We will be playing flag football at the SCHS OWL Baseball Complex. Access to the field and restrooms were the deciding factors on location.

Registration must be turned in by September 9.

Make sure you check the right sport: Cheerleading or Flag Football on the registration form.

Click HERE to download the PDF Version of the registration form. Please complete the attached form and return it and the fee to Lisa Hembree at: hembreel@smithcoedu.net

You may also return it to your athlete’s teacher.

Completed registration must be received by September 9, 2016

Season 8 of high school football coverage on DTC Sports begins Friday night, August 19, with the return of Football Game Night. The DTC Sports crew will be live on location at Turney Ford Field in Gordonsville, as the Gordonsville Tigers host their long-time area rival, the Watertown Purple Tigers.

Gordonsville graduated only six seniors from a very young squad in 2015, which ended the season with a 3-7 record, and missed the playoffs for the first time since 2008. The Tigers, with roughly 20 seniors on board, seek to bounce back in 2016, and will look to get the new season off to a good start in front of the home crowd. Watertown, meanwhile, returns a strong, experienced core from a team that finished 8-3 in 2015. Senior QB Seth Price is back to lead the Purple Tiger offense, and has an experienced offensive line to work behind, and several veteran skill players which should make for a dangerous offense this season. Last year, Watertown topped Gordonsville, 28-12, at Robinson Stadium in Watertown. Gordonsville, however, is 31-8 vs. Watertown in football, dating back to the 1976 season, and had won five straight in the series prior to Watertown’s victory in 2015.

Join the team of Tom Duggin, Chris Vance, and J.R. Smith as they provide live play-by-play coverage of the area’s top high school football games each week, during the 2016 season. All games air LIVE on DTC channel 3 (channel 303 in HD), as well as via web stream at www.dtc3.tv.

Here are the remaining games to be televised on Football Game Night, with a brief synopsis of each game:

Week 2 – August 26 – Gordonsville at Smith Co.
One of the state’s best high school football rivalries, the Owls and Tigers have played a total of 82 times in football, dating back to 1930, including every season since 1960.Smith County has the upper hand in this inter-county rivalry, having won 62 of the 82 meetings. Gordonsville has won 18 games against their rival, while two games ended in ties. The Owls have won 16 of the last 17 meetings, including a 17-0 shutout at Turney Ford Field last season. Gordonsville’s last win in Carthage came back in the 1998 season (34-32).

Week 3 – September 2 – Grundy Co. at Cannon Co.
The Lions and Yellow Jackets became Region rivals for the first time in the 2015 season, but each young program struggled in their respective first seasons in Region 4-3A. In fact, Grundy County’s lone win of the campaign was a 37-14 victory over the Lions in Week 3 in Coalmont. Cannon County, meanwhile, suffered through their third winless season in the past five years. Both programs appear on the upswing entering 2016, as Casey Tate begins his second year with a more experienced Yellow Jacket squad, while Lion alum T.J. Daniel begins his fourth year on the job in Woodbury.

Week 4 – September 9 – Red Boiling Springs at Cannon Co.
A long-time struggling high school program, Red Boiling Springs appeared on the uptick in recent seasons under head coach Kyle Shoulders. Unfortunately for the Bulldogs, Coach Shoulders left to become an assistant at Murfreesboro Oakland during the offseason, curbing some of the enthusiasm for the upcoming 2016 season. Red Boiling eked out a 21-14 win over the Lions in 2015, following a 14-13 squeaker over Cannon County in Woodbury in 2014. Overall, however, Cannon County leads the series, 9-3, with the last Lion win coming in 2013 (28-25).

Week 5 – September 16 – DeKalb Co. at Smith Co.
The Tigers could be in play for their first-ever Region/District title in high school football in 2016, led by pre-season All-State QB Steven Jennings and a veteran offensive line. DeKalb’s journey to the championship, however, must go through Carthage, and the Owls look to build on a 6-5 playoff season in 2015. The Tigers have won three of the last four meetings in this long-standing series, which dates all the way back to 1927, but the Owls are 23-10 against the Tigers since school consolidation in DeKalb County in 1963.

Week 6 – September 23 – Eagleville at Watertown
2016 will mark the fourth season in a row the Purple Tigers and Eagles have met on the football field, with Eagleville having won two of the three previous meetings. Much like last year, the 2016 meeting between Watertown and Eagleville will likely have playoff implications in ultra competitive Region 4-2A. Both teams earned playoff berths in 2015, with Watertown finishing second in the region behind regular season champ, Forrest, while Eagleville placed fourth.

Week 7 – September 30 – Sequatchie Co. at DeKalb Co.
The Indians stunned many in 2015, when they finished third in their inaugural season in Region 4-3A, but the task could be much tougher in 2016. Sequatchie County must replace 18 key seniors, including QB Houston Mainord, top tailback Branden Rudd and top receivers Daniel Marshall and Colby Reed. The Tigers won a 35-25 decision in Dunlap last season, and won’t take a re-tooling Sequatchie squad for granted in their quest for the Region 4-3A championship.

Week 8 – October 7 – Gordonsville at Monterey
In what could be a pivotal game in the playoff race in jam-packed Region 5-1A, the Tigers will play their very first game in the brand new Monterey High School stadium. Coach Scott Hughes’ Wildcats garnered the fourth and final playoff berth in the Region in 2015, while Gordonsville missed the post-season for the first time since 2008. Since 2001, Gordonsville has won 12 of 15 meetings vs. Monterey, but the Wildcats have scored wins the last two seasons of this long-standing series.

Week 9 – October 14 – Upperman at Smith Co.
Two teams that should very well be battling for playoff positioning in Region 4-3A when Week 9 rolls around. Upperman has been one of the premier teams in the Upper Cumberland in recent years, including a 9-3 record and second round playoff appearance in 2015. Both the Bees and the Owls will have a number of key seniors to replace from their respective 2015 squads, but by Week 9, their youth from the beginning of the season should have each team primed for a playoff run. Smith Co. is 21-4 all-time against Upperman (Baxter), but the Bees have won two of the last three meetings.

Week 10 – October 21 – Upperman at DeKalb Co.
Defending Region champ Upperman will have tough, back-to-back tests in their quest to repeat as 4-3A champions, as a trip to Smithville follows their visit to Carthage. The Bees have been a thorn in the side of the Tigers in DeKalb’s quest to claim their first-ever Region/District championship in football, and a Week 10 win over Upperman might very well be necessary for the Tigers’ chances in 2016. Upperman has won two of the last three meetings in the series, but DeKalb has a 21-15-2 edge all-time, dating back to 1963.

Week 11 – October 28 – DeKalb Co. at Cannon Co.
In what could be the deciding game in DeKalb County’s quest for the Region Championship, Cannon County might very well be looking to play the role of spoiler for their long-time arch-rival. The Tigers and Lions have met every year since 2001, and 32 times overall. DeKalb County is 26-5-1 all-time against Cannon County in football and have won the last eight in the series. The Lions last tamed the Tigers in 2007, winning 26-23 in Smithville. DeKalb County’s 26 wins against Cannon County are the Tigers’ most all-time against any other program.

(**Schedule is subject to change)

Be sure to catch Football Game Night each week on DTC3 and DTC3 HD (ch. 303), or online at www.dtc3.tv. Call (615) 529-2955 today to get DTC TV in your home in time for high school football season!

Planning for Smith County Special Needs Sports started in March of 2016. Lisa Hembree researched various baseball leagues for special needs players, visiting the closest one in Murfreesboro. This research encouraged her to pursue sponsorships and athletes to participate. A call to Coach Scott Pope asking to use the SCHS Baseball complex was met with an “absolutely”. A field, four sponsors and 25 athletes later, SCSNS was born.

Mrs. Hembree asked for a couple of people to serve as co-directors of the league. Christy Smith and Steve Bray answered the request to help. From getting water and ice to mowing the fields and marking the baselines, these two did whatever it took to have the field in perfect condition for our athletes.

Several individuals and businesses donated funds and equipment to the league. Shirts were ordered and play began on Saturday, June 4, 2016. The athletes looked good in their uniforms as did their coaches. Volunteers showed up each week to act as buddies, helping the athletes hit, field and run the bases.

While the athletes were displaying their abilities on the playing field, many unseen things were happening. Parents were forming friendships with other parents. Teachers were seeing their students in a brand new way. Former students and Peer Partners were rekindling friendships while playing.

Many firsts also occurred because of this new league. Parents that had never bought sports equipment for their child were excited to buy cleats and gloves and helmets. Children that had never been on a team were now on a team. People in the community that had never seen special needs children and adults participating in a sporting event saw that sports can be an avenue of success for anyone. Children that weren’t supposed to be able to play ball did, and did it well.

Smith County Owl Baseball played a significant role in the creation and the success of this program. Coach Bray and Coach Pope were there at every game, the field in beautiful condition. The Owl Baseball Boosters ran a concession stand for the families and fans. The Owl Baseball players acted as buddies for the games. Former Owl Baseball players, Seth Hackett and Payton Azbell came to pitch for the ball players. A huge thank you to all involved in this organization.

What started as a baseball league, is now expanding to include bowling, flag football, soccer, basketball and baseball. Cheerleading will also be a featured activity.

The four original sponsors: Citizen’s Bank, Dynamic Therapy Center, Smith County Animal Clinic and an anonymous sponsor have all committed to continuing their sponsorships for the additional sports. Based on registrations, additional sponsors may be needed.

When schedules are posted, it is hoped that everyone will come see at least one event. These athletes, coaches and parents will appreciate your cheers.

If you have any questions, please contact one of the co-directors.

Smith County Special Needs Sports Co-Directors: Lisa Hembree – Steve Bray – Christy Smith

A heat index over 100 degrees did not keep family and fans from supporting their 13-14-year-old Smith County All Stars in Greenville, Tennessee, for the Little League State Tournament this past weekend. Five teams played in the tournament, including: Clarksville (District 9), Murfreesboro (District 7), New Tazewell (District 6), Morristown (District 4), and Smith County (District 2). The Smith County team was coached by: Terry Briggs, Scott Clemons and Jake O’Neal. Players included: Barrett Briggs, Hunter Clemons, Layton Cripps, Charlie Hopper, Hunter Mann, Noah Murray, Ashton Phillips, Kolby Sloan, Lawson Underwood, Andrew Vaden, Coby Williams, and Ethan Young.

Smith County went 3-2 to finish 2nd in the Little League State Tournament.

Saturday, July 23, 12 pm – Smith County shuts out New Tazewell, 18-0
Sunday, July 24, 11 am — Smith County falls to Morristown, 12-0
Monday, July 25, 4 pm – Smith County defeats New Tazewell, 17-5
Tuesday, July 26, 8 pm — Smith County tops Clarksville Northwest, 5-3
Wednesday, July 27, 9 pm — Smith County eliminated by Morristown, 10-2

With a home district advantage and first day victory, Morristown plays three games to win the Little League State Tournament Title.

Saturday, July 23, 3 pm – Morristown defeats Smith County, 12-0
Monday, July 25, 7 pm – Morristown tops Clarksville, 8-6
Wednesday, July 27, 10 am — Morristown takes State Title over Smith County, 10-2

July 23 – Smith County vs New Tazewell (W 18-0)

Smith County jumps on New Tazewell early and coasts to an 18-0 win. With 12 runs in the first three innings, District 2 Smith County left no doubt about the eventual outcome. Hunter Mann led with a flawless effort at the plate and teamed up with Barrett Briggs, Noah Murray and Lawson Underwood to allow only two hits late in the game. A strong defense, also led by Hunter Mann’s eight put-outs, kept New Tazewell from scoring.

Hunter Clemons led the offense with three hits, including a double and two singles. Barrett Briggs had three hits, including a triple and two singles. Hunter Mann had two hits, including a double and a single. Charlie Hopper, Andrew Vaden, Noah Murray, and Lawson Underwood each had a single.

July 24 – Smith County vs Morristown (L 12-0)

Game highlights included no hits allowed in the 2nd inning and first third of the 3rd inning by relief pitcher Barrett Briggs. Lawson Underwood was the only player to hit a single, putting Layton Cripps in scoring position but unable to cross the plate. Morristown had an almost flawless defense which kept blooper hits in the infield from generating points. Errors plagued Smith County’s defense and vexed their hitting ability, which allowed Morristown to shut down Smith County in five innings.

July 25 – Smith County vs. New Tazewell (W 17-5)

In the first elimination game, Noah Murray blasted two solo in-the-park home runs in the 1st and 2nd inning. He went 3-4 with four RBIs and four runs scored. Early defensive blunders by New Tazewell and an aggressive Smith County offensive effort foretold the 17-5 outcome, with Smith County winning after 7 innings.
Other hitters included Lawson Underwood with two doubles and a single, Barrett Briggs with two doubles, Hunter Clemons with two singles, and Hunter Mann, Andrew Vaden and Cody Williams each with a single.

July 26 — Smith County vs. Clarksville Northwest (W 5-3)

Smith County finally secured the last of five lead changes in the 4th inning of a back and forth affair against Clarksville. A 5-3 victory allowed Smith County to continue their quest to be State Champions.

Hunter Mann baffled 27 Clarksville batters, striking out nine batters, allowing only two runs, three hits and one walk over seven innings.

Cody Williams had two hits (a single & double), Noah Murray had two hits (both singles), and Lawson Underwood, Barrett Briggs, Andrew Vaden, and Hunter Clemons each had one single. Ethan Young also scored after reaching on an error.

July 27 — Smith County vs. Morristown (L 10-2)

Smith County was out pitched in their final appearance against Morristown. Pitcher Jared Coffey and a practiced defense sat down seven of the first nine batters. Smith County was afflicted with errors and could not rally after a three inning, 4-0 lead by Morristown. Smith County managed to score in the bottom of the 3rd and hold Morristown to four runs in the 4th inning. But miscalculations in pitching and fielding allowed Morristown to continue to score in the 5th and 6th innings, while Smith County could not get their bats hot enough to rally a come-back.

Hunter Mann, Lawson Underwood and Charlie Hopper each hit singles

The 13-14 year-old All-Stars won the Junior League Championship and are headed to state!

The tournament will take place in Greenville, Tennessee, beginning Saturday, July 23, at 3 pm.

Front Row (L to R): Coach Jake O’Neal, Kolby Sloan, Ashton Phillips, Charlie Hopper, Andrew Vaden, Lawson Underwood, Ethan Young, Manger Terry Briggs, Coach Scott Clemons
Back Row (L to R): Hunter Clemons, Noah Murray, Barrett Briggs, Layton Cripps, Hunter Mann, Cody Williams

After winning first place in District 2 Friday night in the Major League Championship, the Smith County Little League 12-Year-Old All-Stars are going to state!

The State Tournament will take place in Gallatin, with the first game on Saturday, July 23, at 4 pm.

Front Row (from L to R): Landon Baker, Conner Hackett, Grayson Hendrix, Andrew Wheeley, Tyler Hackett
Middle Row (from L to R): Jake Taylor, Bryson Claywell, Colton Windham, D.J. Burk, Luke Dillon, Tanner Coleman, Treyson Davis
Back Row (from L to R): (Coaches) Tracy Mofield, Troy Taylor, Anthony Hackett, Jimmy Holliman — Manager