By Lee DavisOak Mountain outside hitter Torie Denkers is a study in intensity every time she walks on a volleyball court. But there’s something about playing arch-rival Spain Park that brings her to an even higher level. “My older brother Trevor went there (Spain Park) years ago, so I think there’s the sibling rivalry thing going,” Denkers said last week. “Whatever it … [Read more...]
A Different Vibe: Hoover Coach Aims to Return to Championship Game with a New Energy
By Lee DavisHoover coach Josh Niblett has celebrated four state championships with his players since he took over in 2008, but somewhere along the way the cheers became less notable. At times, all he could hear following a win was a sigh. “That’s kind of been a change of thought around here because, normally, when you won, you just went, ‘Wheeeew. Alright. Glad we … [Read more...]
Early to Rise: Compton and Lady Rebels off to a Strong Start
By Lee Davis Although it’s been more than four years since Jessica Compton played in her first varsity basketball game at Vestavia Hills, the senior guard remembers the event as if it were yesterday. “We were playing Homewood and when we went out for warm-ups, I had never been so nervous in my life,” she recalled. “I was so nervous, I was nearly in tears. Once the game … [Read more...]
Family Tradition: Hoover’s Vacarella is Following His Father’s Footsteps
By Lee Davis Hoover quarterback Christopher Vacarella is in his first year as a starter, but he already has proven himself as a winner in the clutch. In the Bucs’ first two Class 7A Region Three victories, Vacarella directed his team to hard-fought fourth quarter victories. In a 21-14 win against Mountain Brook, he led a 65-yard touchdown drive. The following week, the senior … [Read more...]