Teays Valley Edition February 2026

celebrate.

PLAY HARD. DREAM BIG. ALWAYS REMEMBER.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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, simply scan the QR code below and complete the short submission form.

It only takes a few minutes! You'll be asked to provide some basic info, a photo, and a few fun questions to help us tell their story.

Don’t forget to upload a great photo in uniform! Scan the QR code and share your athlete’s journey with the Youth Nation family today!

CONNECT WITH US

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

Disclaimer: Please note that all photos featured in this magazine have been submitted voluntarily by parents or volunteer photographers, and the league has included a waiver and disclaimer in the registration completed by the parent or guardian prior to the season starting. Additionally, the intended audience for this publication is exclusively the parents and league participants. The content featured in our publication, which includes images of youth athletes, local businesses, 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 accessing and using our website and publication, you agree to release us from any liability for unintentional use of images or information and acknowledge that the content provided is for general informational purposes only. We reserve the right to update, modify, or remove content at any time without prior notice.Thank you for your understanding and support as we continue to strive for transparency, accuracy, and integrity in our publication. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the content featured, please don't hesitate to contact us.

Generations PT 304-760-5660

Heat info@heatwv.com

Cassie Clicks Photography 304-730-9748

Shimas Family Restaurant 681-217-1219

PTCT 304-586-3494

Oscars (304) 948-6916

1861 Public House (304) 948-6140

YOUTH NATION

COMMUNITY NETWORK

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Rt 60 Hardware

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Steorts Home Design

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Nitro Carpet Outlet 304-769-0495

Hobba Builder | Custom Homes 304-546-5348

Kenny Queen | Ace Hardware 304-736-1177

Impact Realty Group 304-410-0655

Better Homes & Gardens Central 304-201-SOLD

Remax Clairty 304-525-7653

Eddie Mylar | Realtor 304-654-6045

Ann & Margaret Osborne Realtor | 304-542-6500

Ohio Valley Bank - Adam Chapman 304-633-9624

Christian Brand | State Farm 304-760-5001

Ricky 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

Moye Law 304-586-1251

PLAYER PROFILE

From Hurricane, West Virginia, Anastasia Riggs is quickly making a name for herself on the diamond with the Blaze of the Hurricane Baseball League. Playing second base, Anastasia brings focus, heart, and determination every time she steps onto the field. Having played for the past two years, her journey into baseball was inspired by her mom, and that family support continues to shine through in everything she does.

One of Anastasia’s favorite memories this season was a moment she’ll never forget—hitting her very first home run. It was a milestone that reflected her hard work and growing confidence in the game. Though she doesn’t have a favorite pro team yet, Anastasia looks up to her favorite player, Camrie Ferrel, and continues to develop her own love for the sport with each game.

What truly sets Anastasia apart is her view of teamwork. While many talk about teams, she describes hers differently: “It’s not a team, we’re a small family.” That sense of closeness and support fuels her passion for the game and creates an environment where everyone lifts one another up.

Off the field, Anastasia enjoys competing in pageants, showing that her confidence and drive extend far beyond baseball. When asked about her biggest role models, her answer comes straight from the heart—her mom and dad. They push her to do her best, make sure she and her siblings never go without, and always show up to support her. With a strong family behind her and plenty of talent ahead of her, Anastasia Riggs is just getting started.

RIGGS Anastasia

PLAYER PROFILE

From Buffalo, West Virginia, Grant Weaver is a dependable and hardworking wide receiver for the Buffalo Bison, bringing effort and consistency to the field every time he suits up. Wearing No. 11, Grant has been playing football since he was six years old, growing up with the game and steadily developing his skills through years of experience.

One of the highlights of Grant’s season was an impressive stretch where his team won seven straight games, a run that showcased strong chemistry, teamwork, and determination. While he doesn’t name a favorite individual player as inspiration on the field, Grant proudly supports WVU and plays the game with grit and focus.

For Grant, the best part of football isn’t just the competition—it’s the friendships built along the way. He values the bonds formed with teammates and the memories created through practices and games. Outside of football, Grant enjoys simply hanging out and spending time with friends, keeping things laid-back off the field.

Grant looks up to Matthew Stafford as his biggest role model, admiring his leadership and perseverance at the highest level of the game. With years of experience behind him and a strong appreciation for teamwork and friendships, Grant Weaver continues to be a key part of the Buffalo Bison and a player to watch as his journey continues.

WEAVER GRANT

Care and Confidence to the Community

Educate and Elevate Through Oral Health Care: PCTC Dental Assisting Students Bring

February 2026

Students in the Dental Assisting program at Putnam Career and Technical Center recently completed an ambitious service initiative titled “Educate and Elevate Through Oral Health Care.” Designed to promote healthier habits and expand access to preventive care, the project brought free dental cleaning clinics directly to PCTC students and members of the local community.

Over the course of the project, October 2025- March 2026, Dental Assisting students transformed their skills into service—providing dental cleanings, oral health education, and basic preventive assessments at no cost. For many attendees, these clinics offered not only improved oral hygiene but also the confidence and knowledge to maintain long-term dental wellness. What truly set this project apart was the students’ commitment to the SkillsUSA Framework, which emphasizes Personal Skills, Workplace Skills, and Technical Skills as the foundation of career readiness.

The “Educate and Elevate Through Oral Health Care” project showcased how SkillsUSA values come alive when students use their training to uplift their community. By providing accessible care and promoting lifelong oral health habits, PCTC’s Dental Assisting students not only strengthened their clinical skills—they made a meaningful difference in the lives of those they served.

FAITH IN SPORTS NEXT PLAY MENTALITY

Philippians 3:13-14

Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.

In sports, mistakes are unavoidable. A dropped pass, a missed shot, a strikeout, or a fall during a routine can happen to even the best athletes. What separates strong competitors from the rest isn’t perfection, it’s how quickly they reset and move forward. Coaches often call this the “next play mentality.”

The next play mentality means refusing to let one mistake define the rest of the game. Athletes are taught to shake it off, refocus, and be ready for what’s coming next. Dwelling on the past only slows reaction time, weakens confidence, and hurts the team. Success comes from staying present and prepared.

The Bible encourages this same mindset in our faith. In Philippians, Paul reminds us to forget what is behind and press forward toward the goal God has set before us. This doesn’t mean ignoring lessons from the past—it means not allowing past failures to control our future. Just like in sports, growth happens when we learn, adjust, and move on.

This mindset applies beyond game moments. In practice, athletes make hundreds of mistakes while learning new skills. Those errors aren’t signs of weakness; they’re part of the process. Spiritually, God calls us to grow in the same way—by allowing grace to guide us forward rather than guilt holding us back.

Having a next play mentality also affects how athletes treat their teammates. Encouragement after a mistake builds trust and confidence, while criticism only adds pressure. When players support each other, they reflect Christ’s love in action. Colossians 3:13 reminds us to forgive one another just as the Lord forgave us—a principle that strengthens both teams and faith.

Even victories require a next play mentality. Celebrating is important, but staying humble and focused prepares athletes for the next challenge. Every game, practice, and season is part of a longer journey, and each moment is an opportunity to honor God through effort, attitude, and perseverance.

Faith teaches us that God’s grace is new every day. When athletes embrace that truth, they learn they are never defined by one bad play—or one big win. What matters most is the effort, character, and faith they bring into the next moment.

PLAYER PROFILE

From Hurricane, West Virginia, Carter Stowers is an energetic and versatile basketball player for HABL Florida, bringing effort and enthusiasm to every game. Wearing No. 23 and ready to contribute at any position, Carter has been playing basketball for four years after first falling in love with the sport by watching it on TV and shooting hoops every chance he could.

One of Carter’s most unforgettable moments this season came when he drained a half-court three, a play that captured both his confidence and his love for the game. He looks up to his favorite player, LaMelo Ball, and proudly supports the Los Angeles Lakers, drawing inspiration from the excitement and creativity of the sport at the highest level.

For Carter, basketball is about more than scoring —it’s about teamwork. He values being a true team player, working alongside his teammates, and pushing himself every day to become the best player he can be. That mindset shows both on and off the court.

Outside of basketball, Carter enjoys playing Fortnite and Roblox, and of course, shooting hoops whenever he gets the chance. When asked about his biggest role models, he points to his strong support system—his dad, mom, Kimy, Uncle Jordan, Uncle Josh, and Maw & Pops—who always show up for him and challenge him to be better. With passion, dedication, and a family cheering him on, Carter Stowers continues to grow his game and chase his goals.

Carter Stowers

PLAYER PROFILE

From Hurricane, West Virginia, Avery Lamanca is a hardworking and passionate cheerleader with the Hurricane C Team Cheer squad. Avery has been cheering for the past three years, inspired by a dream she’s had for as long as she can remember—she’s always wanted to be a cheerleader. Her dedication and love for the sport have helped her grow into a confident and committed teammate.

One of Avery’s favorite moments this season was earning runner-up Grand Champions, an accomplishment that reflects the countless hours of practice, teamwork, and determination put in by the entire squad. She proudly supports the Ohio State Buckeyes and looks up to her favorite athlete, Simone Biles, whose strength and success inspire her both in cheer and in life.

For Avery, the best part of being on a team is building strong relationships with her teammates and learning how to work together toward a shared goal. That sense of unity is what makes cheer so special to her.

Outside of cheer, Avery enjoys dancing, tumbling, and singing—activities that perfectly complement her energy and talent. When asked about her biggest role models, she names Simone Biles and Taylor Swift, admiring them as strong women who have worked hard to achieve their goals. With passion, perseverance, and a bright future ahead, Avery Lamanca continues to shine both on and off the mat.

Avery LAMANCA

Purpose-Driven Athlete Joshua 1:9

At just 8 years old, Maddox Crump is already showing what it means to be a purpose-driven athlete—one who plays not just with strength and skill, but with faith, character, and heart. Competing in football with the Hurricane Redskins and the WV Reapers, Maddox approaches the game with a mindset shaped by his belief that God’s love is constant and present in every moment of life.

Maddox’s faith is something he carries with him daily, guiding his decisions both on and off the field. He believes that God is always with him, and that assurance gives him confidence and peace no matter the situation. That faith shows clearly in the way he treats others. Whether it’s helping an opponent back to their feet, encouraging teammates, or congratulating the other team after a game, Maddox plays football with kindness and respect. His message to teammates is simple but powerful: you are awesome, you are enough, and God loves you.

One Bible verse that continues to encourage Maddox is Joshua 1:9, a reminder to be strong and courageous, knowing that God is always present. That verse reflects how Maddox views both life and sports—not as something to face alone, but as a journey walked with faith. Through football, he has learned that teamwork and perseverance are rooted in knowing you are never alone, whether in competition or in life’s challenges.

Maddox is especially grateful for the guidance of his mom, who has played a key role in helping him grow in his faith and understand God’s unconditional love. That foundation has shaped Maddox into a thankful, encouraging, and compassionate young athlete who plays with purpose beyond the scoreboard.

With gratitude in his heart and faith leading the way, Maddox Crump is a powerful example that even at a young age, an athlete can make an impact by living out what they believe— one play, one word of encouragement, and one act of kindness at a time.

Maddox Crump

PLAYER PROFILE

From Scott Depot, West Virginia, Sutton Cooper is quickly shining in the world of competitive gymnastics as a member of Revolution Gymnastics Level Silver. Sutton began competitive gymnastics in the summer of 2024 and immediately fell in love with the sport—not only because it’s fun, but because of the friendships and teamwork she enjoys every day in the gym.

This season has been an unforgettable one for Sutton, highlighted by several major accomplishments. At the 2025 West Virginia State Gymnastics Meet, she earned first place on vault, competing against athletes from across the state. She followed that performance with another standout showing at the Big Dog Invitational in Charleston, where she captured first place all-around along with first place on beam. Her hard work, determination, and passion for gymnastics have truly paid off.

Sutton looks up to Simone Biles, drawing inspiration from her excellence and confidence in the sport. She also proudly supports the Ohio State Buckeyes Women’s Gymnastics. For Sutton, the best part of being on a team is simple but meaningful—having fun while working hard together.

Outside of gymnastics, Sutton enjoys coloring, painting, playing softball, and spending time with friends. When asked about her biggest role model, she points to someone very close to her heart: her mom, who continually encourages and supports her to do her very best. With a joyful spirit, strong support system, and growing list of achievements, Sutton Cooper’s gymnastics journey is just getting started.

Sutton COOPER