Warner Christian made the trek from South Daytona to Madison's Boot Hill Stadium last Friday, Aug. 27, and went back home with an 18-0 defeat.

Tommy Young, who ran for two touchdowns, and Dantonio "Psycho" Denson, who scored another, powered the Madison County High School Cowboys on offense.

Young, who is only a sophomore, rushed for 130 yards. Both of the touchdowns came in the second quarter of play.

Young scurried 17 yards for his first touchdown after Tevin Robinson set up the play, as he burst for 14 yards on a third and eight play.

Young's next touchdown came with 4:08 left to play in the second quarter. His five-yard run was the culmination of a 30-yard, eight-play drive.

Denson scored the final touchdown as he ran 22 yards, with 1:02 left to play in the third quarter.

Denson was a monster on defense as he made nine tackles, including two for loss. He was chosen Defensive Player of the Game.

LaPadre Stevenson added eight tackles, including two for loss as the Cowboys dominated on defense.

Sherrod "Jumbo" Brinson graded out at 85 percent on the offensive line, with two pin blocks and was chosen the Cowboys' Offensive Player of the Week.

Brandon Crawford's superb play on kickoffs earned him the Special Team's Player of the Week honors.

The Cowboys travel to Fort White on Friday evening to compete against the Indians in the first regular season game for both squads. Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m.

The rains came and washed out last week's baseball tournament in Madison with two games left to play. The tournament and the cake auction have been reset to begin at 4 p.m. at Madison County High School.

Last weekend, the Georgia Starz were leading the Valdosta Dodgers 4-2 in the third inning when the rains game. Play will resume in that game.

The winner of the game will face the South Georgia Diamondbacks at 4:30 p.m.

Prior to the game, a cake auction will be held at 4 p.m. to raise money for the Madison County Senior Citizens Center. Brandon Mugge, of Hickory Hill Auctions, will be the auctioneer.

The North Florida-South Georgia MABL would like to thank the Tourist Development Council (TDC) for helping fund the tournament.

With the mercury rising fast and the heat index usually well above 100 degrees, area football coaches are taking precautions to protect athletes from heat-related illnesses such as exhaustion, dehydration and heat stroke during practices.

Madison County High School Head Coach Michael Coe explained, "First of all, we preach to them about preventing it by taking care of their bodies while they are not at practice. If you wait until you get to practice to start drinking water, then it's too late. We also stress the importance of eating breakfast every morning to get something in your system to get you going. As far as practice goes, we have four three minute water breaks worked into the practice schedule, as well as a five minute break period, where they must get off their feet and relax."

"It is very similar to what FSU and Florida do with their early season practices. On top of that, we have student managers who walk around on each side of the ball and water the kids up in between plays. It goes right along with our philosophy of while you are in the game or at practice, go as hard as you can for those four-six seconds and then relax until it's time to go again. Our guys have done a great job of getting accustomed to the heat and being able to work in it," said Coe.

Aucilla Christian Academy Head Football Coach Scott Scharinger said Tuesday that the usual precautions were being taken for the protection of players.

'"This year I have been working them in the heat all summer long to better climatize them to the heat," said Scharinger. "We haven't had any problems yet. We also stress eat right, drink a lot of water and drink a lot of Gatorade or Powerade. We also feed them a lot of fruit between practices as snacks to replenish any lost vitamins, minerals and energy, such as potassium.

"We keep them loaded up with water and give them frequent water breaks, about four or five per practice, and we try to have them wear the proper clothes (lightweight and temperature wise for the heat)," Scharinger said. "We're working in shorts now too because of the heat, as well as working in pads. Hopefully, by taking these precautions and having them take plenty of breaks, we can keep them hydrated."

He said that though the Warriors work on weight training and conditioning three days per week, the precautions are always utilized. "Ninety degree temperatures and high humidity can also be a concoction for injuries. The electrolyte imbalances will lead to cramping. You get tired faster and you get sluggish. When you are sluggish and not going full speed, you are more apt to get injured. That is why conditioning is so important," he said.

"We want to make sure the kids are safe. Their health is obviously our first concern, especially with the heat they way it is. That's the biggest thing."

This summer has been one of the hottest on record, according to the National Weather Service. June's average high temperature was 94.7 degrees, 3.8 degrees higher than average. In July, the average high temperature was 94.0 degrees, nearly two degrees above normal. Both months featured days over 90 degrees than usual, meaning coachers have been more vigilant than usual in ensuring their athletes remain hydrated.

But the fact remains, it's August in Florida; the heat and humidity are just as natural to this state as boys playing high school football.

ACA quarterback/halfback/defensive end Trent Roberts worked on a watermelon farm during the summer, but even he anticipated that he would need time to adjust to the heat.

"It's hot. I worked on a farm during the summer so it prepared me for it," Roberts said. "It's going to be tough, but it will also help prepare us mentally when the season comes," he concluded.

Dr. Verle Valentine, of the MCG Sports Medicine Center, points out that athletes and others working outside in the late summer months are at risk for heat-related injuries ranging from heat cramps to heat exhaustion and heat stroke, which can be deadly.

To help avoid heat illness and dehydration, as well as improve performance, Dr. Valentine offers the following tips for exercising safely in the heat:

• Plan activities early or late in the day or decrease the intensity of the workout.

• Stay in the shade if possible.

• Wear lightweight and light colored clothing, preferably clothing that helps dry away the sweat.

• Minimize the amount of clothing that you wear.

• Wear a hat and sunscreen.

• Allow a few days to allow your body time to get used to the heat prior to strenuous activity.

• People who are overweight or have other medical conditions should not exercise in the heat because they are at high risk for dehydration and heat illness. They should consult their physician before starting any exercise program.

Dr. Valentine says the biggest mistake that people make in the summer heat is not hydrating properly. He recommends following these guidelines before exercising or working out outside:

• Don't use thirst as your guide. If you want to hydrate only when you are thirsty, it is too late.

• Water is good for general hydration. If you are exercising strenuously, salt and carbohydrate containing drinks such as PowerAde or Gatorade are a better choice. Drink 16-20 ounces of fluid one to two hours before exercising to ensure that you are properly hydrated before you go out into the heat.

• Take drink breaks every 20 minutes, especially if you are active for more than one hour.

• Weigh yourself to determine your sweat rate, and replace every lost pound with 16 ounces of fluid (water or sports drink).

• Avoid alcohol and caffeine, as they can cause you to dehydrate more rapidly.

"Remember that heat illness can range from heat cramps to heat exhaustion to heat stroke," said Dr. Valentine. "Heat stroke is especially dangerous and requires immediate medical attention."

To help prevent a more serious problem, he recommends knowing the early warning signs, which are thirst, cramps, irritability, headaches, weakness, dizziness, nausea and decreased performance.

Aucilla Christian Academy alumni and athletic superstar Drew Sherrod, 23, is back on campus this year to assist coaching the varsity football team and serve as an elementary and middle school Physical Education teacher.

He was born in Tallahassee, and raised and lived in Greenville for 19 years.

He attended Aucilla Christian Academy, graduating in 2005 with a baseball scholarship to North Florida Community College.

Sherrod aspired to be a coach at a very early age in his life.

"My grandfather, on my mothers side, was a coach and a teacher. I always knew at some point I wanted to coach. My mother and several members of my family are teachers so I guess that teaching is just in my blood," he said.

"I received my AA degree at North Florida Community College in one year, graduating in 2006. I earned a Bachelor of Science degree at Florida State University majoring in Recreation and Leisure Services Administration with a minor in Communication in three years, graduating in 2009," he said. "While attending FSU, I worked at Southern Ball Academy (SBA) in 2006 where I trained under, in my opinion, the best baseball instructor in the southeastern United States, Coach Mike Beasley." Sherrod started coaching and training athletes at SBA, an instructional baseball/softball facility in Tallahassee.

"I began my career at SBA as an instructor in August of 2006. I started training at the facility with Coach Beasley as a player in 1999, where I trained throughout my high school and college career. I plan on continuing to train young baseball and softball players as much as possible while coaching and teaching at ACA," Sherrod added.

"The most rewarding aspect of training an athlete is when that person finally, gets it and the light goes on, so to speak, and they have this look in their eye of excitement and confidence, "he said.

"I am going to be an elementary and middle school Physical Education teacher at ACA as well as an assistant varsity football coach," said Sherrod, adding that while attending Aucilla, he also played on the basketball team.

"My philosophy is simple, player development, it all starts with this, he added. I feel like as a coach it is my responsibility to take a player and develop their talent physically, mentally and spiritually, so that they are better by the time they leave ACA then when they started playing. First develop the player then that will develop itself into a winning team," said Sherrod.

"My goals are a lot like my philosophy, get better today. If I can get these kids to buy in to believing that everyday is an opportunity to improve their skills then the ultimate goal of winning games and championships will take care of itself," reiterated Sherrod.

"My plan is to take it day by day and see how the Good Lord wants to use me, today, tomorrow and in the future," he said. "I am extremely excited about the opportunity to dawn the blue and gold once again. Playing sports at ACA is something that I feel very strong about and to this day, when I gather with friends and former teammates I enjoy sharing old stories and memories. My hope is that I can help make the athletes that I coach have the best experience possible."

Sherrod also firmly believes in becoming active in community involvement. "I have volunteered with the Miracle League in Tallahassee, an event that enables disabled people to participate in sports such as kickball and baseball. I think it is something that everyone would get enjoyment out of," he added.

He is not married, but is very happy with his girlfriend of nearly two years, Taylor West, a 2009 Lawton Chiles graduate, where she holds the homerun record in softball. She is currently on a softball scholarship at FAMU, where she plays first base and is the cleanup hitter for the team.

Timberwolves, Panthers, Blue Jays and Diamondbacks, oh my!

Those are just the names of four of the teams competing in the inaugural North Florida-South Georgia Championship tournament set for this weekend in Madison.

The action will begin on Saturday, Aug. 22, as the Valdosta Dodgers go toe to toe with the Lake City Timberwolves, at 11 a.m. The game will be played at Cantey Field at North Florida Community College.

The winner of that game will engage in conflict the next day at 4:30 p.m. at NFCC against the winner of the Moultrie Expos and Georgia Starz game. First pitch will be thrown at 11 a.m. in that tilt at Madison County High School.

The Tifton Panthers will play against the Azalea City Blue Jays at 4 p.m. on Saturday at NFCC.

The winner of that game will play the winner of the South Georgia Diamondbacks and North Florida Rebels game, which will begin at 4 p.m. at MCHS.

The semifinals will be held on Sunday afternoon at 4:30 p.m., with one game being held at NFCC and the other being held at MCHS.

The championship game will be held at 7:30 p.m. Sunday evening at MCHS.

Prior to the game, a cake auction will be held to raise money for the Madison County Senior Citizens Center. If anyone would like to donate a cake for auction, please call the Senior Citizens Center at 973-4241.

The North Florida-South Georgia MABL would like to thank the Tourist Development Council (TDC) for helping fund the tournament.

Aaron Brown is representing Madison for the 16 and under travel team, Team Tallahassee.

Aaron, however, is more than just a student; he is also a proud member of the MCHS varsity baseball team.

Aaron was raised playing tee ball, Little League baseball and, eventually, high school baseball. He has recently become a member of the 16 and under Team Tallahassee, a travel ball team located in Tallahassee.

Aaron shares, "They (Team Tallahassee) were looking for a couple more guys and I was lucky enough to be picked up by them. We are a very talented group and everybody on the team really knows how to play the game."

Team Tallahassee is coached by Mike Harrison and Jim Hage and the team has members from Tallahassee, Thomasville, Ga. and one member from Madison, Aaron.

Aaron Brown plays outfield and pitcher for Team Tallahassee. He is 6'1'' and weighs 170 pounds. He has a 3.34 GPA and will graduate in 2012. As a sophomore, he was the lead-off hitter and started every game for the varsity Cowboys, a team of very talented young athletes.

Team Tallahassee has taken Aaron to several different cities for tournaments. Their schedule has included many tournaments, as well as games. The boys played at the Florida Cup in Vero Beach and took first place. They played in the World Baseball Federation in Kissimmee and won the tournament. Team Tallahassee played in the Under Armor Firecracker Classic in Jupiter and tied for first due to a final day rainout. They have also played at the WWBA 16U National Championship in Marietta, Ga., where they finished 3-2 with two close losses to two nationally ranked teams.

Team Tallahassee plans to attend the CABA 16U World Series in Marietta, Ga from July 25-August 1 and the Prospect Wire 18U in West Palm Beach from August 4-8.

Aaron's reasons for playing baseball are, "It's fun and I get to hang out with my friends, but the main reason is that I just flat out love it. It's something I wouldn't mind doing for the rest of my life."

Aaron has been and continues to be led by some of Madison's finest coaches. He said, "I have had some really good coaching from Coach Barrs and others in my years of playing baseball in Madison.

The coaches have taught me a lot and encouraged me to work hard."

Greene Publishing would like to wish Aaron Brown and the other members of Team Tallahassee good luck in their upcoming games.

The Madison County High School Cowboys have built a great tradition of winning and they could not have done that without the support of their fans and their Booster Club.

"It's not just for football," Lee Anne Hall, the secretary of the Booster Club said. "When you become a member of the Booster Club, you support all sports."

She said that Booster Club memberships are pro-rated and go from everything from football to basketball to softball to tennis and numerous other sports.

The Marshal's Club is the name that the Booster Club uses for its football program. When someone joins the Marshal's Club, they receive reserve parking for all of the Cowboys' home football games, as well as season tickets for the games.

Marshal's Club tickets are still available. Please call (850) 464-0321 to order tickets.

In addition to Hall serving as secretary of the Booster Club, Rusty Smith is the president and Bridgette Gudz serves as treasurer.

Hall said that she and her husband, Darryl, have been supporting the Boosters since her daughter, Jessie, was a freshman in high school. Jessie has graduated, but now she goes to watch her son, Hank, play football each week.

"It was my goal in life to sit in the bleachers when my kids got in high school and watch them play," she said. "It is probably one of the most rewarding things I've ever done."

Hall will be sitting in the bleachers this year with thousands of others, rooting the Cowboys on to victory.

For three days, the junior varsity cheerleaders of Madison County High School worked and trained for next season. These three days were a part of their annual summer cheer camp.

The girls were led by Ashley Parrish, a trained collegiate cheerleader and past MCHS cheerleader.

Ashley taught the girls several different lessons on cheering. She taught the squad basic tumbling, as well as advanced stunts. She made them run laps and do other workouts as well.

The girls also learned several new cheers and chants including: "Let's Go Cowboys," "MCHS," "Offense Stands for Victory" and many more.

At the end of the week, the JV girls showed off their new talents during the parent showcase. They performed their new routines and those who stood out also received awards.

Awards included: Best Attitude, Most Improved, Best Jumps, Best Rookie, Best All-Around and several others.

The winners were: Most Spirit, Aviance Burch; Most Improved, Bria Arnold; Most Dedicated, Jhiliah Weatherspoon; Best Attitude, Jasmine Sledge; Best Jumps, Tynesha Arnold; Best Cheer and Chants, Carisa Blanton; Best All-Around, Tynesha Arnold; Best Rookie, Ashley Skipper; Best Veteran, Tynesha Arnold and Best Stunts, Ashley Skipper.

Several girls also tried out for the All-Stars team. The winners were Quanesha Livingston, Canedra Straughter, Ashley, Carisa, Tynesha and Franeka.

During the parent showcase, Ashley also announced the 2010-2011 captain and co-captain. The captain will be Canedra Straughter and the co-captain is Kimberly Fields.

Day four of the cheer camp was spent at a pool party in celebration of surviving the rigorous three days of workouts and tons of new material.

"I was very, very nervous," Lorenzo Cain said of his first at bat for the Milwaukee Brewers against the Atlanta Braves. "I was glad that I got a chance to bat and was able to get a hit."

It was the stuff of which dreams are made. Cain's mother recalled the time that her son had tried out for the basketball team and failed to make the cut. His friend, Jeremy Haynes, suggested that he go out for the baseball team.

"He hadn't been a baseball fan growing up," his mother, Patricia, said. "He went out to practice the first day dressed in his street clothes. He didn't have any equipment or anything. A coach went and got some of his stuff for him, including a glove that fit on the wrong hand."

Although his start may have been awkward, baseball was a perfect fit for Lorenzo.

"He discovered that God had blessed him with a gift," Patricia said.

Patricia said that when they were growing up her two sons, Lorenzo and his brother, Delvin Gallon, only seemed to like football and pro wrestling.

"Lorenzo is a big Dallas Cowboys fan," she said, "and he and his brother absolutely loved wrestling when they were growing up."

Lorenzo went to Tallahassee Community College on a scholarship and left after one year to join the Milwaukee Brewers' farm system. In 2006, he broke a record for the most at bats for a team in West Virginia. The Class A team gave him a bat that was painted gold for his accomplishment.

The next few years, Lorenzo journeyed around the farm system, eventually landing in Nashville, Tenn. A week after going to Nashville, he received a call up. He was sent back after not playing and then called up again the next week.

In his first five at bats, he got three hits, including a double and one run.

Lorenzo was called up to replace a pitcher who went on the disabled list. The team needed help in the outfield so they called him in to play centerfield.

Lorenzo said that he doesn't know what the future holds for him.

"I'm pretty much playing it by ear," he said in a telephone interview. "I'm just enjoying it right now. I'm just content to go out and play hard."

Patricia said that she calls Lorenzo every day. Even on days she doesn't get to talk to him, she leaves a prayer for him on his voicemail. "I tell him, that when the world says 'You can't,' God says, 'You can.'"

When asked if he had any advice for those hoping to maybe go into the pros one day, Lorenzo answered, "Just continue to go out and play hard. You may fail sometimes, but keep your head up and driving towards your dream. Keep God first and stay humble."

The Madison County High School baseball teams have spent their summer getting in shape and preparing for the upcoming season. The team had 30 scheduled games, however due to rain delays and cancellations they played 19. Their final record was 11 wins, five losses and three ties due to time limits.

After finishing their season last year even with wins and losses this young team had plenty of room for growing. They spent the summer doing just that.

Coach Terry Barrs said, "We have a good group coming up. Several kids have the chance to go further beyond high school."

The boys spent the summer playing several games each week. They also stayed busy with a few workouts, though they did not have many practices due to the large amount of games they played.

"This summer was good for the guys. We are looking forward to good things this season," explained Barrs.

On August 9, the team will begin their agility drills and more regular practices. This will continue until the beginning of the season. The Cowboys' season will begin February 2011. They will be bringing back seven of their starters from last year, including pitcher Kelvin Singletary.

Coach Barrs told this reporter, "We appreciate any support we can get from the community. It will take a lot of hard work, but that is what we are about. Our philosophy is get 'em on, get 'em over, get 'em in and our goal is the same as it always is, win district and win state."