Knox, Washington
OF - Ashley Leary, Northside
OF - Ashley Rose, Northside
OF - Ashley Nanney, Southside
DH - Kendall Sadler, Southside
P - Kristen Slade, Northside
P - Ashley Saunders, Plymouth
Dream Team bench
C - Frannie Pittman, Plymouth
1B - Kim Woolard, Northside
2B - Samantha Elks, Washington
SS - Mika Gurganus, Williamston
3B - Jessica Furlough, Washington
OF - Jamie Lilli, Washington
OF - Tricia Mercer, Northside
OF - Heather Wynne, Williamston
DH - Lauren Harrison, Bear Grass
P - Emily Best, Williamston
P - Lindsay Shaw, Bear Grass
P - Jeri Bell, Washington
Kevin Travis is the sports editor of the Washington Daily News. You may reach him at 940-4217, or by e-mail at Kevin@wdnweb.com.
KT’s look at the best of the best in high school girls basketball
KT’s look at the best of the best in high school girls basketball
Commentary by KEVIN TRAVIS, Sports Editor
Since I’ve been covering sports for the Washington Daily News, several student-athletes have definitely left their marks.
Several of those athletes went on to play in college, while a couple are now playing professionally. I could easily make a “Dream Team” of the “best of the best.”
I know there were plenty of greats before my time as sports editor, and plenty of outstanding athletes who could make the team now. But this list is about those athletes I’ve covered who have already graduated.
Here is my “Dream Team” for girls basketball.
It starts with Deborah Cherry, probably the most complete basketball player I’ve covered in my 16 years in the business. Cherry was a phenomenal player for the Roanoke Redskins. She could score; she could dish; she could rebound; she could steal.
In fact, Cherry set all kinds of steal records while with the Redskins. She also helped Roanoke reach the state championship game.
Cherry went on to play college basketball at Charleston Southern.
Whitney Stokes also makes the team, easily. Stokes, who played at Plymouth High School, is a three-time WDN Female Basketball Player of the Year. Like Cherry, Stokes is superb is many facets of the game, though she is mostly known as a big-time scorer. Also a class-act off the court, Stokes is now playing with the Elizabeth City State University Lady Vikings.
One of the first athletes I got to know when I took the job in Washington was Bear Grass High School great, Mandy Coltrain, and she’ll always be one of my favorites. Coltrain, who recently became a new mom, was a terrific talent who had a sweet jumper, and a sweeter demeanor. She took her jump shot, and head band, to St. Andrews Presbyterian College.
Sharkeysha Midgette, a former standout at Southside High School, was one of the hardest working players I’ve covered. Midgette could score, but she was also relentless on the boards and fearless on defense. Midgette played college ball at UNC-Pembroke.
Hunter Johnson rounds out the “Dream Team” girls hoopsters. The former Pungo standout is now playing at Meredith College. Johnson is another scorer, who is also an outstanding rebounder and team player. Somebody who does plenty of missionary work and is always putting others first, Johnson would be a terrific role model for any team.
A list of highly capable bench players on the “Dream Team” are former Southside stars Diamond Campbell and Marquida Coward, Columbia’s Stephanie Holton, Raquel Phillips and Sakina Brown of Plymouth, and Washington’s Samantha Smith.
Dream Team starters
Deborah Cherry, Roanoke
Mandy Coltrain, Bear Grass
Whitney Stokes, Plymouth
Sharkeysha Midgette, Southside
Hunter Johnson, Pungo
Dream Team bench
Diamond Campbell, Southside
Stephanie Holton, Columbia
Marquida Coward, Southside
Raquel Phelps, Plymouth
Sakina Brown, Plymouth
Samantha Smith, Washington
Kevin Travis is the sports editor of the Washington Daily News. You may reach him at 940-4217, or by e-mail at Kevin@wdnweb.com.
Commentary by KEVIN TRAVIS, Sports Editor
Since I’ve been covering sports for the Washington Daily News, several student-athletes have definitely left their marks.
Several of those athletes went on to play in college, while a couple are now playing professionally. I could easily make a “Dream Team” of the “best of the best.”
I know there were plenty of greats before my time as sports editor, and plenty of outstanding athletes who could make the team now. But this list is about those athletes I’ve covered who have already graduated.
Here is my “Dream Team” for girls basketball.
It starts with Deborah Cherry, probably the most complete basketball player I’ve covered in my 16 years in the business. Cherry was a phenomenal player for the Roanoke Redskins. She could score; she could dish; she could rebound; she could steal.
In fact, Cherry set all kinds of steal records while with the Redskins. She also helped Roanoke reach the state championship game.
Cherry went on to play college basketball at Charleston Southern.
Whitney Stokes also makes the team, easily. Stokes, who played at Plymouth High School, is a three-time WDN Female Basketball Player of the Year. Like Cherry, Stokes is superb is many facets of the game, though she is mostly known as a big-time scorer. Also a class-act off the court, Stokes is now playing with the Elizabeth City State University Lady Vikings.
One of the first athletes I got to know when I took the job in Washington was Bear Grass High School great, Mandy Coltrain, and she’ll always be one of my favorites. Coltrain, who recently became a new mom, was a terrific talent who had a sweet jumper, and a sweeter demeanor. She took her jump shot, and head band, to St. Andrews Presbyterian College.
Sharkeysha Midgette, a former standout at Southside High School, was one of the hardest working players I’ve covered. Midgette could score, but she was also relentless on the boards and fearless on defense. Midgette played college ball at UNC-Pembroke.
Hunter Johnson rounds out the “Dream Team” girls hoopsters. The former Pungo standout is now playing at Meredith College. Johnson is another scorer, who is also an outstanding rebounder and team player. Somebody who does plenty of missionary work and is always putting others first, Johnson would be a terrific role model for any team.
A list of highly capable bench players on the “Dream Team” are former Southside stars Diamond Campbell and Marquida Coward, Columbia’s Stephanie Holton, Raquel Phillips and Sakina Brown of Plymouth, and Washington’s Samantha Smith.
Dream Team starters
Deborah Cherry, Roanoke
Mandy Coltrain, Bear Grass
Whitney Stokes, Plymouth
Sharkeysha Midgette, Southside
Hunter Johnson, Pungo
Dream Team bench
Diamond Campbell, Southside
Stephanie Holton, Columbia
Marquida Coward, Southside
Raquel Phelps, Plymouth
Sakina Brown, Plymouth
Samantha Smith, Washington
Kevin Travis is the sports editor of the Washington Daily News. You may reach him at 940-4217, or by e-mail at Kevin@wdnweb.com.
KT’s look at the best of the best in high school boys basketball
KT’s look at the best of the best in high school boys basketball
Commentary by KEVIN TRAVIS, Sports Editor
Since I’ve been covering sports for the Washington Daily News, several student-athletes have definitely left their marks.
Several of those athletes went on to play in college, while a couple are now playing professionally. I could easily make a “Dream Team” of the “best of the best.”
I know there were plenty of greats before my time as sports editor, and plenty of outstanding athletes who could make the team now. But this list is about those athletes I’ve covered who have already graduated.
Here is my “Dream Team” for boys basketball.
There has been a bunch of exciting basketball players in the coverage area over the last decade. But if somebody is going to break a scoring record set by NBA Hall of Famer, Dominique Wilkins, he has to top the list. That’s just what Calvin Daniels did during his high school career at Washington High School.
The “Dream Team” starts with the high-flying, energetic Calvin Daniels. The former Pam Pack star would get the fans standing on their feet with his explosive slam dunks, but he also developed a sweet outside shot by the end of this prep career. Daniels is now playing at Elizabeth City State University.
Two players who are now playing professionally overseas are former Terra Ceia standout Joe Barber and former Williamston High School great Elton Coffield. Having these two on the “Dream Team” is a no-brainer.
Barber was an incredibly gifted prep player with the Knights. It seemed that the bigger the game, the better Barber played. The tall, talented and entertaining sharp-shooter, who averaged a double-double playing for Derby in England, had a solid college career playing at UNC-Asheville.
Coffield has only gotten better after his solid prep career with the Williamston Tigers. He can slam home a dunk, but he may be better known for raining 3’s. After earning all kinds of accolades playing at Mount Olive College, Coffield is now lighting it up in Germany. He led his team’s league in scoring, and to a championship, last year.
While Damien Linson may have gone on to play college football, he was impressive on the basketball court. His quickness made him a nuisance to opponents and a dream-come-true to coaches and teammates. A slasher with unreal jumping abilities, Linson, a former great with the Plymouth Vikings, makes this team flat-out exciting.
Greg Satchel rounds out the “Dream Team” squad. Satchel may have had the body of a tight end, but the former Northside High School star was impressively mobile and quick. Like his high-flying buddy Derrick Leathers, Satchel could ram it home. However, Satchel had one of the softest and sweetest shots I’ve ever seen.
The “Dream Team” bench is loaded. It starts with Cleveton “Pappy” Arthur, who was a master distributing the ball while playing for the Northside Panthers.
Also on the squad are Plymouth’s Kelvin Nixon and Angelo Sharpless, Terra Ceia’s Bradley Van Staalduinen, Northside’s Leathers and Danny Wilson, along with Raphael Marable of Southside.
Dream Team starters
Calvin Daniels, Washington
Joe Barber, Terra Ceia
Elton Coffield, Williamston
Damien Linson, Plymouth
Greg Satchel, Northside
Dream Team bench
Cleveton “Pappy” Arthur, Northside
Kelvin Nixon, Plymouth
Angelo Sharpless, Plymouth
Bradley Van Staalduinen, Terra Ceia
Danny Wilson, Northside
Raphael Marable, Southside
Derrick Leathers, Northside
Kevin Travis is the sports editor of the Washington Daily News. You may reach him at 940-4217, or by e-mail at Kevin@wdnweb.com.
Commentary by KEVIN TRAVIS, Sports Editor
Since I’ve been covering sports for the Washington Daily News, several student-athletes have definitely left their marks.
Several of those athletes went on to play in college, while a couple are now playing professionally. I could easily make a “Dream Team” of the “best of the best.”
I know there were plenty of greats before my time as sports editor, and plenty of outstanding athletes who could make the team now. But this list is about those athletes I’ve covered who have already graduated.
Here is my “Dream Team” for boys basketball.
There has been a bunch of exciting basketball players in the coverage area over the last decade. But if somebody is going to break a scoring record set by NBA Hall of Famer, Dominique Wilkins, he has to top the list. That’s just what Calvin Daniels did during his high school career at Washington High School.
The “Dream Team” starts with the high-flying, energetic Calvin Daniels. The former Pam Pack star would get the fans standing on their feet with his explosive slam dunks, but he also developed a sweet outside shot by the end of this prep career. Daniels is now playing at Elizabeth City State University.
Two players who are now playing professionally overseas are former Terra Ceia standout Joe Barber and former Williamston High School great Elton Coffield. Having these two on the “Dream Team” is a no-brainer.
Barber was an incredibly gifted prep player with the Knights. It seemed that the bigger the game, the better Barber played. The tall, talented and entertaining sharp-shooter, who averaged a double-double playing for Derby in England, had a solid college career playing at UNC-Asheville.
Coffield has only gotten better after his solid prep career with the Williamston Tigers. He can slam home a dunk, but he may be better known for raining 3’s. After earning all kinds of accolades playing at Mount Olive College, Coffield is now lighting it up in Germany. He led his team’s league in scoring, and to a championship, last year.
While Damien Linson may have gone on to play college football, he was impressive on the basketball court. His quickness made him a nuisance to opponents and a dream-come-true to coaches and teammates. A slasher with unreal jumping abilities, Linson, a former great with the Plymouth Vikings, makes this team flat-out exciting.
Greg Satchel rounds out the “Dream Team” squad. Satchel may have had the body of a tight end, but the former Northside High School star was impressively mobile and quick. Like his high-flying buddy Derrick Leathers, Satchel could ram it home. However, Satchel had one of the softest and sweetest shots I’ve ever seen.
The “Dream Team” bench is loaded. It starts with Cleveton “Pappy” Arthur, who was a master distributing the ball while playing for the Northside Panthers.
Also on the squad are Plymouth’s Kelvin Nixon and Angelo Sharpless, Terra Ceia’s Bradley Van Staalduinen, Northside’s Leathers and Danny Wilson, along with Raphael Marable of Southside.
Dream Team starters
Calvin Daniels, Washington
Joe Barber, Terra Ceia
Elton Coffield, Williamston
Damien Linson, Plymouth
Greg Satchel, Northside
Dream Team bench
Cleveton “Pappy” Arthur, Northside
Kelvin Nixon, Plymouth
Angelo Sharpless, Plymouth
Bradley Van Staalduinen, Terra Ceia
Danny Wilson, Northside
Raphael Marable, Southside
Derrick Leathers, Northside
Kevin Travis is the sports editor of the Washington Daily News. You may reach him at 940-4217, or by e-mail at Kevin@wdnweb.com.
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