Reflecting on unorganized sports feats in the county

By: Naaem McFadden/Marion Star & Mullins Enterprise | SCNow
Published: April 09, 2008

I often say the best part of my job is covering the highlight sports moments of our talented youth in Marion County. Although I never participated on the athletic programs during my school days in Mullins, I’ve always been a fan of the local teams and I’m not envious, but proud of what they’ve accomplished.

However, there is that thought of “what if” in hindsight to how often I played and how much I loved to compete. That’s why I’m inducting myself into the “Sandlot Hall of Fame.”

If I did my own scouting report it would list that Naeem Mcfadden had the speed of a world record setting sprinter, the agility of a Jaguar named “Freddy Mo Teezy,” the balance of Barry Sanders in his prime, the hands of Jerry Rice, the route running of Marvin Harrison, the game breaking ability of Reggie Bush, the cover skills of Deion Sanders, the court vision of Jason Kidd, the lockdown defense of Ron Artest, the midrange jumper from the book of “Rip” Hamilton, and the base running prowess of Ricky Henderson in an Oakland A’s uniform.

The highlight reel would vividly display uncanny ability along with the character and sportsmanship that “would’ve” made him a champion. Before he approaches the podium to accept his award and ramble on like Al “Hercules” Bundy and his four touchdowns in a single game, Naeem would like to rundown his three most “gulliest” moments in unorganized sports.

The first would be a three pointer nailed at the buzzer in a recreation basketball in Florence. It was my first time playing basketball and the Mullins Lumber Company team I played for started the season winners of three straight games. Guys like “Bucky” Vereen, “Pro-Fessor” Braddy, Sedric “Button” Owens, and Dawani Fladger led the team in a very competitive field.

The late Tim Bell was our cool coach, and I remember our battles with Earl’s Quick Shop the most. My best friend Don Owens was on the squad and through the years we often faced-off on opposing teams.

The next would be P.E. instructor John Williams and his ingenious plan of holding a flag football tournament. My sixth grade class taught by Mrs. Fowler Rogers won every game including the championship.

We were loaded with my boy Don and Earnel Reeves, along with Devarus Brantley and our quarterback Matt Ham. Although I scored on the game’s first play and added a two-point conversion, it was classmate Billy Floyd hauling in the long bomb for the touchdown, sealing the victory that I can’t possibly forget.

Finally in my Sophomore year spent back at rec basketball with a “ragged tagged” bunch. I was crushed that I didn’t make J.V., but playing with Gene Kirton and Coroger “gunning for 30” Rich was wild. I didn’t score the entire season. However, one Saturday against Darlington, we were two points away from cracking 100. I made a steal while talking with my coach on the sidelines and highlighted with a behind the back pass for the assist.

Most athletes have trophies, I just have memories.

Reflecting on unorganized sports feats in the county

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