#8 Lafayette Tops Warhill 33-6

WARHILL (2-4)  --     0, 0, 0, 6 --  6

LAFAYETTE (6-0) – 13, 0, 13, 7 -- 33

In early October, Lafayette kept its share of the Bay Rivers District and undefeated record intact, outslugging the Lions of Warhill 33-6 on Friday evening at Wanner Stadium.

Breon Stokes rushed for three touchdowns in the second half as the eighth-ranked Rams improved to 6-0. 

Stokes finished the night with 145 yards on 13 carries. Brayden Smalls added 96 and the hosts totaled 356 yards on the ground.

The Rams offense was fueled by a collection of runners, two of who scored in the opening half. On their initial drive, Lafayette pounded for 70 yards on 11 rushes, headed by senior standout Smalls, who capped the sequence with a 12-yard rush, which started as a jet sweep to the right before Smalls turned up field, ran through the middle of his line and into the end zone. For the drive, Lafayette’s leading rusher tallied six carries for 42 yards, finishing with his 11th TD of the season.

Josh Simpson had the longest carry of the game for the Rams. On their next drive, at their own 26, the junior, listed as a wide receiver, took the handoff from quarterback Baum Hogge and hauled down the right sideline, outrunning the Lion defense for a 74-yard score. Lafayette managed 148 yards of rushing on 13 carries with their first two possessions and carried a 13-0 lead into halftime.

Warhill scored its lone touchdown after the offense sustained its longest drive of the night, totaling 13 plays, with freshman quarterback Devon Price sneaking the ball into the end zone from the Ram 2. Senior running back Eric Crane tallied 40 of the drive’s 51 yards with six rushes and a reception while finishing with 104 on 15 carries.

L – Brayden Smalls 12 run (Aidan Gerda kick)

L – Josh Simpson 74 run (kick failed)

L – Breon Stokes 35 run (Gerda kick)

L – Stokes 64 run (run failed)

L – Stokes 3 run (Gerda kick)

                        W     L

1st Downs         13, 15

Rush-Yards  33-130, 39-356

Pass Yards        87, 54

C – A – I        11-23-0, 2-3-0

Pen-Yards   10-75, 7-73

Punt-Avg.     3-32, 0-0

Fumb-Lost    0-0, 2-1

Phoebus Extends Peninsula District Streak to 63 with Win over Hampton

# 2 PHOEBUS 37, #14 HAMPTON 3

Hampton (4-2)  3, 0, 0, 0 -- 3

Phoebus (5-0)   7, 7, 16, 7 -- 37

Hampton -- Phoebus, using a bruising defense that brutalized its opponent’s offense in the second half, won its 40th straight consecutive and ninth in a row against their vaunted city rival, topping Hampton 37-3 on Saturday afternoon at Darling Stadium.

In spite of being flagged for 15 penalties for 130 yards, the Phantoms held the Crabbers to minus -4 yards and a single first down after intermission, with senior linebackers Nijay Guy and Noah Jefferson leading the charge. Both players were part of four straight Phoebus wins over Hampton, as well as another current streak, that of 63 consecutive Peninsula District wins. Jefferson said the team doesn’t think too far ahead.

“We think about (the streaks) once in a while, but we play in the moment.,” said Jefferson.

Running back Davion Roberts saved the rivalry game for his virtuoso performance, rushing for 141 yards and three touchdowns, before being replaced by Demante Williams (six carries, 44 yards, TD) in the third quarter. He talked of his team’s remarkable performance in the second half. “It’s a mindset thing, with the offense and defense. We just went out there and did our thing. But I just feel like we’re the better team.”

The Crabbers had a chance to pull back into the contest at the beginning of the second half as Xavier Whisenent recovered a Phoebus’ initial kickoff return fumble at the Phantom 16. But Hampton lost four, then 10, and finally, quarterback Marcus ChapMan’s pass was picked off by Jefferson.

Jefferson had two interceptions, as well as a 60-yard touchdown pass from sophomore quarterback Maurikus Banks, an airball that caused the Delaware commit to run five yards back to snare the ball before holding off his defender for 25 yards to reach the end zone. 

Beginning the game, Hampton appeared to have the initial momentum, mainly with the help of two Phoebus penalties which added 20 yards to the first down earned by an 11-yard pass to fullback Sidney Johnson. But their drive was stuffed, literally, as senior linebacker Kaleb Tillery rocked Johnson backwards on a fourth-and-two run from the Phantom 38.

Abraham Geremew put Hampton on the board with a 26-yard field goal toward the end of the first quarter, ending a six-play, 64-yard drive that was highlighted by Marcus ChapMan’s 55-yard pass to sophomore receiver Davion Perry.

Phoebus answered immediately, pulling together a 12-play, 51-yard scoring drive. Facing first-and-goal at the Hampton 6, lineman Nathaniel Anthony took the first crack at the end zone, bulling five yards to the 1. But it was Roberts who pushed in for the one-yard TD, and the hosts led 14-3 at the half.

Hampton (4-2) netted 135 total yards but were penalized 17 times for 141.

In spite of the lopsided score, Phoebus coach Jeremy Blunt was impressed with the effort from the Crabbers. “We played a team that always makes us play hard. Their quarterback has a lot of arm and holds our kids accountable in the secondary.”

P – Noah Jefferson 60 pass from Maurikus Banks (Farriss Knight XP)

H – Abraham Geremew 26 FG

P – Davion Roberts 1 run (Knight kick)

P – Roberts 17 run (Knight kick)

P – Safety (Hampton RB tackled in end zone)

P – Roberts 7 run (Knight kick)

P – Demante Williams 1 run (Knight kick)

                        H      P

1st Downs         8, 13

Rush-Yards  25-31, 33-208

Pass Yards     104, 148

C – A – I      6-25-2, 4-10-0

Pen-Yards   17-141, 15-130

Punt-Avg.     3-30, 2-32

Fumb-Lost    1-0, 1-1

 

Coach Angela Jackson Honored By Area Sports Club

(Posted by Virginia Peninsula CC News at vpcc.edu) 

She spent 45 years at College in variety of roles, mostly in athletics.

September 24, 2024

The Peninsula Sports Club honored Angela Jackson, a former player, coach and administrator at Virginia Peninsula Community College, for her many years of service to the College.

Jackson, who began her association with VPCC in 1979, received a "Milestone" award from the club at a banquet Monday, Sept. 23, at Hampton Seafood Market and Restaurant. Also honored were John "Buster" Jackson, the director of facilities and athletic support at Hampton University for more than 40 years; and Jeff Gross, Poquoson track and girls' basketball coach for 31 years.

"We are proud of Coach Angela Jackson for receiving the Milestone award from the Peninsula Sports Club," said athletics director and men's basketball coach Chris Moore. "Her 45 years of service to Virginia Peninsula Community College athletics has been recognized and we would not be where we are today without her dedication."

Jackson was a student before becoming a full-time employee and making her mark in athletics. She played one season on the men's basketball team before a women's team was formed, then coached both teams for several years. She also served as an adviser, athletics coordinator, and member of athletics operations. For more on Coach Jackson, click here .  

The Peninsula Sports Club's mission is "to provide the Virginia Peninsula with an organization presenting forums for discussion of athletics, athletic contests, and sports programs; to provide scholarships for local high school student athletes; to provide an annual awards night to honor Peninsula athletes; and to provide programs and events for the advancement of Peninsula athletics."

Tabb Remains Unbeaten With 16-6 Win Over Rival York

TABB 16, YORK 6

Although Tabb’s recovery of a Falcons’ botched punt return, which gave the Tigers the ball at the York 3-yard line, would seem like the key play of their victory on Friday night at Bailey Field, Tabb head coach John Byron went to the beginning of the play for his highlight of the game.

“I think the punt itself was the play of the game,” said Byron, whose team remained unbeaten at 3-0 after the 16-6 win over Tabb in one of the area’s longest rivalries.

“Our special teams really won the game for us,” added Byron. “We had a couple of great punts, and the field goal (29 yards from David Brooks) gave us the lead going into halftime.”

An interception by Tyler Howard gave Tabb the ball at the York 33 midway through the first quarter. Quarterback Corbin Eckert capped a, eight-play, 30-yard drive by faking a handoff and sneaking the ball across the goal line from the three-yard line to give the Tigers an early 6-0 lead.

Brooks’ field goal was crucial as York’s Carter Ward recovered a fumble in the final minute of the first half to set up Seamus Kennedy’s 17-yard catch from York freshman QB AJ Wilson to narrow the intermission lead to 9-6.

Three plays after the punt return fumble recovery, Samuel Christophel bulled into the end zone from one yard out to give Tabb a 16-6 lead which held up as the Tigers finished the game by running the final four minutes off the clock with eight consecutive running plays.

Graham Siegel led the Tiger defense with a pair of sacks. And Jaren Mitchell’s interception on York’s opening play of the second half squashed the Falcons’ chance to take the lead. The hosts record dropped to 2-1.

TABB (3-0)   6, 3, 7, 0 -- 16 

YORK (2-1)  0, 0, 6, 0 --   6

                   T            Y

1st Downs     10, 9

Rush-Yds.     45-149, 23-72

Pass Yds.          46. 74

C-A-I          7-10-0, 7-21-2

Pen-Yds.      10-85, 3-32

Punt-Avg     5-34, 3-27

Fumb-Lost    1-1, 1-1

T – Corbin Eckert 3 run (kick failed)

T – David Brooks 29 FG

Y – Seamus Cassidy 17 pass from AJ Wilson (kick failed)

T – Samuel Christophel 1 run (Brooks kick)

Warwick Opens 2024 Football Season With Shutout

WARWICK 35, GRASSFIELD 0

(From August 31, 2024 Daily Press/Virginian-Pilot)

Note: Warwick pitched a second shutout, against Bethel on September 6)

Behind the power of its stalwart defense, the #6 Warwick Raiders opened up the 2024 football season at Todd Stadium with a statement, as last season’s Peninsula District runner-up thumped the visitors from Grassfield 35-0 on the school’s alumni night.

Cameron Glenn ran for 85 yards and a touchdown on 11 attempts to lead the Raider attack, but was silent in the second half as Warwick coach Corey Hairston and his staff used the opportunity to look at some of its other talent on the field. The Raiders gained 331 yards and 15 first downs while shuffling players in and out of their lineup.

Keon Batts may have had the most impact. Batts scored the game’s final touchdown when quarterback Saeed Williams lofted a pass over the middle and the 5’6” senior receiver outraced the Grizzly defense for a 71-yard touchdown.

Williams was steady, if not sensational behind center completing 11 of 23 passes for 162 yards. However, the junior signal caller rushed for three short touchdowns and kept the offense moving through adversity, mostly caused in the form of penalties.

The Raiders were whistled for 15 penalties for 135 yards – a statistic that caught Hairston’s attention. Ironically, the unit had been playing solid in the preseason.

“We went through two scrimmages and didn’t commit a penalty,” said Hairston who was clearly disappointed by the number of flags. “We’d make forward progress and then get called back.” Asked about a solution, Hairston added, “ We just need to clean up some things.”

The Grassfield defense was on fire. Christian Corbin had a sack and fumble recovery. Senior free safety Jaden Gilliam had a fumble recovery and interception on successive Grassfield possessions.

Iziah Emery (sack) and 6’5” Dakota Brodus (interception) added critical plays for the defense, who held Grassfield to negative total yardage until midway through the fourth quarter. Emery also scooped up a blocked punt by Jaylen Jordan. Xavier Carter and Tracy Pope combined for a sack.

Asked if he was surprised by the quality of his team’s effort, which was without standout player Messiah Delhomme for the first time in over two years, Hairston was unmoved.

“We were solid tonight, especially among the front six, who made us some plays on the back end. Even though our offense made some plays, we need to go back and clean up some things,” said Hairston, whose team will match up against Bethel next weekend.

GRASSFIELD -  0, 0, 0, 0 -- 0

WARWICK      - 7, 14, 7, 7 -- 35

W – Cameron Glenn 5 run (Ahmed Mohktar kick)

W – Saeed Williams Jr. 1 run (Mohktar kick)

W – S. Williams 1 run (Mohktar kick)

W – S. Williams 2 run (Mohktar kick)

W – Keon Batts 71 pass from S. Williams (Mohktar kick)

                        G  W

1st Downs      5, 15

Rush-Yards 26 – (-14), 33-159

Pass Yards  42, 162

C-A-I   6-20-2, 11-23-0

Pen.-Yds. 11-98, 15-135

Punt-Avg.  3-29, 4-34

Fumb.-Lost  3-2, 2-1

William and Mary Defeats VMI in Home Opener

WILLIAM AND MARY 41, VIRGINIA MILITARY INSTITUTE 7

In their Thursday season opener, The William and Mary offense was potent and versatile, and the defense tightened up in the second half to key a decisive 41-7 victory over the visiting Keydets of Virginia Military Institute in a non-league contest at Zable Stadium.

The Tribe was nearly flawless on their first pair of drives, covering 69, and then 66 yards. Both drives finished with a one-yard touchdown run – the first from preseason All-American rusher Brandon Yoder, and the second from last year’s leading ground gainer Malachi Imoh.

For Yoder, the game marked his first action since suffering a season-ending injury in the fourth game of last season against Maine. The Tribe won that game 28-3 to start the season 4-0 but stumbled to a 6-5 mark after losing their star tailback. Imoh performed admirably as the featured back, gaining 855 rushing yards on a 6.8 average, but having the pair back together could be the key to William and Mary’s success in 2024.

“Any time you lose something that you love and then get back that joy you feel, it makes you feel like ‘We’re back,” said Yoder, who gained 54 yards on ten carries. “My nerves were sky high, but once that ball was kicked, I was ready to go.”

The special teams delivered for the Tribe in the second quarter with John Kearney blocking a Keydet punt at midfield, and Clayton Dobler picking up the bouncing ball 18 yards from the end zone and rumbling the rest of the way for a score. Eric Bernstein’s extra point extended the lead to 21-0 with seven minutes remaining in the first half.

Dobler, who overcame a horrific ankle injury at the end of last season, was not expected to recover enough to play football this year. But he was trailing a teammate as Kearney’s blocked ball began heading backwards.

“I was just running behind. Then Matt got tackled and I just picked (the football) up,” said Dobler, a redshirt freshman linebacker from James River HS in Midlothian.

For the hosts, it was their first blocked punt for a touchdown in eight years.

Hunter Rice got VMI on the board for its sole touchdown with 2:16 remaining. In spite of the 21-point deficit, the Keydets were almost even in total yardage as halftime approached, and Rice’s 12-yard jaunt for a touchdown gave the visitors a 173-169 advantage, as well as narrowing the lead to 21-7 after Caden Beck’s conversion.

Hollis Mathis’ 45-yard reception from Darius Wilson set up the final score of the half, also from Mathis, a four-yard sweep around the right side, giving the Tribe a 28-7 lead at the break.

After a fourth-and-one stop by the W&M defense to start the second half, Mathis scored again as Darius Wilson rolled left and pitched a forward pass to the designated athlete, and the senior scooted 26 yards for his second TD. Mathis rushed for 19 yards on Thursday to pass 1,000 for his career and continues his quest to become the second player in the history of college football to tally 1,000 yards in rushing, receiving, and passing. He has now eclipsed the mark in two categories and with his 71 receiving yards on Thursday night needs 526 more this season to topple the plateau.

Said Tribe head coach Mike London, “these guys don’t care who gets the credit as long as we are selfless and trying to win.”

Added Mathis, “I don’t try to do anything that’s not expected. I just do my one-eleventh.”

Wilson struck for another touchdown pass late in the third quarter, lofting a 1-yard score to tight end Sean McElwain.

William and Mary averaged 16.1 yards per completion, as Wilson completed 11 of 15 passes for 190 yards and two TD’s. The offense as a whole totaled 448 yards, with 207 coming on the ground.

VMI (0-1) -   0 , 7 , 0, 0 -- 7

W&M (1-0) – 14, 14, 13, 0 - 41

W&M – Brandon Yoder 1 run (Eric Bernstein kick)

W&M – Malachi Imoh 1 run (Bernstein kick)

W&M – Clayton Dobler 18 blocked punt return (Bernstein kick)

VMI – Hunter Rice 12 run (Caden Beck kick)

W&M – Hollis Mathis 4 run (Bernstein kick)

W&M – Mathis 26 run (Bernstein kick)

W&M – Sean McElwain 1 pass from Wilson (kick failed)

                         VMI     W&M

First Downs       14, 21

Rush-Yards     35-145, 36-205

Passing yards     96, 241

C-A-I             12-25-2, 15-20-0

Pen.-Yards       4-37, 7-63

Punt-Avg         5-36.4, 2-42.5

Fumble-Lost    2-0, 3-1

Possession Time    32:04, 27:56

 

2024 Hampton Roads HS Girls Volleyball Preview

 Five Things to Watch For

Magula Eyes 500th Win For Defending Champion Patriots

Getting ready to begin her 29th season of coaching, First Colonial’s Edie Magula, coach of the defending Class 5 champions, brings a career record of 478-190 (.716) into the season. If her team can match last year’s 27 wins, the Patriot legend will surpass the 500-win plateau. As her team was 16-0 in the Beach District last season, and 21-1 for the regular season, the odds of a celebratory win at some point in time around Halloween looks possible.

New Kids Will Earn 5A All-Region

The entire group of first team selections in Region 5A last year were seniors, setting up the stage for a brand-new lineup this year. The three most likely candidates were second teamers last year – Lucille Tignor of Cox, Mia Goode from Hickory, and junior outside hitter Santina Martcheva from Ocean Lakes.

Grafton Reloads With Loss of Keeter; York Responds with New Coach

The Clippers graduated Class 3 All-Stater Alexis Keeter to graduation but return eight starters to a squad that has reached a state title game for seven consecutive seasons. Meanwhile, Bay Rivers District rival York, just two years removed from a 26-3 record and Class 3 state title, dropped to 11-11 last season, but hope to fare better under new coach Bill Bowman. Previously, Bowman served for 19 years as the head coach of Warwick.

Three-peat in D3 for StoneBridge?

StoneBridge, who led all Hampton Roads teams with 35 wins last season, aims to earn its third straight VISAA Division 3 state championship this fall. The Cavaliers opened their season in style, defeating Deep Creek 3-0 (25-11, 25-19, 25-21) to kick off the official volleyball season for the region. Nattie Plumlee scooped 15 digs, Camryn Weatherford had 30 assists, Kailey Curry had nine kills and Ava Baker added eight kills. 

Will the Student Top the Teacher Again?

When Lorenzo Puentes played his high school volleyball at Woodside, he was coached by Greg Maynard, who would later become his mentor as Puentes entered the coaching ranks. Ironically, Maynard’s standout player would take over the program at Menchville, not just a competitor from the same city and district, but the Monarchs chief rival. Last year, the two squared off as coaches twice in the regular season (a split) before Menchville toppled the Wolverines 3-1 to win the Region 5B final. Maynard and his Woodside team will be seeking revenge this season.

Ranking/Team/2023 Record

1. First Colonial (27-1) – Despite losing the 757Teamz Player of the Year Kayla Foley, the Patriots are well stocked this season and prepared for another state title run. Magula returns 11 players, led by a quartet of seniors who have played all four years. Iona commit Gabby Taylor heads the list. All-Region Honorable Mention Helen Murray moves to the libero position, and Rachael Zimmer transfers to Murray’s middle hitter position. Kaiyah Hines will be the team’s main setter and junior Teagan Emdadi returns to her starting outside hitter spot after missing the last two months of last season with an injury.

2. Grafton (25-5) – The Clippers aim for their eighth consecutive state championship appearance with a host of starters from last year’s Bay Rivers leading squad. First team All-State Ally Burke (444 digs, 40 aces) enters her junior year back at the libero position. Seniors Alana Washington (middle hitter), Kaylie Klemm (setter), Ellie Duer and Tiffany O’Connell (outside hitters) should ably fill the gap caused by Alexis Keeter’s graduation and departure to Florida Gulf Coast University after winning the Virginia Gatorade State Player of the Year honor in January. Sophomore Ana Brackens looks to follow up a successful freshman campaign, and fellow middle hitter, junior McKenzie Smith, will be a force for the Grafton attack.

3. Stone Bridge (35-1) – The premier private school program from last season also reloads for 2024. The Plumlee sisters, Nattie and Libbie, will spark the Cavs. Nattie, a first-team All-State heads a strong back row attack, while Libbie transitions to outside hitter. Ava Baker has “a huge arm and impressive vertical (leap),” according to coach Eric Plumlee. Senior Camryn Weatherford will run the offense. “She’s quick and has great hands,” said Plumlee. Mikayla Telfer has developed into “an incredible six-rotation outside with a powerful swing and unbelievable defensive play.” Kailey Curry, a 5-10 middle hitter, is an effective hitter with strong blocking ability.

4. Kellam (21-6) – First Colonial knocked the Knights out of contention last season, but a youth movement could be beneficial for Kellam as soon as this season. They will still rely on four seniors – Sadie Mixer (5-11, outside hitter), Sydney Stone (5-6, defensive specialist, libero), Leilah Beasley (5-7, opposite hitter), and Audriana Neil (5-11, middle hitter).

5. Jamestown (23-4) – Tom Stephenson is back as the Eagles coach after a two-year hiatus. Although the team graduated nine players, Stephenson feels that some talented young players are ready to step in. They will join a nucleus of three seniors. Madison Rogers (139 kills, 42 blocks in 2023), who has committed to CNU, had a major knee injury in February but has successfully rehabilitated. Allison Trogdon (5-10, MH/OPP) and Cayleigh White (5-8, OH) will aid in Jamestown’s attempt to dethrone Grafton at the top of the Bay Rivers standings.

6. Woodside (21-3) – The Wolverines will be one of two main contenders for the Peninsula District crown. Junior Anna Moody (279 assists, 187 digs, 140 kills, 90 aces) is a strong all-around player, and sophomore Maddie Jango (255 digs, 86 aces, 42 assists) returns to her libero position.

7. Maury (15-3) – Lily Bockheim, a first team All-Region 5B selection and Eastern District Player of the Year, will key the Commodores from the right side and setter positions. Senior teammates Madison Watts (OH) and Kathleen Searing (Libero) are the other All-District veterans. Freshman Sadie Stafford could be the top newcomer in Hampton Roads and is coming off a second-place national finish in the 14U Open Division of USAV Beach Nationals. According to Coach Andrea Everett, “Watts, Bockheim, and Stafford have created the opportunity for the Commodores to run a faster offense.”

8. Menchville (21-5) – 2023 Peninsula District Player of the Year Lillian Abbitt will lead the Monarchs from her outside hitter spot. Other key cogs in the lineup include Kamryn Keasey (6-0, M/RS) and junior Caroline Clements (5-8, OH).

9. Cox (17-7) – The Falcons sported a 14-2 record in the Beach District last season, but still finished third. Can they move up? 

10. Hickory (17-7) – Senior Mia Goode is a six-rotation player, and she will be assisted by fellow Hawks Milan Curl and Mackenzie Hunter. Coach Gus Quinones expects his team to combine good defense with his offensive weapons to fuel a deep postseason run.

11. Greenbrier Christian Academy (27-6) – the chief rival of StoneBridge for the Metro Conference title.

12. Great Bridge (19-5) – The entire starting lineup from last year graduated, so Coach Julie Bruno will build anew. Hailey Hossfield (5-7, Jr.) is “an incredible libero” according to Bruno. Junior Katarina Vardeman is “a fantastic hitter,” and sophomore Marcy Stambaugh is a great all-around player, who “will only get better.”

13. Nansemond-Suffolk Academy (21-5) – Potentially the top team in the TCIS.

14. Ocean Lakes (12-7) – Junior outside hitter Santina Martcheva may commit to a Division I school this year., and coach Christina Barnhart sees this as her “breakout” season Seniors Bella Grundy and Kayla Bennett top a strong group of veterans

15. Granby (13-6) – The Comets, led by coach Olivia Casey, will be fueled by a “big junior class with a lot of solid skills.” Cheyenne Avery (OH) and Amaiya Slaats (RS/L) will lead this group, while senior middle blocker Vienne August serves as the team captain. Sophomores Corine August (MB) and Alyssa Thornton (S) could see big production numbers.

Ones to Watch – Bruton (19-7), Bethel (14-6), Norfolk Christian (20-7), Peninsula Catholic (16-6), Grassfield (13-9).

2024 Hampton Roads HS Boys Volleyball Preview

 
Five Things to Watch For

Trio of All-Stars are Back 

Kellam’s Joel Eanes, Granby’s AJ Angeles, and junior Wyatt Strawbridge lead the group of returning All-Tidewater team members from last season, and the three make up quite a group picture. Eanes, the dominating opposite hitter for the Knights, racked up 279 kills last season – a remarkable total, but one to be expected by the Grand Canyon University commit, who possibly sees over every volleyball (and most basketball) players) in Hampton Roads. How tall is he? Eanes, who competed with the U.S. Under 19 national team this summer, stands 6-foot-9, and has added throwing the shotput and discus, as well as high jumping, to his athletic repertoire.

On the other end, Strawbridge is an even six feet tall, while Angeles, the Comet setter, stands 5-foot-8.

Hampton Roads Teams Dominate Virginia

Although volleyball is not played in every statewide school system, it stands without question that the Hampton Roads region is a hotbed for talent within the state. Ten of the top 25 Virginia teams from the final MaxPreps.com volleyball rankings of 2023 call the Seven Cities region home. They include Kempsville (#5), Ocean Lakes (#7), Cape Henry Collegiate (#10), Granby (#11), Kellam (#12), First Colonial (#14), Hickory (#15), Maury (#18), Indian River (#23), and Princess Anne (#25).

Zuidema Returns to Cox

Over a ten-year period spanning from 2006-2015, Jason Zuidema was one of the most successful coaches on the Southside, with his Falcons winning three state titles and compiling a record of 246-35. The team regressed over a nine-year period after his departure, to the point of finishing 5-16 last season. Dwindling numbers and injuries were seen as the main reasons for the downslide. Hearing the call of duty. Zuidema, a Cox alum, is back at the helm. “Despite the program having wavered over the last few seasons, the boys are determined to put Cox back on the map,” said Zuidema. Seniors Brady Spicer, Zach Hamilton, Thomas Moore, and Joseph Maleski are tasked with keying the rebound.

Class 5 against Class 6

With the relatively low (less than 100) number of volleyball teams in the state, it is tough for certain regions to play a full post-season bracket. This can lead to some unfortunate circumstances. For example, in Region 5A, Ocean Lakes upended Kempsville to win the crown, while Granby captured the 5B championship. However, both teams fell in the state tournament, as Classes 5 and 6 have combined for one bracket. It would be interesting to see how the two teams would have fared against solely Class 5 competition. Perhaps the continued growth of Loudoun County high schools will allow for more higher state class playoff brackets in the near future.

Pre-season Tournament

The season was preceded by a Jamboree which mostly included Region 5A teams from the Beach and Southeastern Districts. Hosted by Great Bridge and their coach Bryan Stambaugh, the event featured eight teams, which included the winner, Beach Breakers, a team of home-schooled players. Stambaugh, who got the idea from a similar Denbigh Jamboree put together five years ago by their coach John Amaral, said that he and other coaches used the opportunity to either go full force or work through different lineups in the hope of finding the starting six players who will begin official play today.

Ranking/Team/2023 Record

1. Kellam (17-8) – The Knights lost only one starter from last year’s squad, prompting coach Aaron Campbell to predict that his team will have “its most promising year yet.”. Along with Eanes, Kellam is led by the other tri-captains, senior opposite hitters Austin Makovec (74 blocks) and 6’2” Bennett Barco (66 blocks). Junior setter Bennett Pyka led the team with 733 assists in 2023, while his brother Nathan joins seniors Sora Perry and 6’5” Michael Blanchard as middle blockers. Sophomore Dylan Calkins (126 digs) is an outside hitter to keep on the radar.

2. Kempsville (23-4) – The Chiefs score as a top team among the preview forms cast by most of their Beach and Southeastern District peers.

3. Granby (23-3) – Coach Michelle Neaves declared that her team is “hungry for another state run.” Considering that it took a grueling five-set loss to Class 6 Deep Run to knock the Comets out of the state tournament last year, the statement is fitting. Joining Angeles this year will be senior Percy Gordon (68 kills), junior outside hitter Alijah Lamp (47 kills) and Gabe Sol, an All-Region middle blocker. The foursome will bolster the Granby attack and Davis Mendoza will serve as the squad’s primary libero.

4. Ocean Lakes (22-6) – According to coach Evan Ballenger, only two returning players saw first team reps with last year’s Region 5A championship team. But a new crew will see plenty of action this year, starting with senior captain and libero Gavin Juhas. Fellow seniors Layne Kemp (M) and Anthony Liberator (OH) will be key performers, along with sophomore setter Daniel Copen. Keep an eye on Turner Kuhle, who has already shown his prowess on the baseball field for the Dolphins.

5. Cape Henry Collegiate (19-6) – The reigning TCIS champion should retain its spot as the top local private school team.

6. Gloucester (20-2) – Undefeated in the Peninsula District last season (18-0), the Dukes hope to ride another wave to PD perfection.

7. First Colonial (16-7) – Senior setter Sam Brown (752 assists, 58 kills, 36 blocks, 34 aces in 2023) broke his leg before the first game of last year’s playoffs, and his return will help the Patriots greatly. Other senior returners include libero Nate Duff (362 digs), and Seth Williams (76 kills, 41 blocks). The veteran squad also will see production from Bo Sawyer, Lucas Hills, and incoming sophomore transfer Zia Peterson.

8. Hickory (19-7) – First year head coach Carmen Coston looks forward to welcoming a “great group of returners,” from last season’s Southeastern District champion, including senior middle blocker Will Katchmark, to join junior outside hitters Carson Tortine and Nolan Kennedy. Setter Jason Leary is the Hawks other junior standout. 

9. Maury (16-6) – The Commodores will be another strong contender for the Eastern District championship with seniors Zach Mendoza (290 digs, 30 assists) at libero and Jonas Stafford (397 assists) as the primary setter.

10. Indian River (13-8) – The Braves look to improve on last season’s 10-3 record in the Southeastern, good for third. Their 4-4 record in the preseason Jamboree may be misleading.

11. Princess Anne (13-10) – The Cavaliers will be tough with Maclej Majchercyzyk back at his outside hitter position. Coach Jeff Kinser calls the senior, “one of the best athletes I have been around.” Six-foot-five Walt Clevenger will form the other half of one of the Beach District’s most powerful hitting duos.

12. Kings Fork (18-6) – the Southeastern runner-up from last year will be a strong challenger to Hickory and Indian River.

13. Menchville (15-5) – Another potential Peninsula District winner.

14. Great Bridge (15-9) – The senior-laden roster goes eight deep among their 12th grade lineup, with Johnathan Badowski (RS) and outside hitters Caden Wolfe and Jovan Lapera keeping the Wildcats among the Southeastern Region’s top three teams.

15. Salem (11-9) – The Sun Devils will aim to aspire to the upper ranks of the Beach District contenders.

 

Others to Watch – Warwick (16-6), Grassfield (10-8), Churchland (12-8), Kecoughtan (12-8), Heritage (12-12).

CNU Realigns Athletic Department

(From CNU Athletics)

NEWPORT NEWS — Christopher Newport University Director of Athletics Kyle McMullin has announced staff changes for the Captains’ administrative team including promotions for Danny Garay, Marycruz Garcia-Reyes, Rob Silsbee, and Bobby Woollum. Additionally, newcomer Jacob Halloway will assume the role of Manager of Video Production for Christopher Newport Athletics.

“Christopher Newport and our student-athletes benefit immensely from the talent and expertise of our staff,” said McMullin. “As our department continues to evolve, I am thrilled that we have professionals, with years of experience, prepared to provide the leadership needed for the day-to-day needs of our students, coaches, and staff. Additionally, we are excited to welcome Jacob to the CNU family to add his creativity to our video program.”

Garay has been named the Assistant Director of Athletics for Operations after serving as the Manager of Athletic Facilities and Game Day Operations for the last eight years. He has been a member of the department’s administrative team and managed all aspects of CNU’s facilities, helping transform them into some of the finest in Division III. A 2006 graduate of CNU, Garay has overseen the game day operations of several sports, scheduling of outdoor facilities, and management for all of CNU’s playing fields.

Garcia-Reyes has been promoted to the position of Associate Athletic Trainer. First starting her tenure as a graduate assistant in 2018, she was hired as an Assistant Athletic Trainer in 2021 and has served in that role since. After earning her undergraduate degree at George Mason University, Garcia-Reyes earned her Master of Science in Athletic Training from Old Dominion University and is a Certified Athletic Trainer (ATC), a Licensed Athletic Trainer (LAT) in Virginia, and a member of the National Athletic Trainer’s Association.

Silsbee has accepted the position of Assistant Director of Athletics for Strategic Communication. The CNU alum has served as Director of Sports Information since 2010 and has been a member of the College Sports Communicators and Virginia Sports Information Directors since 2006. A 2005 graduate of Christopher Newport, Silsbee has served as Vice President of VaSID and coordinator of several All-State teams during his tenure while also serving as the Media Coordinator for numerous NCAA Tournament events hosted by Christopher Newport.

Woollum will take on the role of Assistant Director of Athletics for Administration. A member of the Captains administrative team since 2020, Woollum brought decades of experience working in and around college athletics to Christopher Newport. Since taking his post, Woollum has managed the NCAA Eligibility and Compliance needs for the department while also helping coordinate NCAA Tournament events including the 2023 Division III Field Hockey National Championship.

Finally, McMullin has announced the addition of Jacob Halloway to the athletic department staff. A graduate of Longwood University, Halloway has served as the Coordinator of Broadcast Operations for the Lancers since 2023 and a member of the ESPN+ Crew throughout his tenure with the Longwood department of athletics. His experience directing live broadcasts, creating content for social media, and working with all facets of sport production will help improve and enhance the video content distributed by Christopher Newport Athletics. Halloway will coordinate the department’s production of video content to include all live-streamed events alongside all feature content distributed on CNUsports.com and the @CNUathletics social media channels.

Timberneck 5K - Torres and Honcharova Prevail

Johnathan Torres (18:07) and Svitlana Honcharova captured the men's and women's titles at the 2nd Annual TIMBERNECK 5K, held on a loop course in Hayes, VA at the Machicomoco State Park on Saturday morning, June 22, 2024.  The race was sponsored by the Peninsula Track Club and benefits Fairfield Foundation for the preservation and restoration of the historic Timberneck House on the grounds of one of the newest State Parks in Virginia.

The Timberneck 5K course started and finished close to the pavilion nearest to the Timberneck House and consisted of a full 3.1 mile loop of Timberneck Farm Road.  The Timberneck 5K has been measured for USATF certification which is pending.

The 2nd Annual Timberneck 5K was held under quite warm running conditions for June in Virginia, sunny, clear with a breeze but with a temperature around 84 at race start.  87 runners and walkers entered the 5K with 73 completing 5K course.

Finish line and results services were provided by the Peninsula Track Club.  A copy of the results, links to pictures from the race and listings for future road races can be found on the PTC website: www.peninsulatrackclub.com. 

                    2nd ANNUAL TIMBERNECK 5K

                   Machicomoco State Park, Hayes, VA

                   Saturday, June 22, 2024 - 8:30 AM

A PENINSULA TRACK CLUB GRAND PRIX AND HAMPTON ROADS SUPER GRAND PRIX EVENT

                      

===== ===== ========================   === ===================  =====  ====

TOP OVERALL MEN

    1     1 JONATHAN TORRES             34 NEWPORT NEWS VA      18:07  5:49     

    2     2 TIMOTHY SUHR                53 WILLIAMSBURG VA      18:47  6:02     

    3     3 TOBY WORM                   51 SMITHFIELD VA        19:10  6:10     

TOP OVERALL WOMEN

    1     5 SVITLANA HONCHAROVA         26 WILLIAMSBURG VA      20:51  6:42 *   

    2    11 ANNA STRAIT                 64 IRVINGTON VA         24:17  7:48     

    3    14 JULIE HICKS                 48 VIRGINIA BEACH VA    25:17  8:08 *   

MEN:  13 AND UNDER

    1    48 BRYTON LEE                  12 QUINTON VA           37:47 12:08 *   

    2    55 BOSTON LEE                   9 QUINTON VA           41:22 13:18 *   

MEN:  14 - 19

    1     8 BRAXTON LEE                 14 QUINTON VA           21:49  7:01 *   

    2    34 HUNTER KOERBER              18 HARTFIELD VA         33:02 10:37     

MEN:  20 - 24

    NONE

MEN:  25 - 29

    1    46 CHAD HALL                   28 DELTAVILLE VA        37:31 12:03     

MEN:  30 - 34

    NONE

MEN:  35 - 39

    1     6 BRIAN FRIES                 36 YORKTOWN VA          21:07  6:47     

MEN:  40 - 44

    1    44 JERRY WARREN                41 WILLIAMSBURG VA      37:02 11:54     

MEN:  45 - 49

    1    18 LAWRENCE CALVERT            45 YORKTOWN VA          27:07  8:43     

    2    26 MICHAEL SALYER              45 WILLIAMSBURG VA      29:43  9:33     

    3    62 TIM HOLSTON                 46 HAMPTON VA           44:39 14:21     

MEN:  50 - 54

    1     7 DAVID ANDERSON              54 WILLIAMSBURG VA      21:16  6:50 *   

    2     9 WILLIAM HUFF                53 WILLIAMSBURG VA      22:00  7:04     

    3    32 JONATHAN JONES              52 YORKTOWN VA          30:22  9:46     

MEN:  55 - 59

    1    23 PAUL WHITSON                59 GLOUCESTER VA        29:01  9:19     

    2    41 STEVE SECHRIEST             55 SEAFORD VA           35:58 11:33     

MEN:  60 - 64

    1     4 KELVIN ANDERSON             63 NEWPORT NEWS VA      20:05  6:27 *   

    2    10 DAVID MARTIN                64 NEWPORT NEWS VA      23:58  7:42     

    3    16 TIMOTHY HODGE               64 VIRGINIA BEACH VA    25:42  8:16 *   

MEN:  65 - 69

    1    12 THOMAS BARRY                66 WILLIAMSBURG VA      24:37  7:55 *   

MEN:  70 - 74

    1    13 JIM DUFFY                   72 POQUOSON VA          25:14  8:07 *   

    2    20 JOSEPH VERDIRAME            74 SUFFOLK VA           28:16  9:05 *   

    3    64 RICK PLATT                  73 WILLIAMSBURG VA      45:18 14:33 *   

MEN:  75 AND OVER

    1    17 DALE ABRAHAMSON             75 YORKTOWN VA          25:57  8:20 *   

    2    31 RON WORTHINGTON             80 BENA VA              30:18  9:44 *   

    3    51 RANDY HAWTHORNE             78 WILLIAMSBURG VA      39:19 12:38 *   

WOMEN:  13 AND UNDER

    NONE

WOMEN:  14 - 19

    1    29 RACHEL BLITTLE              15 GLOUCESTER VA        30:10  9:42     

WOMEN:  20 - 24

    NONE

WOMEN:  25 - 29

    1    37 LOGAN HOWLETT               26 DUTTON VA            34:05 10:57     

    2    39 MORGAN COMBS                25 GLOUCESTER POINT V   35:03 11:16     

WOMEN:  30 - 34

    1    45 BAILEY BRANDENBERGER        34 GLOUCESTER VA        37:15 11:58     

WOMEN:  35 - 39

    1    63 ALLISON WILSON              39 HAYES VA             45:06 14:29     

WOMEN:  40 - 44

    1    57 MARYANNE LEE                41 QUINTON VA           41:24 13:18 *   

WOMEN:  45 - 49

    1    47 CARISSA WORM                48 SMITHFIELD VA        37:42 12:07     

    2    56 MELANIE HUMMEL              47 GLOUCESTER VA        41:23 13:18     

WOMEN:  50 - 54

    1    24 SUSAN HAGEL                 51 NORFOLK VA           29:14  9:24 *   

WOMEN:  55 - 59

    1    25 KAYE GREEN                  55 SMITHFIELD VA        29:38  9:31     

    2    33 ALYSON KAST                 55 YORKTOWN VA          30:57  9:57 *   

    3    42 MARIE PRICE                 55 CHESAPEAKE VA        36:35 11:45 *   

WOMEN:  60 - 64

    1    15 CONNIE GLUECK               60 WILLIAMSBURG VA      25:34  8:13 *   

    2    21 CHRISTINE SCHAFFNER         61 YORKTOWN VA          28:24  9:08 *   

WOMEN:  65 - 69

    1    28 HELEN WORTHINGTON           69 BENA VA              30:00  9:38 *   

    2    40 SHIRLEY STEPHENS            67 WILLIAMSBURG VA      35:26 11:23 *   

    3    52 MARGARET ODELL              69 NORTHFIELD MN        40:00 12:51     

WOMEN:  70 - 74

    1    36 CAROL HANSEN-VESSA          70 RESTON VA            33:45 10:51 *   

    2    38 JAN BARRY                   71 WILLIAMSBURG VA      34:28 11:04 *   

    3    50 DEBRA GAGE                  70 WILLIAMSBURG VA      38:35 12:24     

WOMEN:  75 AND OVER

    NONE

WALK - MEN:

    1    53 ERIC DAWNKASKI              58 WILLIAMSBURG VA      40:51 13:08     

    2    59 MIKE THOMAS                 65 NEWPORT NEWS VA      42:16 13:35 *   

    3    67 PETER NAVIN                 69 HAMPTON VA           46:51 15:03 *   

WALK - WOMEN:

    1    49 DENEEN VENTERS              60 NEWPORT NEWS VA      38:15 12:17 *   

    2    54 MOLLY SANDLING              50 WILLIAMSBURG VA      40:52 13:08     

    3    58 KIM FLINT                   59 NEWPORT NEWS VA      42:15 13:35 *   

LIONSBRIDGE HOSTS NORTHERN VIRGINIA FC THIS SATURDAY (6/15) ON BOWDITCH FORD NIGHT

This Saturday, the Lionsbridge FC face division foe Northern Virginia FC for the second time this season! Join us at beautiful TowneBank Stadium on the campus of CNU. Stick around for post-game fireworks powered by Bowditch Ford!

🎪Festival @ 5pm

⚽ Kickoff @ 7pm

🎆 Fireworks post-game

Event Lineup!

Lionsbridge FC games are fun for the whole family! Stop by the bounce houses and enjoy the halftime contests!

Hungry? Grab a bite at one of the food trucks!

🌭 Boyd's Tasty Dogs

🍖 Old City BBQ

🍔 Chesapeake Concessions

🍦 Sweet Frog

🍿 Happy Poppers

Pair it with a drink from the craft beer tent!

🍺 Bud Light

🍺 Alewerks Superb IPA

🍺 Devils Backbone

🍺 Sly Clyde Cider

🍺 Nütrl Vodka Seltzer

🍺 Stella Artois

💧 PRIME Hydration

Game Day Weather Forecast

A beautiful day to watch soccer! Game day is expected to be sunny, with temperatures reaching a high of 85 degrees and dropping to 80 degrees by kickoff. ☀️

Lionsbridge FC, currently leading the USL League Two Chesapeake Division with an impressive (5-1) conference record and (8-1-1) overall record, prepares to face division opponent Northern Virginia FC at the halfway mark of the regular season. In their previous encounter, Lionsbridge secured a narrow 1-0 victory with Matthew Kirk's crucial goal in the 42nd minute. This match promises to be a thrilling contest as Lionsbridge aims to maintain their top spot. Fans, come join the excitement and stay after to enjoy post-game fireworks powered by Bowditch Ford!

Next Home Game!

Mark your calendars for our next game, too! Saturday, June 22nd at 7pm vs Patuxent Football Athletics at TowneBank Stadium! 

🎪Festival @5pm

⚽ Kickoff @7pm

Merchandise

Don't forget to grab your favorite LBFC gear from the merchandise tent or online at the link below!

Get Merchandise Here!

Can't Make it to the Game?

No worries, you can watch it live here!

🦁 SUMMER CAMP REGISTRATION IS OPEN! ⚽​

Gloucester | Newport News | Smithfield | Suffolk | York County

Day & Night Sessions in June and July

Register for LBFC Summer Camps!

CAMP SCHEDULE

NEWPORT NEWS (Hines Middle School)

June 17-20 (M-Th), 9am to Noon

Registration closing soon!

July 8, 9, 11, 12 (M, Tu, Th, F), 6pm to 8pm

Registration is OPEN!

YORK COUNTY (McReynolds Sports Complex)

June 10-13 (M-Th), 9am to Noon

Registration has closed!

June 24-25, 27-29 (M-Tu, Th-F), 6 to 8pm

Registration has closed!

SMITHFIELD (Nike Park)

July 8, 9, 11, 12 (M, Tu, Th, F), 6pm to 8pm

Registration is OPEN!

SUFFOLK (SYAA Complex)

June 24, 25, 27, 28 (M, Tu, Th, F), 6pm to 8pm

Registration is OPEN!

GLOUCESTER (Woodville Park)

July 1-2 (M, Tu), 5:30pm to 8pm

Registration is OPEN!

All Summer Campers receive:

A FREE youth ticket to an upcoming Lionsbridge FC game 

A FREE Lionsbridge camp t-shirt