October - Giles High School

Fall 2009 GILES HIGH SCHOOL Volume One
Homecoming 2009
Queen Cassie Martin
and King Justin Gautier
Single A
2009 STATE
GOLF CHAMPS!

Spartan Golf by Heath Wilson
The GHS Spartan Golf Team, last seasons Single A State Runner-Up, started the 2009
season with a Three Rivers District win. While the team was still thinking about the second
place finish in Bristol last October, no one was thinking about state this year. Coach W.R.
Johnston stressed that sentiment as he said of his players, “We have plenty of potential, but
without some old fashioned hard work that’s all it will be.” In their first match at Auburn
Hills on August 17 th , the Spartan Golfers jumped out to a 15 stroke lead in District play. At
the end of the opening round the Spartan team shot a total of 303. The Spartans were led by
Senior Trevor Myers who shot a 74. In one week’s time the Spartan Golf team extended their
lead in the Three Rivers District by winning three six team matches, bringing their regular
season record to 20 and 0. On August 24 th the Spartans went to a match at the Auburn Hills
golf course hosted by Auburn High School. The Spartans were lead by Junior Tanner
Carbaugh who shot an even par 72. Senior Trevor Myers was next for the Spartans with a 76,
followed by Senior Michael Carbaugh with a 77 and then Junior Caleb Tilley completed the
team total with a 78. The Spartans took first place in the match that day. The next day the
Spartans traveled to Salem’s Hanging Rock Course to play another Three Rivers District
Match hosted
by Glenvar
High School.
Although the
Spartans did
not play their
best they still
won with a team total of 303. Coach Johnston added
after the match, “It’s great that we are consistent, three
times with the same total, but we have got to get
everyone cranking at the same time, and we have to get
under 300.” The final match of the week was held in
Radford at the Virginia Tech Pete Dye River Course
hosted by Radford High School. The Spartans were
hoping to break the barrier of the elusive total of 300,
on perhaps the hardest course of the District season.
Senior Trevor Myers
led the Spartans with
a 69 missing medal
honors by only one
shot. Junior Tanner
Carbaugh ended his
round with a solid
even par. Added to
these two scores were
Michael Carbaugh’s 79 and juniors Tyler Meredith and Caleb Tilley’s 81. The Spartans total for the
day was 301 missing their self imposed target by one stroke. At the end of the week the Spartans
had a commanding lead over the District with a 64 stroke lead. The GHS Spartans ended the regular
season with a 29-0-1 record that resulted in another regular season championship. The Spartans
began playing a number of non-district matches as they prepared for the District Tournament in late
September, and continued preparing for the Region Tournament in early October. In September, the
Spartans won the Three Rivers District Tournament with ease. The Spartans then played in the
Region Tournament in Galax and other places. Again the golfers captured another Regional
Championship. The team headed to Richmond Virginia with high hopes of capturing a State
Championship. The State Tournament was held at Midlothian Independence Golf Course. The
Spartans started out on the first day of the tournament, arriving before daybreak to prepare for the
opening round. Although their first front nine was their worst round of the season, the Spartan golf
team rallied back in the second nine with the scores of 77, 79, 79,. At the end of the first round the
2
Third row: Blake Martin, Jacob Hudson, Kyle Chafin, Chris Collins,
Caleb Tilley, Breanna Farmer, and Coach Johnston.
Second row: Taylor Dudding, Gunar Frazier, Tyler Meredith, Casey
Lucas, Andrew Epperley, and Kory Wilson.
Front row: Chad Robertson, Tanner Carbaugh, Trevor Myers, and
Michael Carbaugh.
Junior Tanner Carbaugh
displaying his putting stroke at
a regional meet in Galax.
Spartonian Staff
Editor in Chief
Janie Milliron
Staff
Brianna Caldwell
Katie Davis
Rose Glarner
Stephanie Hall
Mykala Ingram
Brittney Jarrells
Courtney Songer
Heath Wilson
Chelsey Williams
Faculty Advisor
Michael Etzler
Contact us at
spartonian@mail.gilesk12.org

Spartans owned a nine stroke lead over Galax. After eating a quick breakfast, the Spartans headed out for the final round of the
tournament. Five of the six Spartans found the fairway of the 1 st hole. The first scores reported were 88, 81, 79, 82, 79, and finally a
74, for a team total of 313. The Spartans were not in the clear just yet, they still needed two more solid scores to finalize their
declaration. Junior Tanner Carbaugh hit his second shot on hole 15 within two feet to make a birdie to bring him to one over par for
the round.
The team now needed only for Trevor Myers to par in for the victory, but the senior had another finish in mind. After a drive of over
320 yards on the 17 th hole, he played his second shot to within about eleven feet for an eagle and just missed the putt. His next put was
for a birdie. Myers stood over a treacherous downhill putt of about ten feet for birdie. Perfectly still, Myers barely struck the putt, and
half-way to its destination began to lift his putter toward the bright clear blue October sky. Seconds later as the putt fell into the cup,
the GHS Spartans had made their Declaration, and claimed the 2009, Group A, State Golf title.
Senior Trevor Myers hits his last putt in his high school career.
This putt is known as “the putt heard ‘round the world” because it won the State Championship for the Spartans.
Coach W.R. Johnston holding the
T.R.D. Coach of the year award.
All Photos courtesy of Coach
Johnston.
This is Sparta! by Heath Wilson
The ancient Spartans were meaner than your
average ferocious tiger. During their time of reign
around 1200 B.C, these warriors were the most feared
of all the armies combined throughout Europe. You
might think to yourself that they were kind to their own
people, but the reality is that they enslaved their own
people as well as the people that
they conquered such as the
Ancient Greeks. How would you
have become a Spartan warrior?
Well, life would start off really
rough for you. As soon as you
were born your parents would
drop you off in the middle of
nowhere and would not come back
for you for three days. At the end
of the three days if you were still alive you were considered to become a great warrior. At
the age of nine, you were automatically sent of to a training camp to become a warrior.
The women of Sparta were treated no differently. While the women did hold certain
powers and responsibilities in ancient Sparta, the men of that time were considered more
dominant. The women were forced to cut their hair short and enter training camp to
become a warrior. When the women got married they were usually in their mid teens, and the men were usually in
their thirty’s. This was done in order to keep the male more dominant. The husband would pick his wife by the
woman’s working ability and toughness. After the husband had chosen his wife, the man would pay the woman’s
father for what he thought the woman was worth.
G.H.S. Varsity Golf
Roster
Trevor Myers 12 th
Michael Carbaugh 12 th
Chad Robertson 12 th
Chris Collins 12 th
Tanner Carbaugh 11 th
Caleb Tilley 11 th
Tyler Meredith 11 th
Andrew Epperley 11 th
Blake Martin 11 th
Casey Lucas 11 th
Taylor Dudding 10 th
Kyle Chafin 9 th
Breanna Farmer 9 th
Gunar Frazier 8 th
Kory Wilson 8 th
Jacob Hudson 8 th
The Spartans ruled until the Athenians took over. Those Spartans were not afraid of anybody or anything. The
Spartans strived to succeed in every way. GHS is just like those Spartans because we are not afraid of anybody or
anything. Our school strives to be the best at everything, so we can keep our Spartan name.
3

Chelsea Booth, Ashley Estep, and Alex Brehm
practice their routine during fourth period in the
auditorium.
sometimes get aggravated with each other at practices, we leave our
problems at the door. We come together and support the football
team. For example, when the band plays Thriller or The Fight Song,
Colorguard stands on the bleachers and screams and cheers no matter
what. Basically, somewhere along the way we forgive each other and
just have a blast.
However, Colorguard isn’t just fun and games. Being a member
of Colorguard takes more than slapping on some make-up, getting
dressed up in sparkly outfits, and twirling a flashy flag. It takes up a
huge amount of time. Practicing constantly is the key ingredient. The
only way to memorize the routines is by practicing for long periods
of time. No matter the bruises, the bumps, the jammed fingers, or the
weather, practice continues after school on Tuesdays and Thursdays!
It takes time to learn dances and routines, especially for the new
members. So it requires patience, tons of it. Captain Heather Katz
said, “By being captain for two years, I learned you need patience.
You have to work with people and realize that everybody has
different abilities. If you don’t take the time to work with everyone,
Colorguard by Chelsey Williams
Over the past few years, Giles High School Colorguard has consisted
of few members. Last year there were only five. So it was a bit of a surprise
when 14 girls joined Colorguard this year. Why did so many join? “I joined
because it looked fun and exciting,” said Ashley Estep, “It is exciting to
know that you’ll be the visual effects, especially for The Phantom of the
Opera directed by Kevin White.”
From the beginning of summer, Colorguard had to participate in
several weeks’ worth of camps and practices. A few weeks after school let
out for the summer, the Fundamentals Camp started. We covered the basics
such as how to march with our flags and how to perform fundamental
moves used regularly in routines. Colorguard Camp came soon after. We
learned our first two routines for The Phantom of the Opera. The last camp
that Colorguard attended was Band Camp. It was probably the hardest of
all. During the week long camp we put marching, the routine, and the sets
together.
Personally, I think being a part of Colorguard is like being in a big
family
with only
sisters.
Even
though we
Cierra Riggs, Sara Stallings, Heather Katz, Chelsea Booth,
Chelsey Williams, Brianna Boone, Alex Brehm, Katie
Davis, Katie Meredith, Elizabeth Meredith, Mascot Matt
Perkins, Amber Hurley, Rose Glarner, and Ericka Cottle
pose for a group picture after an energetic pep rally.
Photo by Courtney Songer
there will be a serious problem. We wouldn’t be able to perform as well as we are capable of achieving.” Although it is very time
consuming and involves more than a little effort, I don’t regret joining Colorguard. I love it.”
4
Captain Heather Katz stresses the
importance of patience.

Photo by: Courtney Songer
The Giles Marching Spartans at 2009 Homecoming Parade.
Photo by: Courtney Songer
Alexis Ayers, Todd McCracken, Isaac Wall, Murdock Link
are shown here marching in the 2009 Homecoming parade.
Giles High School Band
by Katie Davis
This year the Giles High School Band has seventy-five band
members fourteen of them are in Color guard which are included in
the band for 2009-2010 marching season. This year’s show is
Phantom of the Opera, which includes the songs: Phantom of the
Opera, Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again, Masquerade, and
Music of the Night. The band also has a Phantom, Drum Major
Aaron Bane, and Justine the Phantom’s secret lover, is played by
Color guard Captain Heather Katz. The band has had two
competitions so far this year. The first competition was at James
Monroe. Here the band received a score of 90.6 overall which
captured first place in the division and Dustin Davis and Elizabeth
Daddazio shared the award for over all best soloist. They also
were over all 1 st runner up Grand Champion in the competition. At
the second competition, at Princeton High School the band was
ranked 2 nd in percussion, color guard, drum majors, and overall in
division AAA. This year for the Homecoming game the band
played a new song when the homecoming court was announced. It
is “Can’t Help Falling In Love.” When I asked Mr. White how the
band might improve this year. He responded, “The band is
constantly improving and this year has already passed my
expectations. They have become one of the elite bands in our area.
As we are approaching the end of marching season, we have to
switch gears into Symphonic Band which is a big change. I am so
anxious and excited to see how the transition goes.” I also asked
him if money were available which instruments or equipment he
would buy for the students. He said, “We are in desperate need of
bigger instruments, such as sousaphones, and tuba’s. With the
band program growing, we are actually running out of instruments
for the students to play. Since Mr. White has no assistance he is
often asked how he handles large amounts of students. He said, “I
am very blessed with a wonderful group of young individuals. A
lot of responsibility falls on student leaders of the band. These
section leaders who have been in band for many years know my
expectations and are very disciplined in this medium. They can see
mistakes, and know how to approach fixing them. Without these
students the band would not be anywhere close to the high level
where we are right now.”
Kaitlin Stevers
practices for the
Phantom of the
Opera show.
Photo by: Pat McCracken
Photo by:
Katie Davis
5

6
Theatre members Aaron Bane and Gina Modica
rehearse their lines after school.
Characters Actors
Mrs. Stevenson ` Emily Fields
1 st Operator Carli Klecak
1 st Man Stuart Sublett
George Aaron Bane
Chief Operator Carli White
2 nd Operator Rose Glarner
3 rd Operator Cassidy Ayers/Chris Johnson
4 th Operator Elizabeth Meredith
Informational Operator Cassidy Ayers
Hospital Receptionist Gina Modica
Western Union Avery Mahaney
Sergeant Duffy Shayne Taylor
Lunch Room Attendant Fred Stump
Backstage Crew Katie Meredith
Backstage Crew Angela Cutler
Backstage Crew Taylor McCroskey
Lights and Sound Crew Jacob Gilmore
Lights and Sound Crew Jacob Gann
Lights and Sound Crew Kaitlyn Hagreen
Lights and Sound Crew Murdoch Link
Director Barbara Scheid
Theatre News at GHS! by Rose Glarner
The Giles High School theatre members are exploring more creative
sides to theatre this year. Last year the school participated in a
competition play called, “The Most Clichéd Elevator Play in the History
of the Universe.” Its directors, Mr. .Peter Binkley and Ms. Barbara
Scheid, did an amazing job helping the actors involved gain character
control and development. The play was performed by the cast against
other local schools and went on to win against the first part of the regional
contest. Although, the entry did not reach the ultimate first place at
state’s, it was a huge success and those involved in it enjoyed the humor
and character differences needed.
This year’s play is called, “Sorry, Wrong Number.” Ms. Barbara
Scheid will be the only director this year, and is as always, giving it her
all to lead the actors to success. There are some old cast members as well
as new members who are eager to gain even more attention than last
year’s competition entry play. The students involved meet after school
during the week for hard work to all-around improve the play.
The date of competition is set for November 7 at Radford High School.
Congratulations to all those who earned a part in this year’s competition
play!
Members of the
cast brainstorm
ways to make
the competition
play a success.
Actors shown
are Avery
Mahaney, Carli
Klechak, Aaron
Bane and Rose
Glarner
Virginia Wickline works hard
mastering her part as an
operator.

Ms. Matlock decorated her own door to spread
the Spartan cheer.
Decking the
Halls of Giles
High
by Janie Milliron
It was a warm summer
evening when Ms. Whitney
Matlock realized that the
halls of Giles High were
inexcusably bland. There
were dull lockers with
boring bricks in between
them and every few yards
there might have been a
motivational poster, but
nothing exciting. How were
these monotonous halls
suppose to inspire Spartan
spirit in the students? There
was nothing in the hall that
could light a fire in the students and it seemed as if they were doomed to another
boring school year.
The doors in the history wing celebrate the
The idea of the same halls and the same lack of spirit did not sit well with Ms.
football team.
Matlock. She was ready for a change. As head of the pep club Ms. Matlock took the
initiative and came up with the idea of decorating the classroom doors. Each wing of the school was assigned a different sport to
celebrate. The math wing celebrates the golf team, the English wing makes homage to the cross-country team, the science wing
commemorates the volleyball teams, and the history wing uses their doors to pump up the football spirit. This plan, however, did not
get off the ground without a hitch. Every door was supposed to be decked in a large piece of either red or blue paper furnished by the
school. Some students were appointed by teachers to decorate the doors. It took a long time for the doors to get decorated, but when
the decorating was finally completed the halls came alive with the fighting spirit of the ancient Spartans. Despite these problems, the
halls of Giles High have been looking a lot peppier. During each spirit week this year, there was a definite increase in the students
participating. Students who normally do not care about school spirit enjoyed sporting their cowboys hats on western day and dressing
in out-dated clothing for decade day. Ms. Matlock’s Spartan spirit seems to be as contagious as the swine flu. The question now
seems to be, what will happen to the doors and the spirit when fall sports have ended and the trophies are all stored away? Then it will
be time to celebrate the winter sports! The students of Giles High do not stop being Spartans just because football has ended. Just like
the steadfast spirit of the Spartans of old, a little cold weather will not prevent the Giles High Spartans from cheering on their fellow
fighters. The door decorations will stand strong and never waver.
The doors in the science hall are all
about Volleyball.
7

Singing Opportunities at GHS
By Rose Glarner
Mr. Larry Marion is helping music lovers at Giles High
School find just the right musical group to join. Right now there
are three musical groups available for students to join. They
include: Chorale, Women’s Chorus and Chorale Ensemble. The
singers involved work on their range and memorizing songs to
be performed during the school year. Each member is vital to
making each group able to achieve the best possible. The
accompanist to each group is Ms. Nancy Noble.
8
Women’s Chorus(Above Right) Amber Hurley, Candace
Gordon, Hayley Neel, Brooke McNeer, Sydney Fields,
Ashley Estep, Tuesday Alley, Elizabeth Meredith, Jennifer
Bradley, Beth Stump, Jessie Farmer, Kesha Akers, Danielle
Vaught, Breanna Farmer, Savannah Stanley, Kaitlin Nichole
Stevers, Leslie Meadows, Ameilia Epling, Lauren Dalton,
Amanda Dwojewski, Andie Ruble and Katie Wilburn
Choral Ensemble (Right) Anthony Woodyard, Kyle
Munsey, Chris Johnson, Virginia Wickline, Hannah Ruark,
Diamond Meadows, Blair McGee, Amber Lee, Kellan Alls,
Hayley Wilburn, Kelsey Hayes, Blake Martin, Kyle Chafin
and Seth Gautier
Symphonic Chorale (Above) Avery Mahaney, Dustin Davis,
Kyle Munsey, Jeremiah Griggs, Ben Allamong, Anthony
Woodyard, Brad Lipes, Max Ratcliffe, Justin Loveday, Carson
Journell, Blake Martin, Tanner Martin, Kyle Chafin, Gianni
Massaro, Seth Gautier, Chris Johnson, Chelsea Cole, Blair
Mcgee, Virginia Wickline, Alex Hawks, Kelsey Hayes, Hayley
Wilburn, Chrissy Stump, Ciara Whitten, Kelsy Sylvestor,
Diamond Meadows, Olivia Humphreys, Taneisha Campbell, ,
Brittany Agee, Emily Fields, Molly Gusler, Fallon Klecak, Marti
Williams, Elena Anderson, Emily Harrell, Rose Glarner, Kellan
Alls and Sara Givens
Your graduation supply and class ring specialists!
Gus Gee ● Joe Assaid
Herff Jones/Valley Graduate Services
606 S. Market Street ● Salem, VA 24153
(540) 444-7323
Paul A. Olson, MD Pamela B. Olson, FNP
219 South Buchanan Street Pearisburg, Virginia
540-921-4343 540-726-3000

Accentuating the Positive
by Courtney Songer
Senior Ambassador Anthony Woodyard eats lunch
with 8 th grader Rachel Wrotniewski during
orientation.
Who are the people who are running around
frantically in the red polos at school events? They
happen to be the small group of Giles High School
Sophomore, Junior, and Senior Ambassadors who strive to insure that you have a good experience visiting Giles High School. Mr.
Larry Marion, the program sponsor came up with the idea for the club and started it during the 02-03 school year. “I wanted to have a
group of student leaders that would greet visitors as well a good group of role models to accentuate the positive aspects of our school,”
he says.
Front: Heather Katz, Courtney Songer, Amber Lee, Blair MaGee,
Hannah Ruark.
Back: Aaron Bane, Cassie Martin, Anthony Woodyard, Avery
Mahaney, Janie Milliron.
Not Pictured: Amanda Seymore and Chelsey Williams. Photo By: Mr. Larry
Marion
Many times when you arrive at a location such as a school in which you’d never visited before you are left on your own to figure
out where to park, which door to take, and where the gym, stadium, or meeting is located. That experience is extremely irritating,
nerve racking, and easily eliminated by the GHS Ambassadors. There are twelve Ambassadors in the program and they usually
manage to have two or more Ambassadors at each event in which they are needed. These students show you where to park, where you
can get ready for the event, where the event is located, and make sure you, as visitors, are sincerely comfortable by supplying food,
drink, and a friendly environment.
They are chosen yearly by application and teacher recommendation as well as an interview with Mr.
Ambassadors
Heather Katz
Amber Lee
Cassie Martin
Amanda Seymore
Anthony Woodyard
Hannah Ruark
Blair Mcgee
Janie Milliron
Courtney Songer
Chelsey Williams
Aaron Bane
Avery Mahaney
SODA
Olivia Humphreys
Blake Martin
Cody Vaughn
Dustin Davis
Larry Marion and graduating Ambassadors. Student grades, behavior and previous involvement in Giles
High School and the community all affect eligibility to the program. Their mission statement reads, “The
GHS Ambassadors plan to proudly represent our school
though promoting a positive image, being role models
to other students, and welcoming guest with open
arms.” In the past, the Ambassadors have assisted in
sport and academic teams, MACC matches, elementary
students attending our plays, seventh grade visits and
open houses, SACS Review Team, when new students
and their families tour the school, Senior Awards, and
the Baccalaureate and Awards assemblies. Also, the
Ambassadors as well as the SODA members put
together a program yearly to visit elementary middle
schools Eastern and Macy to teach them about being a
better person and how to be friendly and respectful to
others. Mr. Larry Marion says, “I am very proud of the
job that the Ambassadors do and I sincerely hope that
any and all students that ever need help with anything
will feel comfortable asking for help from the
Ambassadors.”
Junior Ambassadors Courtney Songer and
Chelsey Williams pause from assisting 8 th
grade students during orientation for a quick
photo.
9

New Attendance Policy by Brittney Jarrells
After taking the annual handbook test in their English class and the yearly lecture Mr. Brown and
Mr. Mills delivered to each grade level at the beginning of the school year, everyone at GHS had
heard about the new attendance policy in place. Most of you probably expect this article coming from
me, considering my attendance record from last year was a catastrophe. However, I passed my
sophomore year and was also exempt from all my exams. I completed my waiver and had each
absence supported in writing from a legal guardian or physician. I, along with several other students
in the state, seemed to have increased the need for a new attendance policy to be enforced. This new
policy has created mixed feelings. After hearing several discussions among our peers, I decided to
conduct two surveys; one for the teachers, and a different yet somewhat similar questionnaire for the
students. I also talked to Mr. Brown about who created the policy, why it is needed, and whether or
not he feels the policy to be confusing.
Each year the faculty at Giles completes a year-ending interview form for both Principal Brown
and Assistant Principle Mills to evaluate over summer break. For the past two years, the decrease in student attendance has been the
leading concern brought to their attention. The entire faculty had input in determining the use of four unverified excused absences in
the policy. It has been stated by Mr. Brown that the administration is “always open to suggestions on improving how we operate
GHS. Just like anything else that is new, this will take some adjustment.”
After obtaining information about this new policy from Principal Brown and conducting a survey from both teachers and students,
I’ve heard nearly every positive and negative opinion possible. One concern that was noted involved students not feeling well, yet
coming to school anyway
due to not wanting to have
to attend school during
exam week. This could
result in more sickness
spreading through the
halls of Giles. From the
twenty juniors who
volunteered to complete
the survey, every response
believed that the policy is,
in fact, confusing and
should somehow combine
the twelve acceptable
unverified excused
absences and the four verified excused absences into the same number, such as six or ten. Seven of the twenty stated that they are
going “to the extremes” to be exempt from their final exams, which shows that the policy seems to be having an effect. However,
thirteen of the twenty say they will most likely be taking the final exams in each class, and two stated they are already guaranteed to
be completing the exams at the end of the 2009-2010 school year.
Attendance Policy 2009-2010
1. If you miss more than half of the school day, you may not attend any school sponsored event scheduled for that day
unless the absence is a verified excused absence.
• A verified excused absence being a documented absence from a doctor, dentist, lawyer, or court
officer. A death in the immediate family may be accepted based on the principal’s evaluation of the
situation.
2. When you are successful on the SOL test associated with a course, and you have four or fewer non-verified
excused absences, you may choose to be exempt from your final exam. For non-SOL classes, students must have a
C average or better, and have four or fewer non-verified excused absences to be exempt from your final exam.
• A non-verified excused absence being an absence that is supported only through a note from the
parent/guardian stating the child was absent and they knew the child was absent from school.
NOTE- Exam exemption policy does not apply to any weighted classes or dual-enrollment classes taught through New
River Community College.
In conclusion, I do see how the new policy will bring improvement and increased attendance from several high school students.
No one likes to be stuck in school during exam week after the pool has opened and sunshiny days have begun. I’m interested in
seeing whether this policy is indeed helpful. Only time will tell how successful the new requirements will be, but hopefully it will
show that Giles High School has yet again made a change for the better.
10
New P.E. teacher Mrs. Stephine
Webster
New Teacher at G.H.S
by Katie Davis
Giles High School welcomes new P.E. teacher Stephine Webster. Mrs. Webster
graduated from Roanoke College in 2008. When asked why did she choose to be a P.E.
teacher she responded, “I wanted to be a Athletic trainer, but when I started classes I didn’t
like it. So I started taking education classes, and loved it. I love playing sports and staying
fit. I truly enjoy being a P.E. teacher at Giles. All of the staff have been really supportive
and helped me learn the in’s and out’s of GHS.” Mrs. Webster completed her student
teaching at William Byrd High School in Vinton, Virginia, and Cave Spring Elementary in
Roanoke, Virginia. Mrs. Webster likes how Giles feels, “It’s like a small community,
where everybody knows everybody, and you can ask anyone to lend a hand and they are
more than willing to do so.” Mrs. Webster said that the most important part of teaching is
just being there for the students and making sure they know the importance of their
education, because without education it is a lot harder than it needs to be. When Mrs.
Webster was little she said that she wanted to be a jockey. She also played basketball,
softball, and ran cross country and track. Some of her future goals are to start a family in a
few years, and to someday go back to Floyd County where she grew up and teach.

National Youth Leadership Forum
participant on National Security: Jake
Altizer
Photo by Janie Millirons
Securing the Future by Chelsey Williams
“Imagine being 16 or 17 years old and the responsibility of securing the United States at
home and abroad rests on your shoulders. Through specialized simulations, the National Youth
Leadership Forum on National Security strives to put students in the driver’s seat of building a
strategy that will uphold our national security,” said Marguerite Regan, Dean of Academic
Affairs for National Youth Leadership Forum. This fall student Jake Altizer was nominated to
travel to Washington D.C with people from across the United States and do just that.
To be eligible for this amazing journey, scholars have to be nominated by a teacher or
alumni of the program, be in tenth grade or above, and maintained at least a B plus average.
The Forum on National Security sets the strictest standards for nomination and enrollment.
Only the nation’s highest-achieving students qualify for selection.
The six day program gives student a chance to explore careers in national security,
intelligence, and the diplomatic corps. Scholars interact with policy makers and senior military
officers who provide insight into current conflicts. They also simulate a decision making
process similar to our nation’s policy makers. This helps them think critically and adjust to
speaking publicly. It also is an opportunity to take charge and become a leader.
Even though they worked hard, Jake still enjoyed himself. He loved meeting new people from
all over the country, and he also took pleasure in touring and sight seeing in Washington D.C.
everyday. Jake especially recommends this opportunity for students who are interested in
politics and national security.
Celebrating Hispanic Heritage
by Janie Milliron
October is a month full of celebration; not only for Halloween enthusiasts but also for the lucky
few who are able to celebrate their Hispanic Heritage. October is designated as the month to
celebrate Hispanic Heritage, but sadly only a select few at Giles High School are able to celebrate
such a rich cultural background. One of those lucky few is junior Armando Carrillo.
Armando’s heritage comes from the soft rolling foothills of Mexico where both of his parents
were born. Armando, however, was not born in Mexico but instead he came to be in the blistering
heat of Huston, Texas. When Armando was five years old his family returned to Mexico to live for
a year. It was during this time that Armando was able to truly embrace his heritage, and become
fluent in Spanish.
After much moving around in Texas and Nevada, the Carrillo family decided to join one of
Armando’s uncles in the Appalachian Mountains of Virginia. They opened a new Mexican Grill near Dairy Queen in Pearisburg
called La Barranca. On afternoons Armando can be found at his parents’ restaurant working as a waiter. He enjoys listening to the
mariachi music while he serves the food of his native land. Does he miss his far away home and relatives? Of course he does! He
cannot wait to see his grandparents, aunts and uncles in Mexico. But for now he is content with being in Giles County sharing his rich
heritage with us here.
Armando Carrillo
commemorates his Hispanic
heritage daily by speaking
Spanish at home.
201 Cascade Drive
Pembroke Virginia 24136
(540)-626-4567
Featuring everything from gas,
Cascade apparel, convenience items,
and a wonderful café, Tangent sits
right on Cascade Drive, offering you
everything you need to make your hike
to the beautiful waterfall comfortable
and relaxing.
11

Erica Johnson and Chelsea
Warner bring driver safety to
students’ attention by dressing
as crash test dummies.
Automobile Wrecks
by Brianna Caldwell
Have you ever been in a car accident before? Chances are you have whether it is just a
small fender bender or a big collision. According to sadd.org in 2005 3,467 15 to 20 year old
drivers were killed and 281,000 were injured in car accidents. 10.2%students nationwide rarely
ware a seatbelt when riding in someone else’s car. In the survey that I conducted about wrecks
at GHS, all the drivers were wearing seatbelts; however the majority of the passengers were
not. It is important to always wear your seatbelt weather you are just going down the road or a
long trip. Always remember to be careful whenever you are on the roads.
I am sure you have told your parents that you will be fine when the weather is bad. The
truth is you can not control what happens with the weather. Most teens underestimate the
weather and believe they
can handle the “unlikely”
damage it can cause. You
never know where a patch
of black ice is or when you
will hydroplane. If the
weather outside is nasty, try
to avoid driving unless it is
absolutely necessary When
it is raining outside, you do
not always have to drive the
speed limit; you are
allowed to go slower if you
feel like you need to.
Though even when the weather is clear do not forget to pay attention to the road because you
never know when something could happen.
Another leading cause of wrecks is not checking your blind spots. Always remember to
check several times before making a move. A car could easily pull out and never be seen before
you quickly change lanes and collide with it. Make sure you are always alert and prepared for
everything, even if you are in the passenger seat.
For the safety of yourself and others, always pay attention to the road and never underestimate anything. An accident could
happen at any time.
“Stress”- How Do I Handle It While At School?
by Katie Davis
Stress can often be a part of a high school student’s life. Many students find themselves worrying
about their grades, entering a new class, being called on in class,
not knowing the answers to questions, and being successful in
everything they do overall. Everyone reacts to stress in different
ways based on age and/ or their anxiety level. Here are several
techniques to help students deal with stress and how to cope with
situations dealing with stress.
1. Establish routines and set schedules.
2. Make sure you get plenty of rest and eat properly.
3. Talk to someone you trust about your problems and concern.
4. Have fun while doing activities that you like. This will help you refocus on some positive things.
5. Set good examples by handling your own stress in a positive way.
6. Manage your time wisely. It is good to give yourself plenty of time to do your work if you want to do well in that class.
7. Get organized, have a system of organization for note-taking, keeping track of assignments, and other important papers.
8. Create a good study environment. Creating a good study environment can increase your ability to learn and do better in
school.
9. Get enough sleep. Researcher’s show that those who are sleep-deprived have more trouble learning, and remembering, and
perform poorly in many areas.
10. Learn study skills. Study skills might help your performance in your classes.
Sources: http://stress.about.com/od/studentstress/ht/schoolstress.htm Images From: Google Images
12

Speak Up, Speak Out Against Domestic Violence
by Mykala Ingram
Domestic violence is a vicious cycle and is a problem commonly overlooked in the United
States. People who use violence have one main purpose and that is to gain control over its
victims. No one should have to fear physical, psychological or emotional abuse. Even though most
emotional abuse is ignored, it is still abuse. Abuse should never happen to anyone, anytime, ever,
but in reality over 5.5 million people are abused annually according to the American Institute on
Domestic Violence. It’s never the victim’s fault and we can all make a stand against domestic
violence by knowing the signs and how to help.
People who are being abused may seem afraid or anxious
around their abuser, go along with everything the abuser says and
talk about their abuser’s temper or jealousy. If you see these signs
don’t always assume there is some kind of violence, but if you feel
someone is in a dangerous situation, speak up, don’t keep quite. Many people who suspect domestic
violence don’t speak up for fear of hurting the victim’s feelings. You always should ask, don’t wait on
someone to come to you with their problems. You should express concern for the situation instead of
judging or blaming the victim. The most common mistake people make who suspect violence is giving advice
instead of just offering
their help.
Domestic violence falls into a cycle that is common in most abusive relationships. The act of violence is what starts the cycle, but
after the incident has occurred the abuser starts to show signs of guilt. Usually this guilt is not brought on by the feelings of remorse,
but the possibility of being caught. The next stage is excuses; the abuser will often give reasons why the victim deserved the abuse.
After all this, everything will seem normal and the abuser will act as if nothing happened and then go on with life until the next act of
violence.
There are many myths about domestic violence. One myth is that it is a problem for poor women and women of color. Actually
domestic violence happens to people of all races, religions, and ethnic groups. Another myth is that some people deserve to be hit. No
one ever deserves to be abused no matter what the offense. A myth often heard is that domestic violence is a private matter. Family,
friends and co-workers are all involved when they know someone that is being abused.
These are horrible facts about domestic violence, but the truth is there is a positive side. Every person who becomes informed
about the issues can make a stand and help. Getting the word on how to help to others, volunteering at shelters that help victims and
keeping all your relationships healthy can have a positive effect on domestic violence. For more information on domestic violence go
the Women’s Resource Center webpage at www.wrcnrv.org or call toll free 540-639-9592. Images from Google images.
13

Tech Center Reborn by Stephanie Hall
The Tech Center has been apart of Giles county for forty years. It is
the place for taking classes such as; Health Care, Auto Technology and
Machine Technology. There are currently 184 students taking classes
there. As you may have noticed, there has recently been some
construction at the Tech Center.
Since the building is forty years old, there are multiple repairs that
need to be done. Some of the renovations include upgrading the
electrical system, the plumbing, and the heating and cooling system.
There is also work being done to the overall structure of the building.
Most of the labs in the Tech Center are very overcrowded due to all of
the equipment, so these labs are being expanded. They are also adding, a new main office area, a new addition to the Auto Tech lab,
new Health Occupations rooms and a lab, and a new Machine Technology lab.
The areas that the Machine Tech and Health Occupations used to occupy are
being turned into space for the Welding Program, the Computer Technology, the
General Education Degree program, the Network Administrator/IT office, and
the storage area.
The Renovations began on May 21, 2009, and are expected to end in
August of 2010. When all the work is done, the estimated cost of the
renovations is around $6.3 million dollars. This includes all the upgrades in the
systems, the rebuilding of rooms and labs, and the cost of workers and supplies.
The Tech Center will be improved greatly due to these renovations and surely
all the students taking classes there, and all the students to come, will agree that
this is one of the best things to happen at the Tech Center since it was built.
14
Improvements to Steven C. Ragsdale’s Field by Brianna Caldwell
The new bleacher design keeps trash and small
children from falling to the ground.
This year we have been lucky enough to get new bleachers at Giles
High School and Narrows High School. The bleachers cost the very worthwhile
and handsome sum of $1,457,274.93 for both schools. There are many reasons
behind replacing the old bleachers. The main reason is that state regulations
require that there can not be gaps or spaces in bleachers. The old bleachers were
hazardous to small children who could easily fall through cracks. Also personal
belongings often fell on to the cold wet ground far below. The wooden
bleachers on the away side were even more hazardous. Many times the
bleachers would get wet from rain and cause spectators to slip and fall. Also,
choral students, who help clean up after games, say that now the gaps are gone
from the bleacher it is a lot easier to keep the field looking neat and tidy. The
new bleachers are able to seat 2,300 on the home side and 1,000 on the away
side. Fans are interested in seeing the new bleachers, but it depends more on the
competition and weather if they will come out on Friday nights for the games. It
took about six months to complete both sides of the bleachers. Many students
say that the new seating arrangement has improved the look of Ragsdale Field
and shows more spirit since they sport the Spartan colors. Along with the new
bleachers we also have new score boards and timers on the field. We even have
a new sign in dedication to Coach Ragsdale. GHS appreciates the support from
our community and the many positive comments that have been shared with
administrators, teachers, and staff over the last few months.

Traveling To Elsewhere
by Chelsey Williams
Have you ever wondered what comes after this life? Where do you go? Who do you meet, if
anyone? Is there something better awaiting our arrival? These thoughts plague millions of people
everyday. You might have even thought about it a few times yourself. So, why not write a book
about it?
Well, Gabrielle Zevin, author of Elsewhere, takes this kind of thinking to a whole new level.
With her erratic imagination, she creates an out of this world dimension, that’s not your standard
Afterlife. She paints a vivid picture of a place called Elsewhere where time is reversed. This is
where everyone goes, no matter what.
The main character Elizabeth Hall, or Lizzie, wakes up to find herself sleeping somewhere
other than her bed at home. She is scared and confused, like any normal person would be. She
soon realizes that she is traveling on a ship, and no one knows where to. Aboard this ship are
millions of people of all ages. Some people are famous, and some are old. Everybody is different.
They have nothing in common, except the fact that they all have disabilities or injuries. Lizzie
herself has stitches in the side of her head.
What is even more alarming is the fact that she does not understand how she came to be on
the ship. She does not know where her family is or why they left her alone. However, everything
starts to make sense when she receives an invitation to come to the top deck of the ship. There she
finds a set of binoculars. Through the lenses, she sees her family at her funeral. Then everything
clicks together. All the puzzling pieces, all the strange people, and all the weird memories make
sense. She is dead. Everyone on the ship is. They are all traveling to Elsewhere.
There, Lizzie has to come to terms with her new life, and leave the old one behind. Can she
do it? How can she leave everything she has known behind? Who will help her overcome the past
and move on to accepting the life she has now? If you read this book, you will find not only the
answers, but also an amazing book that will stay in your mind forever.
“Every so often a book
comes along with a premise
so fresh and arresting, it
seems to exist in a category
all its own.” – The New
York Times Book Review.
15

Friday Night Lights
by Brianna Caldwell
Blacksburg
Christiansburg
Haysi
7-35
0-55
49-29
Every Friday night in Giles, students and fans come out sporting their Spartan red and support Narrows 21-16
the Giles Spartans Football team. In the beginning of the season the team lost to Blacksburg and George Wythe 28-20
Christiansburg, but after those games the fans have seen some spectacular games including the Glenvar 30-28
George Wythe game and the Homecoming game against Glenvar. The team believes this season
will be a good one, and the fans can tell that the team has worked hard to make it so. Our boys
have come a long way and we are very proud of them.
East. Montgomery 28-36
16
Players Grade
Justin Gautier 12
Travis Robertson 12
Matt Bane 12
Dustin McCoy 12
Greg Ray 12
Jayke Dowdy 12
Andrew Eppling 12
Ryan Lucas 12
Justin Farmer 12
Tyler Thorne 12
Michael Trenar 12
Michael Acord 12
Dakota Stanley 12
Adam Baker 11
Chase Teats 11
Frankie Robertson 11
Robert Wilson 11
Max Ratcliff 11
Garret Blankenship 11
Blake W. Martin 11
Cody Ratcliff 11
Shane Trenar 11
Eric Gadd 11
Brad Kessinger 10
Zach Keaton 10
Gage Smith 10
Tyler Nelson 10
Cody Vaught 10
Bubba Workman 10
Jeremy Collins 10
Brooks Haynie 10
Matthew Worrell 10
Trey Freeman 10
Garret Lee 9
Chad Randel 9
Hunter Mathias 9
Kersley Dillion 9
Head Coach: Jeff Williams
Assistants: Bryan Strader,
Chris Bales, Jackie Evans,
Dusty Stump, Steve Wilson,
Jerry Huffman, Maurice
Milton, Randy Roe, Byron
Hurley

Get to Know Your Key Spartan Players
by Janie Milliron
We all know that the Giles Spartan varsity Football team is a quirky and energetic group of guys that is always eating. What
makes a team this way? The players that line the field every week are the building blocks of this determined team. So the question is,
are the players as quirky and energetic off the field? We interviewed
five key senior players to find out.
McCoy, Ray, Farmer, Robertson and Dowdy have very
interesting insight into the world of Spartan football.
Often times football players get a lot of dates. How many dates
have you been on since football season started? Do you have a
special someone?
Ray: I’ve been on a couple, but all with the same girl, my beautiful
amazing girlfriend, Rose Glarner.
Robertson: My beautiful special someone is Elizabeth Daddazio!
We go out to eat every once in a while =]
Who is your hero?
McCoy: The water boy!
Ray: My Uncle John, he played for West Virginia University and
the Colts. He was an amazing football player and one day, I want to
be as good as he was.
Robertson: My oldest brother in the Marines is definitely the person
I look up to.
If for some reason you could not spend your afternoons at a
grueling football practice bleeding your heart out, what would
you do instead?
McCoy: Hunt, fish or ride my four-wheeler
Dowdy: Watch football
Do you have any advice for upcoming Spartan Football Stars?
Robertson: Don’t quit and keep working to get better whenever you
can.
Ray: Keep working hard and listen to
all the coaches, they know what they
are talking about.
Do you have any last words for our
readers?
McCoy: I may not be a grizzly bear, but
I’m a bunny rabbit and I can scoot!
Farmer: I’m a grizzly bear and I eat
bunny rabbits.
We know that big manly football players need to eat. So tell us,
what is in your stomach right now?
Farmer: 3 waffles, 4 eggs, 4 pieces of bacon, 3 Salisbury steaks,
mashed potatoes, rice, gravy, 2 hotdogs, 2cheese burgers, fries, a
glass of orange juice, a glass of chocolate milk and some Powerade
Robertson: Mashed potatoes! Mmmmm!
What does football mean to you?
McCoy: It means a lot. I put a lot of hard work, effort and time into
it.
Robertson: Football is like another family but we share one specific
hobby.
Dowdy: Life!
Do you have any special rituals before a game to pump up?
Ray: I just try to relax and not get nervous.
Dowdy: I write “WFO” on my arm and listen to “Stomp” by Young
Buck.
Has your strength and size ever hurt anyone off the field?
Farmer: No, but I once broke a guy’s leg on the field.
Robertson: Yes, when my friends and I are messing around but I
never try to purposefully.
Your # 1 Source
for Local Sports
VIRGINIAN
LEADER
Visit our website
virginianleader.com
540-921-3434
17

18
Opponent Outcome
Blacksburg won
Christiansburg lost
Radford won
Pulaski lost
Floyd lost
Narrows N/A
Glenvar lost
George Wythe lost
The Spartans line up to play defense.
J.V. Football
by Mykala Ingram
The Spartans run off field to the team huddle.
The Spartans J.V. football team plays offense against the
Christiansburg Blue Demons.
Jordan Seaward runs down the field
tailed by the Demons.
Player #
Vaught, Cody 5
Haynie, Brooks 9
Morris, Jacob 10
Steele, Sam 11
Albert, Mark 12
Mathais, Hunter 15
Lee, Garrett 21
Mann, Ian 22
Lucas, Joseph 23
Ebright, A.J. 24
Smith, Gage 25
Elliott, Devin 31
Randall, Chad 32
Holt, Kyle 35
Keaton. Matt 36
Mitchell, Ethan 37
Minnick, Talon 42
Seaward, Jordan 43
Wall, Zeb 52
Collins, Jeremy 55
Smith, Jeff 56
Collins, Miller 57
Dillion, Kersely 66
Workman, Bubba 67
Frazier, Jacob 68
Dalton, Chris 69
Worrell, Matthew 72
Freeman, Trey 76
Cornette, Corion 77
Farmer, Jared 78
Williams, Evan 84
Smith, Logan 88
Coaches: Steve Wilson,
Jerry Huffman,
Maurice Milton

Opponent Outcome
Dublin lost
Radford won
Pulaski won
Floyd lost
Narrows won
Glenvar won
George Wythe won
8 th Grade Football by Mykala Ingram
The Spartans 8 th grade football team lines up to battle the Bobcats from Radford.
Coach Randy Roe gives the boys a timeout talk.
Ryan Johnson, Logan Merrix, Jonathan Ribbe and Drew Skewes chase after the Demons.
Red Flame Oil and Propane
“Our customers are our warmest friend”
403 Ripplemead road
Rippelmead VA 24136
540-921-3410
Player #
Perdue, Tyler 5
Journell, Carson 12
Ribbe, Jonathan 15
Shelor, John 21
Simmons, Zach 22
Blankenship, Jordan 23
Martin, Tanner 24
Martinez, Joey 32
Skewes, Drew 35
Boggess, Dusty 37
Merrix, Logan 43
Stephens, Charlie 44
Kemp, Christian 45
Dunford, Brody 51
Stanley, Cody 52
Martin, Zane 58
Searles, Andrew 60
Scott, Steven 64
Harless, Brandon 66
Lucas, James 67
Johnston, Dylan 71
Lipes, Brad 76
Jennelle, Jonathan 79
Bernard, Andrew 80
Gilbert, Jacob 84
Merrix, Michael 85
Lang, Paul 89
Johnson, Ryan 88/59
Coaches: Randy Roe
and Bryon Hurley
19

20
Varsity volleyball assists Auburn in hosting a fundraiser
to support Breast Cancer in their “Dig Pink” attire.
Giles High School is very proud of their
Lady Spartan Varsity Volleyball Team for having
a successful 2009 season. To start out the year,
Coach Burton invited Bob Bertucci from Temple
University to host a camp in our gymnasium,
where the team was taught to better themselves at
volleyball skills, such as digging, hitting, setting
and serving. They also traveled to Auburn to aid
in a fundraiser that supports breast cancer. The
ladies dressed in “Dig Pink” shirts, and the teams
earned over $2,500 for cancer research. Not only
are these girls remarkable at the sport they love
most, they also have big hearts and use their
talent to help those in need.
Megan Fisher, Jessie Boggess, Maya
Williams, Chelsea Barnett, and Beth Miles
join hands while the choral sings the Pledge
of Allegiance.
Lady Spartans Varsity Volleyball
by Brittney Jarrells
Varsity
Volleyball
Narrows L
Graham W
Christiansburg L
Graham W
Narrows W
Craig L
James Monroe W
Craig L
Christiansburg L
James Monroe W
Auburn L
Glenvar L
Radford L
Floyd L
East Mont W
Katy Griffith 12
Shanda Higginbotham 12
Cassie Martin 12
Michele Martin 12
Beth Miles 12
Rachel Smith 12
Chelsea Barnett 11
Amanda Byrd 11
Anna Millirons 11
Kathryn Stump 11
Maya Williams 10
Megan Fisher 10
Jessie Boggess 10
Coach Erin Burton
Asst. Coach Shana Midkiff
Chelsea Barnett and Beth Miles cover
front row and prepare for a hit from
Floyd County.
Senior Shanda Higginbotham
receives a hit during warm ups
before the Giles vs. Floyd
Senior Katy Griffith sends a
serve soaring over the net
during a GHS home game.

Sophmore Sydney Fields keeps
her team’s spirit up during their
game against Floyd
Lady Spartans J.V. Volleyball
by Courtney Songer
This season of JV Volleyball consists of twelve
freshmen and sophomores coached by Coach Ms. Whitney
Matlock and Assistant Coach Ms. Mandy Havens. The
Lady Spartans are led by team captains Hayley Wilburn
and Tiffany Cook. The team has been practicing since
August 3 rd for two hours each day. They have
accomplished eight wins which overshadow their six
losses. Coach Matlock says, “This team seems to have a
stronger bond than any others I have coached.” She also
adds that she is
extremely proud of all
of her players.
To the right,
Captain Hayley
Wilburn
launches the
ball to the
opposing team.
Sophomores Tiffany Cook
and Becca Price stay in
stance waiting to receive
the ball from their
opposing team.
# Player Grade
1 Marinna Dowdy
(Libero #22) 9
2 Paige Metro 10
3 Hayley Wilburn (Capt.) 10
4 Sydney Fields 10
5 Tiffany Cook (Capt.) 10
6 Michaela Ratcliffe 9
7 Becca Price 10
8 Beth Stump 9
9 Maggie Boggess 9
10 Kara Lilly 9
11 Margee Ragsdale 10
12 Ciara Whitten 10
Coach: Whitney Matlock
Asst. Coach: Mandy Havens
Pembroke Stop and Save
Hunting and Fishing Headquarters
138 Grill Rd, Pembroke VA 24136
(540)-626-7077
21

Front Runners Tarah Myers, Breannah
Carr, Dustin Davis, Ben Dillon and Casey
Mann race up a treacherous hill.
by Janie Milliron
Sophomore Jake Munsey
leads the field of varsity
runners at the Hilltop
Invitational in Lynchburg.
Senior Johnnie Fields and junior
Cody Vaughn race to the finish at the
Lord Botetourt Meet.
What is the weather like outside today? Is it a blistering hot scorcher? Is it so cold outside the front door that even Jack Frost will
not leave his house? Is the wind blowing like a tornado is about to rip through Giles County taking every single herd of cows with it?
No matter what the weather looks like outside the windows of Giles High there is always one constant factor.
Anyone looking out the windows of GHS, on any afternoon, will see the Spartan Cross-Country team running
through the weather.
This year the Spartan Cross-Country
team is flying through the finish lines and
owning the winner’s circle. This year
sophomore Jake Munsey is leading the boy’s
varsity team through the arduous courses and
hopefully to the state competition. A team,
however, is nothing without all it’s players,
or in this case it’s runners. Josh Yost,
Brandon Kelly, Brandon Bandy, Johnnie
Fields and Cody Vaughn finish out the top
seven Spartans. The girls varsity Spartans are
lead by sophomore Lindsey Jackson.
Lyndsey has had an excellent season this year
and put in many top ten finishes. Following
22
Jacob Stubbs, Lyndsey Jackson, Jake Munsey, Luke
Munsey and Kacey Mann all won medals at the Maroon
Tide Invitational.
behind Lyndsey are varsity runners Kacey
Mann, Janie Milliron, Nikki Martin, Tarah
Myers, Amber Caldwell and Breannah Carr.
The junior varsity and the middle school
teams have also been having a great year.
Eighth grader Brook Lavender has put in
numerous top ten finishes to make her first
season of Cross-Country a very promising
one. Luke Munsey, also an eighth grader,
has been the first to cut the finish line in
almost every race he has been in. Jacob
Stubbs the second member of the boy’s
eighth grade team has also given countless
top ten finishes in races where he gave his
Boys Varsity
Brandon Bandy
Cory Collins
Dustin Davis
Ben Dillon
Johnnie Fields
Mark Greenwood
Brandon Kelly
Jake Munsey
Dylan Raymond
Cody Vaughn
Matthew Williams
Josh Yost
Girls Varsity
Amber Caldwell
Breannah Carr
Lyndsey Jackson
Kacey Mann
Nikki Martin
Janie Milliron
Tarah Myers
8 th /Middle
School
Savannah Fletcher
Brook Lavinder
Luke Munsey
Jacob Stubbs
all. The Spartans have brought back over a dozen medals and
hopefully a few titles will follow. Hundreds of miles and trials have
prepared these high spirited Spartans for the regional competition
that will be held on Wednesday, October 21 at Camp Alta Mons.

Savannah Sweeney prepares to
rescue a hit from Floyd.
Eighth graders Leslie Meadows and
Alex Pennington stand ready to begin
a play during a rough game against
the Buffalos.
Lady Spartan 8 th Grade Volleyball
by Brittney Jarrells
8 th Grade
Volleyball
Name #
Alex Pennington 1
Savannah Sweeney 2
Olivia Steele 3
Shelly Southern 4
Makayla Cook 5
Amber Conley 8
Leslie Meadows 9
Emily Harless 10
Journie Widrig 11
Alex Hawks 12
Haley Morris 13
Lindsey Harless 14
Coach Renee Jesse GHS 8 th grade volleyball joins Auburn County in
helping support a cure for cancer. Photo by: Coach Erin Burton
Coach Jesse has done an incredible job training the
Giles 8 th grade volleyball team during the 2009 season.
The team practices for two hours during weekdays when
they are not attending games. They seem to have
developed a bond and better team skills, which has helped
put our 8 th grade team ahead of the game. They
participated in “Dig Pink” along with JV and Varsity
Volleyball to raise funds for cancer research. Giles, along
with Auburn, earned over $2,500 for men and women
affected with breast cancer. Giles High School is honored
to have such an amazing volleyball league and coaches,
and we can’t wait to see these ladies on the JV team next
year.
Visit the Covered Bridge on Clover Hollow Road in
Newport, VA.
Purchase Bricks for the Historical Clover Hollow Covered
Bridge Walkway!
Anything You Want to Say Forever Engraved in Stone!
Email: inwood@pemtel.net
23

24
Name Grade
Captain Adrian Johnson 12
Captain Amanda Seymoure 12
Sarah Carbaugh 11
Ashley Perkins 11
Mykala Ingram 10
Alex Shelor 10
Karisha Summers 10
Brianna Massaro 9
Haley Neel 9
Coach Kristin Radford
Varsity performs to the fight song, On Wisconsin, after a
touchdown.
Varsity Cheerleading
by Mykala Ingram photos by Brianna Caldwell
Varsity Cheerleaders dress as the coach for Spirit Week
before the game against Narrows.
Roger’s Body Shop
Roger Jennelle & Son
Owner/Operator
Phone: (540) 921-2524 208 Curve Rd.
Home: (540) 921-2520 Pearisburg, VA 24134
ASE and I-CAR Certified
Spartan Cheerleaders get the crowd on their feet for the Giles and Haysi game.

JV Cheerleading
by Katie Davis
photos by Mykala Ingram
Chelsie Stafford
Savanah Wilson
Savannah Honaker
Amie Cooper
Abi Stafford
Jessie Farmer
Emily Harrell
Miranda Flack
Alexia Burton
Ashley Estep
25

26
8 Th Grade Cheerleading
Photos by Mykala Ingram
Riley Hevener
Chelsie Martin
Allie Perkins
Sarina Saunders
Amber Williams
Laykan Comer