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River Cities Edition November 2025

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celebrate.

PLAY HARD. DREAM BIG. ALWAYS REMEMBER.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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PLAYER PROFILE Nomination

Want to See Your Athlete Featured in Youth Nation?

We love celebrating the hard work, heart, and hustle of young athletes in our community—and your child could be next! To have your athlete considered for an upcoming Player Spotlight feature in Youth Nation, simplyscantheQRcodebelowandcompletetheshortsubmissionform. It only takes a few minutes! You'll be asked to provide some basic info, a photo, and a few fun questions to helpustelltheirstory.

Don’tforgettouploadagreatphotoinuniform!

ScantheQRcodeandshareyourathlete’sjourneywiththeYouthNationfamilytoday!

If you are interested in learning more about to Youth Nation, how to nominate your athlete to be featured, or you are a local business who wants to advertise, please email YouthNationTeam@gmail.com

league updates, and other information, is intended solely for informational purposes. We strive to accurately represent the activities, achievements, and stories of individuals and organizations within our community. Please note that while we make every effort to obtain consent and permission for the use of images and information, there may be instances where individuals or businesses are inadvertently included without explicit consent. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and encourage anyone who wishes to have their image or information removed to contact us promptly. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in our publication are those of the authors and contributors and do not necessarily reflect the views of our organization. We do not endorse any specific products, services, or businesses featured in our publication unless explicitly stated. By

Jaxon

THE PLACE TO FIND...

HIGHLIGHT REELS

Photo Submission

Use the QR Code on your section to submit your ALL of your favorite photos each month! If you do not see them in the next issue, don’t worry, we continue to pull from the uploads each month!

We do our very best to try and include as many athletes as possible. There are some size requirements that may effect if your photo is chosen. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us at youthnationteam@gmail.com

GUARANTEED PHOTO UPLOAD

Powered by Local Businesses

Introducing our new Guaranteed Photo Upload option, designed to celebrate your athlete while giving back to the local businesses that support our community.

Every month, Youth Nation receives hundreds of amazing photos of young athletes, and while we love seeing all these great moments, not every photo can make it into the magazine. With this option, you can ensure your athlete's photo is featured in one of our upcoming issues by agreeing to connect with one of the local small businesses that sponsor this program. It’s a win-win: your athlete gets to be featured, and you help support the businesses that keep the community thriving.

This can done every month!

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Text: join

To: (304) 484-9844

FAITH IN SPORTS GIVE THANKS AND THANKSGIVING

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (NIV)

“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus”

Paul writes in 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 that these three things are of God's will for us in Christ Jesus

1. Find joy in the Gospel and the message of Jesus Christ. Rejoice to God, to the world, to anyone. Rejoice that joy of Jesus.

2. To pray continually, because so many time prayer becomes a task for big moments when we should pray continually, big or small moments, whether we are happy or sad, whether we are winning or losing, there is never a time God doesn't want you to come to Him and reach out in prayer.

3. To give thanks in all circumstances, not just the good. There are plenty of reasons to give thanks. Family, friends, winning the game and being MVP. But do you ever thank God when you are losing? When life is hard, in brokenness, hurt and in pain we can give thankfulness.

In James 1:2-3 it says, "Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.”

When we let gratitude to shape our circumstances, rather than our circumstances shape our gratitude, we start to walk in God’s will more in our lives. Remember this season of Thanksgiving to be giving thanks in all circumstances.

COLLINSBrynlee

PLAYER PROFILE

FAIRLAND YOUTH BASKETBALL & HUNTINGTON YMCA | #22 | GUARD

Meet Brynlee Collins, a talented young guard from Huntington, West Virginia, who’s already making waves in the world of youth basketball. At just 9 years old, Brynlee’s dedication to the game has earned her recognition as a Top 5 nationally ranked player for the Class of 2036 by MSE Elite Rankings — an incredible accomplishment that showcases both her skill and work ethic.

Brynlee has been playing basketball for four years, drawn to the sport by her love for running, speed, and defense. Whether she’s driving down the court or locking down her opponents, her energy and focus make her a standout player on both ends of the floor. Inspired by her favorite athletes, Michael Jordan and Sophie Cunningham, Brynlee looks up to players who combine talent with determination and heart.

Off the court, Brynlee is just as driven. She plays soccer and softball, enjoys working out, and takes pride in her schoolwork—especially reading and math. She attends one of the top-ranked Christian schools in her state, where she continues to grow academically and spiritually.

When it comes to being part of a team, Brynlee loves making friendships and bringing positive energy to everyone around her. Her parents describe her as “a wonderful teammate and friend, always encouraging those around her as she wants everyone to succeed.” Her favorite quote—“Dream big, work hard”— perfectly captures her approach to both sports and life.

Above all, Brynlee’s biggest role model is Jesus, because “He died for my sins. I want to live like Jesus did— He loved others and made good choices to be an example. He was the definition of a true leader.” With that kind of mindset, there’s no doubt Brynlee Collins is destined to keep shining—on and off the court.

PLAYER PROFILE

DC EXPRESS FOOTBALL | # 9 | WIDE RECEIVER

From the roar of the crowd to the crunch of cleats on turf, KJ Alexander lives for the game. The wide receiver from Huntington, West Virginia, has been lighting up the field with DC Express for seven years—and this season was one to remember. His team went undefeated, dominating every field they touched, a testament to their chemistry and KJ’s relentless drive.

KJ’s love for football started early. At just five years old, he couldn’t wait to join the action after watching his sister cheer from the sidelines. That passion has only grown stronger, fueling his determination to keep improving every season. His mom describes him as “a team player who works hard at everything he does,” and anyone who’s seen KJ in action would agree.

When he’s not catching passes, KJ stays active playing basketball, drawing, and spending time with family and friends. For him, the best part of being on a team is the friendships—the bonds that extend beyond the game and last long after the final whistle.

KJ looks up to Tayveon Wilson, a local athlete he’s known personally, who “dominated every sport he played.” That inspiration pushes KJ to aim high and lead by example, both on and off the field. With his work ethic, heart, and passion for teamwork, KJ Alexander is a name to remember—because his story on the field is only just beginning.

BillsShawn

PLAYER PROFILE

FAIRLAND YOUTH LEAGUE B TEAM | #17 | DEFENSIVE TACKLE AND OFFENSIVE LINEMAN

Meet Shawn Bills, a dedicated young athlete who brings determination and heart to the gridiron every time he steps on the field. Wearing number 17 for the Fairland Youth League B Team, Shawn plays both defensive tackle and offensive lineman, where his strength and focus help anchor the team on both sides of the ball.

Shawn’s passion for football began three years ago, and from the moment he first put on a helmet, he was hooked. “I love football,” he says simply—and it shows. His favorite team is the Ohio State Buckeyes, and his favorite player, Jeremiah Smith, inspires him to give his best effort each game and practice.

One of Shawn’s favorite memories from this season is simply playing football—the sport he loves most. But beyond the touchdowns and tackles, Shawn says the best part of being on a team is “playing with friends.” It’s the camaraderie, teamwork, and shared excitement that make every game worth it.

Off the field, Shawn enjoys playing outside and spending time with his sister, showing that his energy and love for fun extend beyond football. He also looks up to Coach Kermit, who he says is always there to teach him not only how to be a better player but also a better person.

Shawn’s family couldn’t be prouder of how far he’s come. His mom shared, “I’m so proud of how hard you have played this year and the growth you’ve overcome. I will always be your biggest fan!” With his positive attitude, work ethic, and love for the game, there’s no doubt that Shawn Bills has a bright future ahead—both on and off the field.

FetMeyer

PLAYER PROFILE

WVFC | #47 | RIGHT MID

Meet Meyer Fet, a talented and energetic young athlete from Huntington, West Virginia, who brings both skill and passion to the soccer field. Wearing number 47 for WVFC 2017/2018, Meyer shines as a Right Midfielder, known for his teamwork, quick footwork, and love of the game.

Meyer has been playing soccer for about five or six years, a passion that began when he started kicking the ball around with his dad. That early start has blossomed into a true love for the sport—and it’s paying off. One of Meyer’s favorite memories from this season was when his team won three tournaments in a row, an incredible accomplishment that reflects their hard work and unity.

His favorite player, Phil Foden, and his favorite team, Bayern Munich, inspire him to play with confidence and creativity on the field. But for Meyer, the best part of being on a team isn’t just the victories—it’s “being with friends and hanging out and having fun.”

Off the field, Meyer enjoys ping pong, tennis, fishing, and solving Rubik’s Cubes, showing that his curiosity and competitive spirit stretch far beyond soccer. He also looks up to his dad, who he says is his biggest role model because “he knows a lot about soccer” and continues to guide and support him in his journey.

Meyer’s parents couldn’t be prouder, sharing, “We love watching you play the sport you love! You are growing, improving your skill, and becoming a leader on the field! We love you!”

With his drive, sportsmanship, and joy for the game, Meyer Fet is a young player to keep an eye on—one who plays with heart, humility, and a smile every match.

YOUR LOCAL BUSINESS DIRECTORY

LORRE WILSON | REALTOR 304-690-1236

TAMMY WARD | REALTOR (254) 383-2584

RICKEY SHIFKO | STATE FARM 740-867-3137

MARSHALL HEALTH 304-691-1880

FULLYOUTHNATION PROGRAM SUPPORTERS

Medical

Marshall Health

304-691-1880

Generations PT

304-760-5660

Local Businesses

Cassie Clicks Photography

304-730-9748

Shimas Family Restaurant 681-217-1219

Moye Law

304-586-1251

Cardinal Cheverlot

304-397-5267

PTCT

304-586-3494

Home Improvement

House Doctor 304-586-2458

Filter Flash | Air Fitler Service 304-390-4563

Design Roofing 304-760-8915

Rt 60 Hardware 304-743-1571

Steorts Home Design 304-552-0658

Nitro Carpet Outlet 304-769-0495

Hobba Builder | Custom Homes 304-546-5348

Kenny Queen | Ace Hardware 304-736-1177

Real Estate

Impact Realty Group 304-410-0655

Better Homes & Gardens Central 304-201-SOLD

Remax Clairty 304-525-7653

Lorre Wilson | Realtor 304-690-1236

Jamie Adkins | Realtor 304-521-9767

Eddie Mylar | Realtor 304-654-6045

Ann & Margaret Osborne Realtor | 304-542-6500

Ohio Valley Bank - Adam Chapman 304-633-9624

Jon Jones | Movement Mortgage 304-881-1434

Insurance Agents

Marsha Slater | State Farm 304-736-6100

Christian Brand | State Farm 304-760-5001

Rickey Shifko | State Farm 740-867-3137

Tyler Bullington | State Farm 304-522-0233

Eric Dotson | State Farm 304-390-4515

Cameron Vance | State Farm 304-744-4000

AdkinsJoey

PLAYER PROFILE

FAIRLAND C TEAM CHEER

Meet Joey Adkins, a bright and spirited cheerleader from Proctorville, Ohio, who’s making her mark with her energy, talent, and love for the sport. Known to friends and teammates as “JoJo,” she’s a proud member of the Fairland C Team Cheer, where she shines as a flyer, base, and tumbler—ready to step into any role her team needs.

Joey began cheering when she was just three years old, and her passion for All Star Cheer has only grown since then. This season has been full of amazing moments, but one stands out above the rest—winning the Top Cheerleader Award at two out of three competitions. That’s no small feat, and it shows just how hard Joey works to perfect her skills and encourage her teammates.

When it comes to inspiration, Joey looks up to her best friend, Vegas, an All Star cheerleader at her gym who motivates her to keep improving and reach new heights. Her favorite teams include Louisville All Girl, Trinity Valley, and Marshall, and she especially admires the Marshall Cheerleaders—especially Eli!

Outside of cheer, Joey keeps busy and adventurous. While All Star Cheer will always be her first love, she also hopes to try volleyball in the future. For Joey, though, the best part of being on a team isn’t just the trophies—it’s the friendships. “All of my friends being with me all the time” is what makes every practice and performance special.

Her family beams with pride, saying, “We love you, JoJo! Keep aiming for the sky and you’ll reach the moon! We love you so much and are so proud of you!”

With her drive, positivity, and infectious team spirit, Joey Adkins is a true star in the making—both on the mat and beyond it.

Money Miles

Adkins

PLAYER PROFILE

FAIRLAND B TEAM | #40 | CENTER, DEFENSIVE TACKLE AND GUARD

From Proctorville, Ohio, Money Miles Adkins has built a reputation as one of Fairland’s toughest and most dedicated young athletes. Wearing #40 for the Fairland B Team, Money anchors the lineup as a center, defensive tackle, and sometimes guard, bringing power, grit, and a whole lot of heart to every snap.

Money has been playing football for four years, inspired by his dad, who passed down both his love for the game and his competitive spirit. This season, one moment stands above the rest: beating rival Chesapeake and grabbing a clutch fumble recovery—a highlight he won’t forget anytime soon.

His favorite player is Tres Maynard,andhisfavoriteteam, the Michigan Wolverines, fuels his passion for the sport. But even with big inspirations, Money finds the most joy in simply being with his teammates. “I get to be around my friends a lot,” he says, proving that the best part of youth sports is the bonds built alongtheway.

Off the field, Money stays busy withtravelfootballfortheWest Virginia Reapers and enjoys relaxing with video games. His biggest role model is his dad, not just for introducing him to football but for teaching him how to make others laugh. “He’s funny, and I learned to make people laugh from him,” Moneyshares.

With a strong work ethic, a supportive family, and a love for the game, Money Miles Adkins is well on his way to an exciting future in football—one bigmomentatatime.

Jaxon

Ingraham

PLAYER PROFILE

FAIRLAND D TEAM | # 8| CENTER

8

From Proctorville, Ohio, Jaxon Ingraham is quickly becoming a standout force on the football field. As #8 for the Fairland D Team, Jaxon holds down the front line as the team’s center, showing strength, focus, and the kind of dedication that every coach loves to see.

Jaxon has been playing football for two years, but his love for the game has been with him for as long as anyone can remember. That passion showed this season in one of his favorite moments—tackling the quarterback, causing a fumble, and helping his team recover the ball. It was a play that reflected both his determination and his growing skill.

Inspired by his favorite player, Lamar Jackson, and fueled by his loyalty to the Dallas Cowboys, Jaxon brings energy and excitement every time he steps onto the field. But what he enjoys most is cheering for his teammates, proving that leadership isn’t always about making the big play—it’s also about lifting othersup.

Off the field, Jaxon loves playing Xbox and spending time with his family, who have supported him every step of the way. He proudly credits his mom, dad, and the coaches who have taught him over the last two years as his biggest role models, guiding him on and offthefield.

With a strong work ethic, a big heart, and a team-first attitude, Jaxon Ingraham is wellonhiswaytomakingan impact in every season to come.

Brooke

Ingraham

PLAYER PROFILE

FAIRLAND C TEAM | # 1 | RIGHT TACKLE

# 1

Meet Brooke Ingraham, a rising young athlete from Proctorville, Ohio, who stepped onto the gridiron this year with confidence, heart, and a determination that inspires everyone around her. Wearing #1 for the Fairland C Team, Brooke holds down the line as a right tackle, proving that strength, focus, and grit know no boundaries.

This was Brooke’s first year playing football, and what began as wanting to try something new quickly turned into a passion. She made her mark early, with her favorite moment of the season coming when she tackled the quarterback—a highlight that showcased her toughness and growing skill.

A fan of Lamar Jackson and a loyal supporter of the Dallas Cowboys, Brooke brings excitement to every practice and game. But for her, the best part of football isn’t just the action —it’s cheering on her teammates and being part of a group that works hard andsupportsoneanother.

Off the field, Brooke enjoys spending time with her family and friends, who have been her biggest cheerleaders throughout herjourney.Shecreditsher family and coaches as her strongest role models—the people who encourage her, push her, and believe in hereverystepoftheway.

With her bold spirit, positive attitude, and willingness to take on new challenges, Brooke Ingraham is just getting started—and her future in sports is already shining bright.

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