Southern Classic Again Assists JUCO/Small School Bound Players and Their Coaches

Ron Bailey, Publisher

For second straight year Needham Cheely is putting on a can't miss exposure camp for certain student athletes.

March 24, 2009– While college is a goal all can aspire to, for some sometimes a more circuitous route to post graduate education needs to occur. Of course that means junior college, a two or three year journey that prepares student athletes both educationally and athletically for larger schools. Another option are small schools, ones not widely known but great educational options in their own right.

To that end, enter Needham Cheely.

A coach in his own right with the Carolina Crusader travel team organization, Cheely has long assisted young people trying to further their education through sports; in his native Eastern North Carolina Cheely has bemoaned the lack of sufficient college scouting, as well as some student athletes not having the necessary academic focus.

Angelo Sharpless, now of Elizabeth City State is a Southern Classic alum.

Cheely's favorite saying in this regard is: "Just because you fall short doesn't mean it is too late to get up and still make an opportunity for yourself".

So he decided to do something about it and to that end, the 2009 Southern Classic is poised to provide opportunities, allowing talented ball players to display their ability in front of college coaches, many from the junior college ranks. Similar to what happenned in last year's Classic.

2009 Southern Classic info:

Date: March 28, 2009

Place: Barton College, Wilson, NC

Cost: $40 for players, $70 for coaches

Time: 9-10 registration, 10-6 for the hoops action

For the price, student athletes are promised skill development sessions, three games, and a dunk contest. Players hailing from New York to Georgia will attend, ensuring a high level of competition.

JUCO and Division II coaches will be present, and for Division I coaches and those not able to make it, all action will be videoed.

Any additional information can be secured by emailing Cheely at NedhamCheely@primepreps.com.

If you are or know a high school-aged player or even someone who is looking for a junior college after finishing (or will soon) high school, come to the 2009 Southern Classic. That goes for coaches as well.

As Cheely says despite challenges, you can make an opportunity for yourself.