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Disclaimer: All information disseminated on this page does not refer to actual events and should be taken in the spirit in which it is presented. Any references to actual persons is purely coincidental.
Alumni Pirates (above) eagerly await Game Three of the Alumni vs. Staff Basketball Challenge. The series is tied at 1-1. Game 3 will be held during Homecoming 2008, February 9, at the Mount Pisgah Christian School High School Gym. Activities begin at 4:00 p.m. with an indoor tailgate party, Varsity Basketball games, senior recognition, and The Game. Alumni are encouraged to contact Lyle Cutchin to sign up for the Alumni Young Guns: lylec@cottageschool.org
Breaking News...
United Press International (Dateline, Roswell GA, Jan. 18, 2009.) In an exclusive breakfast meeting for TCS alumni held at the Doubletree Hotel Ballroom on Holcomb Bridge Road, The Yong Guns coaching staff (Lyle Cutchin and Mitchell Owens) addressed their players in a Homecoming kickoff event. The major news from the gathering involved, in the words of Owens, "The final pieces of the puzzle." Alumni Eddie Rogers and JT Howard were formally introduced as part of the squad. "The 'Bruise Brothers' are back, no doubt about it!" declared a jubilant Rogers. "We are here to do the heavy lifting: setting picks, corralling rebounds, boxing out, taking charges, and throwing the stray elbow or two. . .but only in retaliation," added alumni Howard.
Coach Cutchin admitted to sitting on the commitments for sometime before this surprise announcement. "I always like to have a trump card to throw late in the game," crowed an obviously pleased coach. "I suspected that trumpeting the return of the 'Bruise Brothers' would only scare off potential staff members. If that happened, crying from staff quarters would become unbearable, and frankly create a hostile work environment."
Many assembled reporters pressed the coaches about the alleged illegal practices held by the Staff. "Yes, it is unfortunate, but Staff members have continued to violate policy. For example, that crazy Jersey fellow Fix donned his workout outfit and tried to 'run' with the varsity team. We could make a big deal about it, but frankly he looked quite ridiculous and I did not want to cause him further embarrassment and humiliation," answered assistant coach Owens. Coach Cutchin explained that "A grievance was filed with the proper amateur basketball authorities, but this independent investigation will take time. We do not expect to discover their findings until sometime after the event, but such is life."
The morning ended as the crowd voted a formal declaration of congratulations to the founders of the school, to the Board of Directors, to all present and former students and parents. Interestingly, existing staff were not included in the ceremonial document. An unidentified alumnus offered that "That was no oversight."
Staff Pirate strong forward Brian Odom shrugged off the latest announcement. "The Young Guns need LeBron to run the floor with us." Odom, however, had no comment when asked about his plans for the rematch Slam Dunk competition against 6'8 alumnus Chris Schleier, '06.
Pirates vs. Young Guns Part III takes place Saturday night, Jan. 19, at the Mount Pisgah High School gym, immediately following the Varsity games. Alumni are invited to attend Homecoming as guests of TCS. Coach Cutchin hints that he may have other aces up his sleeve that will be announced only at the start of the match. Pirates Coach Briggs continues to promise three surprises, but thus far none have materialized.
Young Guns, email LyleC@cottageschool.org
Pirates, email RichieB@cottageschool.org
Pirates Parrots cheerleaders, email DawnF@cottageschool.org
AJC January 14, 7:30 a.m. Kennsaw, GA. Alumnus Schleier '06 Responds.....
"It sounds to me like Coach Briggs is rather insecure about his chances of beating us alumni this saturday night. As a DIRECT quote from a previous press conference held by Coach Briggs, ".....let those alum keep talking. Where I come from, those who talk can't back it up; those who stay silent are deadly." Well coach, here's the latest news break from Kennesaw, GA... I haven't done any "talking" about the game, or the dunk contest for that matter. That is the way it will stay."
Chris Schleier
Sports Center January 10, 2008, 9:23 p.m.
Coach Briggs Responds to Alumni Allegations
"Practice! We talk'n 'bout practice! What the Alumni should be doing is practicing on their game instead of running their mouths and preparing to be professional photographers. If they want to take pictures, I got a few that would be great for them. Take a photo of my assistant and right hand man, Mr. Brian Odom winning the dunk contest and doing that same championship dunk on Alumni Schleier during the game. Take a before and after photo of the 2008 staff dream team, as it will be the only time you will catch us posing, as during game time you will see no remorse in yet another Alumni defeat. Take a pic of Erik Orr (aka-Ray Allen) lighting up three after three assisted by fellow staff member, James Prentice (aka-Jason Kidd). Finally, take a photo of three, I say three (you will see a lot of those during the game) secret weapons we have been able to sign no more than just an hour ago. Coach Cutchin and Owens, all three were done according to TCS rules and regulations, despite your hopes to find us doing illegal recruiting.
Coach Richie Briggs"
United Press International (For Immediate Release) January 10, 2008, Roswell, Georgia.
In the latest installment in the annual melodrama that is the TCS alumni/Staff challenge, Young Guns assistant coach Mitchell Owens issued a series of controversial accusations in a wide ranging interview with New York Times columnist Frank DeFord. Mitchell asserted that ". .the Briggs machine is at it again--witnesses report that staff player Suroy Henderson was illegally practicing with Junior Varsity Cougars last evening." A troubled Owens further emoted that "it is unjust, an explicit violation of both the letter and spirit of US Amateur Basketball regulations and guidelines. Teachers and staff are not allowed to participate in regular or closed practice sessions. Briggs and company were warned about such shenanigans last year, but a lack of proof torpedoed our efforts to make hard sanctions stick. This time, however, we have evidence. . .as in photographic!"
The interview, which aired this afternoon on ESPN radio, then took a rather contentious turn. The interviewer DeFord tried to probe further, wondering aloud, "Why the practice habits of a few over 'the-hill teachers should matter?'" Mitchell responded harshly by noting "Your kind will find a way to excuse anything. You probably supported those steroid-abusing MBL players, because, 'hey, it is just a game.' Fortunately we hold our teachers and institution to a higher standard." Shortly afterwards an enraged Owens left the studio (a la Roger Clemens) leaving DeFord speechless and puzzled.
An hour later, CNN reporters descended upon the Middle School campus to obtain comments and reactions from Coach Cutchin. Initially Cutchin waved off the reporters, citing his need to attend to teaching duties. "Charlemagne is infinitely more important right now than this latest scandal," the coach averred. Moments later, at the close of class, Cutchin produced a ream of photos, purporting to show Suroy and other unidentified staff members involved in what appeared to be a full court scrimmage. "Let the evidence speak for itself," a clearly satisfied coach beamed.
When confronted with the charges, Staff Coach Richie Briggs doubled over in laughter. "Practice, practice, practice. All these jokers know how to do is to shuttle spies around and scope out our practices. Maybe they should spend more time on their own game." Briggs pointedly declined further comment.
An anonymous JV player admitted that Suroy and other staff have been a regular feature at JV sessions for months now. "At first we were kind of intimidated, but now, we know that we are better than they are, so it really doesn't bother the team anymore.?"
Both coaches added that alumni and staff alike are encouraged to join the respective teams. The action is set for Saturday, Jan. 19, 2008, highlighting the school's annual Homecoming festivities. Tip off will occur shortly after the Varsity Men's game concludes. The hard-fought series is tied at one win each.
January 7, 2008
United Press International (For Immediate Release) Cougar alumni and fans received word this morning through a statement issued to members of the Atlanta media, that center Mel Patel (class of 2002) and guard Kyle Mrozik (class of 2006) have both reached terms of agreement to play for the alumni in the upcoming staff/alumni challenge. Coach Cutchin was unavailable for comment after issuing the press release. The document praised Patel's "physical play and spiritedness," while also noting Mrozik's "shooting expertise and killer instinct." Assistant Coach Mitchell Owens hinted that more signings are in the works, stating that ". . .there are more shoes to drop, just wait and see."
In a brief exchange with AM 680 Mrozik issued a pointed challenge to the staff team, "They couldn't guard me as a student, they couldn't even slow me down! You could say that I expect to light them up for at least thirty points." A similarly belligerent Patel boasted, "Boards will be hard to come by for the staff. I will be a Brahma Bull out there, throwing folks around and grabbing every rebound. Ben Wallace has nothing on me."
An oddly reticent Brian Odom refused comment as he approached the "G" Building for work this AM, while Richie Briggs did not answer phone calls to ascertain staff reaction to the news.
Cutchin and Briggs Announce Key Signings for January 19 Match-Up.
United press International (Dateline Roswell, December 14, 2007) For Immediate Release) In a stunning turn of events, TCS alumnus and current JV assistant coach Rob Burdett announced yesterday that he plans to reunite with the Young Guns in their basketball battle vs. the staff. In a scenario rich with intrigue, Burdett reversed last year's decision to throw in his lot with the staff.
In a brief statement received by Atlanta Journal Constitution staff late Thursday evening, Burdett stated that his decision would ". . .get the streak going again," while expressing his eagerness to reunite with his former Coach, Lyle Cutchin. In a late night conference call, Cutchin implied that negotiations between the alumnus and the Young Gun brain trust had been progressing for some time. "Clearly a player of Burdett's caliber and basketball savvy will add a great deal to the Y.G. attack. Not only is the Burdett signing a plus for us, but anytime you can lure away a key variable from the opposition. . .well, sorry, Richie."
When asked if Burdett's stint with the Staff in 2007 had caused a rift in their longstanding relationship, Cutchin became reflective: "It was hard. Not only was Rob a former student and player, but he was also a fellow coach and colleague. Yes, it cut me to the core, but bygones will be bygones." At the same time, Young Guns Assistant Coach Mitchell Owens hinted that other factors played into the Burdett reversal. "Anyone who stands for the integrity of the game is bound to become repulsed by the Staff program that is part and parcel of the Biggs Regime. Bribing officials, recruiting illegal players, intimidating potential alumni participants and sabotaging shower facilities in the opposition?s locker room. . .anyone with a shred of decency would flee from that madhouse."
A visibly shaken staff Coach Richie Briggs refused to engage with reporters who arrived outside his residence Thursday evening. Briggs emerged from his front door to briefly mutter something about "Rob, I mean Benedict Arnold, Burdett," before issuing a cryptic threat to the controversial player. "Burdett, you can run, but you can't hide."
Friday morning at 6:34 a.m., Pirates' coach Briggs issued this statement:
"Our staff is not scared. Odom and the rest of us will just put the action on the floor and let those alum keep talking. Where I come from, those who talk can't back it up; those who stay silent are deadly. Just like Suroy was our secret weapon last year, by causing havoc with his old school razzle-dazzle, we have signed another secret weapon for this year.
"Young Guns, be afraid, be very afraid, Coach Richie Briggs is as committed as the Boston Celtics. We are stacked. We have commitment and contracts from KG (Odom), Ray Allen (Erik Orr), and Paul Pierce (this year's secret weapon). Nothing can stop us now. Maybe if Coach Cutchin would have been as loyal and determined as his beloved Celtics, he, too, would have the guts to commit to such talent following in the footsteps of his Celtic pride. May the Pirates have mercy on those Young (and I want to emphasize on the young) Guns."
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Young Guns 2008
"It is time to fight fire with fire! This is an all points bulletin to Freebird, Cohen-Greenburg, Brett (Where Have You Been Hiding) Jones, Forrest, TJ Macy and all other alumni. Now is the time to rally to the banner. Now is the time to respond to the call. Glory, redemption and revenge await!"
Lyle Cutchin, Coach
Coach Lyle "The Pirate" Cutchin
Asst. Coach/Player: Mitchell "Tar Heel" Owens '06
Brett Jones '01
Matt "FreeBird" Castelle '02
Lauren Riddick '05
Chris Schleier, 06
Rob Burdett, '04
Kyle Mrozik, '06
Mel Patel '02
Eddie Rogers, '02
J.T. Howard, '02
(surprises in store... stay tuned!)
Staff Pirates 2008
Player Coach: Richie "Bill Russell" Briggs
Brian Odom
Erik Orr
Suroy Henderson
Meredith Webb
James Prentice
Ivan Plastiak
Three Secret Weapons
??????
Pirates' Parrot Cheerleaders
Captain: Dawn Ferrigno
Laura Finnell
Pam Blankenbeker
Rebecca Lawson
Lanie Cox
Sara Henry
Bessie Battles
Nicole Walker
Whitney Present
Top, Brian Odom demonstrates his prowess above the rim during the 2007 Homecoming Festivities. The Staff Pirates defeated the Alumni "Young Guns" in a hotly contested rematch. The series stands at 1-1, with the tie-breaking match-up set for January 19, 2008
Free Bird dribbles past Pirates' Head Coach Briggs on the way to a three-point conversion. Below, things get rough on the court.
Alumni vs Staff Tie Breaking Game Announced under Allegations and Cloud of Suspicion
United Press International Dateline:Atlanta, Georgia. October 16, 2008. On Tuesday morning Middle School Assistant Principal Lyle Cutchin addressed a standing room only press conference to announce the formation of the Alumni Cougars (Young Guns) who will again do basketball battle with the Staff team (The Pirates) as part of the annual homecoming festivities set for Saturday, January 19 at the Mount Pisgah Christian School gym. After the exchanging pleasantries and formalities with the audience, Cutchin dropped a bombshell that sent shockwaves through basketball circles. Citing an unnamed "mole in staff ranks" Coach Cutchin alleged that Athletic Director Richie Briggs had sought out "illegal contacts with ineligible players."
When pressed for details, Cutchin charged that former Mt. Pisgah standout Ryan Burdett had been offered "money pilfered from Booster Club sources" to play for the staff team. "Everybody knows that this hot shot is not a member of the TCS staff, and for us to pretend otherwise would only serve to reduce our hallowed contest to a sham and sideshow."
When asked to assess the impact that Burdett could leverage for the staff, Cutchin thundered "Briggs, Odom and company know that size, strength and frankly guts are in short supply in staff ranks. That is where Ryan's size, post up presence and all round intensity could tip the scales to the staff side!" Assistant Coach Mitchell Owens added that, until this point ". . .no one has questioned Ryan's integrity, but will his fair haired choir boy image survive the lawless, thuggish, win at any price mentality that is part and parcel of the Briggs regime?" Echoing these sentiments Coach Cutchin added "I can only hope that Burdett does the right thing and stays away from the game. If not I will have to place an inquiry with the United States Amateur Athletic Union and see that sanctions are levied."
When challenged on their strident assessment of the Athletic Director, Owens responded with a brash wave of the hand, denouncing the reporters as ". . .stooges and lackeys for the Briggs Machine." Cutchin reminded the press corps of Briggs' recruitment of highly regarded alumni Rob Burdett to staff ranks last season. Saying that the betrayal "cut him deeply," Cutchin added that ". . .this is the unattractive, corrupt side of basketball that drove me away from the game that I love."
Before adjourning the two coaches put out an emotional appeal to alumni to support their efforts this January. "It is time to fight fire with fire! This is an all points bulletin to Free bird, Cohen-Greenburg, Brett (Where Have You Been Hiding) Jones, Forrest, TJ Macy and all other alumni. Now is the time to rally to the banner. Now is the time to respond to the call. Glory, redemption and revenge await!"
Cougar Standout Brett Jones '01 Located
United Press International:Roswell, Ga. November 28, 2007. In a closed door session with key alumni participants, Young Guns Coach Lyle Cutchin indicated that the elusive Brett Jones (Class of 2001) had been located. "It took a great deal of detective work on the part of many people, but I believe that we located our man," crowed a jubilant Assistant Coach Mitchell Owens '06. Reports indicate that the former TCS standout center remains in the metro area, but has maintained a low profile while sticking close to his business concerns. "I entirely understand Mr. Jones' position," Cutchin stated. "Although a bruising force on the court, Jones has never been comfortable in the limelight, and has taken advantage of his time away from the game to devote time and energy to the things that he loves. In many ways, Brett exemplifies the sporting virtues that Richie Briggs and the staff never seem to grasp. It will be an honor to serve alongside a player of such talent, height and integrity."
When asked if Brett Jones had, in fact, agreed to participate in this years' match, the coaches seemed unusually reticent."The details are not settled," emphasized Coach Owens "There are legal issues that need to be sorted out, and the insurance carrier has expressed frank concerns as well."
Cutchin Signs Alumni Stand Out
United Press International. For Immediate Release. November 18, 2007. During a Sunday afternoon Press Conference at Philips Arena, TCS alumna and former Cougar Sportswoman of the Year Lauren Riddick announced her intention to play on the Alumni Team for this season's rubber match with the staff. In a brief and modest statement, Riddick extended her appreciation to her former teachers and called for continued alumni commitments to the upcoming match. Since graduation, Riddick has achieved recognition in the sports of Cross Country and Track and Field as a collegian. Assistant Alumni Coach Mitchell Owens recalled that ". . .as a Lady Cougar, Lauren always stood out for her commitment to defense and to rebounding. She will not be afraid to mix it up, and will add a great deal to our effort." United Press International. For Immediate Release. November 18, 2007. During a Sunday afternoon Press Conference at Philips Arena, TCS alumna and former Cougar Sportswoman of the Year Lauren Riddick announced her intention to play on the Alumni Team for this season's rubber match with the staff. In a brief and modest statement, Riddick extended her appreciation to her former teachers and called for continued alumni commitments to the upcoming match. Since graduation, Riddick has achieved recognition in the sports of Cross Country and Track and Field as a collegian. Assistant Alumni Coach Mitchell Owens recalled that ". . .as a Lady Cougar, Lauren always stood out for her commitment to defense and to rebounding. She will not be afraid to mix it up, and will add a great deal to our effort."
Describing the surprise announcement as "An early Christmas present," Coach Cutchin expressed hope that ". . .adding an athlete of Riddick's caliber will provide us with great flexibility in putting together the most competitive lineup that we can field." To sign up for the Alumni Cougars, contact Coach Lyle Cutchin at
LyleC@cottageschool.org.
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