Talk Radio 102.3, Sport Talk and BodyArmor want to spotlight amazing senior athletes from around the Tennessee Valley.  These kids deserve their spotlight and we are going to feature as many of them as we can on Sport Talk.

Submit your athlete nomination now by e-mailing spotlight@wgow.com

Every Wednesday @ 4:30 and Friday re-play @ 6:35 at on Sport Talk we turn the spotlight on a senior and showcase their many accomplishments.  We will feature these students live on the air and will share their stories on-line and on our social media.

2025

Gabbie Hensley

Senior at Silverdale

Committed to play Softball at the University of Kentucky

2024

Zella Stockman

Zella Stockman is a senior at Girls Preparatory School.
She started hitting tennis balls at two years old, and played her first real match in the summer between first and second grades.
She took private lessons from 3 years old to high school and participated in the G.R.I.P.S program at Manker Patten for 3 years in grades 3-5.  In sixth grade, she was accepted at GPS and played on the middle school team.  In 8th grade, she was ranked no. 1 on the team. During the summers, she has enjoyed playing on JTT and UTR summer leagues. She has continued to play her whole 7 years at GPS on the tennis team.  Zella graduates this month and will be studying pre-med in college in the fall.

Rily Roberts

Notre Dame High School

4 year-3 sport athlete

Football, Basketball, Baseball

National Honor Society

National Art Honor Society

Green and Gold Ambassador

6’1, 215 lbs

GPA – 3.85 with honors and dual enrollment college courses

Football

O-Line, D-Line, Punter

Basketball

2024 State Basketball Appearance

2023 Division 2A State Championship Runners Up

2023 Division 2A District Champions

2023 Division 2A Region Runners Up

Baseball

2022 Division 2A State Appearance

Rily plans to major in Sports Management and play baseball in college but is undecided on where yet.

Quotes from coaches

So proud of Rily.  Rily is a true STUDENT- ATHLETE who plays and excels not only in three different sports (football, basketball and baseball) but also excels in his time management with school and academics.  He has a great work ethic and we are very proud of him.  We will definitely miss his accountability, work ethic, intelligence, leadership, athletic ability, intensity, and willingness to be a team player and play positions that were best for his TEAM in football and other sports. Congratulations to you, Rily, for this award. You have earned and deserve it.

Bo Campbell/ND Football DC

“Rily is one of the hardest working and overall best kids around, he is always a great teammate and always willing to do whatever it takes for his team to succeed. It has been a privilege to see the young man he has become over his 4 years at ND.”

Gatlyn Simmons/ND Baseball

Rily is an example of what hard work can do. He worked his way up from playing on the freshman team to becoming a full time varsity starter his senior year and hitting the biggest shot of our season in the state tournament this past season. He became a leader of our team through is hard work and improvement, and I have continually been amazed at his work ethic and the toughness that he brought to our program

Coach Jonathan Adams/ND Basketball

ANALEIGH SIMMONS JROTC

• Ooltewah High School Senior
• taking the hardest classes, was able to graduate in 3 years.
• in the top 5% of her class and has a 4.0 GPA.
• Analiegh has excelled at her extra-curricular activities including commanding the JROTC Drill team leading the Color Guard team and competing on the Raider team all the way to the National Championship level.
• Analeigh has been offered a 4-year ROTC Scholarship to the University of Tennessee where she has been admitted for their highly selective Nursing program.
• received an appointment to the United States Military Academy (West Point).
• Analeigh is planning on attending West Point in the fall.

Nate Hampton

Silverdale Baptist Academy

• 2022 Division II AA East Region 2nd Team Honors
• 2023 TnFCA All State Team for Class AA
• 2023 Division II AA East Region 1st Team Honors
• 2023 Seahawk Award: voted by team to the player that best represents our core values on and off the field. 
• Season Records
• Nate Hampton 4th most rec yds (480)
• Nate Hampton tied 2nd most int (3)
• Career Records
• Nate Hampton 2nd most int (8)
• Nate Hampton 3rd most rec yds (947)
• Nate Hampton 2nd most rec td (8)

PAST SENIORS

Jersey Chubb

Turner Junkins

Turner is attending MTSU in the fall.  

5th year Varsity baseball player

Academically has maintained all A’s – Head of School List

*Sophomore year:

• Football – All Region, Best of Preps
• Baseball – TBR Super Sophomore Team, Best of Preps, District Player of the Year

*Junior year:

• Football – All Region, All State, Best of Preps
• Baseball – All District, All State, Best of Preps, Mr Baseball Finalist 

*Senior year:

• Football – All Region
• Baseball – District Player of the Year

Single Game

Second most rushing yds 217 vs Webb bell buckle (2021)

Tied most rushing td  4 vs Polk county (2020)

Punt return yds 118 vs Grace Baptist (2019)

Most kickoff return yards 132 vs Knox Webb (2018)

Season

Most rushing yds 1227 (2021)

2nd most rushing yds 1073 (2020)

Most rushing td 17 (2021)

2nd most rushing td 15 (2020)

3rd in total offense 1511 (2021)

2nd all purpose yds 1858 (2020)

3rd all purpose yds 1672 (2021)

4th all purpose 1665 (2019)

Most punt return yds 198 (2020)

2nd most punt return yards 143 (2019)

Most kickoff return yds 422 (2020)

Career

Most rushing yds 3587

Most rushing td 43

2nd in receiving yards 903

Tied 2nd in receiving td 7

Most total offense 4530

Most all purpose yds 4979

Most punt return yds 415

Most kickoff return yds 1036

Alyx Dill

Ava Travis

ELI DENTON

3X All State 5A
3X All Region
All Region Defensive Player of the Year
3X All Area Defensive Player of the Year
Broke records at Walker Valley for:
Career Tackles – 422
Single Season Tackles – 181
Single Game Tackles – 27

CHANCE MAHONE

KENNEDY MOORE/CSAS,
Soddy Daisy Lacrosse

Accomplishments: Kennedy started playing lacrosse in the 6th grade. While he attends CSAS, he has starred for the SD lacrosse team. He marks scoring a goal in State title game also avenging a loss earlier in the season to Page in the Semifinals as one of his favorite moments. Kennedy credits SD Head Coach Andrew Karpinko with his success saying, “(He) spends an incredible amount of time together with the players.”.

College: Kennedy plans to attends Tennessee Wesleyan to play Lacrosse and major in Philosophy and Religion.

CJ POLK/Girls Preparatory School,
Lacrosse/Basketball

Accomplishments: CJ was a senior starter on the varsity basketball and lacrosse teams at GPS, and she was selected as an all-region player in both sports last year. She was a team captain on the lacrosse team with 23 goals and seven assists through our first 14 games. CJ marks beating Baylor at Baylor in basketball along with being around friends at daily practices as her favorite memories of GPS.

College: CJ will attend Loyola University in Chicago

KAITLYN POPE/Boyd-Buchanan HS,
Soccer

Accomplishments:  Kaitlyn was a 5 year starter for Boyd, getting her first action as an 8th grader. She learned goalkeeping from Coach Randolph and credits her Pre-Calculus teacher Ms. Brewer for making school fun and adding game details into the class lessons.  She lists the toughest game of her career as the PK victory against Notre Dame in the District Championship

College: Kaitlyn will continue to play soccer at Johnson University

ELLIS OTTING/East Hamilton HS,
Wrestling

Accomplishments:  A strong student and championship wrestler, Ellis has spent his four years at East Hamilton making an impact. His 3.8 GPA showcases the work he put in in the classroom, while his 4th place state finish and 99 career wins shows the effort he made on the mat. For Ellis East Hamilton was, “where he needed to be, coaches pushed, loved the comradery with teammates, everything you looked for in a school.”

College: Ellis will continue wrestling at Cumberland University

KYLE WHITE/Ringgold HS, Football/Power Lifting

Accomplishments: Kyle played all sports growing up. He decided to focus on football and power lifting in high school. He recently won the Georgia State Championship for power lifting in the 182lb weight class.  He credits Ms. Boone as making a big impact saying, ” She cared more about kids and how they were doing individually, as opposed to just grades.”

College: Kyle has chosen to continue power lifting in college at West Georgia College.

KENZIE CAMPBELL/Notre Dame HS, Soccer/Basketball

Accomplishments:  Kenzie has excelled at NDHS and has enjoyed her 4 years as a member of the Irish family. When asked what made NDHS so special she said, “Teachers and students really are a family support system, very supportive and invested in our lives” Kenzie served as captain of both the Soccer and Basketball teams as a junior and senior.

College: Kenzie has signed with Milligan College to continue her basketball career.

CONNOR DELASHMITT/Silverdale Baptist Academy, Track/Football

Accomplishments: Connor is a standout performer for SBA on both the football field and on the track. He was able to showcase his talents in 2 all-star games. His accomplishments on the the gridiron include rushing for over 1000 yards in consecutive seasons and over 3500 yards for his career.

CHANDLER HARTMAN/Soddy Daisy High School, Soccer/Football

Accomplishments: Chandler began his soccer career at the age of 3 following in the footsteps of his father and uncle. On the pitch Chandler helped lead the Trojans to a victory against Rhea County
in a game that finished with penalty kicks. He credits the closeness of the SD community with some of his favorite memories of his time at SDHS. When he’s not kicking field goals or scoring goals, Chandler
can be found running, being outdoors or exploring his love of travel.

College: Chandler will continue his playing career at Tennessee Wesleyan joining two former Soddy teammates. He’s still deciding between a professional career in Nursing or Education.

CARRASON POE/Ooltewah High School, Football

Accomplishments: Carrason attended Grace Academy to begin his career and finished his playing career for the Owls. His size and skill put him in front of a number of college scouts
ultimately leading to over multiple offers to continue his playing career. Carrason credits the coaching at Ooltewah for much of the improvement that led to those offers.

College: Carrason will continue his work on the gridiron at Kentucky Christian University where he’ll study Sports Management.

JAYDA WOOD/Dade County High School, Basketball/Tennis

Accomplishments: Jayda led the team to back to back state playoff appearances and named 2nd team All-state under the watch of coach Regina Logan. In Tennis, Jayda advanced to state in both her senior and sophomore years. Despite facing adversities, she enjoyed the small town feel and family atmosphere of Dade County.

College: Jayda will continue her education at Berry College where she will play hoops and study Nursing.

JAMICHAEL MCGOY/Boyd Buchanan High School, Football/Track

Accomplishments: JaMichael plays football and runs track at Boyd. During his football career he was the team MVP in 2020 and went on to play in the Blue-Grey Game in Dallas where scored a TD on a 91 yard reception. On the track JaMichael’s speed shines. His 4.35 40 yard dash is among the fastest in the state and he continues to excel at the 100 meters. JaMichael started at Boyd in Kindergarten and loves the atmosphere and the opportunities he’s gotten from being a part of the Boyd family.

College: JaMicheal has signed to play football in college at UT-Martin where he plans to major in Business Administration.

CAROLINE HEMPHILL/Ringgold High School, Softball/Basketball

Accomplishments: Caroline starred on the diamond and on the court during her time at RHS. While playing 2nd base in softball she helped bring home back to back state titles under the guidance of Coach Daniel Hackett. In the classroom, Caroline credits teachers like Miss Fleming for helping to make connections and classtime more enjoyable.

College: Caroline will continue her education, and her softball career, at The University of the Cumberlands where she plans to major in Accounting.

CJ PETRIN/Notre Dame High School, Bowling/Golf

Accomplishments:  CJ has contributed to the Notre Dame community both in athletics and in academics. In the classroom, he credits Ms. Fisher for guiding him through Math as a sophomore and preparing him to succeed. CJ accomplished a number of honors during his 4 years at ND. He brought home a state title in bowling as a senior and was a big part of 2 team titles won by the Irish. As a golfer, CJ has contributed since the 8th grade under the watchful eye of Coach Mike Jenkins.

College: CJ has accepted a scholarship to further his studies and compete on the bowling lanes at Oklahoma Christian.

COOPER RULING/Rhea Co. High School, Basketball/Golf/Soccer

Accomplishments:  Over his career at RCHS Cooper was a 3 sport standout. The family atmosphere and special bonds made over 4 years are what Cooper will remember most. Athletically, Cooper’s favorite moment was a double overtime win against Cleveland on the soccer pitch.

College: Cooper has chosen to stay close to home and play soccer for Bryan College.

SKYLAR SHERIDAN/Silverdale Baptist Academy, Softball

Accomplishments: Skylar grew up playing multiple sports. She is a multi-sport athlete that at an early age found her love on the softball field. Whether at third base or behind the plate, Skylar made an impact on the field. She also contribute to SBA off the field, making lifelong connections with teachers and friends.

College: Skylar will continue here education and playing career at Austin Peay in the fall as an Occupational Therapist major.

PAST SPOTLIGHT ATHLETES

JAKE WRIGHT/Gordon Lee High School, Baseball

Accomplishments: GL was 8-2 before the season ended their run at a 3rd straight 1A State Championship. Jake made 4 appearances and pitched 13 innings of scoreless baseball. Allowing only only 4 walks and 6 hits, while compiling 13 strikeouts.

College: Jake has committed to play baseball at Carson Newman

MADISON HAYES/East Hamilton High School, Basketball

Accomplishments: During her Senior campaign Madison averaged 25 points, 11 rebounds with 14 double doubles in 21 games. Madison is the All-Time leading scorer and rebounder in Hurricane history for both girls AND boys. She was also named Miss Basketball for Tennessee and named to the 2020 McDonald’s All American team.

College: Madison has committed to play at Mississippi State

JARRETT CLIFT/Silverdale Baptist Academy, Baseball

Accomplishments: After a successful Junior campaign that saw him bat over .340, Jarrett was on pace for an impressive Senior season before it was cut short. Jarrett’s team leadership qualities were on full display as he stepped in to guide younger players through difficult times.

College: Jarrett will continue his education at Samford University in Birmingham as a double major.

MAKAYLA PACKER/Baylor School, Softball

Accomplishments: Makayla is one of the most talented athletes to ever come through Baylor, she is a standout not only on the softball field but also on the track. Makayla’s softball career as a Red Raider has been extremely impressive, a .398 batting average with 18 home runs, 84 RBIs, and 102 runs scored.

College: Makayla will play softball at Auburn University in the fall.

MACY ANN McKNIGHT/Baylor School, Softball

Accomplishments: Before the season was ended early, Macy Ann was on pace to win FIVE state championships for Baylor
(She joined the high school team as an 8th grader). Inside the circle she accounted for 49 wins and 240 strikeouts. Macy Ann’s presence at the plate was just as lethal. Over her career she compiled a .338 batting average with 17 home runs, 95 RBIs.

College: Macy Ann will continue her softball career at West Georgia College.

JACOB ROBINSON/Ooltewah High School, Baseball

Accomplishments: Jacob was a standout for the Owls, a player able to play almost any position on the field. Unknowingly, Jacob made a lifetime memory this season as he homered in his final at bat. Some of the things Jacob says he’ll miss the most are having fun with the boys, going out to eat, practice, just the comrade of hanging out.

College: Jacob remains undecided on his college choice

GABRIEL RAINS/Lookout Valley High School, Soccer

Accomplishments: Gabriel is a standout on the soccer pitch for LV. He played goalie and forward for Coach Dan Basler. Gabriel also competed on the mat for Howard’s wrestling program and Coach Mike Parker. Gabriel considers being a finalist for FCA athlete of the year as the highlight of his high school sports career.

College: Gabriel is headed to ETSU to attend Physical therapy school

SYDNEY PITTMAN/Ringgold High School, Volleyball/Tennis/Basketball

Accomplishments: Sydney is a standout athlete at Ringgold. Her time as a Tiger has seen her contribute to the Volleyball, Basketball and Tennis teams. Sydney was 4 matches into her Senior year on the courts before her season was cut short. She lists one of her biggest achievements as having her team advance to the Elite 8 in basketball. She was also named Homecoming Queen at Ringgold.

College: Sydney has signed to play volleyball at Chattanooga State and play for Coach Janet Tate

LAURA BETH TURNER/Chattanooga Christian School, Soccer

Accomplishments: Laura Beth’s season didn’t even get started before the shutdown due to Covid-19. Previous to that she was a well decorated athlete having won state titles as a Freshman and Sophomore as a part of the 4×200 relay team for CCS. Laura Beth also was a member of the Chargers soccer team. She also shined in the classroom as the Valedictorian of her graduating class.

College: Laura Beth plans to attend UT-Knoxville as a chemical engineering major

ROSS PENDERGRASS/Rhea County High School, Baseball/Golf

Accomplishments: Ross was a two sport stand out while playing for Rhea County. The time spent on the diamond and on the course allowed Ross to build lifelong friendships.

College: Ross will continue his baseball career at Motlow State Community College

EMILY “DUCK” HIGGINS/Soddy Daisy High, Softball

Accomplishments: Emily was a key contributor to the SD softball team. While starring on the diamond she was voted team captain as a Senior. She also cracked down in the classroom as she was on the Honor Roll all 4 years of high school. She also gave back to her community by coaching youth softball.

College: Emily will continue her softball career at Roane State.

LOGAN WORKMAN/Lee University, Baseball

Accomplishments: Logan is a Soddy Daisy High School graduate and current Lee University stand out. He got his start behind the plate for the Trojans before moving to the mound his senior year of high school. Logan has expressed that the challenge by coaches to step up and lead the team by example pushed him to improve. With a fastball that has been clocked in the mid 90s, Logan is hoping to be selected in this year’s MLB draft.

College: Logan majored in Physical Therapy at Lee

JARED DOVE/Hixson High School, Soccer/Bowling

Accomplishments: Jared’s soccer career saw him play for FOUR different coaches in his 4 year high school career, most recently Mark Lumberg. Despite the instability, Jared was still excited about the prospects of a successful season in 2020. He also sites choir teacher Ashley Cisto and his bowling coach Travis Clem as big influences. Jared expressed his gratitude to his parents that “took me to the moon and back to play select team soccer growing up”.

College: Jared will attend ETSU in the fall and study pre-Physical Therapy. He hopes to walk on for the Bucs.

LUKE BURROWS/Polk Co. High School, Baseball/Basketball

Accomplishments: Luke’s talents shined on the court and on the diamond for Polk Co. On the hardwood he ranks 2nd on the list of career scorers with 1689. He was also named Mr. Polk Co. High School in his senior year.

College: Luke has signed on to play baseball at Tennessee Wesleyan in the fall and will major in Education. He also plans to coach when his playing career ends.

DREW ROGERS/Silverdale Baptist Academy, Basketball/Golf

Accomplishments: Drew’s talents showed up on both the hardwood and on the links for SBA. As a golfer, Drew was named SBA Golfer of the year and went to 3 region finals and advanced to state in one of those years. Drew’s also stood out on the basketball court, so much so that he received a scholarship offer from Bryan College.

College: Drew will play basketball at Bryan College and major in Communications

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