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Screen time and athletes: What should a parent do? Transformation Challenge: Busy parents find Orangetheory’s interval training a perfect fit
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Profiling community sports in words and photographs. 13 | Signature Care Emergency Center Team of the Month: Texas Shock 16’s National
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Entertaining, informative and engaging articles on local athletes, sports and teams. 08 | Family affair: Playing coaching, officiating all part of the i9 Sports experience 10 | PAC’s summer camps offer quality programs for all skill levels 12 | Round Rock Express: New season means tons of family, fan events at Dell Diamond
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14 | AISD PE teacher wins major award
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health&fitness
Screen time and athletes: What should a parent do? Article by Janis Meredith, photos by SportsXpress Screen time and athletes is a nagging issue that parents have to deal with today. Too much screen time for kids isn’t life-threatening, but the effects of digital media abuse can add up over the years and turn into bad habits that become harder and harder for parents to control. And for sports parents, the questions must be asked: how does screen time actually affect my young athlete? Here’s what experts are saying about screen time and your child:
Tiredness When my husband used to take his softball team on overnight tournaments, he had a rule that the girls had to be off their phones by a certain time, knowing that they are easily tempted to stay up late texting or surfing their social media sites. If your child is still on their phone after they are in bed, they are robbing themselves of much-needed sleep. Studies show that motivation, focus, memory, and learning are impaired by shortened sleep. Lack of sleep also results in decreased accuracy and speed, and slower reaction times, which leads to more injuries.
Eye problems This is the most obvious effect of too much screen time. Your child may feel pain and irritation in their eyes. If this continues for months, it can affect their vision in the future.
Distraction When kids are enamored with their screens, that means they are not paying attention to something else. Sometimes that’s okay; sometimes it’s not. When it distracts them from
homework, people, sports practice, working out, or even game concentration, then screen time has become a hindrance to your child’s progress and growth.
Decreased brain health This is the most obvious effect of too much screen time. Your child may feel pain and irritation in their eyes. If this continues for months, it can affect their vision in the future.
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What’s a parent to do? What does all this mean for parents of athletes? It certainly doesn’t mean that your kids are doomed to failure just because they like their screens. It just means that parents must learn how to help their kids manage screen time and make it work for them, rather than against them. Here are a few ideas for how to manage your child’s screen time: • Establish your values as a family. What sort of movies and games will you allow your kids to play? Make that decision and then talk about it as a family, explaining to your kids why these values are important. This will give them something to hang on to when they go to their friends’ homes where the values may not align with yours. • Set rules and stick to them. You must first decide what your rules and guidelines are. This is often the hardest step for parents, and I think that many struggle with
screen time issues because they can’t take the first step of setting the rules. Do some research to determine what is best for your child and your family, inform every family member of the rules, and then stick to them! Limit screen time. You may have to get some extra help in your efforts to limit screen time when it comes to phones. There’s just no way to monitor what your kids are doing on their phone. Or is there? I’ve recently partnered with the founders of an app called UnGlue, which allows parents to control and monitor what happens on their kids’ phones. It’s a pretty cool solution that gives your kids the power to learn healthier habits — within your boundaries. Try it for free at www.unglue.app.link/JBMThinks for 14 days to see if you like it.
There are certainly a lot of good uses for smart phones, but when they keep your kids from being able to focus on their sports and on their responsibilities, and when they rob young athletes of sleep, it may be time to look for ways to help them learn better screen habits. Janis Meredith, a sports mom for 20 years and a coach’s wife for 28, lives in Palo Cedro, CA. She can be reached at jbmeredith@usa.com. Read more on her blog at jbmthinks.blogspot.com.
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health&fitness
Transformation Challenge Busy parents find Orangetheory’s interval training a perfect fit Article and photos by SportsXpress Joel Druebert and Becca Smith are like many 40-something adults. They juggle busy careers, multiple kids, and marriages. Physical fitness often takes a back seat, so when Orangetheory Circle C announced its Transformation Challenge, Druebert and Smith saw it as a perfect opportunity to make a change. “I am goal driven and this contest was perfect for me,” said Druebert. “Once I started my regular visits to Orangetheory, I was surprised at how the weight just kept coming off.” And off… and off. Over a six-week span, Druebert lost 22 pounds. Smith lost 25. Together they beat out hundreds to win the Transformation Challenge. They also picked up a cool $1,250 each in prize money. “It was a little tricky because the contest came during part of the holidays,” said Smith, “but I was disciplined, and my kids were really behind me.”
The Orangetheory Circle C Saturday 9 a.m. class showing off their guns! Both Smith and Druebert credit Orangetheory’s heart rate-based interval training as a big key to their success. Each workout participant wears a heart monitor, and results are displayed on video boards throughout the facility.
BEFORE
Becca Smith • • • •
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BEFORE AFTER
Senior Vice President Married, 3 children Age: 44 Advice to better health: “Trust the process. Have a goal. Know what you are sweating for!”
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The training is designed to maintain a target zone that stimulates metabolism and increases energy. Members can burn between 500 and 1000 calories in 60 minutes. There’s also a big calorie burn afterwards. “There’s science behind our workouts
Joel Druebert • • • •
AFTER
Customer Experience Manager Married, 2 children Age: 47 Favorite part of workout: “Love seeing the numbers and know that you’re burning fat and getting results!”
health&fitness and we provide instant feedback,” said head coach, Jasmine Jackson. “We also cater to all fitness levels. You’ll see grandparents and teenagers working out side by side. It’s a beautiful thing.” As for Smith and Druebert, they are Orangetheory believers. They plan on losing even more weight this year and plan on keeping up a healthy diet and regular fitness plan. “I had a regular gym membership for years, but I felt like it was more of a donation!” said Smith. “The place was always crowded, and I had no set plan for my workouts. Here at Orangetheory, you book your workout and everything is planned out for you. It’s easy.” “I have become stronger, more flexible, and I am less tired,” said Druebert. “I also like that I can leave home, get a great workout, and be back home in a little over an hour. The coaches are great and motivating as well!” “You’re not just a member here, you’re family,” said Jackson. “You will feel like you’re part of a community that sweats and burns together.” And what about that prize money? “We’re taking the kids to Disney World,” said Smith. “My wife Sarah and I are celebrating our 20th anniversary this fall,” said Druebert, “so we will likely use the money towards that.”
Druebert and Smith after the Transformation Challenge. They lost a total of 47 pounds in six weeks.
Cynthia Figueroa (Manager), Becca Smith and Jasmine Jackson (Coach) at Transformation Challenge reveal.
Becca Smith and Joel Druebert show off their winning checks
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Family affair
Playing, coaching, officiating all part of the i9 Sports experience Article by SportsXpress, all photos courtesy of SportsXpress and the Long family
(above) David Long Quintero and mom, Paola Long. (below) David participating in i9 flag football in 2011.
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David Long Quintero has enjoyed the complete i9 Sports experience. The senior at Bowie High School started off as a young flag football player, then he coached his little brother’s teams, and now David is one of i9’s flag football officials. “Yes, I’ve covered all three angles of the i9 experience,” said David. “I am learning a lot while officiating. Firsthand, I see all the hard work that goes into making this league work. It makes me really appreciative of this organization.” Jon Long, David’s dad, has been along for the ride too. Jon and David coached together for four seasons. “It was a lot of fun to coach with my
son,” said Jon. “We were able to work toward a common goal together. David learned all the values that i9 Sports instills in its athletes. He’s used all of his i9 experiences to become a solid young man.” David credits the work ethic and values he learned at i9 Sports for his high school football career at Bowie. “I learned hard work and sportsmanship while playing with i9,” said David. “High school coaches really look for that in their players.” David plans to continue officiating at i9 Sports and will attend the University of Houston or Texas State University in the fall.
i9 Sports programs run throughout the year and currently feature baseball, soccer, basketball, flag football and
sportsfiles lacrosse for kids ages 3 and up. Games are played throughout Travis and Williamson counties and you’re likely to find a league right in your community. To learn more and to check out registration dates, visit i9sports.com.
The i9 Sports Experience • All skill levels welcome: No tryouts. No drafts. • Same day games/practices: Practices are held on the same day of games (usually in the hour preceding the game) • Weekend games: Leaving the weekday evenings for family time and homework • Sportsmanship: weekly medals for kids who show sportsmanship values and who incorporates them into team • Equal participation: Everyone gets same amount of playing time • Age appropriate: Teams are formed by age with natural progression as players get older • “When in Doubt Sit Out”: Concussion Safety Policy and education for parents and coaches • Trained Officials • No fundraisers
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sportsfiles
PAC’s summer camps offer quality programs for all skill levels Article by SportsXpress, photos by PAC Summer in Austin can be a beast! With temperatures in the triple digits, taking things indoors is smart. The Premier Athletic Complex (PAC) has you covered with several quality camps inside their impressive training facility. When it comes to volleyball and basketball camps, few places can offer the variety and scope of PAC’s summer camps. Registration is underway. “I can’t say enough great things about PAC camps,” said Melanie Handy. “My son has gone for the past three years and looks forward to it every summer. The coaches are professional, knowledgeable and very kid-friendly!”
Basketball Hoops 101 Camps: This one is arguably the best skills training camp around and is for players of all levels. Competitions, awards, and game play make this an all-around exciting week for all campers. CenTex Attack Skills Camps: This camp is based on the structure of the
PAC’s CenTex Attack Select Program. Camps will consist of skills training, classroom and video breakdown, and court execution. Advanced Point Guard/Shooting Camp: This camp is led by Christian Dalmau. He’s a former professional and Olympic player with 22 years of pro experience. This camp is for anyone aspiring to be a point guard. Players will develop sound fundamentals including ball handling and outside shooting.
Advanced Camps: These sessions are for players with experience and who are ready to take their game to the next level by honing their skills and learning the intricacies of the game.
Volleyball The PACs volleyball camps cater to athletes of all skill levels and are held throughout the entire summer. They are led by former USA National Team player, Benishe Roberts, and former collegiate National Champion, Veronica Lee. All Skills Camps: These camps are for players of all skill levels. Athletes are divided by skill level. They will develop and enhance fundamentals and will compete and play games.
“My two kids have taken numerous camps at the PAC,” said Jason Fuller. “These camps have been invaluable to their development as young athletes, basketball players, leaders, and responsible individuals! We have found them to be an excellent balance between fun, skill development, and competition.” For more information and to register, visit www.pac-tx.com or call (512) 686-0448.
Looking for a summer camp for your child? Visit our Summer Camp directory at austin. sportsxpress.com.
BOWIE BASEBALL
SUMMER CAMP Visit www.bowiedawgs.org to sign up!
GRADES 1-5
GRADES 6-9
9AM - 12PM
Monday, June 11 Thursday, June 14
Monday, June 18 Thursday, June 21
Each day at Bowie High School Field
Come out and learn new skills (fielding, throwing, running, physical and mental approach and mechanics and techniques) in a fun and energetic atmosphere. The camp is led by Bowie head baseball coach, Sam Degelia, Bowie coaching staff, college and former Bowie players. All campers receive a t-shirt.
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sportsfiles
Basketball CenTex Attack Skills Camps June 18-21 July 9-12 August 6-9
Hoops 101 Camps June 25-28 July 16-19 August 13-15
Point Guard/Shooting Camp July 23-26
CenTex Attack Girls Camp July 30-August 2 *All open to 1st to 8th graders
Volleyball All-Skills Camps (Grades 3-8) June 18-21 July 23-26 August 6-9
Intermediate Camps (Grades 6-9) July 9-12 July 30-August 2
Advanced Camp (Grades 7-12) June 25-29
Middle School Prep Camp (Grades 6-8) August 13-15
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sportsfiles
Round Rock Express
New season means tons of family, fan events at Dell Diamond
Article and photos by Round Rock Express Baseball is back in Central Texas! The Round Rock Express are gearing up for their 19th season and are looking to make 2018 another fun-filled, actionpacked season of fun at Dell Diamond. The Express kick things off with “Spring Training for the Fans” at their annual Fan Fest on Saturday, March 24 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The familyfriendly event is free and open to the public. Bring co-workers, friends, family, or even the whole neighborhood to Dell Diamond as the stadium will transform into an interactive fun zone for fans of all ages during the event, covering all levels of baseball fandom. The annual celebration of America’s pastime allows fans to get back into the baseball spirit by enjoying a day full of entertainment. Fans attending this year’s event will
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receive the opportunity to throw heat in the Express bullpen, tour the clubhouse, and participate in a hot dog eating contest. Craft beer samples, as well as a tasting of the Hall of Fame Grille menu in the Intel Club, will be available. Fans can gear up for the 2018 season through deals available in the Railyard Team Store. The Express, in partnership with the Nolan Ryan Foundation, are launching a new line this spring, giving fans a first look at the new merchandise at Fan Fest. The line, which includes custom shirts, caps, jerseys and more, features the iconic 34 and his high leg kick pitching stance. A portion of the proceeds from the line go to the Nolan Ryan Foundation, benefitting youth sports and education in Central Texas. Due to field renovations, the playing surface will not be open for fans, however batting practice will be held in the team’s indoor batting cages, located under the videoboard. Warm up your swing and knock some over the fences! While at the stadium, fans will have the opportunity to scope out the exact seat location for their season membership with packages including
Full Season and Fireworks mini-plans. Registration for the Express Kids Club will also take place, giving kids a ticket to 16 home games, access to VIP experiences, a front-of-the-line pass to run the bases and so much more for just $20! The 2018 schedule features five postgame concerts as part of the St. David’s Summer Concert Series, presented by Dell, a dozen giveaways and over 25 theme nights, making Dell Diamond the place to be this summer. Visit RoundRockExpress.com for the full schedule of promotions. The Express open the 2018 season on Thursday, April 5 with a five-game series against the Memphis Redbirds (St. Louis Cardinals affiliate) at Dell Diamond. Season memberships and flex plan ticket packages are on sale now. Opening Day tickets go on sale Monday, February 27 with single game tickets on sale March 1. For more information on the Express, visit www.RoundRockExpress.com or call (512) 255-2255. Keep up with the Express on Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat and Twitter!
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Texas Shock 16’s National Article by SportsXpress, photos by Joe Wylie The Texas Shock 16’s National would like nothing more than to spend part of their summer in Detroit. That’s not exactly a vacation hotspot for teenage girls, but it is the place to be for elite volleyball programs looking to bring home a national championship. But, first things first. The 16 National team must qualify for the USAV National Tournament in Detroit. This squad is shaping up to have a great chance to do just that. “We have shown that we can beat some really good teams already this season,” said Head Director Mike Beltz. “We just need to be more consistent.” Last year, this team won the AAU National Championship to complete a magical season. The win was huge accomplishment for the program. It also set expectations even higher for this season. The Texas Shock 16 National team has three big qualifying tournaments on its radar in April and May: the Show
Me Qualifier in Kansas City, the Lone Star Qualifier in Dallas, and the Lone Star Region Qualifier in Houston. If the team finishes as one of the top three to five squads in one of these events, they’ll punch their ticket to Detroit. “We added three new players this year; that makes us even stronger,” said Beltz. “It’s taken us some time to create chemistry on the court, but we are improving every week, and if we can peak at the right time, we will have a great shot to get to Detroit.” For more photos of Texas Shock 16’s National, visit austin. sportsxpress.com
Congrats to Texas Shock 16’s— the Signature Care Emergency Center’s Team of the Month!
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sports@school
AISD PE teacher wins major award Barton Hills Elementary physical education teacher Courtney Perry recently won the 2017 TAHPERD (Texas Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation & Dance ) Award for Elementary Physical Education Teacher of the Year. Austin ISD Athletics News caught up with Perry to discuss the honor and her passion for engaging students in learning lifetime fitness. Why is physical education an important and necessary part of a child’s education? Physical Education is important and necessary because it allows students a space to do what comes naturally to the human body — MOVE! Movement is the time for the brain to synthesize information and learning. When you think about the core subjects, and the value that they bring to a child’s life, think about what students learn in PE: how to be physically literate, how to feel confident in moving their bodies in a variety of ways, knowledge of healthy lifestyles, including healthy eating, stress management, and tobacco awareness. How does elementary PE help pave the way for the athletic success of a
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student, especially in middle and high school sports? Elementary PE serves as a foundation of basic skills and sports concepts. It is my job to develop the skills and grow the athlete in all students; as well as, illuminate how basic skills, such as an overhand throwing motion or learning to move in a variety of pathways, translates into dynamic sports settings. What impact do you see in your students over the years of physical education you have with them? The greatest impact I see over the years I have the kids is a willingness to “go for it” and not be afraid to fail. I’ve introduced the students to something I learned in improv classes called the “failure bow.” If we try and we fail, we take a failure bow, and the whole class claps for us. Why is it important to introduce students to a variety of physical
Article and photos by AISD Athletic News
disciplines, early on, including recreational sports, dance, but also healthy living? Not all students are meant to be athletes, to compete at high levels, or even to join a team. But all people can find some movement they love, whether it be yoga, dance, or hiking, DrumFIT, or racing down a field to catch a ball or Frisbee. The rich lessons we teach in PE about nutrition or tobacco awareness are formative lessons and are incredibly important in bringing up a community that values health and wellness — a community that can then pass on these values to the next generation.
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